FINALLY-after four days of negotiations....our offer has been accepted on the other house. Woo Hoo! Sooooo.......now we just have to sell ours! Minor detail, right? :0)
Actually, things have been going well. Monday, our house went on the market, Tuesday we had our first walk-through, Wednesday we had a caravan of real estate agents through (17 of them!), and today, we had a second walk-through with the guy that came through on Tuesday. Not bad activity for being on the market for just 4 days!
Hopefully, someone will like our house enough to make an offer....and ideally, we will get more than one bidder.....and maybe even get our asking price!! (I might be pushing it there.....!!)
I am still working on my application--but I have to admit, my effort has been sporatic. I do need to get on with it, though. I am feeling it in my gut, that my interview will happen in the next couple of weeks. A teacher asked me about it today, and even mentioned a question that will most probally be asked in interview time...... I thought it was nice that she shared the question with me. Basically, she said she always felt it was a hard question....and decided to give me a heads up! So, here is the question:
"Teachers wear many hats. What hat won't you wear?"
I guess I reacted in the same way all the other interviewers did in the past.....because she kind of laughed, and said, "I know. I always wondered what kind of answer he was looking for with that question." I guess I will have to ponder that one.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
first showing
we had our first showing today, which is kind of cool, because the sign out front only got put up last night, and the group of realtors don't tour the place until tomorrow. it will be interesting to find out how the person that came through found out about us. we are now on realtor.com....so that might be possible, or maybe he just happened to be looking (stalking?) in our neighborhood??
anyway-from what I know, it was a young guy that came through with a Baird and Warner agent. we think he is engaged to be married, and he is interested in maybe coming back with his girlfriend and his parents to show them. a second walk through would be very encouraging! especially when it is the very first person that saw the place! i guess we will have to wait and see.
since all the realtors come through tomorrow, i need to make sure the place is spic and span before i leave for work. i better vaccuum tonight.....a shedding dog makes for lots of upkeep! Would it be silly to pray for our dog to stop shedding for a while? :0)
on a sidenote.....
i think the long term sub position will be posted soon. the teacher needing the sub is getting antsy, and she is anxious to know who will be taking over her class! (me, too!) of course, i still need more time to complete all of my "stuff".....but i guess i am getting closer. i better get busy!
anyway-from what I know, it was a young guy that came through with a Baird and Warner agent. we think he is engaged to be married, and he is interested in maybe coming back with his girlfriend and his parents to show them. a second walk through would be very encouraging! especially when it is the very first person that saw the place! i guess we will have to wait and see.
since all the realtors come through tomorrow, i need to make sure the place is spic and span before i leave for work. i better vaccuum tonight.....a shedding dog makes for lots of upkeep! Would it be silly to pray for our dog to stop shedding for a while? :0)
on a sidenote.....
i think the long term sub position will be posted soon. the teacher needing the sub is getting antsy, and she is anxious to know who will be taking over her class! (me, too!) of course, i still need more time to complete all of my "stuff".....but i guess i am getting closer. i better get busy!
Monday, November 26, 2007
I'm Piglet?
This quiz was for you, Kerri!
I can't be Piglet! I love him, but he is supposed to be tidy! Not exactly me.....:0)
Which Winnie the Pooh Character Are You? | |
 | You are Piglet. You are timid, quiet, and like to stay in others' shadows. Though your shyness can irritate some, you are courageous when it counts and are always loyal to your friends. |
| Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com | |
I can't be Piglet! I love him, but he is supposed to be tidy! Not exactly me.....:0)
anyone wanna buy a house?
take a look at our home listing at:
www.amynelsonhomes.com
we are the fourth house under "featured listings" or the first house on the second page of featured listings. (The house we made an offer on, is the first house under "featured listings".)
By the way, I thought I should mention that the kitchen really isn't THAT green in real life. It is a little more subtle. :0) And I really am tired of the tired looking furniture in the lower level.....but what are ya gonna do, right? It is funny that once you look at pictures of your home, rather than just living in it--and you start looking at it like other people see it.....things appear a little different to you.
we also plan on getting to a couple of repairs on the deck outside. the lattice needs a fixin'. :0)
Okay-there it is. Now PLEASE somebody buy it!
www.amynelsonhomes.com
we are the fourth house under "featured listings" or the first house on the second page of featured listings. (The house we made an offer on, is the first house under "featured listings".)
By the way, I thought I should mention that the kitchen really isn't THAT green in real life. It is a little more subtle. :0) And I really am tired of the tired looking furniture in the lower level.....but what are ya gonna do, right? It is funny that once you look at pictures of your home, rather than just living in it--and you start looking at it like other people see it.....things appear a little different to you.
we also plan on getting to a couple of repairs on the deck outside. the lattice needs a fixin'. :0)
Okay-there it is. Now PLEASE somebody buy it!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Signs of Christmas
We put our outside Christmas lights and wreath up today.
We usually put our big wreath above our front door, with a light shining on it. Our all white lights cover our front bushes.
Of course, we first asked the real estate agent is this was cool to do when showing a house. She said, "Of course it is!" that is a good thing, because it would feel just too weird not doing any of that. We haven't put up our tree yet, though....but I am sure that will be up by next weekend.
It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas......
We usually put our big wreath above our front door, with a light shining on it. Our all white lights cover our front bushes.
Of course, we first asked the real estate agent is this was cool to do when showing a house. She said, "Of course it is!" that is a good thing, because it would feel just too weird not doing any of that. We haven't put up our tree yet, though....but I am sure that will be up by next weekend.
It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas......
Classroom Ponderings
Here is the question I was working on today for my application.....the rough draft is complete--I just need to transfer it over.
"Describe what you would do in your classroom to meet the needs of culturally and racially diverse student populations. "
Next question:
" In every classroom there are many children at varying levels of ability. What instructional strategies would you use in order to prepare lessons and instruction to meet the needs of these children?"
I have one more left after that one.....something to do with how I would use technology within the classroom. I have to double check the wording.
