Birthday!

I am now 24 years old. I feel older, ha! Here's a rundown of the birthday...

First, Becky and Theresa and I went to Menomonie in the morning for breakfast. I ate 5 blueberry pancakes. Oops. It was a nice breakfast, didn't feel like any sort of birthday celebration but that's okay too. Grandma is a very weird lady. I don't think she realizes that we can read right through her and what she writes in our cards. You'd have to know her to understand. It was also nice to see Christine, who got back from Germany on Friday night, and to hear her stories from the trip.

After breakfast we went to the mall and shopped around a little bit. Rick met us there and so did Fat Z and Angela. We all went and saw My Sister's Keeper. O-M-G! TEAR JERKER! It was so funny to hear all of the sniffling and crying throughout the whole movie. It was a really good movie though. It's sad, but it also has truth to it and is a good reminder to not take life or people forgranted. Lauren's eyes were bloodshot and puffy when we walked out, hilarious.

Then we shopped around a little bit more before we went to dinner at Famous Daves. BJ met up with us there too. We had good food, I had the Nacho Ordinary Nachos. They brought us our free ice cream with the sparkler in it.

Then we needed a nap. We took a nap until we got up to shower and get pretty to go out. We started at El Patio with margaritas for $.99. There was a pretty nice size group there, kind of random but that's okay. After three margaritas and a flaming shot of tequila we left and went to The Pickle. Theresa convinced us to go there to spin the birthday wheel so we did. AND I AM GLAD. It was fun. The guy made a big deal out of triplets being there and having our birthday, which was nice. I spun the wheel first and won a free barrel party! Can you believe it?! Then Theresa won a $21 bar tab and Becky only won a $3 bar tab, haha! We all got our free T-shirt and had our picture taken for them to put on the wall. Beyond there things become a bit of a blur. We went to the GI and I made the poor decision to get a Delusion. We ran into Luke D. there and that was fun. We also ran into Catherine Hennessey and she gave us some random book about landlords? Then I GUESS we went to The Brat and the Joynt too. Not gonna lie - I puked outside of Becky's apartment.

When I woke up at 12:30pm I felt like death, and my mouth tasted like it as well. I was still so so drunk. Bless Rick's little heart for putting a huge glass of water next to my bed for when I woke up. Then I went downstairs and we all chatted. I ate a bunch of Cheezits to try to soak up some alcohol. Word of advice - green grapes are not good when you are hungover. Sick. Eventually Tsa and I left and drove home so she could shower and get ready for work. I never could have worked today. I slept from 2-5:45pm. When I woke up I had a short surge of energy and put some laundry away and cleaned my room. Then I realized that I was hot and felt ill again. Becky and Rick came over shortly after that with Little Ceasars and played a little sega and just finished watching a show on solar storms. I am still back and forth on whether or not it would be a good idea to move my body. Sigh.

Well, anyways it was a good birthday celebration, and I am really thankful that so many people came out to party with us. You never know what a summer bar crowd will be but we had a great mix of people. Even though I feel terrible today it was good yesterday. I just NEED to remember to drink water and eat something before bed when I get like that. Crap.

Tomorrow it's back to the grind again with HIH. I have off on Wednesday for my birthday pay day. I also have a job interview lined up in Green Bay. It is a full time elementary music job at Meadowbrook Elementary in the Howard-Saumico district. It sounds like a nice job and I am sure that would be a nice place to live, it's just so far so I have mixed feelings. I am eager to meet them and see what I can learn from the interview about the job/area. Hopefully they'll offer it to me. Stupid Owatonna for waiting. I still hope they can pull something together quick.

I can't believe Michael Jackson died. I mean, Farrah I knew was coming, but not MJ. Then now Billy Mays too. It's such a strange feeling for some reason.

I am not happy that tomorrow is Monday but it will be nice to get back into the routine again so I can stop eating so much crap. I officially have let myself slip and have gained back some of the weight I lost, but I am damn determined to get back on track. I will lose ten more pounds this summer!(well, lose the 5 I've gained and then at least 5 more)

Time to go do some more job applications. Thanks again to everyone who helped us celebrate our birthday and post pics soon(perhaps in a private album though). I love people.

SINGK

I just think it's hilarious and cute that this kid spelled sink as SINGK yesterday. If you think about it that really is how it sounds. In general, I love reading the way that kids write any words the way they sound. Like spelling "listen" and lisn or something.

I know everyone is complaining about the heat. Forunately HIH is air conditioned and I only have to deal with it when we walk places or when I go to and from my car. Why do I have a black car? It's like a sauna. Really.

HIH is going okay this week. I am not in charge of planning this week and so I feel a little restless on downtime. Before I was figuring out schedules and activities, but this week Katie is in charge of that because we split up the weeks and themes. This week is Under the Sea/Hawaiian. It's been fun so far. Today we went to the Children's Museum and I think the kids had a blast. One kid had a meltdown and didn't get to go. I was holding him back from running away and he was hitting/kicking me which sucked. I had to let the other kids and teachers go on the bus and I had to drive myself there to meet them once I got him situated with the front desk staff. It's hard to stick to your guns with kids sometimes, and they just don't understand consequences sometimes, but it's worth it. This kid in particular loves me and doesn't seem to hold a grudge so that's good.

