3 Guys and a Girl

Socks!

2011-12-28T15:09:00.001-06:00

I love socks! All kinds of socks. I happened to get some as a Christmas present this year and I love them. I always try to wear some cutsie, fun socks any chance I get. Here is my Ode to Socks:

Left sock,
Right sock,
You both rock!

Black, purple, pink and green.
Hearts, snowmen, rainbows, and jelly beans.
For every occasion and meant to be seen.

Warm and fuzzy.
Soft and cozy.
Great for making happy toes-ies.

Piggies in a blanket
All those pretty blankets!
Not ready to hide them just yet...

Socks, socks, I love socks!
Have I mentioned that each cool pair ROCKS?!!!

In My Feelings

2011-12-28T14:27:00.001-06:00

What is with all these women having babies? Girls, none-the-less!? What are they trying to do to me? The world knows I want a little girl...an adorable Aubrielle or Addison or Ainsley. Yeah, I've been thinking.

I know of at least 10 women that have given birth or are going to give birth to a baby girl. I want one!

With that being said, I have been doing a lot of thinking about things. I have my philosophy on families and babies. You know how grand prize trips to anywhere are always for a family of 4? If they will only pay for 4 peeps, having 3 children wouldn't work very well. Wouldn't be able to maximize on the free-ness of the situation.

I've had other things to think about, too. How about the fact that we almost became a family of 5? Yeah, you read right. There wasn't an incident, per say, just the possibility of one. You know how it is, daily pills, missing a day or 5....oops!

I didn't even realize I truly wanted another baby until I was counting the days until mother nature came for a visit. I was straddling a line and I have now fully crossed the line into wanting a 3rd child.

It was the most relieving moment and the saddest moment when I realized I had started. I had a glass of wine to celebrate not being pregnant and then I had another glass to mourn the fact that I wasn't... Talk about not making any sense.

As I am thinking about wanting a 3rd little bit, I think about all the stuff that we are currently going through with Andrew. Then I think about Aiden and what could possibly be when he gets to Andrew's age. Finally, I think about if I am ready to play Russian Roulette again. Can I handle a 3rd child? What if things with Drew get more challenging...good grief! Can things with Andrew get more challenging? Am I a good enough mother to deal with what Andrew throws in my path, let alone another child's challenges? Do I wanna take that chance?

I have so many things rattling around in my head. Would Mr. Bradner really be okay with another baby? Would Andrew and Aiden be accepting of another sibling? What kind of changes will another baby create - obvious and hidden?

I have always said that if I were going to have another child, I would have to be pregnant before I turn 35. Even if when I am 34.99999 and I get pregnant, that would count. But, you do realize that is in 2 years and 2 months?

The whole basis of this post is that I would like to have another baby (strongly leaning towards a little girl...hint, hint, Lord lol). I would like for someone to just tell me that it's okay feeling what I am feeling, that I can handle 3 children and a job. I'm happy I've become decisive about the situation. I'm sad that current life situations might not allow it to happen. I'm anxious about getting Mr. Bradner to see my side of the story and jump on board with this plan.

I'm just a freakin mix of emotions and I am just going to take the rest of the school year to think things through.

Happy Turkey Cutlet Day

2011-11-29T06:26:00.001-06:00

This year Turkey Day, was a little sad. My oldest was a little let down because things just weren't the same.

Usually, I have 7-12+ other people to cook for besides my boys on Thanksgiving, but this year was WAY different!

The realization came when a couple days before T-day, my mom started talking about celebrating with my aunt. That is fine and great. I don't want to be a celebration hog or anything. You can party with whomever you want. It's just that she brings the turkey...

What is a day without Turkey? Certainly not Thanksgiving Day!

In addition to my mom/dad/sister not coming, family drama stopped a few people from coming over in years past (greed, thievery, stupidity). This year my fav cousins weren't coming because of some family drama that left everyone's feelings a little sore and tender. My other fav cousin had an alibi. She doesn't live in the state and was just in KC a few weeks before. I get that. But all that makes it hard for Potluck Thanksgiving to be a success.

I spent Gobble Eve running around trying to find already done turkey because I can't cook turkey, peeps. There is just something about the feel of raw poultry and sticking my hand up salmonella infested turkey ass or down turkey neck, trying to pull out "giblets" (eeeewwww).

I went to Hen House and discovered the Honeybaked Ham peeps don't just do ham. They also do turkey. Sad thing? They had just sold their last turkey as I was walking in the door.

Being the resourceful girl that I am, I whip out my iPad and google Honeybaked Ham. There is a store nearby. I call and yes! They had turkey. It was 6:45 and my brain registered that the salesperson was mentioning that they closed at 7. DAYUM!

I google other Hen House stores. There is another...all the freaking way out on 135th and Metcalf. I start thinking about it and realize that this is something I have to have. So, I drive out there....got lost along the way, but got there eventually. Something turkey-ish...check!

I had to call on my bestie to get me the broccoli and rice casserole and had to produce all the sides that other people brought myself. That is the thing about Potluck Turkey Day... I didn't have to make everything, but when everyone decides not to come, I am in a pickle!

I ended up making sweet potato casserole, twice baked potato casserole, green bean casserole (x2 cuz my mom assumed I would be celebrating at my aunt's house with her), mac and cheese, dressing, pecan pie, Sock-It-To-Me cake, brownie cheesecake and raspberry tea. Not to mention warming the ham and turkey. What was missing? The cobbler, the rolls, and the people.

I did a pretty good job filling in where others left holes, but it was very frustrating. Needless to say, I started drinking my wine when I started cooking Thanksgiving dinner...

What did this experience teach me? Not to depend on traditions to get everyone through. I learned to not depend on the luck in Potluck so much anymore. For next year, I already have my turkey supplier picked out. I know how to cook everything that I like to eat on T-day.

I am teaching my boys that even though everyone and everything else is a variable, what we do in our house is constant. We will continue to have Thanksgiving right here at home. We will not be going to anyone else's house to celebrate. We are used to being at home and celebrating this day and that is how it will stay.

I made it happen...even if we were eating turkey cutlets with our meal.

Laundry

2011-11-17T23:13:00.001-06:00

I just wanna vent tonight.

Do yall remember how much I despise laundry? I have mentioned it a few...hundred times in my life. You can search my slacker mom files or just keep reading and you'll get the gist. A picture is worth a thousand words, huh? Well, how many words are these pictures worth? That's about 1000 articles of clothing right there...

I really don't like folding my laundry once it's finished! I look at this pile of clothes and sigh. Every morning, I put some away, but by the time I get home from work, it seems to multiple!

I swear I saw Mr. B give one of my sweaters a kiss good morning. There are so many clothes on my side of the bed that most nights I am too tired to even move them. Where do I sleep? The couch. Mr. B really grumps about that, but it is all I can do to keep up with washing and drying the clothes.

Why does my clothing pile never go down? Every morning, I try on at least 3 different outfits for work. Apparently, it must be the same outfits I hung up the morning before or something.

When I see there are clothes to be folded, I'd much rather stub my toe repeatedly, bite my tongue and stand outside during recess time in freezing temps with no coat. I JUST HATE FOLDING LAUNDRY!!!!

In addition to my clothes, I'm responsible for the kitchen and bathroom towels and Aiden's clothes too. I am a little better about his clothes. I'll do his clothes before I get to mine, usually. What are the other guys responsible for? Their clothes. They wash, dry and put away their own clothes.

Why can't Groupon have a deal on housecleaning services that will travel over to the Dotte area? I've asked them to find someone and they said they'd work on it, but I need it like YESTERDAY! I'd just want them to put away my clothes...

Where O Where Has My Kindergirl Gone?

2011-11-17T22:02:00.001-06:00

Yall know I am a teacher right?

Can you imagine what a teacher's worst fear is? Did you guess your students failing every assessment ever administered? How about catching every contagious disease carried by a child? What about losing your house because you don't make enough money to survive? Oooooo, oooooo how about a belligerent parent calling the police and filing a report on you because their child is disrespectful and hit you?

All those are good guesses and 3 outta 4 of those are on my top 10 list of teacher fears...maybe it's a top 5 list... and 2 outta four of those scenarios have actually happened to me, but you would be remiss if you guessed any of those things.

As a teacher, especially a teacher of kinderpeeps, my absolute worst fear is losing a kinder and how about this past Monday, I almost did!

On Mondays and Tuesdays, Greener Grass Elementary offers tutoring to students who fall below the recommended percentage for things you just need to know by the end of kindergarten.

I sent home permission slips spelling out what days and times the children need to stay after-school. Parents have to read it and return the bottom portion...SIGNED. Thus acknowledging the fact that their child has an engagement on Monday, Tuesday or both nights.

On Mondays, my grade level partner (GLP) tutors in reading and I tutor in math on Tuesdays. So, when this child came up missing, I wasn't even at school. Let me break the situation down for you...

Kindergirl does not stay for tutoring on Mondays. The day was Monday. I had her pack up and get in her bus line. No problems there. I have packed up and left the school, trading in the old seasonal teacher sweater for the Cinderella garb and taking on my mommy duties.

I am in the process of getting Aiden from school when my GLP calls me up. She asks if kindergirl was supposed to stay on Mondays because her mom was there asking where she was. I tell her that I am 98% positive that kindergirl DIDN'T stay on Mondays and we hung up, but as I keep thinking about it, doubt sneaks it's way into my head.

The past week, kindergirl had been a car rider. I hadn't gotten a note stating that her travel arrangements going home had permanently changed to walker/car rider status, but I was wondering...

I call my GLP back and voice my doubts. I'm shuffling through my bag o' teaching tools until I find confirmation that kindergirl only stayed on Tuesdays. Just when I found it, kindermommy shows up at the school. She is very worried, but I do point out to her that kindergirl didn't stay on Mondays (I don't want that shyte falling back on me. I did my duty and ushered her to where she needed to be to get home!).

Next, I did something that teachers don't generally do. I was very concerned about kindergirl's whereabouts and with all the baby snatching stuff in the news, my heart was in my throat. I gave kindermommy my (say it in slow motion for more effect) pppeeerrrsssoooonnnaaalll ceeeelllll phoooonnneeee nnnuummmbber. That's right! My personal cell phone number. I am willing to turn around and spearhead a search party for this little kinderbit! I love all the kinders in my class...yes, even the rambunctious ones.

Kindermommy says that she is going to try the babysitters house because that is where the bus lets kindergirl get off. I ask her to please call me and let me know the status of the situation and that I am here to help in anyway I can. Kindermommy assures me that she will call.

Peeps, that conversation happened about 5:15ish. Do you know that at 7:15, I still hadn't gotten a call from this mother!? WTF? I end up calling her and getting voicemail. Really? Come on! I leave a message, leaving my personal cell phone number AGAIN and asking her to call and let me know what's going on.

She did call me back eventually. You would think she woulda called me as soon as she found kindergirl, but NO.

I don't know how to take this. Do parents just think that teachers stop caring about their children once the school day ends? Cuz, if that's the case, parents have another "think" coming!

I dream about the children in my class! That is how I get some of my best material for implementing strategies to help them learn. I have 21 children on my mind each and every day (19 kinders plus my own 2). I just think it was very impolite to leave me hanging like that.

On the plus side, I was very relieved that kindergirl was found, safe and sound. I'm also very glad that my "no student lost" record is still intact! Definitely one of the fears of being a teacher.

Unspoken Language

2011-11-13T14:23:00.001-06:00

There is nothing more scary than walking into a new school, new classroom and having to rely on the kindness of strangers. Unless you are a kinder who does not speak English...

A new student arrived in our classroom about a week ago. This little kinderboy was walked down to our classroom by the secretary to meet me...his new teacher. His mommy had all the signs of a loving mother. Kinderboy seemed very nervous and unsure. In their native language, mommy was trying to comfort him and tell him everything would be okay.

Kinderboy just looked from his mother's eyes to mine. I made sure I had a very welcoming smile in my eyes. He was afraid.

Mommy walked him into the classroom and sat him at a table. She turned to me and shook my hand and said, "I'm sorry." There was nothing to be sorry for. I realized the secretary was speaking to her. Mommy was apologizing because she couldn't understand or respond to what was being said. I just shook mommy's hand warmly and smiled. Then, she walked out of the room.

My little kinderboy was just sitting at his seat, looking around the room. I walk over to him and gesture for him to stand up and he did. I usher him out of the classroom, because I had some copies to make.

Normally, students would sit outside the classroom door and silently read a book. This little kinder needed more than sitting silently while other children filed in around him. He didn't know anyone...

He looked up at me and waited.

My right hand dropped to my side, I turned it up facing kinderboy and he slipped his hand into mine.

Together we walked down the hall towards the workroom. He gave me a little smile and I noticed a gentle sway in our joined hands.

It's always hard being the new kinder, but in that moment, I felt like holding hands helped kinderboy understand he would be okay in our classroom, even if he was new to our country and customs.

You don't always need to speak the same language to communicate with someone. Not when you have a universal language that involves a hand and a smile...

Revelation

2011-10-25T04:31:00.000-05:00

I have come to the conclusion that I am old. Yup, I said it. I'm old and I'm okay with that.

What turned on this lightbulb for me, you ask? A weekend. A weekend that involved 2 birthday parties. Birthday parties on opposite ends of the spectrum.

Saturday, we celebrated Aiden turning 4 (now, I don't know why THAT didn't cause the geriatric bell to ring in my head). We had a celebration at The Wonderscope Children's Museum of Kansas City (that's a mouthful). It was a the children's museum because I really didn't want to have to entertain a bunch of 4-6 year olds, I didn't wanna have to clean my house and I just wanted to be able to walk away from it all when the deed was done (slack mom sighting, lol).

We had a great time! Aiden and the gang were super excited to be able to partake in the different themed rooms: Raceways (balls and ramps), H20, Tinker Space, Farm to Market, Doctor/Vet, Lego, and Art. They ran around like insaniacs! We had cupcakes (that I didn't make) and juice. Aiden opened presents and we said our thank yous.

It was all over in exactly 2 hours and BOY! was I exhausted!

Raceways!

I swear we are up to NO GOOD!

Waterworx

Art

Stinkin' Cute

Farm to Market

Tinker Space

Doctors/Vets

Legos

The Birthday Crew

Now, that I have warmed your heart with pictures of the kiddos having a blast, let me get back to the oldness that is me...

After Aiden's shindig, I had an adult gathering to attend. I was celebrating my friend KT's birthday. The plans were dinner and dancing. I can handle that...

Let me tell you! I couldn't handle that! I have just started getting back into going to the gym (it's been a bear cuz 6 am comes VERY early on Tuesdays and Thursdays). My lung capacity has shrunk, my joints ache and I'm just damn OLD!

Dinner went swimmingly. Nice time, chowing down on some mexican. Had a couple peach-berry margaritas. Feeling good, right? Yeah, I thought so too.

We get to The Brookersider to groupie on Dolewite. While waiting for the band to warm up, I head downstairs with Nurse and Custodian (from my school). We decide to join the dance-off that was taking place. Can I just tell you, after three dances, why did my freakin' pancreas hurt?! I swear, I limped over to our table, holding my side and breathing VERY deeply!

I pant to Nurse, "GIRL! Which side is your pancreas on? Cuz I'm pretty sure mine's is about to explode! I definitely need to get back to the gym. I can't breathe! If I pass out, you need to take care of me..."

After that moment, I realized that I need to take it easy and pace myself for the rest of the night. Didn't wanna end up on the floor cuz my lungs busted.

Well, Nurse called it quits about 11:30, Custodian called it quits about midnight. I was hanging in there. Besides, I couldn't go anywhere because I car-pooled with the bday chic and friends. I was stuck like Chuck...

I continued to dance the night away, making sure I had equal parts alcohol and water all night. Well, night turned into morning. We left the club about 2ish. I fell asleep in the party wagon and when I woke up, it was 230ish and we were at IHOP (the place where all tipsy wannabe's hang after a night of partying).

We end the night after having some fluffy pancakes and bacon. I end up getting home about 4ish.

***HERE is where the oldness sets in, peeps! And there are no pics to support these claims. You just have to take my word for it...***

I get up at 830ish to fulfill my duties as a mom and the WHOLE day, my body ached! I felt like I had rhumetoid arthritis (sp, too lazy to check) in my knees and elbows! Talk about ridiculous!

I walked around grabbing the arm of the couch, the wall, and the countertops for support. I was rubbing my knees constantly. When I went to the restroom, there was no graceful way to sit down. I kerplunked myself onto that toilet and sat there LONG after I finished peeing because I AM FREAKIN' OLD!

I acknowledge and accept that 33 is knocking on my door...HELL forget knocking! I'm giving 33 a damn key! I'm too old to get up and let your arse in!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Bradner Family!

2011-10-15T21:29:00.001-05:00

We took our annual trip to the pumpkin patch today. We usually ride out to Schaake's Pumpkin Patch in Lawrence. Today, however, we rolled out to Kerby's Pumpkin Patch in Bonner Springs.

Why change tradition? 'Cuz, I am taking the kdgrs there on Friday and I wanted to "try it before we bought it." You know, I'd need to have a plan in place, just in case it sucked.

I was pleasantly surprised. It was neat and tidy. There was a corn maze, zip lines for the kiddles, a playground, a haunted house, eating area, and the hayride and pumpkin patch.

I did happen to forget my Nikon on account of me being grumpy with a side of cranky pants. I had to muddle through by taking some fone-tos (um...phone photos). They came out well.

The weather was perfect for our family outing this weekend. Even Andrew participated and you know what a feat that is since he is all pre-teen mode and stuff.

Aiden was excited because he realized something VERY important. With a devilish grin, he said to me, "Hey, Mommy! Since we went to the pumpkin patch, we skipped my nap! I don't have to take one now!"

Aril was pleased with this pumpkin patch because it was a 20 minute drive as opposed to a 40 minute drive.

Yeah, they are all easy to please...most days.

We bought three pumpkins; 1 for Drew, 1 for Aiden and 1 for us to carve up, gag on the gross pumpkin smell and roast the seeds. Good times to be had by all!

I just adore autumn, peeps!

Mulling Over My Title

2011-10-09T22:16:00.003-05:00

I am going to embark on this journey and I want you to come along for the ride. It's been really interesting and I'm ready to tell my tale. Thus begins The Celebrity of Teaching.
Beginning - Trials and Tribulations

I'm a survivor,
I'm not gonna give up,
I'm not gon' stop,
I'm gonna work harder,
I'm a survivor,
I'm gonna make it,
I will survive,
Keep on survivin',

-Destiny's Child

I know it sounds dumb, but there are lots of parallels with teaching and being a celebrity. Yes, the most obvious difference is the amount of money you make annually, but I'm going to share with you some things that make getting paid less than dirt worth all the effort I put into my profession each day.

This school year marks my 6th year as a teacher. I have survived the 5 year curse. I didn't decide teaching was for suckers and run back to Corporate America. So, I feel like I have a lot to say about some stuff. I'm a survivor! I will be teaching until I'm extra old and wrinkly, probably...

So, let's take a trip down memory lane. This path to enlightenment actually begins before my 1st gig as a kindergarten teacher. This story starts with my final year of undergraduate degree through Emporia State University. The student teaching portion of my degree.

It was a busy year. Classes, student teaching, family time, papers, Madeline Hunter lesson plans! It was all mashed up. I was constantly on the verge of cracking up! I carpooled with two other girls, one whom I absolutely adored and another who was just along because the gas would be split three ways. I have a great group of friends that I worked with everyday. Overall, it was a wonderful experience and I'd do it all over again.

I have kind of blocked some parts of my last year from my memory, though. I had a lot of challenges to overcome. Oh, they weren't anything life threatening, but very eye opening, none-the-less. One situation in particular...

My student teaching year consisted of me playing count the black people every day because I was in a predominately white program. Actually, I was the only black person going through the program. I ocassionally saw other black people when I visited other schools, but they were few and far between. No, this isn't going to be all about race, but this was a very significant experience for me.

I come from Wyandotte County in Kansas City; some visualize it as the town of cut-throats and thieves. Having been born and raised in the "Dotte," I have nothing but love for the place. It is a spot on the map that has gotten a bad rep for one reason or another and can't seem to shake it off, although we're trying!