After those questions are entered.....my application will be complete with the exception of the teacher profile. That is something I have been avoiding a little.....mainly because it makes me nervous. It is a set of 32 questions that will show what my teaching style is. You have to do it in one sitting, and it cannot be adjusted or revisited. Once a question is answered, you cannot go back. Then, the profile is available to all school districts and cannot be redone for at least two years. Soooo....I have been waiting for the opportune time to sit down and do it. Funny thing is, I don't think any time will feel like the opportune time!! :0)
I have my transcripts, my certification, and my letters of recommendation ready to upload. I still have my resume to figure out, and upload, too. AND my cover letter. UGH.
Finally--my portfolio needs to be put together in some creative and professional way. It will contain all the above paperwork, and also my discipline philosophy, classroom management plan, lesson plans, photos of bulletin boards and displays I've created, documentation of times I have used creativity in teaching struggling students, and anything else I can come up with that paints a picture of what kind of teacher I will be. No problem, right??
"Describe what you would do in your classroom to meet the needs of culturally and racially diverse student populations. "
Next question:
" In every classroom there are many children at varying levels of ability. What instructional strategies would you use in order to prepare lessons and instruction to meet the needs of these children?"
I have one more left after that one.....something to do with how I would use technology within the classroom. I have to double check the wording.
After those questions are entered.....my application will be complete with the exception of the teacher profile. That is something I have been avoiding a little.....mainly because it makes me nervous. It is a set of 32 questions that will show what my teaching style is. You have to do it in one sitting, and it cannot be adjusted or revisited. Once a question is answered, you cannot go back. Then, the profile is available to all school districts and cannot be redone for at least two years. Soooo....I have been waiting for the opportune time to sit down and do it. Funny thing is, I don't think any time will feel like the opportune time!! :0)
I have my transcripts, my certification, and my letters of recommendation ready to upload. I still have my resume to figure out, and upload, too. AND my cover letter. UGH.
Finally--my portfolio needs to be put together in some creative and professional way. It will contain all the above paperwork, and also my discipline philosophy, classroom management plan, lesson plans, photos of bulletin boards and displays I've created, documentation of times I have used creativity in teaching struggling students, and anything else I can come up with that paints a picture of what kind of teacher I will be. No problem, right??
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Moving forward
Well--we had the realtor over today. She took pictures of the house and we set a asking price--and our house officially goes on the market on Monday. Now comes the chore of keeping it "show ready" all the time. UGH.
We also made our offer on the other house today. The owner is "thinking about it" while he is skiing in Colorado. This whole process is exciting and also nerve wracking at the very same time. It helps to remind myself that God is in control.....and if we are meant to move, it will happen.
Speaking of new houses--Kerry and Jeff bought their first home just this past week!! How great is that? They close on their house on December 28th....so we SHOULD be there in Colorado when they make the big move. I can't believe we are both going through house stuff at the same time. I am sure you can imagine what a lot of the conversation will be about that week. :0)
We went to our friends' house this evening that have the same model house as the one we put an offer on. It is kind of funny to be at someone's house and all of a sudden you start taking note of what kitchen cabinets they use for what stuff, how they have their laundry room set up, etc. We also passed a few houses in their neighborhood that had decorated for Christmas already, and that confirmed for me that the front bay LR window was perfect for a Christmas tree!
On a sidenote-I have not gotten very far on my application and other paperwork for my interview. That is the thing I need to COMPLETELY focus on now. Now that the house is on the market, the main projects here are done, so it will be more possible to put my efforts elsewhere.
Hope to post the link to our listed house in a few days! :0)
We also made our offer on the other house today. The owner is "thinking about it" while he is skiing in Colorado. This whole process is exciting and also nerve wracking at the very same time. It helps to remind myself that God is in control.....and if we are meant to move, it will happen.
Speaking of new houses--Kerry and Jeff bought their first home just this past week!! How great is that? They close on their house on December 28th....so we SHOULD be there in Colorado when they make the big move. I can't believe we are both going through house stuff at the same time. I am sure you can imagine what a lot of the conversation will be about that week. :0)
We went to our friends' house this evening that have the same model house as the one we put an offer on. It is kind of funny to be at someone's house and all of a sudden you start taking note of what kitchen cabinets they use for what stuff, how they have their laundry room set up, etc. We also passed a few houses in their neighborhood that had decorated for Christmas already, and that confirmed for me that the front bay LR window was perfect for a Christmas tree!
On a sidenote-I have not gotten very far on my application and other paperwork for my interview. That is the thing I need to COMPLETELY focus on now. Now that the house is on the market, the main projects here are done, so it will be more possible to put my efforts elsewhere.
Hope to post the link to our listed house in a few days! :0)
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Gratitude is an Attittude
I am thankful.....
For the mess to clean up after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
The taxes I pay because it means I am employed.
The clothes that fit a little too snug, because it means I have enough to eat.
My shadow that watches me work because it means I am in the sunshine.
The spot I find at the far end of the parking lot, because it means I am capable of walking.
All the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech.
The lady behind me at church who sings off key, because it means I can hear.
The piles of laundry and ironing because it means my loved ones are nearby.
The lawn that needs mowing, the windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing, because it means I have a home.
My huge heating bill because it means I am warm.
Weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been productive.
When the alarm goes off early in the morning because it means I am alive one more day.
I don't know who originally wrote this, but I liked the sentiment behind it. While there is always something to complain about---there is usually much more to be thankful for! You just need to be willing to see it that way! :0)
Enjoy your thanksgiving everyone!
For the mess to clean up after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
The taxes I pay because it means I am employed.
The clothes that fit a little too snug, because it means I have enough to eat.
My shadow that watches me work because it means I am in the sunshine.
The spot I find at the far end of the parking lot, because it means I am capable of walking.
All the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech.
The lady behind me at church who sings off key, because it means I can hear.
The piles of laundry and ironing because it means my loved ones are nearby.
The lawn that needs mowing, the windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing, because it means I have a home.
My huge heating bill because it means I am warm.
Weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been productive.
When the alarm goes off early in the morning because it means I am alive one more day.
