I have a new kiddo at work that I'm going to mentor. I'm going to give the mentor thing another shot and see what happens. Things didn't end well with Princess but much of that was her doing. Her behavior got worse and worse the longer she was at our facility and to be honest, she used up people, manipulated others and was generally a pain in the arse to everyone who encountered the child. She's gone now, at college, and really doesn't have anything to do with anyone who won't give her stuff or money. That's sad, but it's the way it is.
Our facility has redone the mentor program and actually gave it some structure. It was a new idea when I started working with Princess and now there are guidelines and rules which actually help rather than hurt. So I said I would give it another try.
I've been matched with the child who is the anti-Princess in every single way, which I personally think is really cool. I've been matched with Girl.
Girl is 17 and has been "in the system" since she was 7 years old. Her mom died in a car accident and her 2 oldest siblings went to live with an aunt and the 2 youngest went to grandma and she went into foster care. After being there for awhile, grandma felt guilty and let her come live with her but Girl didn't make that easy and was then put back in foster care again. Then the aunt tried and again Girl ended up in foster. Her dad terminated his rights when she was 2 or 3 years old. She's bounced around foster homes and group homes for many years, running away, drugs, living with a cousin here and there. She's had a mess of a life and also made poor choices along the way. Right now she's at our place and is clean and sober for over a year. She's soon to be 18 years old and is taking independent living classes and working on her GED. She's making good choices right now!
She's pretty hard core but super nice. She doing all she's supposed to do and then some extra. She's funny and kind and a little reserved. She talked A LOT. She is not girlie AT ALL. In all honesty, she's a lesbian and is very "butch". I don't mean this ins a disrespectful way- she says this about herself. She shaved her head and has about 1/2 inch of black fuzz remaining, and wears men's clothing. She doesn't like anything girlie like pink of shoe shopping or dresses.
BUT she loves to talk and laugh. She's a smart kid so I can have a conversation with her and not feel like I'm addressing a wall. She's very funny- a great sense of humor. She has a direction in life and some goals. She loves music and reading and movies. She likes to do just about anything and she can be silly.
We've hung out twice and talked on the phone twice, in addition to seeing each other at school. She's actually a good fit for me. She doesn't whine or throw a fit when she doesn't get her way. She likes getting a Mountain Dew and sitting at park, gabbing. She flat out said we don't have to do stuff because it's nice to have someone to talk to who will listen to her and that she doesn't have to share my attention and I'm not a therapist.
So we'll see where this goes. In the meantime, we had a hoot of a time the first few times we were together, eating, walking the park, and me trying to convince her hand lotion is a good thing! HA!
Maggie the Mentor
Showing posts with label Princess. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Princess. Show all posts
Friday, March 30, 2012
Friday, June 10, 2011
The Skinny on Princess
I've been rather closed mouthed about Princess lately because it's been hard and hurtful. But.... here goes:
It was basically decided that at the end of June she would be going home, back to her mother's house. Around the time that was decided she and another girl in her Alcatraz house became super close to each other, leading many to question if they were lesbians. Drama and turmoil ensued. I personally could've cared less what her sexual choice was, but I wanted her to make good choices about things in general- period. She pulled away from me and finally some of the other girls told me she was embarrassed at what I might say about her sexual exploration. The other girls who were her friends encouraged her to talk to me and she finally did. I told her I didn't care who she dated as long as it was a good person.
The person she was dating wasn't good- she was a mean and abusive girl- verbally and physically. Long story how I learned it but I do work here and people talk so I just know these things.
Then Princess was having behavior issues in her house and because of the hinted "relationship" with this other- it was a violation- she wasn't allowed to leave campus.
Once that got all sorted out, Princess learned her girlfriend didn't like me and she pulled away again.
I cornered her yet again and took her off campus for dinner- with permission of all adults in charge or course- and we talked. She told me how her GF didn't like me and that put her in a weird spot because she doesn't want to upset either of us. She also told me lots of stuff about how basically her mom was saying she couldn't see me when she went home because she had a mom and didn't need another one. Princess figured it would be hard enough to go home anyway so why fight her mom on one more thing especially with the distance between her and I- it would be 6 hours.
We talked and tried to sort stuff out.
Then Princess went on a home visit and came back early. But no one told me she was coming back early.
During all this, her Alcatraz caseworker who had been trying to be my friend and was jealous of my relationship with Princess, suddenly starts taking her off campus to do things and talking with her and hanging out with her all the time. Princess liked that of course, but the caseworker was making it hard for me to spend time with Princess.
So after sorting through all that crap, Princess told me today that now she isn't going home and will be either staying here at Alcatraz until January when she's 18 years old, or she would stay in this county and go into an Independent living program, either of which would be good. She was hinting to me that I should still fast track my foster care application so she can live with me. Wow.
I feel like I'm living in a game of pinball here. And because of that, I'm just going to relay the information rather than give an opinion.
Ugh,
Maggie
It was basically decided that at the end of June she would be going home, back to her mother's house. Around the time that was decided she and another girl in her Alcatraz house became super close to each other, leading many to question if they were lesbians. Drama and turmoil ensued. I personally could've cared less what her sexual choice was, but I wanted her to make good choices about things in general- period. She pulled away from me and finally some of the other girls told me she was embarrassed at what I might say about her sexual exploration. The other girls who were her friends encouraged her to talk to me and she finally did. I told her I didn't care who she dated as long as it was a good person.
The person she was dating wasn't good- she was a mean and abusive girl- verbally and physically. Long story how I learned it but I do work here and people talk so I just know these things.
Then Princess was having behavior issues in her house and because of the hinted "relationship" with this other- it was a violation- she wasn't allowed to leave campus.
Once that got all sorted out, Princess learned her girlfriend didn't like me and she pulled away again.
I cornered her yet again and took her off campus for dinner- with permission of all adults in charge or course- and we talked. She told me how her GF didn't like me and that put her in a weird spot because she doesn't want to upset either of us. She also told me lots of stuff about how basically her mom was saying she couldn't see me when she went home because she had a mom and didn't need another one. Princess figured it would be hard enough to go home anyway so why fight her mom on one more thing especially with the distance between her and I- it would be 6 hours.
We talked and tried to sort stuff out.
Then Princess went on a home visit and came back early. But no one told me she was coming back early.
During all this, her Alcatraz caseworker who had been trying to be my friend and was jealous of my relationship with Princess, suddenly starts taking her off campus to do things and talking with her and hanging out with her all the time. Princess liked that of course, but the caseworker was making it hard for me to spend time with Princess.
So after sorting through all that crap, Princess told me today that now she isn't going home and will be either staying here at Alcatraz until January when she's 18 years old, or she would stay in this county and go into an Independent living program, either of which would be good. She was hinting to me that I should still fast track my foster care application so she can live with me. Wow.
I feel like I'm living in a game of pinball here. And because of that, I'm just going to relay the information rather than give an opinion.
Ugh,
Maggie
Friday, April 15, 2011
Warrior Princess... she's like the wind
I've never attended a track meet in my life. I don't think I've ever even watched the track and field events on television when the Olympics is on. So, I had no idea what to expect when I attended a track meet yesterday to support Princess.
Princess, before coming to Alcatraz, was a cross country distance runner. Since being here, she played volleyball during cross country season to try something new. And this spring, she's running track. At the meet I went to, she ran the 1600m and the 800m. She also threw the discus.
There's lots happening at the meet, all at the same time. I decided rather than wondering around, I would just sit in the bleachers and watch everything I could see from there. Hence, I could see all the running events, the high jump, and the long jump.
I also want to say I didn't know what I a long jump or high jump was until today. The high jump is when the athlete jumps over a pole (think a much lower to the ground goal post) and lands on a giant inflatable pillow, on their backs. I asked the school secretary with whom I was sitting what event was " the kids jumping over the stick and landing on the giant pillow." after she stopped laughing, I was told it was the high jump.
Now the long jump is when the athletes run and then forward jump into a sand pit. I asked the same secretary what is was when the kids ran and jumped in the sandbox: hence, the long jump. I think it should be called the far jump since we're seeing how far the jumpers can... well, jump.
Anyway...
So Princess ran the 1600m, which is one mile (give or take) and is 4 laps around the track. She placed 2nd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so proud of her and screamed and yelled and jumped around. She fell down and threw up. Guess we all celebrate in different ways.
Then she threw the discus. I didn't know where that event was taking place so I missed seeing her do it, so I have no idea how that went. I do know when she did it last time she was last. She could barely lift the discus, let alone throw it any distance. She nor I have any idea why she's even competing in this event other than I think they need a certain number of kids to do the field stuff. And she can't lift the shot put thingy with one hand (barely with two) so she's on discus. (and because of our limit funding and facility, the only field events our students do are shot put, discus, and long jump). And none of our kids do the javelin. Wonder why....!
Right at the end of the meet she ran the 800m, which is two laps around the track. (I know another reason I might not like track- there's a lot of math in this sport). She placed 3rd. She was tired and drained but she put on a burst at the end and did great. I was proud of her! And she didn't even throw up that time!
There are a few more track meets at local schools where she'll compete and of course I'll go and support her. It was fun to watch her. She has good form and she LIKES to run. She likes the 'good pain' and 'finding your stride' and the 'good burn'. It's probably why she weigh about 100 lbs. dripping wet, and stands at 5'8".
Go Princess!
Maggie
Princess, before coming to Alcatraz, was a cross country distance runner. Since being here, she played volleyball during cross country season to try something new. And this spring, she's running track. At the meet I went to, she ran the 1600m and the 800m. She also threw the discus.
There's lots happening at the meet, all at the same time. I decided rather than wondering around, I would just sit in the bleachers and watch everything I could see from there. Hence, I could see all the running events, the high jump, and the long jump.
I also want to say I didn't know what I a long jump or high jump was until today. The high jump is when the athlete jumps over a pole (think a much lower to the ground goal post) and lands on a giant inflatable pillow, on their backs. I asked the school secretary with whom I was sitting what event was " the kids jumping over the stick and landing on the giant pillow." after she stopped laughing, I was told it was the high jump.