I was student teaching in Johnson County, in the city of Olathe. The perception of Olathe is the complete opposite of the "Dotte." All sparkly and shining; a part of the Emerald City at the end of the yellow brick road.

There were some members of my cohort class that took to making fun of the rest of us. They just happened to make fun of me because I was from Wyandotte County AND I was the token black chick. I was labeled the "ghetto girl."

Generally, I would just laugh something like that off because it would be said in jest and it would be said in front of me, not behind my back. Well, these chicks took to making fun of me behind my back and I happened to hear about it. I took my complaints to the heads of the program. I voiced my concern about the comments being made about me and some of the other people in the program.

It all boiled down to the girls getting a slap on the wrist instead of getting kicked out of the program and me thinking how ridiculous it was for these girls to even get the opportunity to graduate and teach children. This situation took place before winter break of 2005 and left me a little skeptical of all the people in my program, my professors, and the teachers that work in the school where I was interning.

It left me with a very bad taste in my mouth and in shock because that was one of a handful of situations that involved racism for me (in my lifetime). It let me know that racism was alive and slithering around. It made me more determined to be the best educator I could be. I was, and still am, determined to provide a well rounded academic experience to all my children.

Having learned that lesson, I pushed on. I considered my student teaching year part of the trials and tribulations that celebrities go through to get discovered. I was armed with best practices for teaching, a clearer understanding of diversity and my blackness.

Yeah, I said my blackness. Even though, those mean girls were having a chuckle at my race, school districts all over were looking for minorities, ethnicity and gender wise. I didn't come equipped with sperm, so that leaves me with my blackness. In the world of celebrity, I had the golden ticket. I was well on my way to being discovered and blowing up!

Donor

2011-10-09T20:19:00.000-05:00

It was last Saturday night, the kids were in bed and Mr. Bradner was out of town destroying his ears at a woofer/tweeter showdown. I was sitting on the couch and watching the Style channel.

The program is in the category of "reality" and it definitely brings some things to reality. The show is called Sperm Donor: 74 Kids and More. Here's a quick synopsis for you: There is a guy that is engaged to be married that decided to list his donor number on the DSR (guessing Donor Sibling Registry but could be the Dang, Stupid, Really?) page. Then, magically there were 74 kids in his crew!

There are other stories, but I find that the program really focuses on him and his situation. His fiancée is struggling with him wanting to meet some of the donee(?) families.

I get why there needs to be donors. I really do. I think it is a really wonderful thing, but why does everything need to be so complicated? This guy was just trying to get through law school. He said he made up to $900/month. Hell, I'd be a donor too for a little extra spending cash!

The human psyche is so fragile. I can kind of relate to these children on the show just wanting to know their biological father, but that is a huge expectation! I guess he shouldn't have listed his donor number...

There is so much emotional responsibility. If you donate sperm and don't reveal your donor number, will those kids turn out screwed up because every time they come across a fatherly type guy, the question "are you my daddy?" is always going to be running through their head? If you do reveal your donor number, then you open yourself up to children possibly wanting a relationship. What if you don't want a relationship? What's the right thing?

Then you get into the legal stuff. I know there is probably a form contract people sign that releases necessary parties from any monetary obligation, etc. This thought comes to mind though, will someone create a loophole that holds you accountable for being financially responsible for your "sperm kids" in the future? Who can support that many kids?

It just gets my mind to churning when I think about how helpful acts, no matter how selfish and possibly dumb, suddenly turn into more than what they are...a helpful deed.
I honestly don't think I could donate my eggs. It's worrisome enough that I might screw up my own kids. If you donate, you run the risk of screwing up kids twice removed!

Cricket Smicket

2011-09-10T01:09:00.003-05:00

There once was a cricket named Goo,
He died by the soul of my shoe.

He chirped all night and into my dreams;
Disturbing my peace, will make me MEAN!

I'm all for Nature's creatures,
But, please don't mess with this teacher's

Mental health. Without a good night's sleep
Everyone is in deep shhhhhhh....poo!

Farewall to that damn cricket, Goo.

Yeah, I killed him, so?

Letting Go

2011-09-10T00:42:00.000-05:00

It has only been 4 weeks since school started, but can I tell you that it has been a great 4 weeks. Even with the constant worry about enrollment numbers, trying to track down my teaching license with my ESOL endorsement on it, and silly ins and outs, it's been a great 4 weeks.

I have had a constant 15-17 students so far. That is a GINORMOUS difference from last year with 45-50 kinders in my kinderverse and co-teaching.

These days, I find that I can't put myself on autopilot for 1 subject. If I do, we have time to twiddle our thumbs and that's a no-no!

Another factor that makes this year exceptional is that I have a great kinderpartner. My grade level partner has awesome ideas and shares them. She is equally absorbed in the land of the lollipop kids as I am. She gets it! And let me tell you, kindergarten is something that you definitely have to get in order to teach it and love it...

What's the point of this post? Good question. This post is about me "letting go." I have been harboring some bad feelings about how my school year went last year and I need to let them go. I am going to say my piece and be done.

Last Words

I walked into this blindly.

Everything looked brilliantly, shiny and new

When I thought we were on the same page.

I was eager to help.

I talked, shared, created

And naively trusted that you'd return the favor.

Glass ~~half~~ completely empty.

You could talk a good game,

But when it came time to work, all you wanted to do was blame

My attention to detail or enthusiasm.

You weren't about doing what it took to get the job done

And my level of respect for you took a plunge.

I closed myself off because you were using me.

I will not allow someone to make a mockery of what I do.

I finally had to wash my hands of you.

No respect for business, left little respect for personal.

I have made the choice to surround

Myself with drive, desire, and dedication.

My feelings are hurt because you didn't respect

Me enough to truly make an effort.

As a result, we all suffered...

Finding mended feelings will take some time.

On the necessary level, I'm cordial and kind,

But in the back of my mind

There's a reminder of when our friendship died...

I am going to make the effort to let this go. Things are going swimmingly this year and I don't want to tarnish all the great work I'll be doing with negative vibes. I'm done...

Return Of My Young Life Crisis

2011-09-09T23:29:00.001-05:00

Last weekend I treated myself to a pedicure and a manicure. I usually don't get manicures, but since we've upgraded to fancy document projectors at school, it draws attention to crusty cuticles, dry skin and generally gross hands. I have all of the above because I wash my hands like a maniac to avoid catching anything from my adorable germ breeders.

So, I'm sitting there watching the technician work and she asks what color. I got a wild hair and requested black. Weird, I know, but it looks amazing!

While she was painting my nails, a thought popped into my head. I WANT A TATTOO.

Now I have never been one for permanently marking my body. That's why I have a tongue ring. I can take it out and be done with it at any time. I don't think that is going to happen (had it since 2002), but just in case...

I do want a tattoo for my 33rd birthday. I want it on my foot and I decided that it needs to be related to music somehow. I love music! I played the violin and the piano in school and I sing all the time. It's nothing professional, but it is enough to make me happy. I think I'm a decent singer... I can hold a tune and keeps beat.

Well, this evening spent most of my time browsing the Internet for ideas. There is A LOT of ideas on the net.

I narrowed it down to a couple concepts-music, my zodiac sign, my initials and an infinity symbol. Thus creating something uniquely me.

I think it will display nicely on the top of my foot with a few embellishments. Mr. Bradner is going to fancy it up for me later.

Now that I have my heart set on a design, I don't know how I am going to wait until March to get this done!

Don't be surprised if I blog that I had it done for Christmas...I am instant gratification girl, 'member?

Guilty

2011-08-24T00:58:00.000-05:00

I'm struggling, peeps...

This past weekend, I took Aiden to a birthday party. At this birthday party, I mingled with the Totally Mommy Club. I don't mean that in a bad way, at all. I am actually in awe of seeing how this club works.

Aiden being in the world has totally opened me up to meeting parents that are all about their children and I like that. I like seeing the 6 degrees of separation work. I like mingling in circles that overlap and expand my list of mommy friends. I like having children to invite to my son's birthday parties. It's cool being able to get the scoop on all the good sports to put Aiden into and where. It's really nice....

The reason I am struggling is because I didn't have that with Andrew and I feel like he missed out because I was a loser and gave birth to him at the age of 20. My group of friends weren't thinking about starting a family and marriage (yeah, in that order). For most of Andrew's life, he had only 1 friend. Thank goodness for my bestie and her having a little boy a week after I did. She and her son were like my lifesavers!

They were who we playdated with and invited to birthday parties. We didn't have anyone else who understood. My mindset wasn't about what the typical 20 year old thought about. The group of friends that I ran with in high school faded into the background because they weren't where I was in life. No fault of theirs. I just had to prioritize and they no longer took up the top 10 spots on my life list.

I, often times, feel like I've done Andrew a disservice. He spent a lot of time around adults and just hanging with me and Arik. Drew and I spent a lot of time growing up together and I think that it has affected our present day relationship; both positively and negatively. These past few years have been a struggle in so many ways, it's not even funny.

I know Drew is going through that transitional stage from tween to teen and that hormones get involved and muck everything up. I know that those hormones skew Drew's common sense, but I also feel like if he'd had a more kid-like, living on a cul-de-sac, playdates galore, me being a member of the Totally Mommy Club kinda childhood, he might be a little different. Perhaps some of the struggles that we deal with on the regular wouldn't be such struggles.

I don't know. Going to that birthday party made me feel guilty for how Drew was raised. I know this is an excuse, but I really didn't know any better. I was a kid raising my kid.... I really can't help but tear up a bit because I feel like I did something wrong in the way he was raised. I guess I still feel somewhat guilty...

It's really tough being a mom sometimes. My methods aren't conventional, but that's who I am; an unconventional, off the wall, sarcastic, blunt kind of person. And I wonder if what I have to offer is the best for my children...

So, I'm just thankful for the glimpse of the Totally Mommy Club. It's nice to see mommyhood from a different perspective. Seeing this club now doesn't solve my issue with Drew. I still don't have anyone that I can have playdates for Drew with; even more so now that my BFF and her family moved way out west. I just don't know anyone else that's my age and has a 12 year old. Drew is always getting the short end of the stick. We go to playdates, but usually he just ends up playing with the little kids or hanging around with the grown folks. I dunno, peeps, I just dunno.

I might have screwed up the first kid, but DAMN IT, I'll get closer to right with the 2nd one!

Back to School Time

2011-08-24T00:13:00.002-05:00

Well this week, Andrew started the 7th grade. I am officially old because I have a kid that old! I know... The picture at the left is my lame first day of school picture for Andrew. Can I get a SLACKER MOM, what!?

This picture was taken at the END of the day. That's why Aiden is wearing pajamas. Andrew did not allow me to take his picture the morning of the first day. We were in the car, in front of the middle school before I remembered I needed to take the picture! Andrew was all, "No, no mom. You cannot take my picture right now... "*insert weird, teenage look.*

I didn't get a traditional, fresh morning shot. Ah, well... you get the gist of the occasion with this photo. It was the "First Day of School" shot. My 7th grader and my almost 4 year old. It's unbelievable!

Time really flies... That's all I have to say. My boys are growing so stinkin' fast.

So, Andrew comes home after school and is telling me about his schedule. He was all bummed out because his two electives for the semester are band (which he enjoys) an d THEATER!

Drew: Mom, I need you to go up to the school and change my schedule because they put me in art.

Me: I think you should give theater a try. Middle school is all about trying new things. You might like theater. Do you know what theater is?

Drew: No..

Me: Theater is lying. When you are really good at acting, you are basically really good at lying. Since, you've spent the last few months practicing your lying skills for ridiculous reasons, and getting caught, how about you try theater? You might improve upon your skills and therefore take this evil power and use it for something good.

Drew (laughed): I guess I could give it a try.

Me: Besides, it's not all acting. You could use your artistic powers to create awesome set designs and things like that.

Drew: Okay, Mom. I'll give it a try...

Take notes, folks, cuz that is a slacker mom in action! Did I really want to go up to the school and go through the mess of talking to those chuckle heads in the middle school office? Not really. Especially since ALL summer long, they had me on the incomplete immunization call list. I got an automated call every week this summer telling me that Drew was behind on his shots. Even though, I sent them a copy of his records in November. And after that I received a letter in the mail stating that he was behind, so I walked a copy into the school in May. It was only after I spoke with the nurse and told her I would bring her a 3rd copy when she told me the office had misplaced the other 2 copies.

Did I try to get off the call list, you ask? Yes, yes I did; only to be given the run around between the district and the school. No one knew who put me on the list, so no one could take me off it. Thoroughly pissed me off, it did....

So, as a slacker mom, I really did not want to go up to the school and chat with those yahoos about switching my kid's schedule.

Do I believe that this is a time for Drew to try lots of options? Yes, yes I do. Do I think theater will be his thing? No, no I do not. He really is the artsy type of guy, in the sense that he likes to draw and sculpt and stuff. I just don't want to type cast, ya know?

Happy 1st Day of School...

Going All Out

2011-08-23T01:26:00.002-05:00

I'm not usually one to follow the crowds, but this summer my train of thoughts happened to intersect with a few social "in-crowdy" things.

I'm a hard working girl (what with 2 jobs and all). This summer, I spent my time teaching summer school, tutoring, and teaching Science camp. I brought a few dollars into the household this summer, so after MUCH debating, I decided to splurge on a couple things for myself.

There were 2 clubs that had been catching my eye. The first thing was the Coach Club. I had been thinking about owning a Coach handbag for a long while. This summer, I decided to act on that thought.

On Friday, July 15th, My bestie and I breezed into the Coach store at the Mall. I was greeted by a lil cutie-pie all dressed up; including a female version of Fred's ascot. My words to Fredina (lol) went something like this, "I am looking to own a Coach bag today. I was online and I think what I want is a cute satchel or something like that."

Fredina started walking me around the store and showing off their merchandise. Noel and I just try things on and strike poses in the mirrors. It was very cool.

I ended up purchasing 2 items from the store and can I tell you that the customer service was VERY high quality! Even though I make fun of Fredina's ascot, she was the sweetest person. She walked that store with me, helped my find what I wanted, and even let me take a picture to commemorate my very 1st Coach experience. It was a BLAST!

To continue the exceptional customer service, Fredina mailed me a hand written thank you note about 2 weeks later and enclosed a $50 gift card towards my next purchase! I know, right!? It doesn't end there though, a week after the thank you card, I received a phone call making sure I was still enjoying my handbag. Which I so totally was!

So, let me tell you, This one Coach bag has parlayed into a handbag, a cell phone case, and an iPad cover (yeah, cuz I bought an iPad this summer. My 2nd club *sheepish grin**)! I thought I couldn't be a happier girl, except today when I went to tutor my 3rd and Kdgner grade sisters, they (their mom) had bought me a gift! Guess what it was!!!?? A Coach wallet! Mom said that since I had the handbag, I needed to go Coach all the way and a wallet was just what I needed..

I do not know what I do to deserved to be so blessed to meet wonderful people that see my visions (as crazy as they may be) and embrace it. I am just so completely thankful for experiences like this. It's amazing!

So, my vision of owning 1 Coach item, turned into owning 4 items and I am completely okay with that! I will probably be using this bag for the next 2-3 years and that works for me...they fit my princess mentality.

Double Entendre Gone Bad?

2011-08-18T23:47:00.001-05:00

Funny story. Maybe just to me, but I am going to tell it anyway.

I am back to work and I have been for 2 weeks. I am doing a ton of beginning of the year stuff. You know, the usual...making name tags, labeling EVERYTHING, looking for realistic clipart to explain things in the kinderverse.

Well, my computer has been down and out since I went back to work. Let me just tell you that completely sucks nuggets! I totally don't need anything to distract me and cause me to leave my room. I don't get anything done! Imma bag lady! I spend my time lurking around corners and peeking through windows to see if there is an open PC for me to use at Greener Grass Elementary (GGE).

It just so happens that the principal of GGE has an open door policy when it comes to using her computer and color printer (AWESOMENESS). I love color! So, where do I lurk the most? Her office door...lol!

So let me set this up for you. The kinders have 4 options for lunch each day: regular, muffin/string cheese, PB&J or salad. The other day, I was looking on Google Images for some good pictures (the exact brands that we use in the cafeteria) for my lunch choice board.

I'd found everything but the salad. My kinder partner has a cool picture of a salad being poured into a bowl. I wanted a salad picture that looked that good! Here's the funny...

I'm racking my brain to come up with the right search word so I could get the right picture. I think back to kinder partner's picture and started a word association.

Can you see where I am going with this? Think about it...I'm looking for a picture of salad...salad falling from the sky into a bowl...seemingly being TOSSED!

RIGHT! I typed in the words "tossed salad bar" in hopes that it would bring me an awesome picture like my kinder partner had on her lunch choice board. I didn't even think about what else that phrase means! So one track minded!

Well, I got some pictures all right. I got some pictures of actual salad and some pictures of a someone's salad being tossed! I didn't click on any pictures, but still. And do you recall who's computer I was on? YUP! The principal's... And you do remember that I work in the public school system, correct? Right! They do monitor computer usage.

So, if the princpal gets fired because I searched for tossed salad, Imma be extra sad... I did try to do some damage control though. I quickly hit the back button and typed the word lettuce in and clicked the search button.

Maybe the IT peeps are too busy or too underpaid to catch that the "principal" (heehee) pulled up some not nice images of tossed salad...

Welcome to the Twilight Zone...

2011-08-05T05:57:00.006-05:00

Doo, doo, doo, doo; doo, doo, doo, doo... I bring to you a world of wacky and weird. A woman, her dog and the world of pet cemetery. Let me spin a little tale of straight jackety goodness. Welcome to.... THE TWILIGHT ZONE. Doo, doo, doo, doo; doo, doo, doo, doo.

Wednesday, I went to a funeral. Wait, don't feel sad for me yet... It was a DOG funeral. I know, right!? Apparently, a well known animal shelter is a full service joint that offers funeral packages for your beloved pets. It is equipped with everything from upgradable caskets to a viewing room and burial ground.

So, I walk into this room that contains chairs, a flat screen T.V., and a little table. I look around and count how many peeps have come to see "the show."

As we all sit there quietly, I counted about 15 or so people in attendance. Everyone was dressed nicely and looked all sad and forlorn, but really? I think it was a look of shock because of the situation we'd all gotten ourselves into. There was an air of Kesha in Wonderland going on. I had a feeling that I followed the Killer Clown down the black hole and ended up in Steven King's, Pet Cemetery. As I slid to my destination of crazy, The Twilight Zone theme song was running in my head.

To start the services, there's a slide show presentation of the deceased and in the background someone playing the electric guitar in the key of elevator music. There is a lady that addresses the "crowd" and says, "At this time, I'll start the sharing portion and say a few things about Taxidermy (Stiff as a Board, for short. I know I'm wrong!)." This chick commences to talk about him and share that she had horses and how Taxidermy would lick the manure off her work boots when she came into the Booshie Beauties Salon. Uhhhh, gross!

Sidenote...

***Why does that name sound familiar? Because this dog belongs to Carefree Diva, my hair stylist! Take a peek into her personality and click the salon name to get some backstory.***

Now resuming....

Anyway, she continues on and do you know this chick starts CRYING while she was up there? Taxi (is this a more appropriate nickname?) wasn't even her dog!!!! Whatever! so, while she is talking, I have my phone out, video taping her speech. Being the good friend that I am, I am recording everything for Carefree Diva because she's a broke down mess at the front of the room. The whole time I'm thinking to myself, "How wrong would it be for me to Tweet or FB this right now? The world needs to know..."

Then, Carefree Diva looks to me and says, "Kesha? Would you like to say a few words?" WTH! I really hadn't planned on saying anything, but I manage to get something out.

"Taxi was like the mascot for the salon and he was a great watch dog. He had a Napoleon Complex being a Yorkie. I've spent plenty of late nights getting my hair did (I meant to type that). He wouldn't let anyone near Booshie Beauty Salon without us knowing. He was full of human like qualities and was the perfect companion for Carefree Diva. He will be missed."

The chick stood back up and said, "We will now have the viewing of the body." Do you think I walked up there and looked? How 'bout no, I did not! So, everyone else walks up to look at Taxi and offer condolences to Carefree Diva. I just sit next to her and watch the insanity take place.

The chick stands up again and says, "We are now going to have a processional over to Taxi's burial site. Just follow the golf cart over." I'm like whatever at this point. We all pile into our vehicles and drive the short distance to the cemetery. Everything is all ready for Taxi to be buried.