I don't know who originally wrote this, but I liked the sentiment behind it. While there is always something to complain about---there is usually much more to be thankful for! You just need to be willing to see it that way! :0)
Enjoy your thanksgiving everyone!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Weight Lifted
We made our decision. And even though it was an extremely difficult one to make--after the decision was made, I felt as though a huge wieght had been lifted off my shoulders. The whole "not knowing" what we should do was terrible. After MUCH diliberation, prayer, discussion, and emotions.....we finally decided to have all of us stay home. This was the complete opposite of what we were leaning towards in the morning yesterday. Somewhere in the middle of it all, though.....we were able to step back, look at all the variables, and realize as much as we would have liked to go to see Matt's family, it is just unrealistic at this time for what we need to accomplish. Plus-even though Matt never seemed to get the full fledged virus, his body seems to be trying to fight it. Matt has been feeling nauseous and achey. Basically, physically.....we were all not up for the trip.
We got more painting done yesterday. We had been through three colors on the walls downstairs, before we felt we finally got the right shade. Today it looks like we will need to do a second coat--even though we had hoped the "one coat" paint would have done the trick. We have a short list left--but all projects are time consuming. The goal is to have our realtor here on Saturday so she can do a quick walk-through again, and then we can do the paperwork to finally make an offer for the other house, and we can FINALLY list ours.
Meanwhile, I will also try and make progress on my application/resume/etc. I have alot to do in that department....and it is pretty overwhelming for me..... but I will just focus on one piece at a time, I guess. I did get a very nice letter of recommendation from last year's supervising teacher this week. I am waiting on one more, and that piece will be ready. I am waiting also to get my transcripts from Gordon. I sent out the request last week.....hopefully they will come soon. Thankfully, the position has not been posted yet--so I still have some more time. BUT-I need to complete this, so I can finally relax!
I am also supposed to contact University of Phoenix and schedule my two classes. I am hoping to take one in January---which will most likely end up exactly the time we will need to be packing to move....or something. And then I need to schedule another for February.
It is a good thinkg I don't have anything to keep me busy, right?
We got more painting done yesterday. We had been through three colors on the walls downstairs, before we felt we finally got the right shade. Today it looks like we will need to do a second coat--even though we had hoped the "one coat" paint would have done the trick. We have a short list left--but all projects are time consuming. The goal is to have our realtor here on Saturday so she can do a quick walk-through again, and then we can do the paperwork to finally make an offer for the other house, and we can FINALLY list ours.
Meanwhile, I will also try and make progress on my application/resume/etc. I have alot to do in that department....and it is pretty overwhelming for me..... but I will just focus on one piece at a time, I guess. I did get a very nice letter of recommendation from last year's supervising teacher this week. I am waiting on one more, and that piece will be ready. I am waiting also to get my transcripts from Gordon. I sent out the request last week.....hopefully they will come soon. Thankfully, the position has not been posted yet--so I still have some more time. BUT-I need to complete this, so I can finally relax!
I am also supposed to contact University of Phoenix and schedule my two classes. I am hoping to take one in January---which will most likely end up exactly the time we will need to be packing to move....or something. And then I need to schedule another for February.
It is a good thinkg I don't have anything to keep me busy, right?
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
We're still here
Well- no decisions have been made yet, and time is ticking. Matt is still healthy, as far as we can tell. Hopefully, we will figure out what we are doing this morning.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Four Down....
We decided to let Jacob go to his Lock-In last night--mainly because he hadn't gotten sick yet, and who was to say if he ever would? We didn't want to keep him home only to have him not ever get sick, and also miss out on an event he was totally looking forward to. Sadly--he didn't make it. About 4am he started throwing up. One of the coaches started calling our house at about 4:10am. We have a loud humidifier in our room....it took until about 5:15am for us to hear the phone ring. :0( Anyway, Jake threw up a total of two times at the Sportsplex--thankfully he made it to the bathroom each time. He wasn't so lucky when he got home. Basically-he walked in the door, and vomited. He had a bag with him, but I guess he missed, initially. I found him heaving at the bottom of the stairs (now making it into the bag) and crying. I felt so badly for him. He kept saying he was sorry. Poor thing, we know he couldn't help it. That was about an hour ago. He has been sleeping since then. But, now he just woke up and went into the bathroom.
I am thankful he got sick before the trip. At least we know it won't hit while in the car. Matt, of course, feels like a ticking time bomb. He is the last one.
Jacob was supposed to come with Matt and me to his school this morning for a student led conference. I guess that isn't happening. At least with him. I will probally go alone. Maybe his teacher can tell me something without him. The rest of the day we have conferences scheduled at the high school, and then Nathan's at the Elementary School. I feel like there may not be anything they will tell me that I don't already know, but I like to touch base with the teachers anyway. I fear that Matt will decide not to go, "just in case". Which would be fine--but trying to navigate the halls in the high school is pretty intimidating! Not to mention, the schedule is tight.....so I don't have the time to wander around trying to figure it out.
I fear another long day.....
I am thankful he got sick before the trip. At least we know it won't hit while in the car. Matt, of course, feels like a ticking time bomb. He is the last one.
Jacob was supposed to come with Matt and me to his school this morning for a student led conference. I guess that isn't happening. At least with him. I will probally go alone. Maybe his teacher can tell me something without him. The rest of the day we have conferences scheduled at the high school, and then Nathan's at the Elementary School. I feel like there may not be anything they will tell me that I don't already know, but I like to touch base with the teachers anyway. I fear that Matt will decide not to go, "just in case". Which would be fine--but trying to navigate the halls in the high school is pretty intimidating! Not to mention, the schedule is tight.....so I don't have the time to wander around trying to figure it out.
I fear another long day.....
Sunday, November 18, 2007
To Go, or Not to Go--That is the Question
Gosh-we are having such a difficult time making this decision over here. What do we do about our trip to Philly? Mostly, I need to decide what I want to do, because I am pretty sure Matt is planning on going, with the boys. (Unless he gets sick on driving day). I know how much this trip means to him.....we haven't seen his folks in a couple of years! How does time fly by so fast?