Now the long jump is when the athletes run and then forward jump into a sand pit. I asked the same secretary what is was when the kids ran and jumped in the sandbox: hence, the long jump. I think it should be called the far jump since we're seeing how far the jumpers can... well, jump.
Anyway...
So Princess ran the 1600m, which is one mile (give or take) and is 4 laps around the track. She placed 2nd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so proud of her and screamed and yelled and jumped around. She fell down and threw up. Guess we all celebrate in different ways.
Then she threw the discus. I didn't know where that event was taking place so I missed seeing her do it, so I have no idea how that went. I do know when she did it last time she was last. She could barely lift the discus, let alone throw it any distance. She nor I have any idea why she's even competing in this event other than I think they need a certain number of kids to do the field stuff. And she can't lift the shot put thingy with one hand (barely with two) so she's on discus. (and because of our limit funding and facility, the only field events our students do are shot put, discus, and long jump). And none of our kids do the javelin. Wonder why....!
Right at the end of the meet she ran the 800m, which is two laps around the track. (I know another reason I might not like track- there's a lot of math in this sport). She placed 3rd. She was tired and drained but she put on a burst at the end and did great. I was proud of her! And she didn't even throw up that time!
There are a few more track meets at local schools where she'll compete and of course I'll go and support her. It was fun to watch her. She has good form and she LIKES to run. She likes the 'good pain' and 'finding your stride' and the 'good burn'. It's probably why she weigh about 100 lbs. dripping wet, and stands at 5'8".
Go Princess!
Maggie
Monday, March 28, 2011
I'm at a loss & I'm so angry I don't have words
Okay.......... some of you know this story and others don't. For the "dos" sorry for the repeat. For the "don'ts" well... here.
A few months ago I decided I wanted to be licensed to be a foster parent so when Princess was released in May she could be sent to live with me. I knew there were about 3494570431 things that could go wrong and stop the process but since it was a long shot it was worth taking.
I talked it over with her case -manager, who thought it was a good idea.
I talked it over with ITSam. He and I have talked about getting married so this was something that would certainly affect him as well. He was all for the idea.
I talked it over with Mac who was all for the idea as well.
I talked it over with Daddy-O who thought I was crazy and as long I wasn't going to foster her here at his house he was supportive.
Though all involved decided it would be a good idea to not tell Princess, she figured it out. She was VERY in favor of this idea.
I did some research online and talked to tons of foster parents and decided this is something I wanted to do.
I met with the people in the foster division of Alcatraz. I wanted to ask some basic questions. That meeting was extremely positive and I was given the huge green light with this idea. I got a stack of paperwork and signed up for classes. I was told that since we needed to meet a deadline of may 26, I could take classes as they were offered through them and then to get what else I needed Alcatraz would do individual one-on-one training to finish it up. COOL!
That took care of the issue of timing.
ITSam has to be licensed as well so he signed up too.
To be licensed together we had to be married by the time we got her. Okay, we decided that wouldn't be a problem and sort of loosely planned a small wedding that would take place at the end of April. Okay- check.
We knew we would need at least a 3 bedroom house or apartment. A guy at work said he had 4 bedroom house he would let us rent with a huge discount because we were going to be foster parents and he thought that was admirable. It was in the school district we wanted and we could move in mid- April. AND the guy who makes sure houses are foster care approved had been there said it was and doing the home study would be fine. Check!
Everything was falling into place until a few weeks ago when Princess's case manager call me to her office. She dropped the bomb that probation department in Princess's home county (her PO there) wants her in a placement in her own county so though they won't be reunified as a family, they can still have twice weekly meetings. Her PO wants her in an independent living situation or foster care there.
Well damn.
Yes, she should continue to foster a positive relationship with her mother and sisters. Yes, she should stay connected to her family. It sucks for me, for us, for Princess who so wanted to be with me.
Okay so she and I put on happy faces and think positive thoughts and focus on the good stuff about being there.
Then Friday night Princess drops the bomb. She was shell-shocked herself. he stupid case-manager casually mentioned that recently the PO sent an email that said after consideration maybe Princess should remain in this county so she could graduate from Alcatraz since she's academically successful and she could be placed in a foster home here.
Of course the witch of a case-manager said nothing to me about this and won't give Princess any other information.
I just can't believe this............. And I can't manage to write more here without coming unglued. I can't even talk about it without having a fit. I'm so mad, angry, furious, hurt, shattered, frustrated, ugh!!!!!!!!!!
Maggie
A few months ago I decided I wanted to be licensed to be a foster parent so when Princess was released in May she could be sent to live with me. I knew there were about 3494570431 things that could go wrong and stop the process but since it was a long shot it was worth taking.
I talked it over with her case -manager, who thought it was a good idea.
I talked it over with ITSam. He and I have talked about getting married so this was something that would certainly affect him as well. He was all for the idea.
I talked it over with Mac who was all for the idea as well.
I talked it over with Daddy-O who thought I was crazy and as long I wasn't going to foster her here at his house he was supportive.
Though all involved decided it would be a good idea to not tell Princess, she figured it out. She was VERY in favor of this idea.
I did some research online and talked to tons of foster parents and decided this is something I wanted to do.
I met with the people in the foster division of Alcatraz. I wanted to ask some basic questions. That meeting was extremely positive and I was given the huge green light with this idea. I got a stack of paperwork and signed up for classes. I was told that since we needed to meet a deadline of may 26, I could take classes as they were offered through them and then to get what else I needed Alcatraz would do individual one-on-one training to finish it up. COOL!
That took care of the issue of timing.
ITSam has to be licensed as well so he signed up too.
To be licensed together we had to be married by the time we got her. Okay, we decided that wouldn't be a problem and sort of loosely planned a small wedding that would take place at the end of April. Okay- check.
We knew we would need at least a 3 bedroom house or apartment. A guy at work said he had 4 bedroom house he would let us rent with a huge discount because we were going to be foster parents and he thought that was admirable. It was in the school district we wanted and we could move in mid- April. AND the guy who makes sure houses are foster care approved had been there said it was and doing the home study would be fine. Check!
Everything was falling into place until a few weeks ago when Princess's case manager call me to her office. She dropped the bomb that probation department in Princess's home county (her PO there) wants her in a placement in her own county so though they won't be reunified as a family, they can still have twice weekly meetings. Her PO wants her in an independent living situation or foster care there.
Well damn.
Yes, she should continue to foster a positive relationship with her mother and sisters. Yes, she should stay connected to her family. It sucks for me, for us, for Princess who so wanted to be with me.
Okay so she and I put on happy faces and think positive thoughts and focus on the good stuff about being there.
Then Friday night Princess drops the bomb. She was shell-shocked herself. he stupid case-manager casually mentioned that recently the PO sent an email that said after consideration maybe Princess should remain in this county so she could graduate from Alcatraz since she's academically successful and she could be placed in a foster home here.
Of course the witch of a case-manager said nothing to me about this and won't give Princess any other information.
I just can't believe this............. And I can't manage to write more here without coming unglued. I can't even talk about it without having a fit. I'm so mad, angry, furious, hurt, shattered, frustrated, ugh!!!!!!!!!!
Maggie
Thursday, March 24, 2011
My "kids"
Mac:
He was great last night in his school play. He just blew me away. His drama club has accumulated enough money in the kitty and they bought some seriously extravagant sets. The costumes were awesome as was the make up. And the students did an amazing job. They were impressive. But I have to say this about Mac. He was the lead and in a four Act show, he had about 60% of all the lines. He had two terrifically long monologues. And he was just..... wow. He nailed that part. I've never seen anything like it. He has more acting talent in his little finger than I do my whole body. He was fabulous.
The second bit of good news is that he received an almost full ride scholarship to his first choice of schools. We owe around $3k out of a bill of $30k. They take payments. I am so proud of him and so relieved.
And he made the all A and B honor roll at the end of this quarter! Even with the high amount of senior-itis that's affecting (in infecting?) him he hasn't given up on academics.
He's also been attending 2 different church youth groups, all on his own. I don't make him go. I thought he was was going because of a girl but when he was no longer interested in that "skirt" he still kept going. He even goes to youth group when his friends bail. Furthermore, the youth minister is taking him to dinner tonight to get to know him and celebrate Mac's positive contributions to the youth ministry.
Finally, he's looking for a job- and not complaining- so it's great to see that responsible side.
Princess:
She's on the all A honor roll- not a single B+ but all As!!!!!
Because of her outstanding academic record she was presented a trophy at the academic awards ceremony today!
Princess has decided to run track! She's a distance runner and is in three different events. She's been diligent in attending practices and working hard. Today is the first meet!
I'm also impressed because she's given up drinking soda pop for Lent and she hasn't fallen off the wagon yet!!!!
The Alcatraz kids live in a world of points. They earn and lose points at school and in their campus homes. For the 7th week in a row, she's earned 150 points here in school, which is the max number of points students can earn in a week. So she's had perfect school behavior for seven weeks; she so rocks!
Aren't my "kids" awesome?!?
Maggie the Mom
He was great last night in his school play. He just blew me away. His drama club has accumulated enough money in the kitty and they bought some seriously extravagant sets. The costumes were awesome as was the make up. And the students did an amazing job. They were impressive. But I have to say this about Mac. He was the lead and in a four Act show, he had about 60% of all the lines. He had two terrifically long monologues. And he was just..... wow. He nailed that part. I've never seen anything like it. He has more acting talent in his little finger than I do my whole body. He was fabulous.
The second bit of good news is that he received an almost full ride scholarship to his first choice of schools. We owe around $3k out of a bill of $30k. They take payments. I am so proud of him and so relieved.
And he made the all A and B honor roll at the end of this quarter! Even with the high amount of senior-itis that's affecting (in infecting?) him he hasn't given up on academics.
He's also been attending 2 different church youth groups, all on his own. I don't make him go. I thought he was was going because of a girl but when he was no longer interested in that "skirt" he still kept going. He even goes to youth group when his friends bail. Furthermore, the youth minister is taking him to dinner tonight to get to know him and celebrate Mac's positive contributions to the youth ministry.