Once Taxi gets lowered into his hole in the ground, there's another moment for sharing. Then chick gets up and passes doggy treats to everyone so we can toss them on his casket, and Taxi's favorite chew toy is tossed in as well. Taxi was addicted to hairspray, so the chick had brought a can and we (looking like idiots) all gave a little spritz in the air. A poem was read and then they begin to cover him with dirt.

As I am standing there, I am thinking to myself, "What the HELL am i doing here? Who does this, for real?" I am feeling like a witch with a capital B because I have a dog. I just can't fathom myself spending what is probably an obscene amount of money to honor my dog in this way!

Sorry, Gingersnap. You can go one of two ways: 1) a trip to the vet when your epileptic episodes take over your brain and you can't function properly anymore or 2) if you go while the house it empty, I'm just gonna get a cardboard box and call the local animal shelter because I wanna go the cremation route. Will I be sad that you've passed? Of course! I'll even cry, but I'll be damned if I do all of this! I love you, but you are my dog, not my kid...

Let me just say this... If this is how you need to express your grief for your dead pet, by all means, fly your freak flag! I just wanted peeps to know that I thought this was very odd and that I would not be doing something like this for ANY of my pets. This was my 1st and only experience with this and I think I might have just earned my lifetime membership into the Freakin' Fantastic Friend Club. I'm just saying...

Bad Mood Gone Good

2011-07-24T23:09:00.000-05:00

Can I just say there is nothing better than a good friend to cheer you up? A good friend that can tell something is wrong, not in the sound of your voice, but by the way you text...

I have been floundering around trying to make decisions on some things, letting go of other things, trying to make myself better, you know some good ol' self discovery.

The Friday before Arik's birthday and our anniversary, the annibirthary, Noel and I went out. We didn't really have anything in mind or a set schedule of things that needed to be done. We just went to places that popped into our heads. It was just a girls day out to talk and have a good time.

We started the day off at one of our favorite places, Sweet Tomatoes. A tasty place for salads and the most delicious blueberry muffins. Actually, Noel makes a mean blueberry muffin...Imma need to gift her some blueberries, so she can gift me some muffins. It's been a minute.

I digress, as usual. After brunch, we headed to Harbor Freight, Lowe's, Target, and Oak Park Mall for Kay's, The Landry and Coach (This is a whole other story, YAY)! I think there was a couple other spots, but I can't remember.

Anyway, before leaving the mall, Noel says, "I want to go to one more store. Someplace we've never been really." I suggested Stein Mart. I've been there once a LONG time ago.

This stop during our day was the icing on my cake. It really cheered me up. It was one of those movie moments that BFFs have. We went in with no expectations. We walked the whole store and chattered incessantly. To top off the whole visit, we have a mini fashion montage! We tried on goofy looking hats and sunglasses and just dorked around. It was cute...

Doesn't she look cute in her derby hat?

Coach makes everything look better!

Too bad that flower is bigger than her head!

I just have a big head! LOL

I might need to go back and get those glasses to complete my teacher persona...

Um, we had a great time, just like the women in the commercials, but there weren't ANY great deals there. We walked out with some sunglasses and dog dishes for Gingersnap Bradner. I wouldn't recommend it unless you go with your BFF...

I felt better after our day of delight. Not 100% better, but I think it helped get me outta the dumpster I had been residing in for a very long time. Gotta love BFFs, shopping and great times.

"Pinterested" in Fine Dining?

2011-07-24T22:05:00.000-05:00

Tonight I made a delicious dinner. It's a recipe that I pinned to my Tasty Pinboard. I ventured out to the grocery store with my guys and picked up the ingredients for Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Pasta. It was supposed to take 16 minutes to cook, but in slacker mom time, that comes out to about 30-45 minutes. My time management is crazy off!

Arik said it was good and apparently Aiden LOVED it! He told Arik that we definitely had to make it again. Andrew wasn't very hungry (pit stop to IHOP before the grocery store today). I tasted it and thought it was yummy.

My chest is all puffed out because Arik said it was good. In our house, Arik is usually the dinner maker. I'm really here to sit and look pretty... Really, though? I don't cook a lot because I worry that he won't like it. I don't really cook chicken or pork because one time he told me it was dry. I don't cook eggs because one time he said they were burnt. I don't really cook because the same meal I've cooked, he could do it in like 15 minutes. I'm a little intimidated by his skills and I don't want to look like an idiot. Silly, huh? Married for 12 years, together for 14 years and I don't want to look like an idiot?!

I have my hang-ups, all right? I'll probably always have them. I'm okay with that, but I worry how long Arik will be okay with them... Ah, well! So, without further ado, here's my version of the previously mentioned dish (click the link above and look at their picture, then come back)...

Lots Of Things I'm "Pinterested" In...

2011-07-24T10:43:00.003-05:00

This summer, I was introduced to something very cool! It is still in Beta, but my bestie sent me an invite to the Land of Ideas; also known as Pinterest. What is Pinterest? It's a place where you can go to give, get and keep track of very wonderful ideas on a slew of things!

I LOVE PINTEREST!

You create boards to help organize your thoughts and ideas that you find on the Internet. When you find something that peaks your interest, you "pin" it to one of your pinboards to remember it. The great thing about Pinterest is that when you pin something, your followers can always click it and return to the original blog/site of the idea. You don't have to worry about tagging or crediting an idea cuz Pinterest does it for you!

I have 9 boards. Their titles are:

Teacher Girl - all things school/educational ideas related
Great Think Tanks - places I go to get ideas about different things
My Awards Go To... - my favorite famous peeps
Worth A Thousand Words - pictures that just move me
Tasty - good things to eat, recipes
Turning My House Into A Home - things I would like to have in my ideal home
That's So Me - screams my personality
What Did You Say - quotes that make me ponder the meaning of life or make me laugh
Extra Nifty - really cool things that I want to remember

I have already tried some things from "THE PINBOARD" and I completely enjoy troll the site and looking at other peeps ideas and thoughts. I'm weird like that....I like to lurk; I'm a lurker. Do they have LA (Lurkers Anonymous)? I might need it one day... lol

Here's one thing that I've tried. It's called the Waterfall Frenchbraid (go ahead and click the link to see the original, I'll wait for ya). It was fairly simple. I just had one hang up with how my hair parted at the end of my frenchbraid. There was a part going right down the center of my head that I couldn't get rid of. Perhaps it's the nature of my hair - afrocentric based :-), or that I just need MORE practice. Could be a little of both! Anyway, here are the pictures...

Perhaps a little more ringlet curl will help the waterfall effect...We'll see. I plan to try it again really soon. You know the 1st day of school is coming up and you KNOW how I feel about that! Later...

Oedipus Complex

2011-07-06T00:21:00.000-05:00

We've all read Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, right? Today, we are talking about the Oedipus Complex (a moment to refresh your memory).

I have a 3 1/2 year-old in the house and as of late, he has been REALLY needy. Don't get me wrong, I love that my baby needs me, but to the point that he's hanging on my leg or jungle gymin' me all willy-nilly? I mean those things have gone on for a while. I just managed to tune them out when my limit had been reached. There is something that I consider WAY more weird...

The newest thing that I have to talk to Aiden about is kissing. I don't know if he's seen 1 too many happy ending, love story, cartoon movies or what, but he's taken to wanting to kiss me on my lips an awful lot and do the whole head tilting bit.

I can't take that, peeps! I get on him at least once a day about trying to sneak a happily ever after kiss on me. He just looks at me all googly-eyed and then giggles.

In researching this topic, he is in the prime age bracket for these feelings (3-5 yrs of age).

So, the catch phrase that ran ramped through the house had been, "Aiden, stop playing with your penis." Now, however, I find myself saying things like. "you're kissing mommy too much" or "Can you stop kissing all over mommy?" He likes to plant smackers anywhere he can make a connection with those lips of his...arm, shoulder, cheek, lips, leg!

I tell you, trying to raise boys is kooky sometimes. Having to draw boundaries without breaking spirits...It's a struggle, but we're working on it.

Potty Puddle Pondering

2011-07-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Last night, I crawl into bed about 1:30 a.m. Then at 4:00 a.m., Aiden wanders into the bedroom. He's got a case of the whimpers and whines. He has awakened heartbroken because he peed in the bed....again.

Aiden is almost fully potty trained. He goes to the restroom, for the most part on his own. There are times when you ask him to go potty and he says he went yesterday, but those are becoming less frequent. He can do pretty much everything, 'cept "wipe his own ass" (Big Daddy, gotta love that movie), after dropping the kids off at the pool.

The last hurdle we have to face is getting that sphincter muscle stronger to hold his bladder overnight.

He usually wears a nighttime pull-up, but the for the past couple weeks, I've been allowing him to go to bed wearing underwear. Every time has been unsuccessful.

Last night was the first time he woke in the middle of the night because he realized he was wet. I like to look at that as a step in the right direction...

Tonight, Arik suggested I wake him and take him to the bathroom before I go to bed. Trying to see if I can beat the potty puddle and having to wash ALL his blankets and sheets (back-ups too) again this week (slacker mom sighting!)

I didn't make it. The potty puddle was already there when I tip-toed into his room at eleven.

It breaks my heart when he wakes up in the morning and he's had an accident. He looks so defeated and these words tumble out his mouth as his bottom lip quivers, "I tried really hard to not pee-pee, Mommy. I couldn't do it. I'm not a baby..."

What can I do to complete this potty process and have my lil guy feel like a champ?

Facebook Gets The Good Stuff

2011-06-21T21:32:00.001-05:00

Something just happened here at the house that I just had to share. Because I was on Facebook (FB), I shared it there. Then, I realized...I share a lot of my good material on FB and that's a lot of the reason that I haven't been posting regularly to my blog. FB and Twitter are so quick and easy to share a random thought/story. I am going to have to change that.

So, here's a couple tidbits that I've put on FB, but I don't think I've mentioned here. For all those peeps who don't FB or Twitter...just for you! *wink and a smile*

Aiden's Shenanigans:

Me: Aiden ur making bad choices. No dessert 2nite.
Aiden: Yeeeessss! I want 'zert,
Mommy. Me: I said no.
Aiden: (thru uncontrollable sobs) Fine then, imma steal some...
Me: (trying not to giggle) That's not a good choice... Hahahahahahaha!

Why is my little guy preparing for a life of crime at the tender age of 3? The look on his face was priceless. He was sitting on the steps in the garage and with his chin in his fists and tears streaming down his face. He's so stinkin' cute, it's ridiculous!

Andrew's Shenanigans (alleged):

I bought some mini chocolate donuts at the grocery store last weekend. I was getting ready to open the bag after daydreaming about them while working out with my trainer this evening, What do I discover when I grab for the bag!? They have already been opened AND resealed with a GOB of Elmer's School Glue. No one is claiming this moment of genius. Hmmmm.....

I Love Our Lovies

2011-06-21T18:30:00.000-05:00

For the past week and a half, I have been totally distraught! The worst possible thing. Well, perhaps I over dramatize a bit... the 7th worst possible thing MAYBE happened.

I don't know about your kids, but my the claim to fame for my boys are corkscrew hair and their Lovies.

What's a Lovey, you ask? A Lovey is a piece of your heart that you have had since before you would remember. It's the one thing that you take to college even though people will laugh at you once they find out what it is and see how ratty it looks.

The Lovey of choice in our household was set by Andrew. His nursery theme was Noah's Ark and he had the cutest knit blanket. It was simple in design....oatmeal colored, cross stitching - okay I have NO clue about the stitching. I just made that up! Oatmeal colored, with a small Noah's Ark logo located bottom, center of the blanket. It was long enough to cover my entire body. And it was great!

Andrew ~~did~~ does everything with that blanket. Sleepovers, morning cartoons, meals, vacations, you name it, it's done it. He still has it and uses it. It's barely hanging on by a thread. I can only wash it every couple months because it's unraveling so.

Aiden was given a blanket BEFORE he was born by Noel. It was a receiving blanket from Old Navy that was baby blue with green alligators on it. It covered my legs (not as long as Drew's, but still pretty long). This blanket went to Noel's house practically every single day she Mommy-substituted for me in 2008. Aiden was swaddled in that blanket until he was like 8 months or something! It was the perfect blanket for him.

Here's the dilemma. Last week, Aiden came home sick Monday morning. He had a temperature. He missed Tuesday as well. He was fine for the rest of the week. On Friday, I pick him up from preschool and I usually get his bedding bag to take home and wash his nap time blanket and sheet.

I did NOT get his bedding bag that day. On Monday, I asked about the bag and told his teacher that I brought it to school on Monday and I didn't get it back. She said she'd look for it. I normally wouldn't care...um, no, that's a lie. I would care regardless of whatever bedding it was. Remember the time some lady stole Aiden's bedding sheet and left me holding her craptacular, stain infused one? (click it, I'll wait...)

Well, I am really distraught because in his bedding bag was his alligator blanket and his jungle animals matress sheet. The ALLIGATOR BLANKET, peeps! I am so sad! The preschool peeps have not found it yet. I am really trying to refrain from telling them they are doing a crappy job and if they'd just let me look throughout the facilities, dust for fingerprints and go all CSI on the place, I'd find Aiden's Lovey in no time at all...I'm just saying.

I think I am equally attached to my boys' Lovies and my heart is hurting that Aiden's is lost somewhere or worse! It could be at someones house getting slobbered and peed on by some prebit that doesn't have a Lovey! ~~What am I going to do!?~~ I mean,what is Aiden going to do!? AIDEN needs his Lovey!

I am going look for a picture to add to this post when I get back from the Y. This is a matter of life and death! I'm on a mission to get my baby his Lovey back (or an exact replica...I've already started my Internet search to see if there's another one out there somewhere).

Mini Me 1 & 2

2011-06-20T21:22:00.002-05:00

It really is scary sometimes how much my children are like me personality wise. Some days, I just have to sit back and be amazed. I enter for the jury's deliberation exhibits Andrew and Aiden...

Exhibit Andrew

This year Andrew spent a lot of time with me in the classroom because his school is, in all honesty, across the street from mine. He walked to me after school every day. Well, when school let out for the rest of the children, Andrew still had to go because he involuntarily had to help me pack up my classroom (slacker mom tidbit- I had kids so they could do my bidding...muahahahaha!).

We were getting ready to leave and a teacher asked me if I wanted some plastic or foam letters that she was just gonna throw out.

Now, if you have been following my blog, FB, or twitter account, you know that I am VERY selective about the things that I want to be in contact with at any given time. If it looks dirty, icky, gross, crusty...GET IT OUT OF MY SIGHT! And apparently, I have a "look" that precedes the words that come out of my mouth when I have something to say about the nastiness of an item.

So, my teacher friend asked me if I wanted these letters or whatever. I "looked" at these letters and out of my mouth came the sound, "ugh" and I felt my upper lip curl and my right eye do a little squint... I didn't wanna be completely blunt because the teacher that was offering is a pretty cleanly person, but the letters were classroom castoffs.

Before I even had the opportunity to say anything about my feelings regarding these letters, Andrew took the words right out of my mouth! He was standing next to me the whole time, listening.

So, teacher friend asked if I wanted the letters, I did my little Presley bit and Andrew replied, "she doesn't want those crusty letters..."

I about DIED laughing. That is ~~something~~ EXACTLY what I was going to say. That is the verbiage I use and everything! He had just that right amount of uppity in his voice. It was priceless.

Exhibit Aiden

Aiden had finished up his shower and was copping a squat on the couch watching some Johnny Bravo (slacker mom tidbit- I know it's inappropriate for a 3-yr-old, but JB makes me laugh so dang much!). We had counted down the minutes til bedtime and we walked out into the garage to give daddy his good night kiss.

With Aiden wrapped around my right hip, I walk up to Mr. Bradner and call his name. We wait for a few moments. Bradner was prepping some dude's car for an audio build. I figured he must not have heard me call his name, so I say it again.

Mr. Bradner curtly replies, "WHAT!?"

I smack my lips and roll my eyes and before I could say anything more, Aiden chimes in with this little Kesha-ism, "I do not like his attitude..."

I couldn't have said it any better. I abruptly turn on my heel and walk back into the house. I told Aiden that he could get 2 kisses in the morning and he agreed.

Talk about makin' mama PROUD! At the same time though, it freaks the mess outta me. The three of us have been molded from the same pod of sarcasm! As they get older and learn to control their powers, they are gonna turn them on me and I'll have to destroy them because I have been doing this for WAAAAAAYYYYYYY longer...

Just picture it as the battle between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader...times dos! Drew and Aiden... I AM your mutha! Now, prepare to be obliterated by the sharpness of my wit and tongue!

Top Iconic Commercial Characters List

2011-06-11T23:36:00.000-05:00

Last weekend my bestie and I were discussing commercials. Some years ago, the ban (or whatever curse there was) was lifted and suddenly commercials could mention/compare other products by name. We both agreed that was a very sad day in history. For me, the creativity came in creating ways to DISS the competition without saying their name.

That led us to spending some minutes ranking commercials...and that put us on the topic of naming iconic commercial personalities.

What did I do? I Googled it...

On Wikipedia (I know, I know...not the MOST reliable source, but it gets the brain juices flowing) there's a list. Go ahead and click the word...I've done the hard part, you just have to scroll and read.

So, here's my top picks (for the moment) and they aren't in any particular order:

Justin the iPhone Guy

Flo the Progressive Rep

Green M&M

The Taco Bell Chihuahua

I also like: the GEICO gecko, Kool-Aid Man, the California Raisins, Chester Cheetah and the list could go on. Now, I know with these iconic characters, they were overused, but think about the first time you saw a commercial with that character. Did it make you smile or laugh out loud? They served their purpose...

What are some of your iconic commercial characters?

Romance

2011-05-29T23:13:00.003-05:00

This evening, Mr. B and I were watching the movie, Our Family Wedding. This movie just brought to light how very much into romance and fairy tales and happily ever afters I am.

Good grief! Do I miss romance! I was going through some things in the coat closet a couple weeks ago and came across a Valentine's day card from my Hunny. This card marked his romantical climax, I think, because there hasn't been anything that has come close to that since...

This card was laying out for me on morning and the instructions on it said not to open it until I got to work (at that time I was working at FAT- the title& escrow company). when I got to work, I opened it and rose petals fell out. I read....

For My Wife

My Forever Love

I'm going to love you forever,

There isn't a doubt

in my mind,

because all of the love

that I feel in my heart

in the "will last forever" kind.

I'm going to love you for always,

not "maybe," I know that it's true,

From the time

we first kissed,

I knew in my heart

my forever love would be you.

Happy Valentine's Day

-Hallmark Expressions

His hand written note stated this:

For every rose petal that falls out

this card is how many times a day

I think of you. how many times a

day I say in my head how lucky I

am to have such a lovely wife. How

many times a day I wish I could

say I love you.

Mr. B

XOXOXO

Anyway, the reason I am thinking about this is because of that freakin movie I mentioned earlier. In the movie they are going through all the motions of planning a wedding and that got me to thinking that Mr. B and I never had a wedding. Then, I started thinking that we'll never have a wedding due to circumstances beyond our control. That made me sad.

For a girl who believes in fairy tales, I don't get to have one. Yes, I have my man and my babies and yadda, yadda, yadda... I wanted a wedding. I wanted a dress, vows spoken before our friends and family, a reception with cheesy music...I wanted it all.

Instead, we totally skipped that step and I will forever be a bridesmaid, never the bride. That makes me even more sad.

So I'll be spending the rest of my life, envying every bride I meet, having visions of a day that will never come for me. And as I sit here and dream of romance that once was, all I'll have is this card and dried rose petals to cling to because there isn't a wedding album or anything...

Don't get me wrong, I am not regretting the life that I have. I wouldn't trade it in for anything; not even a wedding. I think I'm just longing for some of the romance to reappear. Life is hectic and truly, at the end of the day, I'm too tired for romance.

But, I am going to try to inject a touch of romance back into our relationship, if it kills me. Then, perhaps Mr. B will follow...I'll keep you posted.

The Award Goes To...

2011-05-29T05:37:00.000-05:00

So, each day I am relearning more and more about the roles Mr. B and I play in this ying yang relationship. When we are in sync, we work really well together. Outta sync is a completely different story! There have been some times recently where we just DO NOT work together at all...