We have soooooo much to do. And of course, I have even more to do, with all my paperwork looming. Being sick sure made it impossible to work on anything in the last couple of days!! I was counting on that time to complete at least my application and teaching style profile. Now-I still have everything to START. We have put the realtor off--we had to. She was supposed to come over tomorrow to get our house listed. (Yeah, right.) I don't think she is too pleased with us.
Update on Ben--I don't think he was hit with the germ quite as hard as Nate and I were. He has had no diarhea, and has gone an hour or so between vomiting. He is winding down I think....as he is asking for food!! (I have still had a hard time eating....I braved a piece of toast this morning, and then had Chicken Broth for lunch.) I actually lost 4 lbs. of water weight in one day. It has been a while since I saw that number on the scale. Too bad it will come right back!
Another request for prayer goes out......I am just a bit stressed trying to decide what would be the best thing to do about Philly. :0(
We have soooooo much to do. And of course, I have even more to do, with all my paperwork looming. Being sick sure made it impossible to work on anything in the last couple of days!! I was counting on that time to complete at least my application and teaching style profile. Now-I still have everything to START. We have put the realtor off--we had to. She was supposed to come over tomorrow to get our house listed. (Yeah, right.) I don't think she is too pleased with us.
Update on Ben--I don't think he was hit with the germ quite as hard as Nate and I were. He has had no diarhea, and has gone an hour or so between vomiting. He is winding down I think....as he is asking for food!! (I have still had a hard time eating....I braved a piece of toast this morning, and then had Chicken Broth for lunch.) I actually lost 4 lbs. of water weight in one day. It has been a while since I saw that number on the scale. Too bad it will come right back!
Another request for prayer goes out......I am just a bit stressed trying to decide what would be the best thing to do about Philly. :0(
Here we go again...
Ben spent the night at a friend's house. (I know....with our germs, that wasn't a good idea---but I wasn't around to help make the decision...I would have advised against it.) Anyway, we got a phonecall at 7:10am, from Ben saying that he woke up, looked around and then puked. UGH. And nope, never made it to the bathroom. Poor Kid. Matt went to get him, and I got up to make sure the "pot" was ready for another round. Thankfully, I feel a lot better this morning. Up until I fell asleep last night, I still had a fever over 100' and last threw up at about 8pm. All day yesterday I was miserable. I soooo didn't want anyone else in my family to have to go through this.
Jacob is supposed to go to a "LOCK-IN" tonight at the Sportsplex with his soccer club. He has been really excited to go. They are staying up all night to play soccer, watch soccer movies, have Playstation FIFA tournaments, and compete in 3v3's. Basically-Jacob's dream. But-I am scared to send him. I am hoping that if he is going to get sick, it just happens BEFORE he is supposed to go, so that we won't even be faced with that decision.
Of course, the question comes up, too, what to do about Philadelphia. Matt is supposed to be the main "driver"--and what if he gets sick? Or what if he is fine until he's three or four hours into the trip? How miserable would that be? Believe me, you DON'T want to be on the road when this germ hits!
I am still not sure what I am going to do......I have been on both sides of the fence. Three days ago, I was convinced I shouldn't go.....then I thought, okay-maybe I should try to get as much as I can done, and go anyway.....now I am back to thinking I shouldn't go. I lost all day yesterday. ARGH. Decisions, Decisions. I just don't want to hurt my in-laws feelings. Keep the whole family in prayer, okay??
Jacob is supposed to go to a "LOCK-IN" tonight at the Sportsplex with his soccer club. He has been really excited to go. They are staying up all night to play soccer, watch soccer movies, have Playstation FIFA tournaments, and compete in 3v3's. Basically-Jacob's dream. But-I am scared to send him. I am hoping that if he is going to get sick, it just happens BEFORE he is supposed to go, so that we won't even be faced with that decision.
Of course, the question comes up, too, what to do about Philadelphia. Matt is supposed to be the main "driver"--and what if he gets sick? Or what if he is fine until he's three or four hours into the trip? How miserable would that be? Believe me, you DON'T want to be on the road when this germ hits!
I am still not sure what I am going to do......I have been on both sides of the fence. Three days ago, I was convinced I shouldn't go.....then I thought, okay-maybe I should try to get as much as I can done, and go anyway.....now I am back to thinking I shouldn't go. I lost all day yesterday. ARGH. Decisions, Decisions. I just don't want to hurt my in-laws feelings. Keep the whole family in prayer, okay??
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Well--now I know.....
I now know that Nathan didn't have food poisoning. You know why? Because I woke up at 3:30am feeling lousy. One half hour later I was laying on the bathroom floor sweating (this is a bad sign for me.....I get overcome with heat right before I need to throw-up.) My body surprised me though...I had diarhea first. Thankfully, when I was finished I got up and thought to get a bucket, "just in case". In five minutes, I was back on the toilet--more diarhea, and then I was throwing up, too! At the same time....just like Nathan. VERY yucky.
I am sad--because I know what I am in for. I am already feeling like I need to get back to the bathroom. :0(
I am sad--because I know what I am in for. I am already feeling like I need to get back to the bathroom. :0(
Friday, November 16, 2007
Feeling Blue....
You are most like: | ||
|---|---|---|
 You are cool and soothing, with a hidden spontanious side. You are deeper than most people percieve, and you care a lot for those whom you surround yourself with.
| ||
| Take this quiz: Which Crayola Box of 8 Color Are You? | ||
tea and cookies
It is amazing how much I look forward to my cup of tea in the morning. Sometimes, it is the sole thing that gets me out of bed......I can't wait to have my comforting cup of hot tea! It is the first thing I do every morning. I do not like to admit that I also have a habit of having 3 Chips Ahoy cookies every time I have my tea. They just go together for me.
Since I have two cups of tea a day--one in the morning and one in the late afternoon......it means that I have a total of 6 cookies everyday! That is pretty excessive, isn't it? No wonder I am not as thin as I would like to be! :0)
I am also a creature of habit. I suppose I could mix it up a bit and have something else with my tea.....like a granola bar, or finger sandwiches, or toast with jelly, or something.....but, that just seems too wierd!