Finally, he's looking for a job- and not complaining- so it's great to see that responsible side.
Princess:
She's on the all A honor roll- not a single B+ but all As!!!!!
Because of her outstanding academic record she was presented a trophy at the academic awards ceremony today!
Princess has decided to run track! She's a distance runner and is in three different events. She's been diligent in attending practices and working hard. Today is the first meet!
I'm also impressed because she's given up drinking soda pop for Lent and she hasn't fallen off the wagon yet!!!!
The Alcatraz kids live in a world of points. They earn and lose points at school and in their campus homes. For the 7th week in a row, she's earned 150 points here in school, which is the max number of points students can earn in a week. So she's had perfect school behavior for seven weeks; she so rocks!
Aren't my "kids" awesome?!?
Maggie the Mom
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Random Hump Day Musings
In our community, we have a pizza place what has a Godfather theme to their business name. Godfather as in the mafia movie. What I hate is that the radio DJ who does the commercials does a TERRIBLE, and I mean TERRIBLE, impression of Brando as the Godfather. If I owned the place I would wall and just tell them "no" and to stop.
Tonight is opening night of Mac's school play! It's his first huge lead so I'm excited to see how well it goes for him. He's a bit of a diva about it all so I hope his performance lives up to his ego.
I'm adding a shelf here and there to the library bookcases. Well, let me rephrase that, I would LIKE to do that. I can find the extra shelves but the pins that actually hold the shelves are gone. Really. Who takes the pins? And I'll be honest here. We don't think it's the kids. Someone on the library committee who's been here since the invention of dirt said she wouldn't be surprised if a previous librarian- 2 or 3 ago- tossed them in the trash. Seriously?!?
Gasoline is so expensive right now that I put $30 in my tank this morning. I was so on Empty that the fuel light was on. And $30 filled it only half way. Prohibitive. It really irks me, and it's completely unnecessary.
My school didn't use all of their scheduled calendar snow days so I get this Friday off. Yup, no school at all. Just a day to hang out. Thank you to the day off gods! Did I mention Mac will be at school all that day? I'm going to sleep in and read and just be a bum.
I can't believe it could snow tomorrow. Not nice.
Princess did some work in her art class and it's been submitted to a local art school competition. I'll be visiting the gallery! She's one of the top contenders for ribbons in the categories she's entered in- I'll let you know what she wins!
Speaking of Princess and weather, she's running distance races in track and her meet is tomorrow. Of course, I'm going to watch and cheer her on but it's supposed to be a high of 31 degrees with possible snow. Today it's a high of 62 with a chance of rain. I'm so thrilled about standing outside in that weather tomorrow. Not.
One thing I miss from when I lived in Northern Civilization, Armpit, and even in the Wild West is that I always had a group of folks with whom I met for "Thirsty Thursday" festivities. I miss Thirsty Thursdays at the local watering hole. I don't even have a local watering hole.
Tonight is opening night of Mac's school play! It's his first huge lead so I'm excited to see how well it goes for him. He's a bit of a diva about it all so I hope his performance lives up to his ego.
I'm adding a shelf here and there to the library bookcases. Well, let me rephrase that, I would LIKE to do that. I can find the extra shelves but the pins that actually hold the shelves are gone. Really. Who takes the pins? And I'll be honest here. We don't think it's the kids. Someone on the library committee who's been here since the invention of dirt said she wouldn't be surprised if a previous librarian- 2 or 3 ago- tossed them in the trash. Seriously?!?
Gasoline is so expensive right now that I put $30 in my tank this morning. I was so on Empty that the fuel light was on. And $30 filled it only half way. Prohibitive. It really irks me, and it's completely unnecessary.
My school didn't use all of their scheduled calendar snow days so I get this Friday off. Yup, no school at all. Just a day to hang out. Thank you to the day off gods! Did I mention Mac will be at school all that day? I'm going to sleep in and read and just be a bum.
I can't believe it could snow tomorrow. Not nice.
Princess did some work in her art class and it's been submitted to a local art school competition. I'll be visiting the gallery! She's one of the top contenders for ribbons in the categories she's entered in- I'll let you know what she wins!
Speaking of Princess and weather, she's running distance races in track and her meet is tomorrow. Of course, I'm going to watch and cheer her on but it's supposed to be a high of 31 degrees with possible snow. Today it's a high of 62 with a chance of rain. I'm so thrilled about standing outside in that weather tomorrow. Not.
One thing I miss from when I lived in Northern Civilization, Armpit, and even in the Wild West is that I always had a group of folks with whom I met for "Thirsty Thursday" festivities. I miss Thirsty Thursdays at the local watering hole. I don't even have a local watering hole.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Random Random Random
I want to learn how to play the violin and the guitar and the piano. Sounds like I want to be my own band...
The Glee Soundtracks are my current favorite musical conglomeration ever.
I love my new cell phone/ hand held computer- the HTC, but the battery life sucks, sucks, sucks.
I'm going to make jello-o cake this weekend. My biggest challenge will be deciding on cherry or orange.
ITSam has his son this weekend and I don't have to work so I'm going to hang out and do nothing. Oh yeah, I couldn't do anything if I wanted since I don't HAVE A CAR.
ITSam had to explain condoms to his 11 year old son. I'm glad I wasn't around when they had discussion. I'm the parent who gave Mac all his sex talks. Once in my life for that was enough. Though, at lunch the other day, Princess actually asked me how lesbians had sex. Ugh!
Speaking of Princess, her bio-mom is coming to visit her this weekend. Gee, that's nice.
I took one knitting class. Is that enough to cross something off the 40 for 40?
Because of the asshat mechanics, I had to miss zumba this week. So much for being on an exercise roll.
I hate March.
Maggie the grump
The Glee Soundtracks are my current favorite musical conglomeration ever.
I love my new cell phone/ hand held computer- the HTC, but the battery life sucks, sucks, sucks.
I'm going to make jello-o cake this weekend. My biggest challenge will be deciding on cherry or orange.
ITSam has his son this weekend and I don't have to work so I'm going to hang out and do nothing. Oh yeah, I couldn't do anything if I wanted since I don't HAVE A CAR.
ITSam had to explain condoms to his 11 year old son. I'm glad I wasn't around when they had discussion. I'm the parent who gave Mac all his sex talks. Once in my life for that was enough. Though, at lunch the other day, Princess actually asked me how lesbians had sex. Ugh!
Speaking of Princess, her bio-mom is coming to visit her this weekend. Gee, that's nice.
I took one knitting class. Is that enough to cross something off the 40 for 40?
Because of the asshat mechanics, I had to miss zumba this week. So much for being on an exercise roll.
I hate March.
Maggie the grump
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
In Like A Lion
Today was not a good day.
- Mac got 4 days of after school detention for shooting off his mouth and using the word shit
- I did NOT get the job
- My car broke down last week and I got the $390 bill today
- I will not be appoint Princess's guardian in June. Long story. It's nothing she nor I did; It's politics and "the system."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
The wheels on the bus go round and round, and the driver of the bus goes "grrrrr grrrrr"!
Princess and I rode the bus the other evening since Mac had the car. She had never ridden any sort of public transportation before and we ended up with a very mean bus driver. It was not our best riding experience. Actually most of the time when I use public transportation, I have crummy experiences. I don't know if it's the luck of the draw, or what. Sometimes I have no other alternative than to ride with them; I hate that rock and hard place feeling.
I know other people who take it all the time and never had any issues and that's great for them. I also know this is better than nothing when you need a ride. I just hate the fact I get some grumpy drivers who always blame me for their issues. Or are mad at their dispatcher and then are in crappy humor with me the entire ride. I usually try and schedule my rides 24 hours (or more) in advance. And I never call and say "can you come get me in 10 minutes?" If I need a same day ride, I call in the early morning for a late afternoon or evening ride. If I do call for a same day ride, I am always prepared for snafus. Ugh!
Our transportation isn't like a regular bus. There isn't a regular route it runs and you walk to a stop and get on. No, instead, you schedule a pick up and they come get you as close to the appointed time you ask for. The policy says, I think, the bus has a 20 minute grace period either way of your assigned time. Yes, they could be 20 minutes early or 20 minutes late. As a rider, you are allotted 5 minutes to get your butt out the door and into the bus from the moment they arrive, even if they are 20 minutes early. Because of this stupid 20 minutes policy, I rarely use them when I am on a time crunch. I make sure I can be flexible.
The other night Princess and I were at the downtown coffee shop waiting for our 6:05pm pick up. We were sitting where we could see the street and we also were laughing at how many open parking spaces there were for the bus to pull in. I had to pee and thought I could wait but nature called. Now, this may be more than you want to or need to know, but it must be said. I can pee REALLY quickly. I've worked in education for the past 11 years and am used to only having a 3 minute passing period to get to a bathroom, do my business, wash my hands, and get back to my room before a bell. So I'm a quick pee-er. I ran to the bathroom and did my thing. From the moment I left my seat until I got back was less than 3 minutes, tops. And the bus came during the time. Princess waited for me and we boarded. That bus driver had waited, according to us anyway, for maybe 2 minutes. We were allowed five.
And the bus driver was some little, old, gray haired, ANGRY lady. She said she has been waiting forever for us. Princess and I looked at each other. The driver went on to say she even called dispatch to see where we were. I asked her where she had been waiting and she said "right here" which was smack in the front of the plate glass window where we had been sitting. So she was completely lying. She slammed the bus doors and told us to sit down and she drove away while I was still walking to my seat, muttering at me. I was pissed.
I actually called the person who schedules the rides the next day to see what the problem was and to explain our side of it. She blamed the other scheduler and said our driver was supposed to be off work at 6pm. Well, whoopee shit. Like that was MY fault?
Daddy-O used to drive for this company and he used to be a dispatcher as well, for years and years. He quit when he retired. I know the other side of this gig so whenever I schedule a ride, I certainly try and always be timely, flexible and friendly. I know what the drivers go through. I wish the drivers would offer that same service in return.