Some examples of our opposites: he barely talks, I'm a chatter box; he's got a good hold on his emotions whereas I'm all over the place; he's outdoors and rugged, I'm indoors and comfy; he's math, I'm literacy...The list could go on for days! There are two traits I would like to point out in this blog because these are the two that have come to light recently.

Mr. B is a very laid back, nonchalant person. I am very rigid, anal retentive, if you will. The more relaxed he is on certain things, I tend to be extra naggy about them. The whole month of April, I was a complete witch, with a capital B. Andrew was going through some things and Mr. B and I weren't seeing eye to eye about a lot. We're in the process of trying to work this out.

The latest is in the way of trust. Oh, it's not an issue of me trusting him. It's an issue of him being overly trustworthy and me being very skeptical.

The situation we were in that made me realize this involved my Expressions bracelets, or lack there of...

I was frantically searching the house for my two bracelets so I could get warranty work done. My mind has recalled that I put them in a velvet bag on the bookcase in the dining room or in the center console in Sadie. That was some months ago since they were both broken.

Well, as I was searching, I couldn't find the satchel anywhere! As I'm searching, my mind goes to all the peeps that Mr. B has allowed into the house for one thing or another. Lately, he's had many peeps over because of some car audio work they've asked him to do.

The long and the short of it is that I basically call his "friends" hoodlums. Now, I don't consider all his folks miscreants, just the ones I've only met a a couple times. I do know that Mr. B is a very trusting soul. He's a country boy. He's used to a small community, where everyone know everyone else and no one locks their doors at night.

Of course I found the bracelets after a 2nd more thorough search of Sadie and I am currently trying to muster up some courage to apologize.

You would think that after almost 12 years of marriage, I would be very aware of these things. I would be able to curb my traits, but nope. Even after all these years, I still manage to open mouth and insert foot...

Something Unexpected

2011-05-25T21:07:00.018-05:00

My goal sometime this year is to author a book.... My favorite things to read are children's books and romance novels. I am trying my hand at both. If I end up writing both, something is going to have a pen name. Those genres are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Here's a little something... Please feel free to comment and critique.

SOMETHING UNEXPECTED

Ainsley got out of the shower and slathered her 5 foot 7 inch frame with moisturizer. She had plans to hang out with her best friend, Keri. They planned on having a few drinks and do a little flirting…okay, a LOT of flirting. To Ainsley, the more compliments and numbers she got, the better she felt about herself. In her eyes, after she did her weekly chick maintenance, she’d look in the mirror and rate her body appearance. Most days she felt like a 5 in her bra and panties. It always seemed contradictory to her that with her clothes on, she rated herself a 10. With clothes on, she embraced her caramel colored skin, curvy figure, full breasts, and shoulder length auburn hair. When the package was put together, there was no stopping her! She walked with a swagger. Her hazel eyes would twinkle and she always had a mischievous smile on her full lips.

In the privacy of her home, was a different story. As a matter of fact, Ainsley hadn’t felt confident enough about her looks to actually meet someone and allow the relationship to progress to the next level in a long while. She was so afraid of what he’d think about her body once the clothes came off. Yes, she knew that sounded ridiculous, but she spent her whole life thinking that way.

This was a weekend she needed to go out and do some flirting. It was her birthday weekend and she needed to get out of this funk she found herself wallowing in. So, she and Keri decided to head out to Martini Spot and flirt their worries away.

Ainsley donned a pair of navy boy cut panties with pink polka-dots and a matching bra. Tonight’s outfit choice was a body clinging, black strapless dress with a slits on both sides that come mid thigh. Accessorizing her outfit was a bright pink cover up jacket with a matching belt, jet black tights and a pair of Mary Jane heels. To top everything off, she went cat eye glam with her make-up and brushed on some body glitter to make “the girls” pop a bit. The doorbell rang.

“Coming,” Ainsley said as she walked to the door of her apartment and opened it.

“Hey, Annie,” said Keri. “You look great! I love the eye makeup. Ready to go make’em sweat

a little?”

Ainsley gave Keri a hug and stepped back so she could enter the apartment. Standing before her was her best friend of fifteen years. They had met in college, both studying education and became fast friends. Their outgoing personalities complimented one another. Regardless of where and what they were doing, they always made their own party. Keri was 5’5’’ with stacked, honey blond hair. She was slender with curves in all the places that counted and her steely blue eyes were striking. Ainsley couldn’t have asked for a better best friend and colleague. It had worked out that after graduation, they applied for teaching positions in the same school district and just recently, Keri was transferred to Ainsley’s school to teach 1^st grade. Ainsley taught kindergarten.

“Ker, I so need this night out. I’ve been looking forward to this all week!” said Ainsley as she motioned for Keri to come in and sit down. “Would you like a glass of wine while we wait for the cab? I’ve got some tasty Moscoto chilling.”

“Yes, girl. I would love a glass. Why waste all our money buying drinks when we can have a couple for free here at the house, right?” Keri took a seat on the smooth, brown leather couch while Ainsley walked into the kitchen to get two glasses of wine. “ I wanted to go to Martini Corner because they’ve put in a new club and the house band is supposed to be fantastic.”

“I heard that, too. Um, shoot! The group’s name is on the tip of my tongue,” said Ainsley from the kitchen.

“The club is called Indulge and the band’s name is Perspective. They play a little bit of

everything.”

“That’s right, Perspective. I hope this place is on point because I just wanna drink, dance and have a great time tonight.” Ainsley said as she walked back into the living room. “How long did the cab driver say they’d be?”

“It’ll be here in 20 minutes. Are you all ready? You know how you always have your last minute things to take care of. You can never be on time, girl.” Keri laughed and sipped her wine.

“You’ve got jokes. I am ready. I’ve got my cash, my gloss and my camera. I’m ready for a night of taking pictures with strangers.” Ainsley loved meeting new people when she went out and taking a picture with them once they struck up a conversation.

“You are crazy with that picture business, Annie. I love reliving our nights out looking at your pictures on Profile Page,” Keri laughed some more.

“You know I like to meet me some new peeps, girl,” said Ainsley.

***

Ainsley and Keri walked up to the entrance of Indulge and flashed their smiles at the doorman. He gave both ladies an appreciative look and held the door for them. Ainsley tried to give him her cover fee, but he waved it away.

He said, “Your money isn’t good here. You’ve dressed to impress and I am definitely impressed. This one’s on me, hun.” He gave her another sweep and smiled, shaking his head.

“Thank you very much,” Ainsley said with a smile and followed Keri into the club.

Keri turned, gave Ainsley a big smile and said, “It’s packed tonight and there are a ton of yummy lookin’ men here. I think we are definitely going to get lucky in the drink department tonight, Annie.”

“I hope so. I need this to be a three for free night!” Ainsley had to raise her voice a little for Keri to hear her over the pulsating beat of the music.

As soon as the words were out of her mouth, an older gentleman came up to her and introduced himself as Tyler. He followed the pick up script asking all the generic, get to know you questions: name, are you here with anyone, and finally occupation. When Ainsley said kindergarten teacher, Tyler didn’t disappoint with his response.

“Man! If my kindergarten teacher looked like you, I’d have repeated that grade a couple times.” Tyler cackled loudly after his comment. She had heard all the lines about being a kindergarten teacher. Ainsley just smiled and caught Keri’s eye. Keri shrugged and continued scanning the room.

“So,” said Tyler, “can I buy you and your friend a drink?”

“Absolutely. I’ll have a Captain and Coke and Keri will have a Bacardi and Sprite.” Ainsley smiled at him. Her mama didn’t raise no fool. If he was offering drinks, she’d take them; even if she wasn’t feeling him. It was all part of the game.

While old man Tyler turned to the bar to order drinks, Ainsley walked over to Keri and nudged her.

“How about you could have thrown a girl a life line! I’m not here for oldie, but goodies…”

Keri laughed and asked, “He’s getting us drinks, right? We can ditch him after. Relax and enjoy.”

“Easy for you to say. Grandpa wasn’t coming on to you!”

Before Keri could comment, Tyler turned around and motioned for the girls to come over to the bar and get their drinks from the bartender.

“I’d like to introduce you to my friend, Oscar,” said Tyler. “He’s in town for a couple days.”

“Nice to meet you, ladies,” Oscar said. “You’re looking lovely tonight.” It was obvious he was speaking directly to Keri in her short, red dress.

“Nice to meet you as well,” said Keri. She looked over at Ainsley and rolled her eyes. Ainsley laughed.

Feeling the need for an exit, Ainsley threw out the bathroom card and Keri didn’t hesitate to latch onto that getaway opportunity! Somehow, standing in line for the restroom sounded a lot more appealing than hanging with men her father’s age…

As Ainsley stood, surveying the crowd, she swayed in time to the music. Somehow, she and Keri had gotten separated while on the dance floor. She had no idea where Keri went off to, but she wasn’t worried. Keri was a fiery one and if someone got out of line, she didn’t hesitate to flash her mace.

Still swaying, Ainsley noticed the gentleman to her right. She smiled at him and turned back to the dance floor. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the guy trade places with another guy next to him.

Ainsley couldn’t help but notice the guy’s physique. Just looking at him made her body tingle all over. He was well built, strong arms and a flat stomach that tapered down to a trim waist. He had a bald head and Ainsley found that she wanted to rub her hands all over it. She took a sip of her drink and went back to watching the crowd on the dance floor. There was a big group of people stepping to the beat on the dance floor. Ainsley always enjoyed people watching when she went out.

She was still swaying to the beat when she bumped into the guy to her right. She turned and

said, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bump you.”

The guy had to be at least 6 foot and a cutie, Ainsley noticed. He looked down at her,

smiled and said, “Oh, it’s not a problem at all.”

Ainsley smiled and then turned back to her people watching. The guy moved a little

closer causing her to bump him again. “I really am sorry. It’s just so crowded in here,”

she said.

Cutie smiled down at her again and said, “No problem…”

They turned their attention back to the dance floor. Cutie moved a little closer to Ainsley and started swaying in tune to her. Ainsley took a sip of her drink and smiled. She realized a come on in the making. He moved a little closer still…

They swayed together for a minute or two and finally Ainsley turned her head and said, “If we are going to stand this close, I feel like we should know each other.”

He smiled and said, “You think so, huh? My name is Kwan.”

“Ainsley. Nice to meet you.” She batted her lashes and smiled her “I approve” smile.

Kwan reached out his hand for her to shake and she did. “So, what brings you and your friend out tonight, Ainsley?” he asked.

“We were just looking for some fun tonight. And it’s my birthday in…” She looked at her watch, “about 10 minutes.”

“Really? Well, it would make me very happy if you’d let me buy your first birthday drink.”

“I’d like that,” said Ainsley with a wink.

I Don't Like Feeling Like Dorothy!

2011-05-25T19:16:00.000-05:00

Holy Crap! Today was one of the craziest days in my 5 years of teaching!
This morning, I woke up at 6 and had to pee (TMI, huh?). As I was getting up to go to the restroom, I was thinking, "oh, it's okay, it's Saturday. I'll go pee and then I can get back in the bed and sleep until 8." My exact thoughts...

As I was emptying my bladder, it must have cleared the fog from my brain and I realized it was only Freakin Wednesday and my alarm was going to go off at 6:30. I was quite PISSED...no pun intended. *wink wink*

At school, we are kinda playing the waiting game with the rain. Field Day was scheduled, but if it rained like they said it was going to, we'd have to cancel. Well at 9:30 we got the okay to play. Totally excited! I had my camera and was wearing my plaid shorts and ready to have a great time. We made it through half the field events when it starts to rain too much for me and my camera to be outside.

Once inside, we get settled in with our Weekly Reader and we're activating our prior knowledge about the ocean. All of a sudden the secralazy comes over the loud speaker and blubbers out we are in the middle of a tornado and that this is NOT a drill!

The children and I stop, drop everything and line up to head out the door. At Greener Grass Elementary, we don't have a lower level. We have two halls and that's the whole of it! We are filing out into the hallway and kiddos are chatting it up like this is a drill.

Once we get the kiddos settled into the head covered/rump up position, things get quiet. They start to realize this was not a drill!

My heart is pounding in my throat! I vaguely remember having to prep for a tornado when I was in elementary school. That was once; when I was like under 10! I'm trying not to freak out in front of the children and suddenly my ears pick up on some whimpering, snotting and snorting to my right.

There is a little girl, face to the ground crying. What comes out of her mouth?

"I don't wanna die today..."

My eyes teared up instantaneously! OMG! What do you say? You can't guarantee that we won't die today...

I say to her, "it's okay hunny. We are in the safest part of the school (which isn't much). If we do what we are supposed to, everything will be okay."

Of course that doesn't make her feel better, so I just hand her some tissues. Then another little girl starts showing the beginnings of hyperventilating! I quickly coach her through some breathing.

WTF?! It is beyond hard to remain calm when the children are doing everything I feel like doing! I manage, though. Once the magnitude of our actions set in, I got my twister legs about me and was good to go.

That is until a parent came, in the MIDDLE of the tornado advisory, to pick up her child! REALLY!? I would imagine that the interior hallway of a school would be much safer than the tin can you'd be driving down the street!

I just send the little girl to the office, but how about the parent tries to send the girl BACK to the classroom for her damn BACKPACK?! REALLLLLLY?! If you die driving down the street, will she really need a backpack in heaven? I don't think so. Get the F*** outta here!

We were in the hallway alternating between croutching low and sitting on our knees for about 45 minutes to an hour. It was the longest moment in my career....

The advisory passed and we got to eat lunch in the classroom (which the kinders thought was AWESOME). And the day went on...
Just an unbelieveable day in the kinderverse. Counting my blessings and those of all my little bits. They did an amazing job sitting for that long and trying their best to be quiet and listen to what the universe was telling us.

Who Pissed on the Picnic!?

2011-05-25T00:52:00.001-05:00

Saturday was Andrew's annual birthday picnic with his bestie, Dillon. We were out at WYCO Park with family, food and great weather!

This year was a small gathering. Due to extenuating circumstances, Andrew wasn't allowed to invite anyone to his party this year. That didn't stop the fun times, though!

We had the Lego theme again this year. Noel and I we shopping for EVERYTHING the night before the party. Talk about whirlwind! We got all the decorations, the cake and the food between the hours of 6-9...I call that some kind of wonderful! I don't know about Noel, but solidifies my status as a slacker mom.

Here are some pictures of our good times...

The birthday boys: Dillon (center) and Andrew (far right).

The birthday cake! Legos Ninjago...

Aiden, flying a kite for the 1st time.

The Moms having a laugh!

Michelle after the chase. She threw ice cream in Steffon's face and he chased her down and smacked her back with some homemade vanilla! Hahahaha

The Dairy Twins!

Noel pushing canned whipped cream. She was giving shots to everyone!

So, after the kite flying, BBQ and cake eating, present opening, food wars and general goofing, the kiddos started their game of dodgeball. Aiden (little show stealer!) comes up to me and says he has to go potty. I tell him to just go (we are working on untraining him from announcing that he has business in the bathroom). Instead of heading to the restroom, he commences to do the potty dance while walking in circles, holding his little crotchity.

Dad had the brilliant idea to remove his filter from his mouth and say, "you can just go in the grass..." Can you just guess what happened next? That's right!

Aiden Matthew drops his drawers and we all get a squishy tushie shot while he whizzes in the grass! So to end our wonderful day at the park, celebrating the boys' birthdays, Aiden pisses on the picnic!

This is what I have to deal with on the daily when it comes to being the only girl amongst 3 guys. My life is so rough!

Flowers

2011-05-23T19:26:00.000-05:00

To help straighten out our halos, the cherubs and I split our recess starting today. Instead of 15-20 minute recess in the afternoon, we had 2, 10 minute recesses today. There was one in the morning and one in the afternoon. I think it will help us ALL get through this last week and a half.

Do you remember when we had 3 recesses a day? There was the morning, after lunch and afternoon recesses. With all that recess, we still managed to learn something and I think we've all turned into pretty upstanding adults. Well, maybe not ALL of us...there was that one person in 1992 that had us all scared. You know who I'm talking about!

So, the little cherubs are running around playing on the equipment and frolicking in the grass, right? Well, the school district that Greener Grass Elementary has done some budget slicing and dicing. The grass might be tall enough to lose a kiddo in...nah, I'm just teasing. HOWEVER, the grass has been somewhat neglected and all those beautiful weeds that children like to pick and give as special gifts are everywhere!

I have 25 cherubs in my class. About 10 picked 1 dandelion and 10 of them picked at least 2-3 pretty weeds and fashioned them into a bouquet for their wonderful teacher. Ah, you shouldn't have...REALLY! You shouldn't have!

What do you do? One of my kinders asked if I was going to put them in a cup of water when we got into the classroom....
***NOTE: You might wanna stop reading here because this next part could be misconstrude as me crushing the spirits of children, but I say it to my own "womb"bats, so I'll say it to my transplants!***
After the little kinder asked me about putting the weeds into a cup of water, I said something completely honest to him.

Me: You know, Kinderboy, if I put these in water, do you think they will live?

Kinderboy: Um...

Me: They are missing something very important. I want you to activate that prior knowledge on plants. What do plants need in order to live and grow?
(He gave me a bunch of very important things, but none were what I was getting at, so I continue) Plants, Kinderboy, need roots to soak up the water and food they need to live. Since we didn't dig this plant up by the roots, it's not going to live. Thanks for thinking of me, but next time, we'll let the pretty "flowers" grow and you can just point out the ones you would pick for me...

Kinderboy: Okay, Mrs. Bradner. (and he skipped off to pick some for his mom)

Now, I blame the school district for making me have this conversation with Kinderboy. If someone had just come and mowed the damn lawn over the weekend, the cherubs wouldn't have felt the need to pick a gazbillion "flowers" for me...

Where's my Robin Hood!?

2011-05-19T19:17:00.001-05:00

Each year, I get my mind stuck on something that I really think I want and would use in my classroom. Each year, I spend WAY too much money on my classroom. It's sad when I think about the fact that I have a monthly budget for classroom necessities.

5 years ago, when I first started teaching, I decided I needed an iPod. Why? To hold all the kid approved music and not have to worry about switching CDs. Did I make that happen? Yes! Some of my playlist titles: Math Madness, Reading Readiness, Kiddo Jams, Animated Literacy Songs, Calendar Time, Dr. Jean...etc. I also own a cute, hot pink docking boom box for my hot pink iPod. Buh-bye CDs...

Next, I felt I needed a Cricut for making my own bulletin board letters and cutsy signs and junk. When the Cricut came out, it was pretty expensive for the little personal 8 1/2 X 11 inch paper cutter/designer thingy. Did I make that happen? Yes! Well, actually Mr. Blue Eyes made it happen one Christmas. I completely enjoy making my own stuff. Check out some of my classroom photos. The lettering is really cool!

Other things I've felt I needed: a laptop, pocket digital camera, document projectors...the list is quite endless. Did I get'em...of course! ;-)

Well the latest thing on my list is an iPad2. I absolutely NEED one! Why, you ask? Because I can invision myself doing so many things with it! I am not one of those folks that asks for technology and never uses it. I swear, I'd use it to death! I could see myself making idle minutes at the bathroom more productive by assessing students as they wait for the restroom. Heaven knows that the bathroom situation at Greener Grass Elementary is critical! There is 1 set of restrooms for 250+ learners... Oh, wait, back to the point...I could see my kiddos making their own little stories and just learning and having fun!

We use technology in our classroom...every single day. From the classroom computers, iPod, laptop, Cricut, the Nikon D60... Heck! Even my cell phone. I send buddies to the bathroom. One person to use the restroom and the other to carry my phone and watch the timer.

I like teaching my kinders how to use technology in responsible ways and it makes the classroom more interesting! Just another extension to learning...

So, if you would to donate to Mrs. B's Kinderverse, or you know someone who would, please get in contact with me. I would create a proposal and I'm sure you could write it off on your taxes or something...

Educ8r Chic!

2011-05-19T06:53:00.000-05:00

The shirt speaks for itself... Actually, it should say, "iTeach Kindergarten; What's YOUR Superpower?"

You can find it and others here: http://shop.htprintables.com/main.sc

Creationary - Create Your Own Dictionary!