Tea and cookies....the perfect match! :0)
Since I have two cups of tea a day--one in the morning and one in the late afternoon......it means that I have a total of 6 cookies everyday! That is pretty excessive, isn't it? No wonder I am not as thin as I would like to be! :0)
I am also a creature of habit. I suppose I could mix it up a bit and have something else with my tea.....like a granola bar, or finger sandwiches, or toast with jelly, or something.....but, that just seems too wierd!
Tea and cookies....the perfect match! :0)
Thursday, November 15, 2007
so far, so good
The last time nathan threw-up and had diarhea was at 4:30pm. He is still uncomfortable, and doesn't feel all that good--but it appears that his stomach is calming down a bit. I offered him some toast at about 9pm.....thinking his stomach might be ready for a little something. He said he wanted it, but once it was in front of him he couldn't take a bite. So, I won't rush it. Maybe in the morning he will be ready to eat something. I am hoping he will be feeling a whole lot better when he wakes up. It is the last day of school before vacation-and I'd really like him to go.....but we'll see. His class was supposed to go to the St. Charles Historical Museum to ring the 75th year anniversary bell. Not a huge deal--but it would have been fun for him. The kids were each to have a turn ringing the bell.
He has already told me that he didn't think he'd be "up to it". I told him to wait and see how he is feeling in the morning. We will see. If you were praying for him--thank you. :0)
He has already told me that he didn't think he'd be "up to it". I told him to wait and see how he is feeling in the morning. We will see. If you were praying for him--thank you. :0)
bad bug?
Poor Nathan. He was home from school today with a bad stomach/intestinal thing. He has been throwing up, and has had diarhea all day. He is moaning with pain from gas pains....and honestly, I don't know how he has anything left inside him. He has been sipping Ginger Ale and that is it--since about 9am this morning. He's been vomiting and using the toilet probally once an hour. I feel really bad for him. He has already had two episodes that he's been throwing up and having diarhea at the same time. A moment of not making it to the bathroom in time (for both ends), and he's just plain miserable!
I just called the doctor--which I generally don't do, especially for viruses. But, he seemed in enough pain and "uncomfortableness" to warrant it. We were told to pay attention to his hydration, of course. And watch for fever, or localized pain in the lower right quadrant....(possible appendicitis). I am usually an nonalarmist--but his symptoms have been quite severe, and with him being uncomfortable yesterday, too....the nurse said it does raise some flags to watch him for those additional symptoms.
Just in case our life wasn't already mucho stressful right now......we'll throw in a sick child into the mix. I just hope it isn't a bug that spreads, or something that takes us to the hospital!
He is finally sleeping, on the couch. Pray we are over the worst of it.
I just called the doctor--which I generally don't do, especially for viruses. But, he seemed in enough pain and "uncomfortableness" to warrant it. We were told to pay attention to his hydration, of course. And watch for fever, or localized pain in the lower right quadrant....(possible appendicitis). I am usually an nonalarmist--but his symptoms have been quite severe, and with him being uncomfortable yesterday, too....the nurse said it does raise some flags to watch him for those additional symptoms.
Just in case our life wasn't already mucho stressful right now......we'll throw in a sick child into the mix. I just hope it isn't a bug that spreads, or something that takes us to the hospital!
He is finally sleeping, on the couch. Pray we are over the worst of it.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Going crazy--wanna come?
So--I now have more on my plate than I initially thought. Today-after an observation time in Mrs. Smith's classroom (not sure if this was coincidental or not), Mr. Adkins told me that he just wanted to give me a "head's up" that he would be posting the long term sub position sometime between right now and break. (You mean Thanksgiving break that starts Friday after school?) Cough. Then he told me that I should make sure to "get my stuff in order".....that he'd be recieving about 500 applicants, because everyone wants to teach in St. Charles..... I asked if interviews would be conducted before or after break (I initially thought all of this was going to happen after WINTER Break), and he said he wasn't sure, but legally he needed to wait 5 days between listing the position and the first interview.
Soooooo.....I guess all of this putting off the paperwork for this job/interview until after we had our house on the market was NOT the brightest idea. NOW--I have to do my resume', my enormous application, my teacher profile, and a portfolio within the next week. (Unless I find out that Mr. Adkins decided to wait a little bit more time.....which I doubt, because he sounded like he just wanted to get on with it, and get this whole thing settled.)
I am panicked, needless to say. I just don't know what I am going to do, because I don't know how I can complete this all, and be ready for interviewing when Thanksgiving break is over!! I am just going a little loopy over here! Please pray for me, and my sanity, and that SOMEHOW I find the time to do all this.
Soooooo.....I guess all of this putting off the paperwork for this job/interview until after we had our house on the market was NOT the brightest idea. NOW--I have to do my resume', my enormous application, my teacher profile, and a portfolio within the next week. (Unless I find out that Mr. Adkins decided to wait a little bit more time.....which I doubt, because he sounded like he just wanted to get on with it, and get this whole thing settled.)
I am panicked, needless to say. I just don't know what I am going to do, because I don't know how I can complete this all, and be ready for interviewing when Thanksgiving break is over!! I am just going a little loopy over here! Please pray for me, and my sanity, and that SOMEHOW I find the time to do all this.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Another thing off the list
matt painted the deck tonight--can you believe it? He started at 7:30pm....with an obnoxious bright light on overhead--so he could see what he was doing. Go Matt! :0)
I, on the otherhand, got sidetracked while cleaning under nate's bed....(figures).....I found the "memory boxes" I had saved for Ben and jacob (under nathan's bed?...whatever). I was consumed. I haven't looked in those boxes in ages. I got the biggest kick out of looking at Mother's day cards Ben made me when he was in second grade, and pictures he painted in preschool, I cracked up at a story Jacob wrote when he was seven......I gushed with pride when reading comments from teachers that stated jacob so kind and treated others with compassion and selflessness.....and each time I went to close up the box, I'd come across something else that would tug at my heartstrings.