Other bad experiences: I waited my allotted 20 minutes late and then called to see where my ride was. No one could figure out why I wasn't picked up so after some phone calls to some drivers, they figured out my name never was put on any drivers' lists. New computer software was blamed and it was 40 minutes after my scheduled time that anyone finally got me. And when the driver finally did get me, she complained she was supposed to be off work 30 minutes ago and there were other drivers doing nothing so she didn't know why she was stuck getting me.
Another time I needed pick up at school. We have an office building on one side of the street and the school is on the other. When I called for that ride, I stressed that I was IN the school. So at my pick up time I see the bus just drive right on by the school and pull in the office building entrance and head to the parking lot, which is behind the building. I call to the office and ask if they could send the bus to the school. They do. The driver immediately starts chewing my butt, telling me I need to let the dispatcher know where I'll be. I calmly BUT firmly told that driver, "Look I told them the school. I stressed that I was a teacher and would be at the school. Furthermore, my dad worked for this place and I know the procedure so back off. I suggest you call and see if [dispatcher name] wrote it down or not." Then she proceeded to complain about her job all the way home.
It's better than nothing when I need a ride, I realize that. It beats being stranded. And right now, I have free ride passes which are valid until March 31 so I don't have to pay for any of these rides- they're all free. I guess, in this case, I'm getting what I pay for. But these drivers need to learn some customer service finesse.
And Princess thinks public transportation is now mean and scary. She's kinda right about that...
Maggie
I know other people who take it all the time and never had any issues and that's great for them. I also know this is better than nothing when you need a ride. I just hate the fact I get some grumpy drivers who always blame me for their issues. Or are mad at their dispatcher and then are in crappy humor with me the entire ride. I usually try and schedule my rides 24 hours (or more) in advance. And I never call and say "can you come get me in 10 minutes?" If I need a same day ride, I call in the early morning for a late afternoon or evening ride. If I do call for a same day ride, I am always prepared for snafus. Ugh!
Our transportation isn't like a regular bus. There isn't a regular route it runs and you walk to a stop and get on. No, instead, you schedule a pick up and they come get you as close to the appointed time you ask for. The policy says, I think, the bus has a 20 minute grace period either way of your assigned time. Yes, they could be 20 minutes early or 20 minutes late. As a rider, you are allotted 5 minutes to get your butt out the door and into the bus from the moment they arrive, even if they are 20 minutes early. Because of this stupid 20 minutes policy, I rarely use them when I am on a time crunch. I make sure I can be flexible.
The other night Princess and I were at the downtown coffee shop waiting for our 6:05pm pick up. We were sitting where we could see the street and we also were laughing at how many open parking spaces there were for the bus to pull in. I had to pee and thought I could wait but nature called. Now, this may be more than you want to or need to know, but it must be said. I can pee REALLY quickly. I've worked in education for the past 11 years and am used to only having a 3 minute passing period to get to a bathroom, do my business, wash my hands, and get back to my room before a bell. So I'm a quick pee-er. I ran to the bathroom and did my thing. From the moment I left my seat until I got back was less than 3 minutes, tops. And the bus came during the time. Princess waited for me and we boarded. That bus driver had waited, according to us anyway, for maybe 2 minutes. We were allowed five.
And the bus driver was some little, old, gray haired, ANGRY lady. She said she has been waiting forever for us. Princess and I looked at each other. The driver went on to say she even called dispatch to see where we were. I asked her where she had been waiting and she said "right here" which was smack in the front of the plate glass window where we had been sitting. So she was completely lying. She slammed the bus doors and told us to sit down and she drove away while I was still walking to my seat, muttering at me. I was pissed.
I actually called the person who schedules the rides the next day to see what the problem was and to explain our side of it. She blamed the other scheduler and said our driver was supposed to be off work at 6pm. Well, whoopee shit. Like that was MY fault?
Daddy-O used to drive for this company and he used to be a dispatcher as well, for years and years. He quit when he retired. I know the other side of this gig so whenever I schedule a ride, I certainly try and always be timely, flexible and friendly. I know what the drivers go through. I wish the drivers would offer that same service in return.
Other bad experiences: I waited my allotted 20 minutes late and then called to see where my ride was. No one could figure out why I wasn't picked up so after some phone calls to some drivers, they figured out my name never was put on any drivers' lists. New computer software was blamed and it was 40 minutes after my scheduled time that anyone finally got me. And when the driver finally did get me, she complained she was supposed to be off work 30 minutes ago and there were other drivers doing nothing so she didn't know why she was stuck getting me.
Another time I needed pick up at school. We have an office building on one side of the street and the school is on the other. When I called for that ride, I stressed that I was IN the school. So at my pick up time I see the bus just drive right on by the school and pull in the office building entrance and head to the parking lot, which is behind the building. I call to the office and ask if they could send the bus to the school. They do. The driver immediately starts chewing my butt, telling me I need to let the dispatcher know where I'll be. I calmly BUT firmly told that driver, "Look I told them the school. I stressed that I was a teacher and would be at the school. Furthermore, my dad worked for this place and I know the procedure so back off. I suggest you call and see if [dispatcher name] wrote it down or not." Then she proceeded to complain about her job all the way home.
It's better than nothing when I need a ride, I realize that. It beats being stranded. And right now, I have free ride passes which are valid until March 31 so I don't have to pay for any of these rides- they're all free. I guess, in this case, I'm getting what I pay for. But these drivers need to learn some customer service finesse.
And Princess thinks public transportation is now mean and scary. She's kinda right about that...
Maggie
Thursday, February 24, 2011
More random Thursday thoughts from a tired brain
I zumba-ed tonight and am so tired that I can't string together coherent thoughts so you get random stuff. I'm not sure my fingers can type. I think I'm really gonna hurt tomorrow.
Speaking of tomorrow I'm supposed to appear in court on behalf of Princess; this is a typical thing that happens not because she was in more trouble. Her court hearing is 5 hours away. We're supposed to have 2 inches of ice and then 6-11 inches of snow on the ground by morning. Her caseworker, who is doing the driving on this road trip, said we're going no matter what. I told her over my dead body would I let her jeopardize the safety of Princess. She asked how I would stop her from going. i said I'd call our company President if I had to. I emailed her this morning, after she was dithering around to me that she didn't know "what to do if it snowed here tomorrow." I suggested that she call the judge, talk to his clerk. explain the situation and see what happens. The judge would either say call us tomorrow to see if you got the weather, tough crap and be here, or give us a continuance. I'm betting on option three. I'm frustrated. I don't think she did her job and I don't think she should endanger lives because she doesn't want to make a phone call. Ugh! Furthermore, I don't want to go tomorrow if the weather is that bad.
I still haven't heard anything about the job. Ridiculous.
I filed my taxes and I'm getting a return and I can now finish Mac's FAFSA. Please pray we get a ton of money.
Mac announced he wants to buy a MacBook Pro to use in college. He's opting out of prom since I said I would give him the cash I would spend on prom to put toward the computer. Those things are $1500. I hope he gets a lot of money for graduation gifts.
I like the word maelstrom.
Tons of movies are being released on DVD next month that I want to see: 127 Hours, Black Swan, Faster, Inside Job, Morning Glory, Next Three Days, Switch, Tangled, and Fair Game.
Okay this is it. My brain is yogurt. And I want chocolate. Now.
Maggie
Speaking of tomorrow I'm supposed to appear in court on behalf of Princess; this is a typical thing that happens not because she was in more trouble. Her court hearing is 5 hours away. We're supposed to have 2 inches of ice and then 6-11 inches of snow on the ground by morning. Her caseworker, who is doing the driving on this road trip, said we're going no matter what. I told her over my dead body would I let her jeopardize the safety of Princess. She asked how I would stop her from going. i said I'd call our company President if I had to. I emailed her this morning, after she was dithering around to me that she didn't know "what to do if it snowed here tomorrow." I suggested that she call the judge, talk to his clerk. explain the situation and see what happens. The judge would either say call us tomorrow to see if you got the weather, tough crap and be here, or give us a continuance. I'm betting on option three. I'm frustrated. I don't think she did her job and I don't think she should endanger lives because she doesn't want to make a phone call. Ugh! Furthermore, I don't want to go tomorrow if the weather is that bad.
I still haven't heard anything about the job. Ridiculous.
I filed my taxes and I'm getting a return and I can now finish Mac's FAFSA. Please pray we get a ton of money.
Mac announced he wants to buy a MacBook Pro to use in college. He's opting out of prom since I said I would give him the cash I would spend on prom to put toward the computer. Those things are $1500. I hope he gets a lot of money for graduation gifts.
I like the word maelstrom.
Tons of movies are being released on DVD next month that I want to see: 127 Hours, Black Swan, Faster, Inside Job, Morning Glory, Next Three Days, Switch, Tangled, and Fair Game.
Okay this is it. My brain is yogurt. And I want chocolate. Now.
Maggie
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Tired, tired, tired
How is it that I can't get enough hours in the day to make my world go around?
I drove to the southern part of my state to pick up some kids who got a home pass visit. I get paid to make this trip. I got to bring Princess along to ride shotgun. It was almost 60 degrees. The sun was out. The girls were all awesome. I had a good car to drive. We rocked it out to Lady Gaga on the way home. We laughed and giggled lots.
But we left at 745am and arrived home at 5pm. I took Princess to get picture prints made so we can scrapbook on Wednesday. Then Mac and Princess went to church youth group together. I had to stay the entire time, because of Alcatraz rules. (I waited in the car for 2 hours) Then I took her home, got pizza, saw my Bro & SisIL then finally made it home to eat, blog, do a load of laundry and watch some Grammys (which suck). I just sat down; I even stood up to eat dinner and it's just now 9:55pm.
I love all the time with Princess.
I am soooooooooooooo tired.