2011-05-19T06:36:00.000-05:00

Language is a very awesome thing. I know that sounds nerdy, but it really is! Here are a couple of my favorite books that have to do with wondifferous words!

This book is super cute! I adore Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell! They make a fabulous team! The title speaks for itself...Big Words for Little People. Don't shy away from using big words with your children...

Frindle by Andrew Clements is one of my all time favs. Clements does a wonderful job of telling a story that includes a little lesson on how words get into the dictionary. Oh, the power people have! Remember when it was headline news that Destiny's Child's word, bootylicious was added to the dictionary? Who woulda thunk it?

This book is funny with a side of lesson learned.

Why am I writing about this? Well, I ~~like~~ LOVE words! I love to think'em, speak'em, read'em and make'em up myself! I'm a word splicer! What's a word splicer, you ask? I like to take multiple words and create a mash-up and come up with new words. Sometimes the words in the English language don't do justice to what I am trying to say, sooooo I have to create something that effectively explains the level of importance regarding things I speak on.

For instance, the other day when I realized that my class was going to be on the tube, my brain came up with kinderverse. Kindergarten is something all its own...a universe, if you will. We are at the center of our own everything. We are everything. In kindergarten, there is nothing more important than creating a solid sense of agency (the ability to believe that you can do whatever you set your mind to). In kindergarten, we are very narcissistic, not by choice, but by necessity. We are discovering what makes us special and the things we are capable of.

Kinderverse implies how important what we do really is. Not very many people get the kindergarten universe mantra. It's hard to understand, but once you do, it's oh, so very imaginative and exciting!

I'm not claiming to have created these words (most are in the dictionary), but I will say that once my brain thought to splice words together, I noticed them showing up in the vocabulary of others. You know like when you buy a new car (never realizing how many you see on the daily) and all of a sudden you are made aware and see it EVERYWHERE?

Here are some words that I have come to appreciate:

carbivore (that one showed up on a diet/weight loss commercial!)
secrelazy (a lazy secretary)
custodibum (a bum of a custodian)
craptacular (crapily spectacular)
slackadazical (lack of purpose to get things done)
uniboob (1 tig 'ol biddy!)
ginormous (LOVE this one!)
frediculious (freakin ridiculous)
derriculious (stupid (as in "der!") ridiculous)
happenstance (circumstances where things just happen)
kinderverse (see above)
kinderriffic (so wonderful, you're in awe of something like when you were little; bigger than life)

Ready For My Close-Up, Mr. Spielberg! Smile & Wink

2011-05-19T05:30:00.003-05:00

Kansas Schools Prepare For Budget Cuts - Video - KMBC Kansas City

The above link is a turning point in my educator career! I was on T.V., y'all! That's right! I've started skipping down the road to fame and fabulousness! A news crew came to visit the kinderverse on Thursday, May 12th. Did I win an award? No. Was it to do a piece on how great a teacher I am? No. Did I win the lotto and decide am still going to go to work and give back to the children? No, but that is something I would do if given the chance...

We were a sound byte for a piece on the never ending budget cuts to education. Um... don't suck your teeth, you weren't on T.V. last Thursday! It doesn't matter why we were on there, it just matters that we were there.

The Kinderverse isn't until the middle to the end of the clip and we are doing calendar time and yes, we are singing the days of the week in Spanish. I try and produce well rounded kinders from my class. We know a little sign language, have extensive vocabularies, and know a little Spanish. That's how we roll!

So, I have gotten a little taste of fame. My phone was blowing up with text messages from folks that saw me. The way I figure it, that was about 30 seconds of fame, but of course you have to round up. Sooooo, that'd be about a minute's worth of fame. I have 14 more minutes to go.

As I rewatch this clip, I am saddened that they came the day BEFORE my hair appointment and on a day where my pants were TOO big and my shirt with horizontial stripes was TOO small! HA! Ah, well...what can ya do?

Snow Daze!

2011-02-06T23:22:00.000-06:00

As a child...I absolutely LOVE snow days!
As a grown-up...I love having a snow day or two.
As a teacher...I love snow days and encourage the children to go to bed with their PJs on backward, but fret each day about how much further behind we are in our lessons. I dream about all the things I could be doing at work or could have brought home to work on...

As a child...I liked going to the grocery store with my mom. I would beg for the latest stuff.
As a grown-up...I HATE going to the grocery store! It's a pain in the arse and I would so pay someone to get my groceries, bring them home and put them away.
As a teacher...I am ALWAYS at the grocery store buying goodies for the classroom AND the household, unless....

I've gone on strike from the store. That is what I have really been doing the whole year of 2011! I just hate the grocery store....

What's the point, you ask? The point is that when we had SNOW-mageddon last week, there was just the minimum amount of food in the house. I think we survived on turkey/cheese sandwiches, eggs, granola bars, hot cocoa mix, milk and kool-aid! It was terrible! Talk about slacker mom over here... I'm okay with that though. Nobody starved...

But, let me tell you, it is extremely hard to satisfy a craving for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups when you are snowed in for a few days. I tried to ignore my need for chocolate and peanut butter, but I failed miserably! So, I got creative...

To curb desires for chocolatey, peanut butter goodness all you need is some JIFF, Hershey's chocolate syrup and a spoon. Yes, folks, I made myself the PMS-ing woman's Reese's cup...just call it Peese's!

I took a scoop of PB and put a crater in the center of my PB filled spoon. I then put a squirt of chocolate sauce in the crater and swirled them together.

It was the BEST off brand peanut butter cup I ever had!

Here I Come Pole-a-palooza 2011!

2011-02-06T21:50:00.013-06:00

So, you all know me a little bit by now, right? I usually do something kooky around my birthday time. Rememeber the year I got the brazillian (go ahead and click for a refresher)? This year is no different! I just started a little early... To begin my kooky things this year, I've decided that I am going to have a birthday party that is unlike any other I've ever had... March 2011 has been named "Pole-a-palooza!" I am having a pole dancing party!

Today, I began my steps to amaturizing the art of pole dancing. I am taking pole dance classes at Pole Worx. I have 4 Sundays to get some moves down and avoid an EPIC fail on my part. I know it's kinda cheating. Everyone I invite March 5th will not have had as much practice, but it's MY birthday and I'll cheat if I want too!

When driving down to Pole Worx, please know that it is in the HOOD! It's off of 12th street in the bottoms. I took some left turns and some right turns, came close to the railroad trax, and parked next to a vacant building. But that's not the half of it!

I walk into this vacant looking building, the kind of building where all the SAW movies were made... What do I see? A bank vault that has empty booze bottles and a toddler car seat (how random?), a little signage, some rickety wooden stairs, and foe Tiffany lighting (WTH?).

What's with the mask on the security alarm? Freaky! So Phantom of the Opera!

Signage pointing the way to the stairway of death!

Bank vault on the way to stairs of death...

The hallway to stairs of death. Can you see the fake Tiffany lighting fixtures above?

Well, I make it up Death Valley and to the studio...The point of this is to share with you my beginning stages of pole dancing. I learned 3 moves and I wish I had a pole in my house to practice. I was going to post my video, but after reviewing it, I noticed I was wearing a t-shirt that promoted my school district. Sorry, next time, I'll choose my clothing better. So, you'll just have to use your imaginations this time around...

I guarantee my arms and thighs will be SUPER sore tomorrow while teaching the children at Greener Grass Elementary. But this is so worth the pain... And is much better than riding the BULL ! :-)

That's a Bunch of BULL!

2011-02-06T20:51:00.002-06:00

Had the opportunity to ride a mechanical bull in January. I was celebrating with my girl, Rebecca, for her birthday. Here's some video of my ride. Why am I putting this out there? Because I like doing fun things and I don't really care what other peeps think of my actions. It's all in harmless fun...and I did have a lot of fun!

Some things to acknowledge in the video (pardon the darkness of the video):

Me inching up the bull
Me riding in true cowgirl fashion - with 1 arm in the air
The dismount!
The fact that I didn't last very long, but the presentation was pretty good!

After riding the bull, I was just minding my business-mingling and sipping on my Madori Sour (yummy drink). A guy comes up to me and says hey. We strike up a conversation. He asks the general pick up questions. Please, keep reading, it gets better...

SCENE - We have a few minutes of mindless, polite chatter and THEN...

G: What school did you go to?

M: I went to Sabre Academy... What about you?

G: I went to Sabre Academy too! What year did you graduate?

M: Graduated in '97... (and just as I was about to ask him what year he graduated in, he said this...)

G: Wwwwwooooooooowwwwwww! (His mouth formed a perfect "O", his eyes bugged out his head and he looked my up and down.)

M: What?

G: That was a long time ago! You are way older than I thought! You look good, girl!

M: Well, what year did you graduate?

G: '05, but that's okay. Age ain't nothing but a number...

M: Really? That's how you come at me? I'm mad cuz you put me on blast!

G: I didn't mean it like that...

M: When you go "wow" like you did and look at me like I'm yo mama, the conversation is over...

G: Naw, for real. Can I get your number? Age don't matter... Exactly how old are you?

M: Like Imma tell you now? Whatevs, besides, I'm married... It was nice talking to you. Goodnight and don't miss your curfew... (I turn and walk away)

This was the beginning of the end for me... Here I am about to turn 32 and this little snot comes at me with that goofy, Roger Rabbit look?

I am NOT trying to be as old as his look made me feel! WTH? And that is when I came up with my kooky idea for POLE-A-PALOOZA!

Breathe...

2011-01-13T20:54:00.024-06:00

Today was a very exhausting day for me... In an instant, I am reminded of how invested I am in my "Old Lady Who Lives in a Shoe" family (me, the kinders, our cozy corner at the end of the hall). Here's why...

I was fussing around in my classroom before the children got there this morning and Mrs. Secralazy came into my classroom (sidebar- secralazy is the nickname I've given the secretary at Greener Grass Elementary cuz she takes breaks that total 420 minutes/day and manages to keep herself busy by doing absolutely NOTHING!). She informed me that a parent left a message. It was that message that made my 'World of Thurday' all kinds of topsy-turvy...

"Expressive Eyes' mother called. She said that father died and Expressive Eyes won't be in the rest of the week. Maybe not even Monday," said Secralazy.

To which I answered, "Jesus!" *pause to regroup* "Um, okay...thanks." Never in my life have I exclaimed the Father's OR the Son's name in such a manner.

My brain became bombarded with thoughts, millions of thoughts. I thought back to the 21st of December when Expressive Eyes' father wheeled himself into my classroom to celebrate with us. I thought about seeing sunshine on this little person's face when their eyes met. You could just see the love... I remembered being so excited he was there and how I wanted to make that a memory. I pulled out my handy Nikon and snapped a couple pictures... Little did I know that that moment would be included in some of the final memories and those thoughts led me down another path...

Did he know that this was going to be one of the moments that would steal some of his last breaths? Coming to celebrate with his wee one and the rest of Rm 100? Was he living the last days of his life to the fullest? Did he know? Had he spoken to God?

My tears came fast and hard. My heart ached for this little person who was going to have to grow up without the man that was the sun, moon and stars...a universe in our universe. I thought about how my innocent question to Mom last week brought a flood of tears to her eyes and had her tossing over her shoulder, "you would have to ask me that," while running down the hall.

I thought about all my conversations with Mom about Dad's condition and how it affects Expressive Eyes. I thought about the days Expressive Eyes came to school and cried in my arms or told me about headaches and tummyaches; about being afraid that he wasn't going to be there...hoping that would lead back to the path that was Dad and home.

It was so rough this morning that my hands wouldn't stop shaking long enough to prepare the children's morning work. My soul was overflowing with tears and I couldn't get them to stop. All I could think about was wanting to take some of the hurt away...

I tossed aside our daily routine and decided we would talk about this unfortunate event and do something to show Expressive Eyes that we were all hurting together.

I greeted my children with a soft voice and tears in my eyes. I still shook each little hand and said my good mornings. I thought, "I have to be strong for my students, my children, my babies." Then, I realized that my strength is visible in my sorrow-filled tears, every breath I took to move our day forward, the small smile I gave each boy and girl.

We talked about the situation and how we felt about Expressive Eyes. We spent the morning making cards that would give Expressive Eyes a little piece of all of us and hoped that our love and friendship would help heal this heart that has been left battered and bruised by the passing of Dad.

My heart, my soul, my being aches with saddness for Expressive Eyes. Even as I write this, I cry. I can't help myself. I'm crying for Expressive Eyes, for all the children that have to grow up a little faster because of life's circumstances, for the people raising these children, for everyone that has been and will be forever affected by cancer...

What's with the Cheesy Grin!?

2011-01-05T01:38:00.001-06:00

I took this picture when Noel and I went to St. Louis for a long 'girls only' weekend. Tonight's flaw is the cheddar on my mug (uh, the smile on my face).

To the average person's eye, my smile looks fine. But, please, put some shades on and don't allow yourself to be blinded by the 1000 megawatt smile in this photo...

Yes, my teeth appear pearly white, my lips are glossy and proportionate to my head, nose, etc. But there is one thing that nags me about my smile...

In every picture I see, my head is tilted or there's something off balance about me or my surroundings. I can't help but notice that my smile has always been off kilter! It drives me INSANE!

Here is a photo montague of smiles for your viewing pleasure:

Cheesin' at the successful shedding of 30 lbs.

My 10-11 School Year Photo

Me and the boys on Halloween

Me and Aiden being goofy

Showing off my new bangs!

At Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Waterpark with Bestie

Just Cuz

Cuz

After the Usher concert

Bowling with the girls from work

NYE 2010

Partying with my girl, KT for her Bday

Usher concert

In every single one of the pictures above, it appears that there is a puppet master pulling the string on the right side of my mouth up a little higher... Makes me absolutely BONKERS! I have spent my life tilting my head, doing something goofy, consciously trying to lower the right side of my mouth, or lifting a shoulder to balance things out.

For this to bother me soooo stinkin' much, you'd think all I've ever gotten were negative comments on my smile. that's not the truth, though. In fact, my smile is one of the first things people comment on. When I smile, others can't help but smile back (but that's true of every bucket filler in the world). I just don't get how they miss the "leaning tower of cheese-zah" that is my grin, cheese, smile, jolliness...you get my point.

Well, today I am going to grab the reigns of my off kilter bit of happiness! It brings character and pizzaz to my being. I am going to take the words of others and embrace them as my own...I am the beholder of my own beauty.

I can't help it if the curvature of my buxom lips cause your world to tilt slightly... From this moment forward, I *heart* my smile!

Image

2011-01-04T01:22:00.003-06:00

I am going to spend a moment (or 2 or 3) paying tribute to me, my features, my flaws, my strengths and my weaknesses. I have 68 days until I am firmly rooted in my thirties. I have spent the past 6 months contemplating everything; my career, my family, my life in general... I feel like 32 might be the beginning of something _______!

So, here's what I like about me this week...my legs! I've never given my legs a second thought before last night. Wait, I take that back... I have freaking hair bump freckles (but no hair really) all over my legs! I've hated that all my life! Other than that, I've never given my legs the opportunity to occupy space in my mind in a positive way...

Ode to my Legs

Leg 1 and leg 2, where would I be without you? (hee hee)

Despite your freakish hair freckles, I'm thankful...

I NEVER have to shave you!

There's nothing there!

I can only wonder what it's like to have to remove unwanted hair.

You're shapely and long...on the way to getting lean

Why I think my stems are really keen!

In yoga pants, or leggings,

skinny jeans or shorts.

My legs make me smile because they are attractive

And when I look at them, I think possiblilities of all sorts!

Some Kind Of Life Crisis

2010-09-22T23:58:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have really been into photographing myself. I dunno. All the things that were flaws up to this point, I find wonderful! Since I had my breakthrough, I have lost about 15 lbs and went down 2 pants sizes. I feel great. I like knowing that I still have it and can produce it on demand if need be.

I feel like a completely different person and I think to myself, "man, if I feel this great going to the gym only 2 days a week, what the hell will happen to the world if I workout 5-7 days?" I'd probably wear nipple pasties to work one day! Haha! Just kidding...I'm still the same ol' Mrs. Bradner I've always been...

just with more moxy!

I am not going to apologize or question it, I'm just going to live it while it lasts...

National Board Certification

2010-08-22T22:55:00.001-05:00

Here's me adding more fuel to the fire this year! On top of starting the school year oit with an asinine number of kindergarteners, tutoring 6 hours a week, and being a present member of my family...I am thinking of applying for National Board Certification. What is National Board Certification, you ask? Well, let me enlighten you...

A quote from the NBPTS website, "Like board-certified doctors and accountants, teachers who achieve National Board Certification have met rigorous standards through intensive study, expert evaluation, self-assessment and peer review."

I am just taking time to really eyeball my teaching practices and make them even more stellar! I know what's running through your mind, "Kesha, what about the fact that you are halfway done with your Master's degree?" When are you going to finish that?" I've stopped my Master's for the moment because I felt like the classes were just busy work. I could totally write those papers and such in my sleep! I want something that will challenge me to the fullest... Taking a microscope to things that I am already doing is going to really bring about changes that are necessary to evolve and become better at my craft.

From what I understand about the informational meeting, it's pretty intense and in the 1st year, only about 40% of candidates receive their certification... Regardless of if I receive my certification or not, I think this would be a VERY good experience for me.

Here's the kicker-things start on Sept. 10! I know, right?! That's right around the corner!

So, the question is...should I or shouldn't I?

The Darndest Things About Kindergarten

2010-08-18T22:25:00.001-05:00

Since school has started, I have found myself using such phrases as:

"Please get your hands out of your pants. That's unsanitary."

"Please stop picking in your nose."

"Eating your boogers isn't the best choice."

"Can you stop licking yourself?"

"Do you know your name?"

"Are you listening to me?"

And there are times when I have no other words to describe what the children are doing and can only say, "REALLY????"

It is quite an adventure when it comes to kindergarteners. Especially when there are 40-something in 1 classroom for 7 hours a day! I'd forgotten exactly what to expect. It's like going through labor. At some point in time, the memory of labor gets a little fuzzy and in the back of your mind you start to say, "Aww, it wasn't that bad. I can do it again." BUT, once those legs are in the birthing position, it all comes rushing back to you and you feel the need to shout, "What the hell was I thinking? Imma need that epidural, STAT!"

In my classroom, there are currently 46 students enrolled. Each day, 41-43 students show up to class. This has caused me to go through a WIDE range of emotions: anxiety, giddiness, fear, anger, frustration, joy, peace, love, tenderness, understanding, guilt and many more. Each day, things get a little better, though.

Would I change it? I don't think so. My reasoning for teaching kindergarten isn't because I love the children; that is a very cliche' line. I teach kindergarten because most people who look at a 4-6 year old see incompetence and helplessness. I see something entirely different:

Look through my eyes

See what I see

There is a bright, young child looking at me

Ready to soak up and breathe in

That intelligence floating around in the air.

Look through my eyes

See what I see

There is a genius waiting to 1 up me.

Turning learned helplessness in the words of "I can't",

Into tenacity and an "I will" attitude.

Look through my eyes

See what I see

They may be cute and small

But they pack a punch with that brain capacity!

Look through my eyes

See what I see

An opportuntiy to inspire, enhance and motivate

Each and every kindergartener through my door is nothing short of GREAT!

I teach kindergarten because I want each child to see that they are quite capable to problem solve and get things done. I want them to look at each challenge as an opportunity to sharpen the skills they were born with. I want them to go from thinking "I can't" to thinking, "I can't wait!"

Taking One For The Team

2010-08-18T01:18:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was a rough day for me. I was stewing because I had one of the roughest days at school with the enrollment situation in kindergarten. So yesterday, I was in quite the pissy mood and I just really wanted to cry.

Well, instead of crying, I fell asleep and Arik got the boys off to bed at their respectable times. I vaguely remember Aiden walking up to me, hugging and kissing me and telling me good night. Arik soon toddled himself off to bed and left me on the couch. I woke up somewhere around 10 and decided that I was going to wash my hair before getting in bed... All that being done, I got into bed about midnight.

Fast forward to 2 am. Only a handful of good things happen at that time of the night and let me tell you NONE of those things were taking place in the Bradner household. What was happening, you ask? Well, Aiden was cranky and crying and everything. Arik got up to tend to him multiple times and finally I said, "just let him come and lay in the bed with us."