Poor nathan, though....his "stuff" was not under his bed. In fact, I realized I was not quite as purposeful with saving his momentos as I had been with the other two. It is a typical third child mom move. I felt terrible....and I hoped that the few things I had set aside for him and are now being stored under MY bed, were enough to show him that I really did love him just as much. I also made a mental note to start saving more things of his! I know I have pictures he drew and report cards, and odds and ends.....I just don't think it was quite as much. Although--really....it was mostly Ben that had a ton. First child--I had more time to do things like that, and a brain that actually worked back then!
Two excerpts from the boys things that made me smile for different reasons:
Mother's day card from Ben, third grade: (after I showed Ben this card he said "I was such a dweeb!) I love it. :0)
Dear Mom,
I love you so much I couldn't resist (?) if we were ever separated. My heart would shatter like glass. You are tender with love and so am I, you are sweet like pollen to a butterfly. I love you like a cat to it's kitten. I love you Mom.
Love, Ben
Jacob's illustrated short story he wrote in second grade:
THE SOCCER GAME (what else would he write about?)
Dedicated to my family
Three little boys were playing soccer until another group of three came.
We played and played.
It was a tie. The coach, "One more shot and they win."
The other team took a shot.
The goalie was jumping for the ball. He missed the ball. :0(
It went in the goal. So they won.
I dealt with it.
The End.
Smiles. My boys are cute. :0)
I, on the otherhand, got sidetracked while cleaning under nate's bed....(figures).....I found the "memory boxes" I had saved for Ben and jacob (under nathan's bed?...whatever). I was consumed. I haven't looked in those boxes in ages. I got the biggest kick out of looking at Mother's day cards Ben made me when he was in second grade, and pictures he painted in preschool, I cracked up at a story Jacob wrote when he was seven......I gushed with pride when reading comments from teachers that stated jacob so kind and treated others with compassion and selflessness.....and each time I went to close up the box, I'd come across something else that would tug at my heartstrings.
Poor nathan, though....his "stuff" was not under his bed. In fact, I realized I was not quite as purposeful with saving his momentos as I had been with the other two. It is a typical third child mom move. I felt terrible....and I hoped that the few things I had set aside for him and are now being stored under MY bed, were enough to show him that I really did love him just as much. I also made a mental note to start saving more things of his! I know I have pictures he drew and report cards, and odds and ends.....I just don't think it was quite as much. Although--really....it was mostly Ben that had a ton. First child--I had more time to do things like that, and a brain that actually worked back then!
Two excerpts from the boys things that made me smile for different reasons:
Mother's day card from Ben, third grade: (after I showed Ben this card he said "I was such a dweeb!) I love it. :0)
Dear Mom,
I love you so much I couldn't resist (?) if we were ever separated. My heart would shatter like glass. You are tender with love and so am I, you are sweet like pollen to a butterfly. I love you like a cat to it's kitten. I love you Mom.
Love, Ben
Jacob's illustrated short story he wrote in second grade:
THE SOCCER GAME (what else would he write about?)
Dedicated to my family
Three little boys were playing soccer until another group of three came.
We played and played.
It was a tie. The coach, "One more shot and they win."
The other team took a shot.
The goalie was jumping for the ball. He missed the ball. :0(
It went in the goal. So they won.
I dealt with it.
The End.
Smiles. My boys are cute. :0)
I don't want to do anything
I am feeling lazy today. I don't want to do more work. I want to sit and read a magazine, or watch T.V., or waste time on my computer (don't say it...). Instead, I need to clean under nathan's bed (still), and buy paint for downstairs, and take nate to soccer practice, and figure out dinner, and start decluttering my office, etc. Sigh....to be bored....what a wonderful thought.
Monday, November 12, 2007
rest is overated
We have been cleaning/painting machines over here. This weekend, we did a second coat of paint in our master, painted the front door and door jam, washed the siding on the house, took all of Nathan's clothes out of his dresser and put only the necessary things into two newly purchased underbed boxes, (and boxed up the rest), bought exterior paint so we could repaint the deck railings, and lattice, Ben got onto the roof and cleaned out the gutters, I placed airfresheners strategically around the house, .......etc., etc., etc.
Matt also spent some time crunching numbers....printed out our worst and best case scenarios. We had a serious discussion about whether a new home purchase was worth all of this. Spent some time feeling excited about moving, and some time depressed by the changes it would bring. Thought about the prospect of being "poor" again..... spoke about the undoubtedly lean Christmas this year. Questioned the idea of movers or packing up the whole house by ourselves.
I again had to purposefully NOT think about all the work I am supposed to be doing preparing myself for interviewing in the beginning of January. The only way I stay sane is by choosing NOT to dwell on how little I am doing to prepare for this upcoming teaching opportunity. It scares me to even think about.....basically because this could be my big break and I am pretending it is something I can just "wing". It is not-believe me!
This afternoon, I have been back into the boys' room, decluttering shelves, and finishing up the whole 'weaning the clothes" situation. The more I get done, though, the more there seems I need to do. My house feels messy and out of control again, becaus eI have new packing materials and cleaning aids scattered about, along with uncooperative boys being boys. If I survive this, all I can say is "It was God!", because right now, I can't imagine getting through everything (along with my Thanksgiving week off that I should be spending preparing for moving or interviewing....traveling to Philadelphia by car with my family and 85 pound dog!!) EEEEEK!
Matt also spent some time crunching numbers....printed out our worst and best case scenarios. We had a serious discussion about whether a new home purchase was worth all of this. Spent some time feeling excited about moving, and some time depressed by the changes it would bring. Thought about the prospect of being "poor" again..... spoke about the undoubtedly lean Christmas this year. Questioned the idea of movers or packing up the whole house by ourselves.
I again had to purposefully NOT think about all the work I am supposed to be doing preparing myself for interviewing in the beginning of January. The only way I stay sane is by choosing NOT to dwell on how little I am doing to prepare for this upcoming teaching opportunity. It scares me to even think about.....basically because this could be my big break and I am pretending it is something I can just "wing". It is not-believe me!