Love,
Maggie
I drove to the southern part of my state to pick up some kids who got a home pass visit. I get paid to make this trip. I got to bring Princess along to ride shotgun. It was almost 60 degrees. The sun was out. The girls were all awesome. I had a good car to drive. We rocked it out to Lady Gaga on the way home. We laughed and giggled lots.
But we left at 745am and arrived home at 5pm. I took Princess to get picture prints made so we can scrapbook on Wednesday. Then Mac and Princess went to church youth group together. I had to stay the entire time, because of Alcatraz rules. (I waited in the car for 2 hours) Then I took her home, got pizza, saw my Bro & SisIL then finally made it home to eat, blog, do a load of laundry and watch some Grammys (which suck). I just sat down; I even stood up to eat dinner and it's just now 9:55pm.
I love all the time with Princess.
I am soooooooooooooo tired.
Love,
Maggie
Sunday, January 16, 2011
#2: Get High-lights in my hair
I have high-lights in my hair.
Here's the deal. I'm not yet 40 and I have white hair. I have quite a bit of white hair, as a matter of fact. If I didn't color said hair, I would have a perfectly shaped, white, skunk stripe over my right eye and down over my right ear. Just a stripe. I also have some miscellaneous white hairs at my temple and... well, everywhere else.
I do color my hair. Typically I color it the natural color of my hair, a nice brown with some red in it. Now, the question has always been, how do I color it brown and red? Well, the obvious answer is to get some highlights of red after coloring it brown. This costs about $50-85 at a salon, which is prohibitive to my personal pocketbook. So for years, since the white monsters have reared their ugly heads, I've had to choose. I usually color my hair sort of an auburn-ish color which is pretty close to my natural.
I've had some coloring incidents in life. Once my hair turned pink, when I lived in the Wild West. The color solution with the chemicals in the water there were not a good combination so I was pink about about 14 days. Once time I picked a color that was more... magenta than auburn and that was weird. Once I went "too brown" and it wasn't a good look. I also went too red and after a few weeks it was sort of orange-y looking. But most of the time, it looks like normal hair, but just not my natural brown with auburn highlights.
Until a few weeks ago. I found a store kit that was an all-over color and then highlights. COOL! So, one day Princess and I dyed our hair. She went back to her natural chocolate brown (from a weird dirty blondish red she attempted) and I colored mine medium/ light brown. And she placed the high-lights.
I was worried because I've seen people get highlights from the salon, and at home, where they look like they have stripes in the hair, zebra-esque, you might say. I didn't want that to happen to me. I kept telling Princess to not zebra me. She said she wouldn't and to not worry. Famous last words from the kid who tried to go blond and her hair is almost black naturally!
I have to say it turned out beautifully! I love it. It's lovely! No stripes, just natural looking color. It's been funny because, since we did it, people look at me and say I look different but no one can actually seem to put their fingers on what's different about me. That means she did a good job- it should look normal and natural. She's awesome! (and we didn't highlight her hair; we just colored it and it's stunning!)
We also read the directions and when it's touch up time, I don't have to do a whole all over kit; we can do some highlights! I am so excited by this. I know I'll have to "all over" color again, of course, but in the mean time, I can squeak an extra couple weeks with a highlight treatment.
So, I can cross "highlight my hair" off the 40 before 40 list!
And, while this has nothing to do with the coloring, I got a "straightener" for Christmas. A hair straightener, that is. My hair is curly and after a blow dryer it's often... fluffy. So now I straighten it and with the color-- well, I look like a whole new person! Like a before and after make over that went well. And more people notice I straighten my hair than the highlights. Now how weird is that?
What I do wonder, though, is what color is my hair now, really? Other than all the white ones, I wonder if my hair is still really that brownish red or if it's getting darker as I get older. Other than the white ones, of course. I don't want to find out, though. I'll live with it the way I remember it before the white infiltrated!
Maggie
1 down and 39 more to go!
Here's the deal. I'm not yet 40 and I have white hair. I have quite a bit of white hair, as a matter of fact. If I didn't color said hair, I would have a perfectly shaped, white, skunk stripe over my right eye and down over my right ear. Just a stripe. I also have some miscellaneous white hairs at my temple and... well, everywhere else.
I do color my hair. Typically I color it the natural color of my hair, a nice brown with some red in it. Now, the question has always been, how do I color it brown and red? Well, the obvious answer is to get some highlights of red after coloring it brown. This costs about $50-85 at a salon, which is prohibitive to my personal pocketbook. So for years, since the white monsters have reared their ugly heads, I've had to choose. I usually color my hair sort of an auburn-ish color which is pretty close to my natural.
I've had some coloring incidents in life. Once my hair turned pink, when I lived in the Wild West. The color solution with the chemicals in the water there were not a good combination so I was pink about about 14 days. Once time I picked a color that was more... magenta than auburn and that was weird. Once I went "too brown" and it wasn't a good look. I also went too red and after a few weeks it was sort of orange-y looking. But most of the time, it looks like normal hair, but just not my natural brown with auburn highlights.
Until a few weeks ago. I found a store kit that was an all-over color and then highlights. COOL! So, one day Princess and I dyed our hair. She went back to her natural chocolate brown (from a weird dirty blondish red she attempted) and I colored mine medium/ light brown. And she placed the high-lights.
I was worried because I've seen people get highlights from the salon, and at home, where they look like they have stripes in the hair, zebra-esque, you might say. I didn't want that to happen to me. I kept telling Princess to not zebra me. She said she wouldn't and to not worry. Famous last words from the kid who tried to go blond and her hair is almost black naturally!
I have to say it turned out beautifully! I love it. It's lovely! No stripes, just natural looking color. It's been funny because, since we did it, people look at me and say I look different but no one can actually seem to put their fingers on what's different about me. That means she did a good job- it should look normal and natural. She's awesome! (and we didn't highlight her hair; we just colored it and it's stunning!)
We also read the directions and when it's touch up time, I don't have to do a whole all over kit; we can do some highlights! I am so excited by this. I know I'll have to "all over" color again, of course, but in the mean time, I can squeak an extra couple weeks with a highlight treatment.
So, I can cross "highlight my hair" off the 40 before 40 list!
And, while this has nothing to do with the coloring, I got a "straightener" for Christmas. A hair straightener, that is. My hair is curly and after a blow dryer it's often... fluffy. So now I straighten it and with the color-- well, I look like a whole new person! Like a before and after make over that went well. And more people notice I straighten my hair than the highlights. Now how weird is that?
What I do wonder, though, is what color is my hair now, really? Other than all the white ones, I wonder if my hair is still really that brownish red or if it's getting darker as I get older. Other than the white ones, of course. I don't want to find out, though. I'll live with it the way I remember it before the white infiltrated!
Maggie
1 down and 39 more to go!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Last minute updates and teasers
I didn't have a chance to talk to the principal about the nasty comment described in yesterday's post but I have a meeting with him on Monday!
I applied for a part time job (like a need another one!) to direct a school musical at a neighboring high school! More on this if it comes to fruition!
January is not having me start as a good blogger. I can't believe I forgot to blog today. Well, I didn't really forget. I thought I was going to have an update about yesterday to post this afternoon and when it didn't happen the thought of blogging flew out my head. I was swamped with the mundane today.
ITSam has his son this weekend so I have a BF free weekend. Sadly, I'm looking forward to that. I think I'm still upset about Tuesday. I don't hold grudges usually (does the one I have against my ex count?) but I'm struggling to get over this.
Speaking of the ex, SD still hasn't called Mac since the day they went shopping. What a jerk. He tells Mac he wants to try and improve their relationship and then goes on hiatus. Mac said he's waiting for the other shoe to drop. Smart kid.
My Verizon Wireless contract is up in 11 more days. Can we hear a round of applause? I think Sprint will get my business.
We [we being teachers and parents who give a crap about their kids' homework assignments] yell and yell at our teens when they write assignments in "texting" language but I have what I feel to be a legitimate question. The word "I" is spelled "I" as in "I can't wait for the weekend." So why isn't the word "are" spelled r and the word "why" spelled y and "see" spelled c? Hey, I'm just sayin'...
Maggie
I applied for a part time job (like a need another one!) to direct a school musical at a neighboring high school! More on this if it comes to fruition!
January is not having me start as a good blogger. I can't believe I forgot to blog today. Well, I didn't really forget. I thought I was going to have an update about yesterday to post this afternoon and when it didn't happen the thought of blogging flew out my head. I was swamped with the mundane today.
ITSam has his son this weekend so I have a BF free weekend. Sadly, I'm looking forward to that. I think I'm still upset about Tuesday. I don't hold grudges usually (does the one I have against my ex count?) but I'm struggling to get over this.
Speaking of the ex, SD still hasn't called Mac since the day they went shopping. What a jerk. He tells Mac he wants to try and improve their relationship and then goes on hiatus. Mac said he's waiting for the other shoe to drop. Smart kid.
My Verizon Wireless contract is up in 11 more days. Can we hear a round of applause? I think Sprint will get my business.
We [we being teachers and parents who give a crap about their kids' homework assignments] yell and yell at our teens when they write assignments in "texting" language but I have what I feel to be a legitimate question. The word "I" is spelled "I" as in "I can't wait for the weekend." So why isn't the word "are" spelled r and the word "why" spelled y and "see" spelled c? Hey, I'm just sayin'...
Maggie
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Absolutely abhorrent comment
Princess does rub some people the wrong way. As teachers, we all have students who we just don't like. As people we all have to interact with other people we just don't like. Okay. That being said...
Wait, I need to make one more clarification. In the 10 years I've been in education I have said the following things to either a family member, friend or a colleague:
The science teacher and Princess hate each other. It goes both ways and it's no secret. Science teacher sits down and starts complaining about how rotten the kids are this week. I'm sitting and eating and not speaking. I was in a hurry because I had stuff to do and I don't like sitting with those people, either.
He goes on with with rant, complaining about one kid then another. He gets to Princess. I figure I'll just shut up because I know they hate each other and teacher's need to vent, and just because I'm her mentor/ pseudo mom/ potential foster mom that I need to let him speak. Then when he speaks I think he should be struck dead by lightening.