Aiden comes meandering into the bedroom and monkey climbs the bed. He skooches his way over to me and snuggles into the comfy curve that mommy's have and provide for their children. Aiden was there all of 15 minutes before he starts to whine and cry...

He sits up and dinner spews out his mouth! ALL OVER the bed and ME!!!!!! And it just keeps coming! I get all panicky and rush him to the bathroom so we can shower.

While we are doing that, Arik is cleaning up the bed... I *heart* him for that. I can't handle cleaning things like that up! When we get done in the shower, the bed is all clean and he's laid a towel down over the damp spots. However, Aiden and I don't get to climb into the bed. His tummy is still super upset and I end up introducing him to the porcelain god (um...the toilet).

Here's comes the kicker...the reason I am writing this blog...

Arik gets up and calls into work and then tells me that I can go to bed. He said he'd sit up with Aiden. How awesome is that? I was already working myself up thinking about what I was going to do because I couldn't call in on the 3rd day of school! Especially since school has been completely INSANE these last few days (more to come)!

I just wanted to give my hunny props for taking on the role as custodial parent last night. I was feeling like he didn't understand what I was going through with it being the beginning of school and all, but he took one for the team and I am gratful...

Jury Duty

2010-08-18T00:20:00.001-05:00

Friday, August 13th was the 1st day of school. And let me tell you, the weeks leading up to the first day and every day there after have been EXHAUSTING! I didn't do any tutoring the last week of July/1st week of August so that I could relax for the end of my summer. What happened? JURY DUTY...

Went in Monday and hung around until 1100. I was picked for a trial that was starting the NEXT day. Well, I went back and sat around til 1100 again. Called into courtroom to find out that the trial was a case that involved 5 counts of indecent liberties with a minor (or some legal gargon). The parties ended up settling out of court... There would have been NO chance in Hades that I would have been picked for that trial. As you all know, I'm kinda controversial when it comes to situations like that. I would have been a good juror for the prosecution, but the defendant would have voted me off the island so fast, my head woulda spun! :-)

Here's my beef... I am a freakin' teacher! I spend 186 days of each year working to get children to make more right choices. I consider teaching young minds to be my civil duty. I get paid next to nothing to work 40+ hours a week and it's tiring... Why do I have to give the government my valuable time to sit around and get paid pennies?

I know it's the right thing to do, but the government always has the knack for summoning you at the wrong time?

The week I had jury duty, my sister-in-law and her family were coming into town, there was a district workshop thing that I could have attended and earned more than $20 for two days, the school building was open for teachers to work in their rooms and we had a wedding in Iowa at the end of the week...

I will step off my soap box for the moment...

Me, a MILF?

2010-07-21T12:08:00.000-05:00

After finishing my workout at th YMCA, a thought came to me like a pinched nerve! I am a MILF! When I say that, just know that I have redefined what that represents.

I have inadvertently surrounded myself with all kinds of people jumping into the fitness gig. Through subliminal messages and such, I have decided to put on some stretchy workout pants and start sweating out my relaxer on the regular...

I have been going to Zumba class at the YMCA for a few weeks and I've started some resistance training - focusing on my upper body. My goals are to shrink the muffin top, diminish the back fat and get rid of the kinda arms that my friend affectionatly refers to as "baby thighs!" She had me rolling on the floor with that comparison, but it fits. That looks great on a cutie wearing booties, but it is HIGHLY unattractive when I lift my arm to make a muscle...

So, back to MILF. I know what thought is injected into a person's mind when that acronym is used. To me, MILF is a Mother Into Looking Fit! Now, that may still translate to something more *wink, wink* and I'm okay with that. Your definition, however, is NOT my goal. If that is your expectation, then I will meet that over time, but will eventually EXCEED that because I expect more from myself than you...

So, I am challenging myself to stay the course. I am going to commit to 4 days a week at the YMCA and more contact time with my elliptical trainer and Wii Fit here at home.

I am digging these endorphins that are coursing through my body. Who'd have thunk it? I actually feel sexy when I work out! I know I look like this when I'm working out :

But I feel like this:

As much as I am enjoying this newfound energy boost, I might need to start a breast augmentation fund because I do so LOVE "the girls" and with a slimming body, they are bound to shrink. When that happens, I will definitely go into mourning. They are my Pride (the left one) and Joy (the right one). Just put a dollar aside for me so that it's there when/if the time comes...

So, I am at the beginning of my journey to a healthier life...my journey to MILF-dom. ...

Time Travel

2010-07-20T02:52:00.001-05:00

Has something small ever transported you to another time, another place and made you feel like the person you were?

Last weekend, Arik and I were having a little pre-anniversary celebration with dinner and a movie. On the way to the movie, we stopped in one of my favorite stores - Helzberg Diamond! Arik so graciously bought me some diamond studs and I let him pick out his hellafide, sexy watch! If you couldn't tell, the watch was my little time machine for the night... Here's a picture:

Well, this watch took me back to my twenties. Arik put this watch on and my mind wandered to the time of just "Kesha and Arik." I found myself hanging on his arm and staring at him all googly-eyed! Instantaneously, I felt romance being breathed into the atmosphere... I could feel his body relax and his walk changed. I can't explain how it changed, it just did.

The watch's magical powers continued to this past weekend, too! It was wonderful.
We hung out with some of his friends. We laughed, breathed, loved... It was like we were dating again and I loved it. I loved every minute of it! I loved that he had a playlist on his iPod with just my kind of music. He held my hand during the car ride. He looked at me a different way. This weekend, we weren't mommy and daddy...we were Kesha and Arik.

I am really missing that feeling. What feeling? The feeling that the watch slipped into my heart... I miss the beginning. I want everyday to feel like the beginning. I think this has been long overdue. We don't really take a lot of time to enjoy us as people instead of parents. Don't get me wrong, being a mommy is a magical thing and I don't ever want to lose that feeling. I just want a little more of the giddiness...

So, every time I look at the "ALL ROMANTICAL WATCH," I think of the 1st bouquet of roses Arik ever sent to me and signed the card "to my future wife." I think of the Christmas he gave me the promise ring and the night we both said if felt more like an engagement ring. I think of all the weekends he'd drive 4 hours just to spend the night with me...

I am truely a romantic at heart! Oh, the joys of time travel. So glad Arik has that hot watch to help take me back in an instant.

I'm A Little Nervous

2010-07-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

It has been light years since I've posted anything. Oh, I have a couple things in the works or sitting in my edits screen, but I haven't posted anything to share with others since March!

I'm collecting my thoughts. I've been grappling with finding meaning in things and further defining who I am. I'm coming back...promise. Don't write me off yet.... ;-)

Awaiting My Arrival...

2010-03-22T23:05:00.000-05:00

When I got home from Baltimore, Aiden was a little more lovey than usual. We were in the bed, watching "The Princess and the Frog" and he gives me a hug and a kiss and says that he loves me. Of course I tell him I love him, too. He follows up with an "I miss you." And I give him a little cuddle and say the same thing. His response to my "I miss you" was.... "I miss you better..."

How cute is that? He meant "a lot," but he couldn't find that word in his brain, so he said what he thought was the equivalent. I find it fascinating to watch him tackle the English language. He's been working with comparatives and superlatives for the past couple weeks and he's been wrapping his tongue around the suffixes, -er and -est. It's just adorable and I'm eating it up! I want to remember this moment for all time, so I blogged it...

Baltimore and Back

2010-03-22T22:46:00.003-05:00

Over spring break, I visited my BFF in Baltimore - Dionna. It was a very nice trip. I didn't have my boys with me... I flew solo.

I went up to 1) visit Dionna and her family and 2) to meet the sequel to her family. She had just had a baby when I got up there.

From Tuesday to Friday, I was engulfed in toddlers, babies, and boobs! It was great! Boobs, you ask? It's NOT what you think...

Dionna is nursing her wee little guy, who's name is Eli. It just got me to thinking about the challenges that I had with trying to nurse Andrew and the celebrations I had when I was able to nurse Aiden.

Aiden is almost 2 1/2 years old. He doesn't need my boobs to survive anymore. He got all the gold when he was younger. So did Drew, for that matter. You know how "da girls" provide a nice little cushion of love for little bits? My boys were constantly cuddling wiht me. Their not-so-tiny heads (lol) resting upon my bosom... Sorry, had a historical fiction moment there...There's no little one in my house that needs that anymore.

I have been feeling a little tug on the fallopian tubes... No worries, I'm not having any babies within the next year or two. It's just I know a lot of women that are having babies right now.

Visiting Dionna and her family gave me a chance to get some of those "need another baby" feelings out of my system. We are NOT in a position to have another child. I love my job and if we had another baby right now, I'd have to quit in order to be able to afford another bundle of joy.

Back to the point of this post, though. My visit to Baltimore.

Even though Dionna just, and I do mean JUST, had a baby, she was up and about showing me some of the sights. Oh, and thanks to Khalid - he was doing his husbandly duty and driving around Ms. Daisy and her kooky friend.

Tuesday - I just got in and hung out at the house. It was nice. They are a cute little family unit...

Wednesday - I hung out with Gabe for a little bit, while Mom and Dad took Eli to his first dr. appointment. I had a HUGE surprise given to me while they were gone... Thanks, Gabe... Later, we went to the mall and I treated Gabe to the "big brother" gift, Eli to a "new to the world" gift and myself to some "sweet feet" relief - new shoes. After the mall, we went to a place that I like to call home - Wal-mart! Picked up a few things and headed out.

Thursday - We visited "The Harbor" and did a little people watching and chatting. I had my first experience at cracking crab legs! It was an interesting activity. Sorry, I didn't get any pictures. Just think about me holding the mallet with my pinky out and use your imagination to fill in the rest.

Friday - It was just errand day. We hung out in the car and talked up a storm. Other than that, we just hung out at home. My flight was leaving at 7:45, so I just hung out. I held the baby a lot and just drank in the atmosphere.

I really had a great time! I feel like Dionna and I excersized our friendship and added some muscle to it. We've always been great friends; since the 4th grade. This trip really just reminded me how great of friends we are...

Anyway, in my downtime, I was playing with the boys or talking with Dionna and Khalid. A nice time away from my guys.

I did make it home...eventually! That is for another day, another post...

Tributes

2010-03-22T22:00:00.001-05:00

Peeps, these tributes aren't in any particular order. I just lay in bed and a vision pops into my head and I form a vision around the picture I see in my head. If you are not the first person that I mentioned, don't worry! It doesn't mean that I love you less than anyone else...

Let the tributes continue...

Toni & Jamille

2010-03-22T21:46:00.000-05:00

Even though you have each played your own significant part in my life, I always think of you as "Toni & Jamille."

I am grateful for the summers in Burlington, KS. I think that is where I got my first taste of stardom! I know it was becuase we were the ONLY black folk in town, but still... At the pool, I felt splederific! Jamille's cousin from KC. I felt the it girl when I spent the week at your house. Man, Jamille! You must have felt like this ALL the time. No wonder your taste for theatrics (sp) was your backbone growing up... lol!

Toni, you gave me an opportunity to get out of myself for 6-7 days. I didn't have to think about anything. You provided a list of chores and freedom to do what we wanted (usually swimming and riding our bikes around town). I will always look back on my memories of Burlington fondly. I will always have the summer that I entered womanhood (Aunt Flo, perves), cool and crazy babysitters, cats, cats, and more cats! Thanks for those memories.

Jamille, I think it did me good to have a cousin that was SOOO confident at such a young age. It was such a blessing that we moved into the house next to Uncle James. I can't imagine what our relationship would be like without those weekends engaged in pretend play or the weeks we'd spend hanging out with you and your friends. Knowing you has been such a pleasure! I love how we fall back into our childhood routine when we're together. Even though life has brought me a hubby, kids, a career; you a career, a hubby and a dog... we still fit into those childhood silhouettes. I am thankful for that.

I can't say too much about you girls. I love ya!

Siblings

2010-03-22T20:57:00.002-05:00

I have 2 younger sibilings - Michelle and Steffon and here's my take on me being the eldest...

It's tough, but I think having younger sibilings helped to push me along in my life.

Scenerio #1

I was just trying to make it my senior year. I wasn't in my right mind to finish with the flair that you all have become familiar with... I like to think that it was my little brother that helped me hang on to what little compassion I had left in my soul.

He was my little guy, my heartbreaker, my cutie pie. I enjoyed feeling important to someone. Steffon let me feel that way...

When I dropped out of college the first time around (1998), I was exhausted! I knew I needed a break after the rough senior year I'd had, but I let people persuade me into going to KCKCC...

Scenerio #2

During the time that I was taking a sabbatical from higher learning, I got preggers, had a kiddle and got a husband. My sister started college somewhere in there. All I could think of was that I was supposed to get my college degree first because I was the eldest. I was suppose to set the example... Some example!

Anyway, they helped propel me to greater things. Steffon helped me hang onto my desire for self-worth and Michelle was a driving factor in me getting my degree (along with Andrew and the need to feel accomplished).

Things haven't always been super-duper, but I am working on it. During my time of self discovery, I let my relationships with them slip. I can only be grateful that I found myself before the foundation of our relationships fossilized. I'm trying to rekindle some of what we had when we were younger and I was less tormented by the realities of life...

BUT!

As it so happened, I was first in our crew to get my college degree! I got mine's in 2006 and Michelle received her's in 2008.

I just wanted to say thanks, Sibilings, for pushing me forward in life...

Kathy

2010-03-15T08:36:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite cousins of all time!

Kathy is a person who never ages in my mind. We've hung out since I was little and she is the same age then and now. How is that possible? I have no idea!

She's opened me up to new experiences - tasting mango, musicals, books, snackables... it doesn't matter!

When I was younger, she would come and pick me up from school to hang out, she'd rescue me from my house, and she increased my level of stuff. I would help her spring clean and I would get a ton of castoffs from her. There's this satchel made of jeans that is still around today. My sister, Michelle, is currently the keeper of that bag...

When I think of Kathy, I just think of having a good time. I never had to explain myself. We both have that satirical sense of humor and want it when I want it attitude.

Thanks, Kathy.

Friends

2010-03-15T07:59:00.001-05:00

1 friend, a few friends,

Stuck like glue friends!

High school friends, get you through,

Lifetime friends stay true!

Thanks to Elizabeth, Dionna, Kendrah, Brandy and VeShawnia for helping me survive our time during our silver and blue years.

Thanks to Latrice from KCCC. Your calmness and confidence within yourself helped me find mine. I'm glad our friendship has continued all these years.

Chrissy (and Tamara) - FAT AM brought us together, but we stay friends because we get one another. Chrissy, our friendship is further bonded together by the memory of Tamara (whom we lost too soon). I know I can always count on you to be there for me and I will always be there for you.

Noel, it took me a long time in admitting we are friends for life...best friends, if you will. I've always known it in my heart. It just took me awhile to find my voice to tell it to the world. Thanks for waiting around for me to get over my issues.

I will say that I don't have many friends, but the ones that I have now are the greatest and I don't have to worry about anything.

Even though some friendships evaporate over time, there's a reason that particular person was a friend. They are there to get you through whatever trials and celebrations come your way. They help you find your strength during the moments you don't seem to have any.

I really hold the friends that I have to my heart. Thank you for everything you have done and everything you will do.

Everybody can relate to the Golden Girls, right?

My 1st Award

2010-03-10T22:55:00.000-06:00

My friend, Desiree @ Hitting My Stride, gave me an award the other day. She wrote that I had a blog that made her happy and she loved to read it. Thanks, Desiree! I feel absolutely giddy that you gave me an award.

The rules for this award say that I have to link back to the awarder, list ten things that make me happy, and then pass this award to ten other bloggers whose blogs make me happy.

Here are 10 things that make me happy:

10. Finding cute, decorative socks. I'm a teacher and I *HEART* printed, argyle, or seasonal socks!

9. Pens that write oh-so-smooth! Right now, I'm on the Sharpie Pen. It's a very fine tip and has a smooth stroke!

8. Having a good belly laugh! I've read somewhere that if you have pains in your belly, the pains in your life won't seem so bad.

7. Language Arts - I like to express myself through writing. There is a quirkiness to my writing. I enjoy writing it and I enjoy rereading what I write.

6. Music - a good song, good lyrics and a good beat really do wonders for my spirits.

5. Facebook and blogs - there is just something about being able to read up on the things that are happening in others' lives.

4. My job - even though I gripe about my current grade level (2nd), the actual act of teaching and being in a classroom where children are reaching into their brains to understand why they think the way they do is AWESOME!

3. Shades of Blue - it's my favorite color. It took me a LONG time to discover how much I like blue. I didn't have a fav color until I was a senior in high school! Before that I liked all the colors equally.

2. Attention - I like being recognized for a job well done. I like compliments and praise. I don't care how that makes me seem. It's who I am and I just can't get enough.

1. My boys (Arik, Andrew, and Aiden) - they are loud, rowdy, and gross! I wouldn't have them any other way, though. Plus, being the only chic in the house allows me to really play up the princess power!

10 blogs that make me happy when I read them (I'm not sure I have 10):

Ella and Jackson - Private

A New Generation of Campbells

The Wolff Pack

The Cornerstone

Um, I'm going to have to get back to you on this part. I don't really have 10 that I love to read on the regular... 4 out of 6 ain't bad.

Take Responsibility

2010-03-10T21:56:00.000-06:00

You know, it takes an awful lot of willpower and responsibility to do some things in life. One of the most challenging things I think a man can do is to take responsibility for another man's child.

Well, Michael V. Hamilton is one of those men.

When I was younger, I didn't always appreciate having a strong, positive male role model in my life. I'm sure it's because Mike was there that I don't have deeper scars from my traumatic childhood experience. He is a great male role model. The kind of dad that a girl can look at and see qualities that she'd want her husband to have. Does that make sense?

I've known him for as long as I can remember. Mike has always been firm, but rational. I, of course hated everything he was trying to do for me in my younger years. I was an idiotic teen. That was to be expected...

I remember on my high school graduation day, my biological father showing up and congratulating me and spouting about how proud he was of me. I also remember my mom telling me that it was Mike that searched for him and asked him to come... because that was what I thought I needed. I felt like I was incomplete because I didn't know my "real" dad.

I have come to understand that the man that only comes on special occasions does NOT a real dad make. A real dad is one who will come to your house late at night because you smell gas; only to realize it was the fumes from some kind of ant killer. A real dad is one that is there on the mundane days as well as the special occasions.

Mike is that dad. I realize now that I didn't need to meet my biological father to know who I am. I am the way that I am because Mike is my dad. He's the man that raised me from my first memory...

For that, Mike, I thank you so very much. I know I made things tough when I was growing up and that I didn't ever say that I appreciated the things you did and sacrificed for me. I want you to know that I see it now. I am thankful that you were there. I appreciate everything you have done and will continue to do and love you for all of it.

I get it...

I Bet You Feel Dumb!

2010-03-08T01:51:00.000-06:00

You know how business establishments have those fishbowl things where you can put a business card in for a chance to win dinner or something?

Well, Famous Dave's has one. While we were waiting to be seated this evening, I put one of my business cards in the bowl. Mind you, I'm sitting right next to the bowl...

This guy comes from the dining room and stands at the bowl. He's looking for a card to put in. BUT, before he drops his card into the bowl, he reaches in and takes out a fistful of business cards! He said something about "that's how you do that."

I'm just sitting there watching what he is doing and once he took the fistful I said, "I hope you didn't just take MY card out of there..." He turns around with this goofy look on his face and askes me which card was mine. I told him and he sifted through the cards in his hand and dropped mine back in... JUST MINE!

He then proceeds to chuckle out the door.

Really? Seriously?! That's what you do? To try to make your odds of winning better, you steal other people's cards out of the bowl? That is pretty low!

That's not the end, though! He comes back in with some piece of paper about maximizing earning potential and asked for one of my cards. His lame excuse for doing what he did was that he was in the business of networking. He helps connect people with other people.

Stop shoveling that crock of $hit, dude! You are a cheapo, loser who didn't even have the right mind to put the cards back after you were busted! Get out of my face with your craptacular reason for being a doofus...

Mr. Business Card Stealer, you have been placed in the HALL OF LAME! Thank you...