This afternoon, I have been back into the boys' room, decluttering shelves, and finishing up the whole 'weaning the clothes" situation. The more I get done, though, the more there seems I need to do. My house feels messy and out of control again, becaus eI have new packing materials and cleaning aids scattered about, along with uncooperative boys being boys. If I survive this, all I can say is "It was God!", because right now, I can't imagine getting through everything (along with my Thanksgiving week off that I should be spending preparing for moving or interviewing....traveling to Philadelphia by car with my family and 85 pound dog!!) EEEEEK!
Sunday, November 4, 2007
frustration!
Okay-so this is the way it goes when you are trying to sell your house, I guess. About a week ago, one of our dear children left a red marker out somewhere where our dear dog could mistake it as a bone. She apparently figured it out after a bite that it wasn't a bone....and then left it to bleed into our new carpet in the LR. I found the blood red spot first--and thought someone was dangerously injured.....until I discovered the marker nearby. I dabbed as much of it up as I could, but it had bled way down into the fibers and left about a 2 inch round red blotch right in the middle of where you'd not miss it.
When we bought the carpet, we got 2 carpet cleanings free. Of course, we have not scheduled one yet, even though we desparately need it. Knowing that we are to have a realtor in one evening this week....most likely Wednesday, I got impatient, and decided I should be Queen of All Stains, and attempt to get it out myself. Since I have been using all sorts of cleaners all day, I remembered that the "OxyPower" cleaner I had been using mentioned something about cleaning carpets and upholstry on the front label. I carefully read the directions on the back.....and go for it. I start out very catiously, spraying just a wee bit in the direct middle of the stain. I wait the directed 3-5 minutes and lightly dabb. NOTHING. I try again....doing the same thing.....still nothing. So, I spray more, all over, even into the fibers surrounding the spot. Wait a bit, and then started scrubbing frantically. Still, not noticing any difference, except now the red spot looks hot pink. I give up, and put the cleaner away, and just mumble under my breath how that was a complete waste of my time.
NOW-maybe 20 minutes later, I look at the spot.....and while the red is still hot pink....the area around the spot seems to be glowing....even making the spot stand out more! What the heck! And why didn't the dog decide to eat the darn marker in a more out of the way area??? Like in the garage??? Or at least on the boys' ugly blue carpet that we might have to replace anyway? ARGH! Instead--it is right where you can't miss it--on the already replaced carpet! What are we gonna do? (Besides go crazy!)
I know that when the guys laid the carpet, they left us some remnants. I can't imagine we'd be able to patch it without it being obvious, too. I don't know.....it may be our only choice. Matt says we had a warranty (that spelling doesn't look right) that if they couldn't get a stain out, they'd fix it.....but, for how long could that be for? We must have had this carpet for a year now....I can't even remember!
Matt just came upstairs and saw my "cleaning job" for himself. He is not happy. He thinks it glows now, too. Seriously, it makes me want to scream! I was trying to make it better! I didn't think it could get worse. Guess what?? It could. I am just so frustrated, I could cry. :0(
When we bought the carpet, we got 2 carpet cleanings free. Of course, we have not scheduled one yet, even though we desparately need it. Knowing that we are to have a realtor in one evening this week....most likely Wednesday, I got impatient, and decided I should be Queen of All Stains, and attempt to get it out myself. Since I have been using all sorts of cleaners all day, I remembered that the "OxyPower" cleaner I had been using mentioned something about cleaning carpets and upholstry on the front label. I carefully read the directions on the back.....and go for it. I start out very catiously, spraying just a wee bit in the direct middle of the stain. I wait the directed 3-5 minutes and lightly dabb. NOTHING. I try again....doing the same thing.....still nothing. So, I spray more, all over, even into the fibers surrounding the spot. Wait a bit, and then started scrubbing frantically. Still, not noticing any difference, except now the red spot looks hot pink. I give up, and put the cleaner away, and just mumble under my breath how that was a complete waste of my time.
NOW-maybe 20 minutes later, I look at the spot.....and while the red is still hot pink....the area around the spot seems to be glowing....even making the spot stand out more! What the heck! And why didn't the dog decide to eat the darn marker in a more out of the way area??? Like in the garage??? Or at least on the boys' ugly blue carpet that we might have to replace anyway? ARGH! Instead--it is right where you can't miss it--on the already replaced carpet! What are we gonna do? (Besides go crazy!)
I know that when the guys laid the carpet, they left us some remnants. I can't imagine we'd be able to patch it without it being obvious, too. I don't know.....it may be our only choice. Matt says we had a warranty (that spelling doesn't look right) that if they couldn't get a stain out, they'd fix it.....but, for how long could that be for? We must have had this carpet for a year now....I can't even remember!
Matt just came upstairs and saw my "cleaning job" for himself. He is not happy. He thinks it glows now, too. Seriously, it makes me want to scream! I was trying to make it better! I didn't think it could get worse. Guess what?? It could. I am just so frustrated, I could cry. :0(
house walk, house work
We took the boys to the house we want yesterday. I knew Jake and Nate would be excited no matter what.....they just want to move into that neighborhood- where they have so many friends. Ben has been a little reluctant about moving....mostly because his best friend lives within walking/biking distance right now, and if we move, he will definately have to be driven. Obviously, that equals less time spent with his buddy. We have been assuring him we will work it out, that we will make sure they get to see eachother as often as possible. Anyway, I was hoping the house walk would get him a bit more excited about the idea.
It was kind of funny going through with the kids, and hearing their reactions to things. Nathan had a hard time realizing that all the furniture and "things" still in the house were not staying. He kept saying things like "cool! Look at this!"...and I'd look, and he'd be pointing to a statue on a shelf, or a painting on the wall. I had to keep reminding him to just look at the space, and the things you couldn't move. :0) Nathan loved what would be "his" room---the room he "claimed". It is in the front of the house, and has a clear view of his friend Joey's house across the street. (I think that was the sole reason he picked it!) He would be sharing a Jack and Jill Bath (Jack and Jack?) with Jacob. Jacob is convinced he got the BEST room upstairs, if this all works out. He loves the built-ins, and the fact that it is the biggest room, other than the master. Of course, there are still some girly details there....like little flower knobs on the built-in drawers.....but for Jacob, all the better! :0) (He is such a goofball.) He has a view to his friend's house from his room which looks out on the backyard. Jacob also was entralled by the fireplace. We don't have one now, so, just having one was exciting to him.....he walked into the family room, and took one look at it and said, "Whoah! A fireplace!" (I am not sure why he didn't notice it in the pictures we showed him.) Then Matt showed him how you can turn it on with a switch......then he was like, "Is that real fire? WOW! That is so cool!" Whenever we weren't sure where Jacob was, he was near the fireplace, flipping the switch and watching the fire. Both Jake and nate were practically running through the house, excited by everything.