He actually said, "I can't wait for about 3 years when [Princess] is living in a trailer park with her squally brats and her husband. No wait her boyfriend because who's gonna want to marry that mouth? And he beats the crap out of her. I can't wait because she deserves it."
He. said. that. He's a teacher and he said that.
I picked up my tray, my coat, pushed in my chair and walked away. I didn't stomp, slam, say anything, or make a scene. I wanted to say, "So, how often do you beat your wife?"
I can't believe an educator would say that about a student. I have said some crappy things, yes, but NEVER something like that. Does it make me feel worse and more angry because it's Princess? Oh hellszyeah! But I just can't believe a person who would work in a place like Alcatraz, who has to be there because it's a calling practically, should think like this, let alone even say anything this, this, this... sick, this wrong.
I was about sick. I never want to be anywhere near him again. I'm appalled.
And to think, that jerk has tenure.
Maggie
Wait, I need to make one more clarification. In the 10 years I've been in education I have said the following things to either a family member, friend or a colleague:
- "Oh well, I try not to worry about him since he'll end up in prison as some point."
- "Oh well, I try not to worry about her since she'll end up serving my McFries someday."
- "I can' wait for that bully to meet someone who'll kick his butt."
The science teacher and Princess hate each other. It goes both ways and it's no secret. Science teacher sits down and starts complaining about how rotten the kids are this week. I'm sitting and eating and not speaking. I was in a hurry because I had stuff to do and I don't like sitting with those people, either.
He goes on with with rant, complaining about one kid then another. He gets to Princess. I figure I'll just shut up because I know they hate each other and teacher's need to vent, and just because I'm her mentor/ pseudo mom/ potential foster mom that I need to let him speak. Then when he speaks I think he should be struck dead by lightening.
He actually said, "I can't wait for about 3 years when [Princess] is living in a trailer park with her squally brats and her husband. No wait her boyfriend because who's gonna want to marry that mouth? And he beats the crap out of her. I can't wait because she deserves it."
He. said. that. He's a teacher and he said that.
I picked up my tray, my coat, pushed in my chair and walked away. I didn't stomp, slam, say anything, or make a scene. I wanted to say, "So, how often do you beat your wife?"
I can't believe an educator would say that about a student. I have said some crappy things, yes, but NEVER something like that. Does it make me feel worse and more angry because it's Princess? Oh hellszyeah! But I just can't believe a person who would work in a place like Alcatraz, who has to be there because it's a calling practically, should think like this, let alone even say anything this, this, this... sick, this wrong.
I was about sick. I never want to be anywhere near him again. I'm appalled.
And to think, that jerk has tenure.
Maggie
Monday, December 13, 2010
3 airheaded women rather than 3 wise men
XRay Girl, Princess and I went Christmas shopping in a nearby mall yesterday. Heard:
1#: XRay Girl is paying for purchases at Bath and Body Works. Princess is smelling stuff. I'm about 50 feet away from Princess smelling candles. Then she yells, "OOOOOhhhhh! Look, Maggie! Smell this one" and sprays the air.
Not to be outdone...
#2: Princess, who is age 16 and to be 17 next month, is riding in the back seat, XRay Girl is driving and I'm riding shotgun. XRay Girl is telling us a funny story about her hypochondriac husband. She's talking along and says, "After all that he still wanted to have..." and she paused. She looked in her review mirror at princess and then sideways at me, and continues, "Then after all that he wanted to have S-E-X" and spelled it. As not to taint the 16 year old ears of Princess. Of course Princess and I are hysterical with laughter.
Finally, to make us all even,
#3: Princess and I are making bread. She's mixing up one batch and I'm doing one, a Chocolate chocolate chip. I'm stirring and stirring and stirring and finally say, "I can't get these lumps out. I'm gonna have to use a mixer. How old is this stupid mix, anyway?" Princess looks at me, the mix, the box and says, "Um, aren't the lumps the chocolate chips?"
After yesterday I'm glad we weren't the ones who were supposed to head to the manger...
1#: XRay Girl is paying for purchases at Bath and Body Works. Princess is smelling stuff. I'm about 50 feet away from Princess smelling candles. Then she yells, "OOOOOhhhhh! Look, Maggie! Smell this one" and sprays the air.
Not to be outdone...
#2: Princess, who is age 16 and to be 17 next month, is riding in the back seat, XRay Girl is driving and I'm riding shotgun. XRay Girl is telling us a funny story about her hypochondriac husband. She's talking along and says, "After all that he still wanted to have..." and she paused. She looked in her review mirror at princess and then sideways at me, and continues, "Then after all that he wanted to have S-E-X" and spelled it. As not to taint the 16 year old ears of Princess. Of course Princess and I are hysterical with laughter.
Finally, to make us all even,
#3: Princess and I are making bread. She's mixing up one batch and I'm doing one, a Chocolate chocolate chip. I'm stirring and stirring and stirring and finally say, "I can't get these lumps out. I'm gonna have to use a mixer. How old is this stupid mix, anyway?" Princess looks at me, the mix, the box and says, "Um, aren't the lumps the chocolate chips?"
After yesterday I'm glad we weren't the ones who were supposed to head to the manger...
Monday, November 29, 2010
Road trip goofs
I will post later today. All I have in me is to say that yesterday I drove my first transport for Alcatraz. It means I picked up kids from their home visits and dropped them back at Alcatraz.
I drove 594 miles on Sunday.
I had a major exit on a major Interstate CLOSED. In the middle of construction. In the dark. With a car full of sleeping kids. (It was good they were sleeping because none of them could read a map anyway... I found that out later!)
I drove through downtown of the state capital during the middle of NFL game traffic.
I missed a turn and had to back track 20 minutes; I don't know how many miles that is, but it was a pain in the butt.
I turned the wrong way on a one way. When I discovered what I did, I fixed my error. In front of a sheriff. Who then followed me for about 6 blocks. He never pulled me over. Thank god.
And as we pulled in the parking lot at Alcatraz, after being in the car for about 12.5 hours, one of the kids spilled a milkshake on her, the car seat, the floor. So I cleaned all that up, filled the car with fuel and returned it.
I almost ran out of gas. To the point where the gas light was BLINKING at me as I rolled into the gas station. Talk about panicked. I can't imagine having to call and explain that one.
I am tired. I need sleep. But I made money. I made 10 bucks an hour. But I'm still tired. Princess rocked.
Ugh.
Maggie
I drove 594 miles on Sunday.
I had a major exit on a major Interstate CLOSED. In the middle of construction. In the dark. With a car full of sleeping kids. (It was good they were sleeping because none of them could read a map anyway... I found that out later!)
I drove through downtown of the state capital during the middle of NFL game traffic.
I missed a turn and had to back track 20 minutes; I don't know how many miles that is, but it was a pain in the butt.
I turned the wrong way on a one way. When I discovered what I did, I fixed my error. In front of a sheriff. Who then followed me for about 6 blocks. He never pulled me over. Thank god.
And as we pulled in the parking lot at Alcatraz, after being in the car for about 12.5 hours, one of the kids spilled a milkshake on her, the car seat, the floor. So I cleaned all that up, filled the car with fuel and returned it.
I almost ran out of gas. To the point where the gas light was BLINKING at me as I rolled into the gas station. Talk about panicked. I can't imagine having to call and explain that one.
I am tired. I need sleep. But I made money. I made 10 bucks an hour. But I'm still tired. Princess rocked.
Ugh.
Maggie
Friday, November 26, 2010
Leftover blogcake
A long time ago when I first started blogging, a blogging buddy used the term "blog cake" when he had a post that was nothing but just random thoughts. When I went to title this post, I thought of him and his blogcake words and the idea of left overs because of yesterday and hence the post title.
Time is running out. Today, before 6pm, is the last time anyone can go vote for me as one of the top blogs of 2010 at the Blog Guidebook. I'd appreciate the votes, please! Click on the badge at the bottom of this post to check it out! And to vote for me! Please!
And I am loving all the suggestions of things I should do before I turn 40 years old. Please keep those ideas coming. I thought I would post the final top 40 on Monday but since ideas are still rolling in, I'll wait. But feel free to hit my 40 for 40 post and throw in your 2 cents!
Yesterday was Thanksgiving here in the States, and nothing says "thanksgiving" better than Burlesque (the 196th movie I've watched this year). Yeah, I actually went to see that yesterday! With Daddy-O and Mac. I went because I like movies, Mac went because he's intrigued by musicals, and Daddy-O went because he loves Cher. It was good, too! The musical numbers were awesome, and the costumes and makeup were amazing. I wish I could do my hair and make up like that daily... and look normal, anyway. I also saw Love & Other Drugs. On a date as friends with ITSam. Why do I hear cries of bloggers everywhere hollering reminiscent of Ricky Ricardo: "Maggie, you got some splainin' to do!"? The movie was good. It was a romantic comedy of sorts with lots of naked in it. And sex talk and bad words, but it was really good!
Other than the movie, Thanksgiving day was normal, for me anyway. I slept in, which I think it the best start to any holiday. We also had dinner at Bro and SisIL's; wonderful hosts, great meal (well done SisIL!), good times. And I got to play kissie-face with my niece and nephew, of course! Right now the niece is in the Terrible Twos and hates all of us except her mom, which is okay because the Divine Ms K is well... 2. Duh. My 6 month old nephew loves everyone and he is the smiliest guy. They are both adorable.
I have a 4 day weekend due to the holiday. I am also greedy; therefore, I don't "have have" 2 days off. I agreed to work at the front desk doing my secretary thing at Alcatraz today. THEN I was called and asked to drive a transport. Many of the Alcatraz kids have earned a chance to go home for a few days over the holiday but they need to be picked up on Sunday. Awhile back I said I would be willing to haul kids around but I'd never been called to do it. I agreed to pick up three of the kids, one of them being PRINCESS! So, even though I have a 6 hour drive one way to go get her, I still get to hang with her Sunday. And get paid to do it. In a company car. So it's win win all the way around. The only thing I did was blow my 4 days weekend down to 2 days. Oh well! It's just 3 weeks until Christmas vacation! I can take some time off then!