My Birthday Weekend

2010-03-08T01:34:00.003-06:00

Thursday- I went shopping with my mom and sister for a cute birthday outfit to where to work. We trekked all the way out to the Avenue on 119th and I-35. It was a good time. We had a little mother/daughter/sister bonding time. My mom purchased some of my birthday wear as a gift for me. She usually gets me a Christmas outfit, but birthday outfit will work, too!

Friday- I got to work, feeling like a ROCKSTAR! I had a really good attitude. To start, my kiddos all wished me a happy birthday as they were walking into the classroom! A couple even brought me gifts! From Abigail, I got the cutest pair of silver earrings (I wore them on Saturday) and from Myles I received a decent smelling candle. Both are things that I will use! Yay!

My class behaved themselves all morning long! They did what I asked when I asked them to and were VERY on task! We took care of our morning work and reading block without a hitch and at 1100, we took a pause for a doughnut break. They sang me happy birthday and congratulated me on being old... naw, not really, but they did sing to me.

My hubby brought me lunch at school, and one of my colleagues brought me chocolate covered strawberries and Chili Cheese Fritos (yum)! The weather was FAN-FREAKIN-TASIC on Friday and we were able to have recess outside!

Friday evening, Arik and I went to dinner without the children (thanks to the Rowlands). It was just nice to be Arik and Kesha for a bit, not dad and mommy. Oh, I was able to get another charm for my bracelet. It's a cupcake because it was my birthday!

Saturday- I had plans with Noel. We always make a day of our birtydays. We have a couple things planned, but we also wing it a little. On the agenda was makeovers at Bare Escentuals on the Plaza, lunch at California Pizza Kitchen, and to make another bag at 1154 LILL Studio. We also added getting a tattoo (her, not me; a tongue ring is all you get out of me) and window shopping. We just hung out and talked about everything...

Sunday- I got together with my mom, dad and brother and went to Famous Dave's for some BBQ. It was a nice family dinner. Then, we came home, put the chil'rens to bed and watched Couples' Retreat. Cute movie.

All in all, I had a great weekend. I enjoyed the weather, all the postings I got on facebook wishing me a happy birthday and just being content with being 31. Thanks to everyone who was a part of my celebration. I love being loved!

Aiden

2010-03-08T00:59:00.000-06:00

Aiden Matthew, what can I say? How excited I was to find out you were on your way to us! I thought about how you would be each day. I was so used to Andrew and his independent ways. Then, you come along.

What a cuddly, plump bit of joy, you were! For the most part, you had all the same features as your older brother, but they were still so VERY different! The curly hair, a blondish, redish kind of hair. Very fine... Your long lashes didn't show up until days, weeks after you were born, but long lashes, non the less. Your fair skin... The dimples! Wow!

I am so amazed that I could produce 2 really beautiful little boys! Both these boys carry a piece of me, but that piece is interpreted completely different in both your personalities.

You, little boy, are a lover, not a fighter. People fall in love with you the moment they lay eyes on you! You have a mesmerizing personality. Your hugs and kisses are worth their weight in platinum! Your gift is that you help Andrew tap into his conpassionate side and at the same time help me and daddy work on understanding and patience (like your brother).

I love the fact that you talk nonstop and that you really know how to work that lower lip to get what you want! It's amazing how smart you are and how quickly you learn new things (some of that is courtesy of having a big brother). I like that you need me a little more than Andrew did. It's a comforting feeling. Andrew has long since stopped calling me mommy and has moved on the the more sophisticated "mom." When you say my name, "mommy kesha," it sounds like a sweet lullaby coming from your lips. My heart feels like it's going to burst open!

Aiden, you help me refine the qualities that Andrew helps me uncover. I wouldn't be the person I am without the both of you in my life....

Andrew

2010-03-08T00:35:00.000-06:00

Andrew Kahlil, we are so much alike, it is insane! There are days where I can't keep my eyes off you and days where you drive me insane! I'll take both kinds of days, though because it's a blessing having you in my life.

In a way, we've grown up together. You've really done a great job adapting to our life situtations. When I was in college, you hung in there going to daycare for 12 hours M-Th. You were great at slumber parties in mommy's bed because daddy worked the 2nd, sometimes 3rd shift. It's amazing how versatile children can be!

I remember how it was the coolest thing for you to get sick. We would make a pallet on the floor and let the TV watch us while we slept. When you were healthy, what an adventurous child you were! Then there was a time when you rode you Lil' Tikes Trike off the back of the couch! I can still picture you acting out the beginning credits to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air in your diaper!

Now that you are growing up, I frequently think about how our little family began. It all started with you, kiddo... Every day you help me learn something new about myself. Patience, acceptance, understanding...

Thank you for being who you are, Andrew. My curly headed, long eyelash having, japanimation loving, wirey, independent, science nerd! I enjoy watching you become a young man.

Arik

2010-03-02T05:30:00.001-06:00

You are my greatest strength, but at the same time, my biggest weakness.
Our relationship may seem out of the ordinary to some, but it works for us.
I love that you are my opposite in more ways than I can count.
Our skin together, makes a wonderful caramel latte,
Language Arts is my forte, but your a man of numbers.
You equal outdoors and roughing it, whereas I'm more princess and luxury.

You have provided for me a sense of security that I've longed for. When you look at me, your blue eyes see past appearances and into my heart. I love that you are so kind hearted. Remember living in our 1st apartment in KC? You ran out and bought me a washer and dryer when I told you how someone had broken into the apartment laundry room? You've always put my feelings and safety before your own.

In my heart I always hold the Love Story of Us. I appreciate that we have a quirky story to tell everyone. We were into Internet dating before it was popular. From that love story, a lifetime of memories. Giddiness when you semt me my first bouquet of roses and signed the card "for my future wife," a sense of forever when you gave me the "promise ring" for Christmas, tears when Andrew was born, support when I was getting my teaching degree, my strength when I was pregnant with Aiden, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to make things work...

It's because of you that I can feel so comfortable with who I am. We have built a life together that intertwines celebrations and challenges. I realize there is nowhere else I'd rather be and no one else I'd rather speak love to than you. Thanks for being a continuous defining moment in my existence....

A Light For My Massive Black Hole!

2010-03-02T04:38:00.000-06:00

I know today is March 2nd and I should be writing my second tribute, but I have become sidetracked. Besides, at the time I was going to write tribute #1, our Internet was down...

So, it's 3:30 in the morning and I am just piddling around. I'm at ease and content with the fact that I don't have to feel like I'm walking on eggshells. Michelle has found an apartment and is in the process of moving out of our basement. The kids can run, jump, stumble, scream; not that they didn't do that when she was here, but we always tried to wrangle them in for her sake. I can walk through the house at night without tip-toeing because I didn't want to disturb Michelle's sleep... Things are going to get back to business as usual around here... Ahhhhhhhh

But, that's not why I'm writing. I was trying to fix the Internet issue and when I sat down to see if my efforts worked, I noticed an infomercial. This infomercial was about a book called Transform Your Child by James Lehman. Yes, the informercial was completely cheesy, but as I kept watching I noticed a truth to what was being "depicted by actors."

In the paid programming, there were children screaming and shouting, being disrespectful, throwing tantrums, etc. In this informercial, I saw all the things that take place here in our house...

It's not a surprise to anyone that we have been struggling with Andrew's behavior both at home and school this past 1-3 years. It has really gotten worse this last year. In fact, it's become so bad that we have started seeing someone to help sort things out.

While watching this programming, they mention something called Oppositional Defiant Disorder . The symptoms listed for this are ALL the things we are seeing! This informercial has given me a renewed sense of strength and purpose.

For the past year, I have been feeling worthless and dejected because I have a son who can get out of control in less than 30 seconds. Think back to the movie, The Parenthood. There was a part in the movie where Steve Martin's son loses his retainer at his birthday pizza party and has a COMPLETE meltdown. That meltdown resulted in Steve Martin sifting through the dumpsters of the pizza place trying to find it. That's the kind of 180 Andrew can do....

I have been racking my brain for reasons why Drew is the way he is and kept coming up short every time. I have endured lectures and judgement from close family members and been made to feel like a bad mom. Our marriage had actually taken a severe beating because of this situation that we couldn't find a solution for. So, this program lifted my spirits, really.

I am going to do some more research about ODD and other diagnosises that surround it. In my heart, I feel like this is the beginning of our road to recovery. The things I saw on TV and what I have been reading this evening have given me hope for the future... I see a little light peeking at me on the other side... THANK GOODNESS!

Hey! Catch Those Thoughts...

2010-02-24T21:36:00.002-06:00

Last night, I went to bed around 1 am. You'd think I'd be tired and fall right alseep, huh? I didn't. I lay awake for like an hour plus just trying to get my brain to shut off. Different things were running rampant...

I was just thinking about how my 31st birthday will be next Friday and what kind of blog tribute I would like to do this year. Last year, I attempted to do a 31 days of about me, defining who I am and what makes me tick. I started of March 2009 with a BANG! Go check it out...I'll wait...

Done? Good. So, my brain child for this year is to do a 31 day tribute to people in my life that have played a significant role. These people are the ones who put up with my crap, have had my back, increased my happiness, loved me unconditionally... yada, yada, yada. There have been some pretty amazing and NOT so amazing people in my life that have contributed to my personality and demeanor. Stay tuned to see if you make the cut!

Another thing that I lay in bed contemplating was that I want to get started on my children's book. Over the years, I have fallen in love with stories written by actors/entertainers-turned-writers that had a really good message.

Some of my favorites are Jamie Lee Curtis and every single one of the books she's written. I'm Gonna Like Me, Today I Feel Silly & Other Silly Moods That Make My Day, It's Hard To Be Five, Big Words for Little People. The list could go on!

I just recently became smitten with books by Julianne Moore. Her first book is called, Freckleface Strawberry. It's about a little girl who is COVERED in freckles and decided to hide them. She found out that having freckles wasn't so bad.

Anyway, I think about all the things in my life, my sons' lives, and the lives my kiddos live in my classroom. I have so much material to pull from; I could write something fantastic! I just need an illustrator and some people to fund my project. It's hard to break into the children's book industry. I would have to self-publish to get the ball rolling... Any contributors are welcome to apply by leaving their email addresses below (*wink, wink*)!

I've been doing little limericks, songs, and poems for my kiddos to learn about nouns/verbs/adjectives, colors, numbers, reading comprehension strategies for years! I could put them in a little potty chair book for youngins....

Basically, my mind was wandering because I feel stagnant in my life. I need something eye opening to happen. I figured I have to do something to make the staleness in my life drain away. I'll keep you posted on what's up with me.

Remember to stay connected for my March tributes to "Kesha, This Is Your Life!"

Miss Mommy

2010-02-24T00:30:00.000-06:00

For some reason, Aiden has spent the last week calling me Miss Mommy. I guess he's getting home and school mixed up a bit. It's not just me either. There's Miss Michelle, Mr. Andrew, Mr. Daddy... Aiden is pretty funny! Just thought I'd share that...

Feeling Charmed This Valentine's

2010-02-13T22:47:00.016-06:00

These are the 3 new charms that Mr. B bought me for Valentine's Day. I am almost finished filling my charm bracelet. I tried to get a full picture, but I couldn't get the pic to copy correctly. Oh, wait! I took a picture with my camera! Here's the full view of my bracelet:

The charms symbolize many different things. There's birthstones for my boys, a BFF charm, candy apple red for being a teacher, yin yang for the biculturalism that is going on in our family, XOs for hugs and kisses, and ones that I just think are really groovy!

In addition to the charms, he had a bouquet of flowers sent to the school on Friday. Here's some pix...

It's so nice that he does that. It's not just because I like it, but because he knows the children get a kick out of their teacher getting flowers at school. They oooh and ahhh every Valentine's Day and my birthday. When I was working in the corporate world, it was our anniversary, too.

My Valentine's Day was a great one. Arik and I got to go out (thanks, Michelle) for some light shopping, dinner @ Backfire BBQ and a movie. It was the longest date we have had in a while...

Furry KC...

2010-02-13T22:01:00.002-06:00

So Arik and I went to the movies last night. I saw the strangest thing! As the movie ended and everyone was filing out of the theatre, in front of us was another couple. This other couple was wearing hoodies with freakin' animal ears on the hoods! Get out of here! Who does that? It's far from Halloween. WTH?!

What's a furry, you ask? Let me enlighten you... according to the UrbanDictionary.com

Furries are a relatively recent phenomenon which has been catapulted into near-mainstreamness almost solely because of the internet. It is obvious furries are very much victims of tarring the majority with the brush of an "unappealing" minority.

In the simplest sense furries are fans of anthropromorphic animals. That is, animals with human like features or tendencies (Fox McCloud, Sonic the Hedgehog... etc) pretty much all furries will create their own character or "fursona" for use as an art model and roleplaying, the designs of which vary wildly dependant on the artists skill and eye for contrasting colours (You get both amazing and appalling furry artists, and a wide skill range between these two) some furries can work wonders when it comes to creating a character on second life
The above paragraph is an apt description of your standard "furry", however there is a small but VERY vocal minority of the "yiff yiff" kind of division. Even though this sort of furry probably only takes up 1/10th of the fandom this is by FAR the type you hear about most often from anti-furry biased sources.

I had the people behind us (teeny boppers) laughing it up. I was trying to explain to Arik what a furry was. I think I used phrases like "dress up in fuzzy clothes with pointy ears," "rubbing up on each other dressed as Pepe Le Pew," "furball lovin."

You just never know what type of people you'll see at a late night movie...

Seriously Wounded Bambi's Mom - I Think She Probably Died

2010-02-13T21:24:00.001-06:00

Thursday evening, Arik surprised me by offering to go to Target with me and the children to get Valentine's day cards and treats. That really should have been a sign that it wasn't meant for us to go as a family (please be advised that carnage will insue in the following paragraphs)...

We are driving down State Avenue talking about what I needed to get and how our workday was. The kiddos were watching a Go, Diego, Go video in the back. Everything was alright.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed something move. It was a deer! I start repeating to Arik, "Deer. Deer, honey, there's a deer. Deer!" It was too late. Arik didn't see and by the time he started to slam on the brakes, we hit the doe.

We just kind of sat there for a minute or so and I watched the deer wriggle and squirm on the pavement. The headlights shining in it's eyes. I could see the fear and confusion looking back at me. Then, the deer was up and running into the corn field.

Arik quickly finds a spot where he can pull over and inspect the front of Sadie. He said he smelled radiator fluid. The next thing I know, Arik is jumping in the car and rushing home. He said he was worried about the leak and we needed to get home ASAP. He told me to "call Dave." I'm totally clueless and say, "who?" Arik looks at me weird and says, "our insurance agent..."

Excuse me! Like I have regular conversations with our insurance agent and we just hang out every weekend. His name is in my everyday friend vocabulary, right!

I call and report all the information. They get a rental set up for me to have first thing in the morning.

Anyway, we are all okay. Aiden and Andrew really didn't know what was going on. Aiden was in the back seat asking, "what happened, Mommy? What happened?" I'm just sad that Sadie is out of commission for a little bit. We'll get and estimate of the damages sometime on Monday. I hope it won't take too long for the repairs. The rental we have doesn't even compare to our MV. It's a clown car - a Chevy Cobalt!

Here are some pictures of Sadie after the blood bath...

Sorry, Bambi. We hit your mom and she is probably didn't make it and ended up on someone's dinner table...

Where's Your Penis?

2010-02-13T20:57:00.002-06:00

Reason 1,456,299 for not letting your 2 year old son be in the same area as you when you are nakie for any reason. Here's the scoop...

Aiden burst into the bedroom, crying and holding a paper airplane.

A- It's broken, Mommy! Fix it!

K- I'll fix it when I finished getting dressed. Give Mommy a minute.

Aiden cries lower and continues to shove the paper plane in my direction.

K- Okay. Go stand over there and wait. I'll fix it. (I point to the other side of the bed. Aiden can barely see over the mattress)

Aiden climbs up onto the bed and waits; watching as I get dressed.

A- Mommy? Where's your penis? On your back?

K- What, sweetie?

A- Your penis on your back? Mine's is right here (he points to his tushie).

K- No, punky, your penis is in the front...

A- Right here? (He squishes his baby nads)

K- Mmm-Hmm. That's right.

A- Is that your penis? (He points to my chest area)

K- (deep sigh) No, hunny, these are Mommy's breasts...

A- Mommy's bests?

I quickly finish getting dressed and usher Aiden out of the room. The boob talk made him completely forget about the broken airplane. I will say, my "bests" are two of the best things about me! I just don't want to hear my son (either son) talking about them...

Why is it that I get caught up in the awkward conversations with the kids? Did I want to start labeling boy and girl parts this early on? Noooooooooo! I just wanted Aiden to focus on his boy parts.

I'm okay with him knowing that he has a penis and a scrotum, blah, blah,blah. I DO NOT want him to be the little boy in "Kindergarten Cop" that said, "Boys have penis' and girls have vaginas!" Not yet anyway...

New Handbag

2010-02-13T20:28:00.001-06:00

I've had my new 1154 LILL Studio handbag for about a week and it's ALREADY been through a lot!

At first, I liked it, then as I kept looking at it, I wasn't sure that I really liked it. Then had a 2 liter of grape soda spew forth like a volcano all over (an inside) my handbag! I was truely peeved. I can't just throw it into the wash and I hadn't treated with the scotch guard yet. It did survive, though, and you can't even see the grape soda!

I have come to decide that I DO like my bag. It's quirky and different, just like me! I would advise anyone to go through the experience of building a LILL bag.

So, I would like to present to you - my Nikki!

The intentions with building this bag were that I needed something that I could wear with black or brown shoes, it had to have some blue in it (my fav color) and something other than flowers. My last bag was great - huge pink/black flowers, perfect size and everything. I wanted something other than flowers and pinkness this time around.

I think I did a good job. Stripes, multi-colored, and the tweed is just a hint of sassiness! Perfect size and everything. It's too bad that I didn't realize I liked my bag so much until the grape soda was all on it! Ah, well...

I Had An Affair...

2010-02-07T11:09:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I went to a new hairstylist. I know... (said with a Lil' Kim accent) "Imma whora!"

For the past two weekends, I have been trying to get a retouch and style. My current stylist, Carefree Diva, of the Booshie Beauties Salon, has been stringing me along.

2 weeks ago, I called Carefree Diva and asked if I could get an appointment on Friday after work. She said sure and we made plans to meet around 530-600. Well, CD called and said that she was in a meeting that was running long and she would call me when she was done. That turned into it being 800 and me texting her and rescheduling for Saturday morning so she didn't feel like she had to rush the bride to be and their meeting.

Saturday rolls around and there was no call from Carefree Diva. I text her and ask what's up. She calls back to say she had some errands to run and she'd call when she got to the shop. That turned into 900 PM! Apparently, she took to much pain medication (coming off a surgery) and it knocked her out! If I wanted to come down, I could. Of course I didn't want to! I was not in the mood. Just coming off a rough week at work and too tired to try and get my hair done late at night! Plans were made for Sunday...

Nothing happened on Sunday except for me washing my hair because I don't have time during the week for hair appointments...

Fast forward to THIS weekend. I call and ask if this was a better weekend for her to get me in and she said sure. Told me to come on Friday and she would have a cosmo waiting for me (we're friends and I talk to her about my rough weeks).

Carefree Diva called about an hour before our appointment to let me know that something came up and for me to call her as soon as I get the message. I do and does she answer? NO! I leave a message for her to call me AND I text her to let me know what time works best for her to relax my hair. Do you know I am STILL waiting for her to get back with me!!?

I decided to take matters into my own hands. Got in touch with Willing to Please Salon owner, Money-Makin Mama. She was able to fit me in the same day and I was out in 3 1/2 hours! Sure the price was a little higher, but I got what I wanted and it didn't take ALL Saturday...

Am I sad that I had to find someone else to do my hair? Yes! I really like Carefree Diva. She has been doing my hair for 12-14 years! I am getting to the point where when I am paying you for your services, you need to bend over backward a little bit more to make me happy - friends or not!

2 tears in a bucket.... you can finish that!

I am very happy with the straightness of my hair and the service that I received from Money-Makin' Mama! It's good to know that I can count on her when Carefree Diva flakes out on me... Here's some pix. Notice the shine and silkiness! OH! The straightness! I could put some before pix up here, but I don't want to embarrass myself.