Ben was much more laid back--as I expected. But, I watched closely....and I do believe he likes the place. I saw him noticing details.....just like Ben would. Just taking things in. He seemed to like that there was an intercom throughout the house--and you could play music no matter where you were within the house, through it. He was actually interested in the basement-and the "mechanics" of the house....checking out what was in the crawl space, etc. That sort of made me crack up. I guess he really is becoming a man! :0) We told him he'd have choice of the other two bedrooms upstairs, and the hall bath up there would be his to use. He thought the Master sitting room was "sweet"--and overall thought the house was nice. In the car, on the way home, he said 'he had no problem with moving--he just didn't want to clean and pack every weekend." That part is "lame", as far as he's concerned. (I don't particularly like that part either.) :0)
We had three soccer games scheduled this weekend. We are working as hard as we can between those times. We are even hoping to get some paint on the walls in our bedroom, finally. I will be stopping in Lowe's after Nate's game this afternoon. I think I will be looking at their cans of premixed paint "rejects".....why spend a ton on a can of paint.....if the color looks neutral and decent, I'll just get one of those. (We won't be living with it!.....Hopefully.)
Currently, Matt is putting up a new curtain rod in the LR, while I am washing the curtains. He has already changed out two doorknobs that were looking a little worn. Meanwhile, I am just trying to get some sort of order to our chaos.
It was kind of funny going through with the kids, and hearing their reactions to things. Nathan had a hard time realizing that all the furniture and "things" still in the house were not staying. He kept saying things like "cool! Look at this!"...and I'd look, and he'd be pointing to a statue on a shelf, or a painting on the wall. I had to keep reminding him to just look at the space, and the things you couldn't move. :0) Nathan loved what would be "his" room---the room he "claimed". It is in the front of the house, and has a clear view of his friend Joey's house across the street. (I think that was the sole reason he picked it!) He would be sharing a Jack and Jill Bath (Jack and Jack?) with Jacob. Jacob is convinced he got the BEST room upstairs, if this all works out. He loves the built-ins, and the fact that it is the biggest room, other than the master. Of course, there are still some girly details there....like little flower knobs on the built-in drawers.....but for Jacob, all the better! :0) (He is such a goofball.) He has a view to his friend's house from his room which looks out on the backyard. Jacob also was entralled by the fireplace. We don't have one now, so, just having one was exciting to him.....he walked into the family room, and took one look at it and said, "Whoah! A fireplace!" (I am not sure why he didn't notice it in the pictures we showed him.) Then Matt showed him how you can turn it on with a switch......then he was like, "Is that real fire? WOW! That is so cool!" Whenever we weren't sure where Jacob was, he was near the fireplace, flipping the switch and watching the fire. Both Jake and nate were practically running through the house, excited by everything.
Ben was much more laid back--as I expected. But, I watched closely....and I do believe he likes the place. I saw him noticing details.....just like Ben would. Just taking things in. He seemed to like that there was an intercom throughout the house--and you could play music no matter where you were within the house, through it. He was actually interested in the basement-and the "mechanics" of the house....checking out what was in the crawl space, etc. That sort of made me crack up. I guess he really is becoming a man! :0) We told him he'd have choice of the other two bedrooms upstairs, and the hall bath up there would be his to use. He thought the Master sitting room was "sweet"--and overall thought the house was nice. In the car, on the way home, he said 'he had no problem with moving--he just didn't want to clean and pack every weekend." That part is "lame", as far as he's concerned. (I don't particularly like that part either.) :0)
We had three soccer games scheduled this weekend. We are working as hard as we can between those times. We are even hoping to get some paint on the walls in our bedroom, finally. I will be stopping in Lowe's after Nate's game this afternoon. I think I will be looking at their cans of premixed paint "rejects".....why spend a ton on a can of paint.....if the color looks neutral and decent, I'll just get one of those. (We won't be living with it!.....Hopefully.)
Currently, Matt is putting up a new curtain rod in the LR, while I am washing the curtains. He has already changed out two doorknobs that were looking a little worn. Meanwhile, I am just trying to get some sort of order to our chaos.
Friday, November 2, 2007
weekend of work
Well-it is crunch time. Gotta get this house ready to sell, or we just won't sell it, and I will be kicking myself! The sad thing is, I know it is going to be a huge amount of work, cleaning, "improving", and packing up junk, etc.......and I just don't feel very good! :0) I am feeling kind of achey, and run down, I have a huge headache and I'm bit crampy, too. (Too much info? sorry.) I am hoping that when I wake up tomorrow morning I will feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle all the projects, because right now, all I want to do is lay down! Maybe I just need to drink more water. :0) Wouldn't that be great, if that was all I needed? (I better take an energy pill, too!)
more stupid quizzes
I love "the office"....It is definately one of my favorite shows. Of course, I had to know what character I was most like!
Which Office Character Are You? | |
 | You are Pam. You are sweet and likable, but your shyness makes it hard for you to express yourself sometimes. Regardless, you are always there for your friends and will usually come out of your shell to help anyone. |
| Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com | |
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Charlie Brown?
Which Peanuts Character Are You? | |
 | You are Charlie Brown. You are always optimistic and persistent, and everyone appreciates your simple sweetness. Sometimes, however, your anxieties get the best of you, and life's mysteries can confuse you. |
| Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com | |
I didn't expect to find out I was most like Charlie Brown! I always think bad things happen to him. I don't believe that about myself. Of course, right now.....with all the craziness and fast approaching deadlines in my life--all I can say is..."Good Grief!"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