Other than working tonight and the transport on Sunday, my big plan for the holiday weekend is to see more movies, if I can. I want to see Harry Potter 7 part I, and Morning Glory. I want to see Unstoppable and The Next Three Days but those aren't the I WANT TO SEE THEM NOW films like the first two I mentioned. Maybe I'll get to 'em. I want to finish a small knitting project as well. I also want to sleep in. I need to clean my room, clean the garage, do laundry and organize my closest but that feels so much like work.
Time is running out. Today, before 6pm, is the last time anyone can go vote for me as one of the top blogs of 2010 at the Blog Guidebook. I'd appreciate the votes, please! Click on the badge at the bottom of this post to check it out! And to vote for me! Please!
And I am loving all the suggestions of things I should do before I turn 40 years old. Please keep those ideas coming. I thought I would post the final top 40 on Monday but since ideas are still rolling in, I'll wait. But feel free to hit my 40 for 40 post and throw in your 2 cents!
Yesterday was Thanksgiving here in the States, and nothing says "thanksgiving" better than Burlesque (the 196th movie I've watched this year). Yeah, I actually went to see that yesterday! With Daddy-O and Mac. I went because I like movies, Mac went because he's intrigued by musicals, and Daddy-O went because he loves Cher. It was good, too! The musical numbers were awesome, and the costumes and makeup were amazing. I wish I could do my hair and make up like that daily... and look normal, anyway. I also saw Love & Other Drugs. On a date as friends with ITSam. Why do I hear cries of bloggers everywhere hollering reminiscent of Ricky Ricardo: "Maggie, you got some splainin' to do!"? The movie was good. It was a romantic comedy of sorts with lots of naked in it. And sex talk and bad words, but it was really good!
Other than the movie, Thanksgiving day was normal, for me anyway. I slept in, which I think it the best start to any holiday. We also had dinner at Bro and SisIL's; wonderful hosts, great meal (well done SisIL!), good times. And I got to play kissie-face with my niece and nephew, of course! Right now the niece is in the Terrible Twos and hates all of us except her mom, which is okay because the Divine Ms K is well... 2. Duh. My 6 month old nephew loves everyone and he is the smiliest guy. They are both adorable.
I have a 4 day weekend due to the holiday. I am also greedy; therefore, I don't "have have" 2 days off. I agreed to work at the front desk doing my secretary thing at Alcatraz today. THEN I was called and asked to drive a transport. Many of the Alcatraz kids have earned a chance to go home for a few days over the holiday but they need to be picked up on Sunday. Awhile back I said I would be willing to haul kids around but I'd never been called to do it. I agreed to pick up three of the kids, one of them being PRINCESS! So, even though I have a 6 hour drive one way to go get her, I still get to hang with her Sunday. And get paid to do it. In a company car. So it's win win all the way around. The only thing I did was blow my 4 days weekend down to 2 days. Oh well! It's just 3 weeks until Christmas vacation! I can take some time off then!
Other than working tonight and the transport on Sunday, my big plan for the holiday weekend is to see more movies, if I can. I want to see Harry Potter 7 part I, and Morning Glory. I want to see Unstoppable and The Next Three Days but those aren't the I WANT TO SEE THEM NOW films like the first two I mentioned. Maybe I'll get to 'em. I want to finish a small knitting project as well. I also want to sleep in. I need to clean my room, clean the garage, do laundry and organize my closest but that feels so much like work.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Tickled Pink Saturday
I have three reasons to be tickled pink this particular Pink Saturday (thank you to Beverly at How Sweet the Sound for hostessing this weekly event!) that I just have to share!
FIRST!
I want to say thank you to Evil Pixie, blogger buddy extraordinaire for nominating me for blogger of the year. I am officially one of the top 25 best blogs, so far, as chosen on The Blog Guidebook. My status can go up, with a little help from my readers. Voting commences today. It says "Voting starts Saturday at 6 a.m., and ends at 6 p.m. on Friday. The five blogs with the lowest votes will be eliminated." This is for Round 1. So, if you click HERE (or on the button) and vote for me as "best blog" I'd be much obliged! I'm just tickled Pink that Evil Pixie would nominate me for such a wonderful honor! Thank you dear Pixie!
Here's what Evil Pixie wrote about me: The blog is written by Maggie O’Sullivan, and it is warm, funny, and frequently brilliant. Maggie writes about her life as a single mother, struggling to provide for her little family but always keeping her sense of humor. It is honest, insightful, and fun. Most importantly, it is real. She discusses everything from her relationships to her struggle in making ends meet. This is a blog that completely deserves your award. Thank you so much. I can't say thank you enough! (And though the award itself isn't Pink, the lettering is!) So please please please vote for me!
SECOND!
Princess went to her Prom tonight and she looked amazing. Alcatraz has a prom for their juniors and seniors and call is the President's Winter Ball. The dresses the girls wear are all donated and this is a huge, big deal. Princess had a donated dress that was not very becoming. So...
I borrowed the dress from a high schooler I know. Daddy-O got in the act and bought the shoes. Curly took care of all the jewelry and XRayGirl donated Bath and Body Works products for pre-prom preparation. I took her for a hair cut and color earlier this week- and to get a tiara. As I said, she looked amazing. Better than amazing. Beautiful. Stunning. She was a princess. Absolutely gorgeous. She had a wonderful time. It was a fancy dinner and dancing. She was the belle of the Winter Ball. It was my pleasure to be there. I was so proud of her and so happy this could happen for her. Here are two pictures of her (due to privacy issues, I can't show her face. You just have to take my word for it that she looked stunningly beautiful, like a true princess...) dress. Did I mention she likes pink?
I was tickled pink she was Cinderella for a night, and that we could all be her "mice'!
THIRD!
I'm tickled pink over my new job. I know I've mentioned it before, but I just can't wait to start work at Alcatraz in their school library. I start work on Wednesday. I am beyond happy and thrilled to be back there. And as the librarian!
Maybe I should wear pink shoes on my first day?
FIRST!
I want to say thank you to Evil Pixie, blogger buddy extraordinaire for nominating me for blogger of the year. I am officially one of the top 25 best blogs, so far, as chosen on The Blog Guidebook. My status can go up, with a little help from my readers. Voting commences today. It says "Voting starts Saturday at 6 a.m., and ends at 6 p.m. on Friday. The five blogs with the lowest votes will be eliminated." This is for Round 1. So, if you click HERE (or on the button) and vote for me as "best blog" I'd be much obliged! I'm just tickled Pink that Evil Pixie would nominate me for such a wonderful honor! Thank you dear Pixie!
Here's what Evil Pixie wrote about me: The blog is written by Maggie O’Sullivan, and it is warm, funny, and frequently brilliant. Maggie writes about her life as a single mother, struggling to provide for her little family but always keeping her sense of humor. It is honest, insightful, and fun. Most importantly, it is real. She discusses everything from her relationships to her struggle in making ends meet. This is a blog that completely deserves your award. Thank you so much. I can't say thank you enough! (And though the award itself isn't Pink, the lettering is!) So please please please vote for me!SECOND!
Princess went to her Prom tonight and she looked amazing. Alcatraz has a prom for their juniors and seniors and call is the President's Winter Ball. The dresses the girls wear are all donated and this is a huge, big deal. Princess had a donated dress that was not very becoming. So...
I borrowed the dress from a high schooler I know. Daddy-O got in the act and bought the shoes. Curly took care of all the jewelry and XRayGirl donated Bath and Body Works products for pre-prom preparation. I took her for a hair cut and color earlier this week- and to get a tiara. As I said, she looked amazing. Better than amazing. Beautiful. Stunning. She was a princess. Absolutely gorgeous. She had a wonderful time. It was a fancy dinner and dancing. She was the belle of the Winter Ball. It was my pleasure to be there. I was so proud of her and so happy this could happen for her. Here are two pictures of her (due to privacy issues, I can't show her face. You just have to take my word for it that she looked stunningly beautiful, like a true princess...) dress. Did I mention she likes pink?
I was tickled pink she was Cinderella for a night, and that we could all be her "mice'!
THIRD!
I'm tickled pink over my new job. I know I've mentioned it before, but I just can't wait to start work at Alcatraz in their school library. I start work on Wednesday. I am beyond happy and thrilled to be back there. And as the librarian!
Maybe I should wear pink shoes on my first day?
Happy Pink Saturday!
In Shoes We Trust,
Maggie Mae
In Shoes We Trust,
Maggie Mae
Sunday, October 31, 2010
The thing about love is...
that I don't know anything about love. I know what I think I want but I have no idea if that's realistic.
I do know some stuff. I know, for example, that there must be someone for everyone, or else people settle. Or they're desperate. I was at the video store last night and there was a couple walking in the door while I was waiting to check out. They were both really tall, like "take a second look at those really tall people" sort of tall. Then he was totally goofy looking. They were both a bit overweight, and with the extra weight and the height, they were sort of funny shaped. And she didn't have on a bra and was wearing a man's tank top undershirt (think "wife beater" style) and it was about 49 degrees out. Nipples the size of Texas. But my point it, the couple that looked like that, they still found each other. They were hugging and kissing on each other, and grabbing and giggling and laughing. It was nauseating. But somewhere out there the cosmos came together and brought these two each other.
I think what made my brain start working is the break up with ITSam. Princess and Mac were talking about him today, and how glad they were that we broke up. Other than both of them thinking he was a 'creeper' and that he had a dorky laugh, they also gave me an earful about his looked. They said he had a pointy head, and he scowled all the time. They said his ears stuck out. They also pointed out his gut and his man-boobs, and the large amount of body hair swirling everywhere; he had nasty back hair. I had no idea.... When they point it all out, I can see it (OMG- even the pointy head!!!) but why did I have to have two teenagers explain this to me?
Could this be why people looked at us oddly, sometimes, when we went out?