Please disregard the dark circles and uneven skintone. I told you it has been a rough couple months!

The Whipped Cream On Top Of My Mud Pie

2010-02-07T10:35:00.000-06:00

It was Wednesday - Parent/Teacher Conferences. I was trying to confirm with Translator that services were available. Principal has to put nosey ears into the mix and jump down Translator's and my back. Principal spouted off about how we didn't communicate that I needed a translator. EXCUSE ME! Since when did Principal need to be involved in trivial things like this? Translator and I are both capable adults and can plan our schedules accordingly.

Principal keeps mouthing off about having to pay Translator OT because my conference is after 4:00, how there were some other things that were lined up for Translator to do, blah, blah, blah!

After this tantrum, Principal comes back to me and apologizes because after looking at Translator's schedule, it appears Translator's working hours are from 8:30-4:30. No need to pay OT for my conference at 4:15.

Fast forward to 4:05. My family comes a little early. I don't even bother trying to contact Principal or Translator. I was just done with all the hassle and mess. The family and I had a great conference, things worked out swimmingly... :-)

4:15? Translator rushes in and says the family was walking down the hall. I apologized and said that I didn't mean to cause any trouble. I told Translator that I didn't want to prolong the madness and not to worry about missing the conference.

5 minutes later, in walks Principal; flustered and puffed up like a cockatoo (sp). Hey, I think I'll call Principal - Ms. Cockatoo from here on out. That's a good name for her!

Anyway... She starts blubbering about how I didn't call the office to request Translator's services. And while I was trying to explain that I just didn't want all the fuss that came with asking for a translator, she ushers Translator out the door citing that we needed to have a private discussion.

Cockatoo: Mikesha, I have been noticing that you haven't been yourself lately. Something's different about you. What's wrong? I don't really care... (that last line, Ms. Cockatoo did say! I was just blown away...)

Me: I'm fine. I just trying to think of ways to revamp my classroom so that my children can have phenomenal gains for the spring testing. (As I am talking, so is Ms. Cockatoo). I'm just trying to take it easy and not stress over how much 2nd grade has to accomplish before the year ends. There were some large set backs before winter break with my emotionally, behaviorially disturbed student. A lot of time was lost because of lack of support... (Cockatoo is still not listening to me speak). Besides that, having a prolonged headache, family responsibilities (we have family counseling sessions every 2-3 weeks), etc.

Ms. Cockatoo: I just think that you are becoming independent and not sharing as much as you could be. You are becoming a loner...

Me: Not really. If I have a problem, I ask the other teachers on my hall for ideas. They do a great job of brainstorming for me. I'm just focused on teaching my children.

Ms, Cockatoo: If there was a problem, would you let me know? I mean, really?

Me: Yes, if there was something that I just couldn't get off my mind, I would request a conference with you.

The rest of the conversation was about how we are so much alike (which we are NOT), my becoming isolated, making sure that I would tell her if something was wrong... This conversation was all because I was just trying to do the things she has been asking of me lately.

I am just peeved that Ms. Cockatoo makes a huge deal out of little things and that it appears I am the focus of her insanity these days.

My plan of action - to stay as far away from Cockatoo as much as possible. I'm not in the office, not in the halls, not ANYWHERE Cockatoo is at.

Hopefully, this next week will be a lot smoother. I am in survival mode for the rest of the year. I just don't want to be involved in all the craziness... I'll keep you posted.

My Solor Plexus!

2010-02-06T11:04:00.000-06:00

This week starts off with Principal asking me if my class gets recess during the week. What's wrong with that question, you ask?

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I just know where this question is coming from. There is apparently a group of parents in Greener Grass Elementary that is trying to advocate for recess of the olden days. You know, 15 minutes in the morning, 30 minutes after lunch and 15 minutes in the afternoon.

There is NO way that teachers can teach what needs to be taught and students can learn everything they need to learn with an hour of recess every single day! I think that kiddos need to have exercise on a daily basis and HECK! That's how I get in some of my daily exercise requirements. I would be okay with P.E. for 30 minutes each day, but 1 hour everyday is pushing it to the limit.

The standards that students are expected to master is growing every day. The ages at which they are expected to master these things is getting younger and younger. Raise your hand if you remember learning about multiplication in the 2nd grade? Were you expected to be ready to read or add and subtract by kindergarten? I know that I wasn't!

I get having high expectations, but subjecting students who aren't developmentally ready for more abstract concepts is just a frustration! I don't hold any children back from learning all they can learn, but I pay close attention to the signs showing me they are ready to move forward.

Anyway, I got sidetracked. So, Principal is asking me about recess. Here is my response...

"Being in my classroom is like having recess all day. I write into my daily lessons times where the children can talk to a partner or a group of kids, games that promote good times AND learning, moving and grooving, rhyming and chanting, silliness and goofiness. We get 15 minutes during recess time. Since it is winter, it takes 10 minutes to get out the different "recess activities." That leaves them with 5 minutes to play and puts us 10 minutes behind schedule each and every day. Indoor recess is challenging. Students will NEVER be able to achieve that release they are looking for during indoor recess. They cannot scream or run indoors without bothering other classrooms. So, instead of wasting time setting up and breaking down recess activities, we try and have a little bit of recess after every subject. When it is nicer outside, will we be outside all the time? Yes. I don't ever deprive the children for an opportunity to be outside and run off some steam."

There may be many of you out there that think my way of thinking is wrong, but if you ask my classroom if we do fun and interesting things everyday, each one of them would be able to give you an example of why it ROCKS to be in Mrs. B's classroom!

I am a freakin' AWESOME teacher and it really bothers me that Principal can indirectly pass judgement on me and my teaching style. Principal has NO CLUE what goes on in my classroom because the last time an observation has been done on me was at the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year!

Principal is notorious for catering to some families in Greener Grass Elementary and stiffing other families. I am all about fairness and the only reason this subject is being brought up is because this committee is made up of privileged, PTA parents and Principal doesn't want to upset those parents.

It really just annoys me when someone tries to make little issues into HUGE deals! Let me be so that I can do my job. Good grief!

Please Stop Kicking Me While I'm Down!

2010-02-05T13:54:00.001-06:00

This past 2 weeks or so have really been beating me down.

Last week there was an incident where the principal was just unreasonable about a situatation and instead of being professional, was basically calling me out over something silly.

As a teacher, I am constantly assessing my students to see that they are getting the things they need. I always try and look at the data in a different light. Lately, it has been really hard to look at the data with new eyes because the district or cluster or school leaders have been having us look at the same data for weeks!

Well, Principal's bosses were asking for information that I've already given and didn't realize it, but Principal catches me in the AM and started puffing up like a rooster, spouting all kinds of mess. To settle things down, I just say okay and start walking towards my room to get this information in question. Principal starts yelling for me to turn around and not to get mad, that this information was asked for 3 times, etc.

Mind you, I wasn't mad. I just wanted Principal to stop getting so worked up over data that she already had but didn't remember! I didn't question that I had been asked for this 3 times. I am a scatter brain and there are LOTS of things that I need to be reminded of at school. If it doesn't directly involve me teaching the students and being in the classroom, my mind blows it off...

I walk down to my classroom to get the info and shortly after Principal comes in all flustered and starts talking about how the boss is in the office waiting for the report. Principal was wanting me to just make up some numbers so the report could get turned in. Blah, blah, blah...

Come to find out, the paper Principal was speaking about wasn't the paper that I was thinking about (ALTHOUGH, she still had this other data too).

For the rest of that day, Principal kept coming in and apologizing for the tantrums displayed earlier in the day. The rest of the day.... Try teaching when someone keeps coming in and interupting the learning in the classroom with some mess... Doesn't work!

My thoughts and opinions are fast changing about Principal. Does Principal know the job? Absolutely! That was the biggest reason for me transferring from Sucky Elementary to Greener Grass Elementary! The problem that I am running into now is that Principal of Greener Grass Elementary is a micro-manager. I don't know which principal is worse...

Stay tuned for other events that made these past 2 weeks horrible...

Follow the White Rabbit...

2010-01-23T00:06:00.000-06:00

Yesterday evening, I had an appointment for an MRI. I have had a headache for the past seven weeks. Why did I wait so long, you ask? I just thought it was from all the stress that I was dealing with at work. I had a student that was worth 10 students. This student seriously caused me to rethink my profession. I really don't like to get all emotional at work, but the behavior and actions that ensued on the part of certain staff members at my job caused these thoughts to enter in my mind.

Winter break came and my headache didn't go away. I didn't go to the doctor then because I was working. Well, the first week back from break, I experienced an over exposed light in the periphial (sp) with blurred vision. I was teaching Math and felt like I was going to pass out. My thoughts? Time to go see the doctor.

I was able to go on a Wednesday because my school district cancelled. The doctor I saw did a bunch of tests on me and the diagnosis was that it seemed to be a beginning sinus infection with a mingling of migrane. The Dr. treated it like a sinus infection.

10 days on an antibiotic and the headache was still there! On MLK day, I made another appointment. the Dr. scheduled an MRI for me. That leads us up to yesterday....

When I was getting set up for the scan, it was kinda space-agey. Laying on that table with that antennae on my head was weird. I felt like Alice following the white rabbit into the hole.

What did I do while in the hole? I discovered that my body works best in 4/4 time. Having an MRI is an obsessive-compulsive's DREAM! Well, this one's anyway. I totally spent the whole half hour counting the bangs, clicks, and bumps. I really like to count things in 4/4 time. I found myself trying not to bop my head to the beat.

I was lying there thinking about what the picture of my brain would look like because I was digging the "music." Over and over I kept thinking back to that movie, "Kindergarten Cop" and was telling myself - "It is not a tuma!" You know, because Arnold has that crazy accent! LOL

After an hour at the imaging place, I went home and hang out with the family. I probably won't know any results until the middle of next week. I just thought I try and get back into the swing of things talking about my very 1st trip to have an MRI...

I Feel Like Death

2010-01-20T20:44:00.002-06:00

I'm still alive, though. I have been thinking things over, working hard and trying to survive a 7 week headache. The last couple months of 2009 were VERY trying for me. 2010 is looking up every day.

I am visiting the doctor tomorrow to have an MRI. Can't figure out what the headache is all about. It's always there in varying degrees of pounding.

I will try to write more in the future. Just wanted to say that I am still here... Happy 2010.

A New Drink

2009-11-22T10:06:00.000-06:00

Ingredients:

shower water
nakedness
a cup

Directions:

Have your 2 year old shower with his father. Give him a cup to collect the water.

Have the 2 year old then place the cup underneath the water dispenser (dad's scrotum) and gather the water as it drips off.

If this is too strong for you, try having the 2 year old collect the dripping water off his own scrotum and drink!

Note: There was no actual drinking of the shower water, thanks to dad's quick reaction. This was a funny thing to see in the shower. And that is why Aiden no longer showers with mommy! Can you just imagine?

School Photos

2009-11-22T09:45:00.000-06:00

Here are the boys photos for the 2009-2010 school year. I thought their pix turned out really well. Enjoy...

This pix isn't really in sepia, I had to take a photo of his photo. Didn't feel like scanning it, so the color is distorted.

I got Andrew's school picture on CD!

Sunday Dinner

2009-11-15T20:56:00.002-06:00

We have an additional guest staying with us for the week. My little bro, Steffon, is hanging out with us because our parents are on a 25th anniversary vacation.

So, we are tthe Brady Bunch! Me, Arik, Andrew, Aiden, Michelle, Ginger, Jackie and Steffon. Granted Ginger and Jackie are dogs, but still!!!! 5 folks that need to use the restroom - the ONE restroom in our house. We are roughing it, peeps!

Well, tonight I cooked dinner... I know it's a shocker! We had lasagna, salad and bread. It was my 4th quarter meal. I've figured out that I've only cooked once each quarter this year.

So, we are all gathered around the table and Andrew sat down with his plate. He had everything I mentioned above, but on his plate was a TON of butter and a slice of bread. Michelle said something along the lines of you have a lot of butter on your bread. Andrew said that he loves butter and she said that it gives you high cholesterol. Andrew's response was, "that's why I eat Honey Nut Cheerios." Michelle had nothing to say to that one and the rest of us just laughed.

Cheerios helps to lower your cholesterol...

Musical Theatre

2009-11-12T01:05:00.000-06:00

Tonight, I went out with my cousin, Kathy. We went to see the musical, WICKED.

In the midst of all the trials and tribulations that I am not ready to speak of in my blog as of yet, this was a bright and shining moment in my current life!

We get there at about 7 pm and hang out until we can be seated. We had great seats. We were in the box seats. Could see everything!

I read the book last year. Noel and I were trying to start a book club (bombed because I wasn't reading the books). I thought the book was wonderful. Well, I was NOT prepared for what I watched today!

The writers did a wonderful job of creating a seemless flow. The ending was completely different than the book. In the musical, Elphaba lives! She and Fiero live happily ever after! What a wonderful idea!

Also, can I just say that Glinda (formerly GA-linda) was hilarious! The person who played Glinda gave her so much personality. I have the soundtrack (thanks, Kathy!) and will be making the song Popular my ringtone on my phone...

Some of my favorite parts in the musical were when Galinda and Elphaba became friends and Galinda sang the song Popular, the first time Elphaba flew, and ALL the special effects! It was well worth the money I shelled out for the ticket.

I would completely recommend you going to see this musical! It's wonderful.

One thing, though. If you have children, please DO NOT bring your child to the 8 pm show and expect them to stay up for the 3 hours! There was this chic that came all dolled up in her too little sweater dress and hooker heels. She was wearing a weave and a Kangol hat. Thinking she what the ish, she brought her daughter/sister and it wasn't even halfway over before that little girl was tossing and turning trying to get comfortable and fall asleep. I was a little annoyed because they were sitting in front of us and blocking my view every time they switched positions.

The musical was fantasterastic. Go see it!

Aiden on His Birthday

2009-10-27T23:53:00.002-05:00

Aiden at school during snack time. He gobbled up his little cupcake and and drank all his milk.

Aiden getting into position for us to sing happy birthday.

Aiden and I while we were waiting for Andrew to come home from school. I have a picture of Andrew in a pose just like this. I'll have to find it and share...

Tenure

2009-10-27T23:39:00.002-05:00

Arik received a certificate in the mail from his job congratulating him on being a part of the company (in all it's forms) for 10 whole years!

It always amazing me how Arik can be so steadfast in his work. There are many days where Arik will make mention of his dislike for his job, but for 10 years he has gone faithfully and provided for our family.

It stuff like this that really redeems Mr. Bradner in those times of doghouse-osity! I appreciate everything he does, but I just wish he would talk a little more. I know actions speak louder than words, but I get tired of talking to myself 80% of this relationship!

Anyway, congratulations, Arik, for receiving your tenure! Do-do-dah-doooo (just think of the little bug mariachi band that plays for Dora the Explorer every time she completes a section on the map)!

Report Card Time

2009-10-27T23:13:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Andrew brought home his 1st quarter report card.

I don't know if you follow my ramblings, but last year was a VERY rough time for the Bradner household. Andrew was having a hard time adjusting to 4th grade and THINGS were just hard!

BUT, I am pleased to announce that Andrew's 1st qtr marks are smile worthy. They aren't what we are accustomed to hime bringing home (circa K-3rd), but it really is a step in the right direction!

Instead of dealing in letter grades, the KCK district doles out number grades. It's a 4 point scale. A 4 means that a student is showing what they know consistantly and is always taking things a step farther. A 3 means showing knowledge consistantly; performing at grade level. A 2 means a student shows mastery of knowledge, but not every time - it's sort of hit and miss; their almost there. A 1 means your child isn't getting enough of the basic concepts for his/her grade level; below grade level standards.

Andrew produced quite a few 3s and a couple 2s and 4s! I'll take it! He has really been working harder this year and his efforts are showing.

We are very proud of Andrew and his efforts. We'll keep taking it day by day and here's hoping for a great 5th grade year!

Aiden Turned 2!

2009-10-27T22:09:00.006-05:00

On the 19th, Aiden was awakened by the happy birthday tune being sung by me and Andrew. We sang it all morning long and Aiden just giggled and giggled each time. He even joined in and made our little duo, a trio! It was too cute...

At school, Aiden was treated like a prince. He had a special hat and a mommy that took the day off and provided tasty treats for his classmates - cupcakes, juice, and goldfish. I snapped a couple shots of Aiden and his teachers. His birthday was the last day in the Rose Room at his school.

After school, he got to pick out a toy from NFM, have Panda Express and enjoyed a handmade, FUNfetti birthday cake with sprinkley icing. After he blew out the #2 candle, instead of reaching in and filling a fist full of rainbow goodness, he turned to me and said, "I wanna lick it." And so, I let him lick his cake. Not once, or twice, but 3 times and he was overjoyed.

The next day, he became a member of the Blue Room! While picking him up from school on Tuesday, my mommy-sense picked up on something. I later tried to explain what I experienced to Noel (BFF) and now to you. I fear that the appropriate words don't exist in our meager language to paint you an exact picture, but here goes...

Aiden greeted me at the entrance of the Blue Room as usual: a dimpled grin on his face, the sparkle in his "mood-ringish" eyes as he shouted, "Mommy!" and ran to me, embraced my knees and kissed my right thigh. *smile*

He let me put on his coat and as soon as I zipped it up, he was off like lightening towards the front doors. Suddenly, he stopped and turned around. He ran back to me and said - VERY clearly, "Come on, Mommy. Hurry up." He then turned around and trotted off toward the front doors again.

In that moment, my mommy-sense took a snapshot of Aiden characteristically (I know it's probably not a word, but, ehh..) growing up. Because of this milestone, turning two, he suddenly seemed to be standing a little taller, his hair a little curlier, the personality deep within his eyes setting permanently. In an older post, I talked about the difference between great and greatness and in that moment on that Tuesday, I saw Aiden's greatness take shape. He is coming into who he is and watching him use his qualities to please himself and the people that make him happy is awesome!

He ran with more confidence, laughed with more grandure... His innocence flowing over me like a brisk, autumn breeze. Yes, my mommy-sense picked up on the fact that we were transitioning from baby to big boy. I adore what I saw...

3 Guys and a Girl

Socks!

In My Feelings

Happy Turkey Cutlet Day

Laundry

Where O Where Has My Kindergirl Gone?

Unspoken Language

Revelation

It's the Great Pumpkin, Bradner Family!

Mulling Over My Title

Donor

Cricket Smicket

Letting Go

Return Of My Young Life Crisis

Guilty

Back to School Time

Going All Out

Double Entendre Gone Bad?

Welcome to the Twilight Zone...

Bad Mood Gone Good

"Pinterested" in Fine Dining?

Lots Of Things I'm "Pinterested" In...

Oedipus Complex

Potty Puddle Pondering

Facebook Gets The Good Stuff

I Love Our Lovies

Mini Me 1 & 2

Top Iconic Commercial Characters List

Romance

The Award Goes To...

Something Unexpected

I Don't Like Feeling Like Dorothy!

Who Pissed on the Picnic!?

Flowers

Where's my Robin Hood!?

Educ8r Chic!

Creationary - Create Your Own Dictionary!

Ready For My Close-Up, Mr. Spielberg! *Smile & Wink*

Snow Daze!

Here I Come Pole-a-palooza 2011!

That's a Bunch of BULL!

Breathe...

What's with the Cheesy Grin!?

Image

Some Kind Of Life Crisis

National Board Certification

The Darndest Things About Kindergarten

Taking One For The Team

Jury Duty

Me, a MILF?

Time Travel

I'm A Little Nervous

Awaiting My Arrival...

Baltimore and Back

Tributes

Toni & Jamille

Siblings

Kathy

Friends

My 1st Award

Take Responsibility

I Bet You Feel Dumb!

My Birthday Weekend

Aiden

Andrew

Arik

A Light For My Massive Black Hole!

Hey! Catch Those Thoughts...

Miss Mommy

Feeling Charmed This Valentine's

Furry KC...

Seriously Wounded Bambi's Mom - I Think She Probably Died

Where's Your Penis?

New Handbag

I Had An Affair...

The Whipped Cream On Top Of My Mud Pie

My Solor Plexus!

Please Stop Kicking Me While I'm Down!

Follow the White Rabbit...

I Feel Like Death

Ready For My Close-Up, Mr. Spielberg! Smile & Wink