Yes, I know that looks shouldn't matter. But it does give one pause. I also think I'm no great shakes in the looks department myself. But both of these kids said I could do much better in the looks department with a guy as long as I don't want a super model. Okay. They think I am pretty enough to catch a guy who is at least "cute". Rather than someone like ITSam who they compared to a rat or Shrek.
The odd thing is that I never really gave it all that much thought. I have no idea what this says about me. I do know now that we've broken up with each other lots of people are asking or insinuating "what did you see in him". Some come right out and ask awhile others hint around but want to know the same thing.
This is one of those posts that I'm not sure of its purpose. I just strung all this together because it all happened yesterday and it seems there's some sort of lesson to be learned here, or something I should heed in my future dating. Or it's just the thoughts of a rambling single blogger.
Maggie
And while this had nothing to do with love or looks, here is the hat that I finished that's two tone. (For those of you who read yesterday, you know what I'm talking about.) I started with the yellow that's at the bottom, ran out of it, and finished it with the color. I'm actually liking how it turned out. I'm going to beg Curley to make (or show me how) a "pompom" to go on the top! I folded the bottom, giving it the "hat band" look but it doesn't have to be worn that way. it could just be pulled on and then the bottom with curl or roll naturally.
I do know some stuff. I know, for example, that there must be someone for everyone, or else people settle. Or they're desperate. I was at the video store last night and there was a couple walking in the door while I was waiting to check out. They were both really tall, like "take a second look at those really tall people" sort of tall. Then he was totally goofy looking. They were both a bit overweight, and with the extra weight and the height, they were sort of funny shaped. And she didn't have on a bra and was wearing a man's tank top undershirt (think "wife beater" style) and it was about 49 degrees out. Nipples the size of Texas. But my point it, the couple that looked like that, they still found each other. They were hugging and kissing on each other, and grabbing and giggling and laughing. It was nauseating. But somewhere out there the cosmos came together and brought these two each other.
I think what made my brain start working is the break up with ITSam. Princess and Mac were talking about him today, and how glad they were that we broke up. Other than both of them thinking he was a 'creeper' and that he had a dorky laugh, they also gave me an earful about his looked. They said he had a pointy head, and he scowled all the time. They said his ears stuck out. They also pointed out his gut and his man-boobs, and the large amount of body hair swirling everywhere; he had nasty back hair. I had no idea.... When they point it all out, I can see it (OMG- even the pointy head!!!) but why did I have to have two teenagers explain this to me?
Could this be why people looked at us oddly, sometimes, when we went out?
Yes, I know that looks shouldn't matter. But it does give one pause. I also think I'm no great shakes in the looks department myself. But both of these kids said I could do much better in the looks department with a guy as long as I don't want a super model. Okay. They think I am pretty enough to catch a guy who is at least "cute". Rather than someone like ITSam who they compared to a rat or Shrek.
The odd thing is that I never really gave it all that much thought. I have no idea what this says about me. I do know now that we've broken up with each other lots of people are asking or insinuating "what did you see in him". Some come right out and ask awhile others hint around but want to know the same thing.
This is one of those posts that I'm not sure of its purpose. I just strung all this together because it all happened yesterday and it seems there's some sort of lesson to be learned here, or something I should heed in my future dating. Or it's just the thoughts of a rambling single blogger.
Maggie
And while this had nothing to do with love or looks, here is the hat that I finished that's two tone. (For those of you who read yesterday, you know what I'm talking about.) I started with the yellow that's at the bottom, ran out of it, and finished it with the color. I'm actually liking how it turned out. I'm going to beg Curley to make (or show me how) a "pompom" to go on the top! I folded the bottom, giving it the "hat band" look but it doesn't have to be worn that way. it could just be pulled on and then the bottom with curl or roll naturally.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Big Weekend...
Big Mac:
Friday night was senior athlete night at Mac's school. All of the seniors, male or female, who participated in any sort of sporting event, were recognized. All parents of these kids were escorted onto the field with them, in front of the crowd. It was pretty cool and I was really proud of Mac. One more step of reality that he's a senior and will be graduating. *gulp*
Big Crafts:
Annually, a craft show is held here in town and XRay Girl, Curley, Curley's Sister, Daddy-O, Princess and I all went. It was lots of fun but there were HUGE amounts of people every where and tons and tons of things for your home, jewelry, clothes, candles... everything people make themselves. There were over 100 booths. If you like to decorate in "Country" or "Rustic American" is certainly a place for you. But there's other stuff, like soap even and art work and just something to appeal to everyone. It was a good time had by all. I think I bought a candle for me because the smell reminds me of the non evil Grandmother's bathroom- like a flower garden.
Big Chili:
Daddy-O and XRay Girl bailed on the chili- XRay Girl because she had to work- but the rest of us forged ahead and with about 10,000 other people, we tasted chili for charity. After about 5 types I was done. I don't like chili all that well to begin with but since it's for charity I didn't mind at all. The booths are decorated and people dress up so the name of the chili and the booths all have themes. One school had "No chili left behind" which had a yummy, non spicy, thick, white chili that was almost like a stew. It was my favorite. Part of the process is paying a fee to get into the event. After paying, you get 10 tickets and you can vote on your favorite chili, booth, theme, whatever. You walk around with a spoon and sample over 75 kinds, choosing what you want to eat or not.
As I said, I gave up after 5 kinds, but Princess was a champ and tasted about 3/4's of the kinds there. It was so crowded that the four of us split up and we met back at the end; great that is was crowded so there was more money raised for the 7 charities. People also have toppings for the chili and lots of places were giving candy, ice cream, Popsicles, etc. to help cool and cleanse the palette. There were also a couple of drink concessions stands, a place selling kettle korn and elephant ears, and a beer tent, of which I didn't partake.
Princess had never done this before and she thought it was awesome. She also discovered she hated white chili. We laughed and ate our way around. It was cool.
The weather was great, too. Cool with a little breeze. Just a perfect fall day, with the leaves changing. We were all in long sleeve t-shirts and jeans, which was comfortable. It was a very good day.
Big Dress:
So Alcatraz has a winter ball in November and Princess gets to go. Over the years, apparently, people in the community have donated dresses for the girls to wear. The dresses be ball gown length- yes, to the floor, which I think is a good idea so the girls can't have mini dress/ cocktail dresses. the problem: these donated dresses get stored in a big closet and used over and over each year. The dresses look like something I wore to prom. Or dresses from the 70s. Not good. Princess found one that wasn't too "hideous" and didn't look like as much like "curtains with glitter" as some of the others. BUT, I know someone who wore a pink princess, Cinderella style dress to her prom and they are the same height and almost the same size. And this girl is going to loan Princess her dress, which is her dream dress. I had one VERY happy kid on my hands, jumping around, going happy crazy!
Big Lazy:
After yesterday, I plan on being a big lazy slug today. I'm going to do laundry and laze around the house. I have a novel to finish reading. I'm just going to chill.
Mags
Friday night was senior athlete night at Mac's school. All of the seniors, male or female, who participated in any sort of sporting event, were recognized. All parents of these kids were escorted onto the field with them, in front of the crowd. It was pretty cool and I was really proud of Mac. One more step of reality that he's a senior and will be graduating. *gulp*
Big Crafts:
Annually, a craft show is held here in town and XRay Girl, Curley, Curley's Sister, Daddy-O, Princess and I all went. It was lots of fun but there were HUGE amounts of people every where and tons and tons of things for your home, jewelry, clothes, candles... everything people make themselves. There were over 100 booths. If you like to decorate in "Country" or "Rustic American" is certainly a place for you. But there's other stuff, like soap even and art work and just something to appeal to everyone. It was a good time had by all. I think I bought a candle for me because the smell reminds me of the non evil Grandmother's bathroom- like a flower garden.
Big Chili:
Daddy-O and XRay Girl bailed on the chili- XRay Girl because she had to work- but the rest of us forged ahead and with about 10,000 other people, we tasted chili for charity. After about 5 types I was done. I don't like chili all that well to begin with but since it's for charity I didn't mind at all. The booths are decorated and people dress up so the name of the chili and the booths all have themes. One school had "No chili left behind" which had a yummy, non spicy, thick, white chili that was almost like a stew. It was my favorite. Part of the process is paying a fee to get into the event. After paying, you get 10 tickets and you can vote on your favorite chili, booth, theme, whatever. You walk around with a spoon and sample over 75 kinds, choosing what you want to eat or not.
As I said, I gave up after 5 kinds, but Princess was a champ and tasted about 3/4's of the kinds there. It was so crowded that the four of us split up and we met back at the end; great that is was crowded so there was more money raised for the 7 charities. People also have toppings for the chili and lots of places were giving candy, ice cream, Popsicles, etc. to help cool and cleanse the palette. There were also a couple of drink concessions stands, a place selling kettle korn and elephant ears, and a beer tent, of which I didn't partake.
Princess had never done this before and she thought it was awesome. She also discovered she hated white chili. We laughed and ate our way around. It was cool.
The weather was great, too. Cool with a little breeze. Just a perfect fall day, with the leaves changing. We were all in long sleeve t-shirts and jeans, which was comfortable. It was a very good day.
Big Dress:
So Alcatraz has a winter ball in November and Princess gets to go. Over the years, apparently, people in the community have donated dresses for the girls to wear. The dresses be ball gown length- yes, to the floor, which I think is a good idea so the girls can't have mini dress/ cocktail dresses. the problem: these donated dresses get stored in a big closet and used over and over each year. The dresses look like something I wore to prom. Or dresses from the 70s. Not good. Princess found one that wasn't too "hideous" and didn't look like as much like "curtains with glitter" as some of the others. BUT, I know someone who wore a pink princess, Cinderella style dress to her prom and they are the same height and almost the same size. And this girl is going to loan Princess her dress, which is her dream dress. I had one VERY happy kid on my hands, jumping around, going happy crazy!
Big Lazy:
After yesterday, I plan on being a big lazy slug today. I'm going to do laundry and laze around the house. I have a novel to finish reading. I'm just going to chill.
Mags
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