I have applied for the job in Sun Prairie now. I also applied for a full time job in Faribault, MN which is very close to Owatonna. I feel really good about that one because they HAVE to know how awesome Owatonna's music program was and should be interested in me for that alone. Plus, I might actually have real connections for once. Kathy used to teach there years ago and being so close I am sure some of their music teachers know the ones I worked with. We'll see if I get an interview I guess. Tomorrow I am going to call Elk River and Waukesha principals. I know I "just want a job", but I also deserve a really good full time job.

I have eaten like complete crap for three days in a row. It all started at Morgan's baby shower. The mashed potato bar was a hit, and I ate a lot of it. Mom went all out on the party like I knew she would. It was fun to see all of the family there, and of course to see little Morgan again! She's sooo cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuute! Mom even bought a little party helium machine to blow up balloons, and every spoon and stuff had pink ribbon on it. I helped do the dishes because I felt bad that mom had gotten herself into so much work, without a working dishwasher too. We ended up staying there pretty late. I forgot all about the Menomonie drum corps show, which was rained out anyways so who cares. Yesterday Becky and I went to Applebees to use my gift card from school on half-priced appetizers AND YOU WON'T BELIEVE IT but they stopped doing it. We still managed to eat a lot. I got a quesadilla burger. :) Then today I did much better but still had a plateful of pizza bites thanks to Becky making them. Ugh, tomorrow will be a better day. I promise myself.

I think I hear thunder. I love thunderstorms, but I haven't been able to really enjoy them lately. It seems like I can't really hear them or something. They are always in the middle of the night. I have been sleeping a little better since I decided to just stay up later at night. Getting up just hasn't gotten any easier.

I guess we are just going to go out with whoever on our birthday Saturday. If you're in town, please please come out. If I had money, I would fly Yakob and Errin here. I am sure we will eat and drink a lot and have a really good time.

Last Saturday night I babysat for Ben and John. She finally called me around 4pm to tell me when to come over. We wen tot the EC Crush game since their dad coaches them. I went to their house first and chatted with his mom. Apparently, Todd has had cancer and is halfway through chemo. He has lost most of his hair, but not his mustache! I can't imagine him without a mustache. The boys are different but the same. Well, John is a whole new calmer kid with long boy hair. Ben is still hyper and peed his pants while sleeping. That will never change apparently. At the game we played with Ethan and Eli who I also used to babysit A TON when I lived in EC, but both didn't remember me. I just have to say, it's kind of heartbreaking that the kids I had in T1 at HIH don't remember me, and the kids I babysat don't remember me. I know they are young and I was gone for a year, but still you'd think the fact that I saw them so much before that they would remember. At first I thought it was that I look different, with bangs and a little thinner, but now I am just not sure they'd remember me anyways. I was showing Ethan pics of them on my phone from times I babysat them last year and they still didn't really know who I was. Ahhh, oh well I guess. I suppose now I will just feel less guilty when I say no to babysit them. Babysitting is something I don't think I like to do anymore. I like to teach, I like to organize activities for learning and having structure. I don't like watching kids at a park or feeding them as much, especially when they blow you off. It sucks because I put so much effort into doing a good job babysitting them before by taking the fun places and being all silly. Ok, rant over. Sorry, it's just sad.

I really want to go tubing sometime soon. It is weird how many teens/drunks have drowned this year though. It's makes me a little weary. It's so fun though, and if you're smart you'll be okay. We need to buy some tubes again. I want to go with Mom and the little kids again. I also missed going with Patty and Lucy last year so it'd be fun to do that this summer too.

Just when I start to catch up a little with having money, my back brakes need to be replaced on my car. Go figure. I am stretching it out until next Tuesday when I get paid from Owatonna. Dan did my front brakes last summer but he doesn't know how to do the rear ones. I'll have to actually take it in, any suggestions?

I also get to take one day of paid leave for my birthday at HIH and I have to decide when to take it. I am thinking about taking it on Monday if they'll let me so I can hang out more at home with Patty, Lucy, and Grandma before they leave. We also get to pick from a list of days to have off since the fourth of july is on a Saturday this year. I am going to pick July 3. Basically, I could have Monday and Friday off next week while getting paid. It'd be nice!

Time for beddybye!

If you remember my last post, the sickness did eventually come. Too bad it happened at the laundry mat. Yikes, glad Becky and Theresa got a kick out of it.

So yesterday I got a letter from the old landlord in Lakeville. Looks like Josh and I are stuck paying June rent even though we are both gone for good. They are letting us use our leftover security deposit towards rent. They took out hourly cleaning costs though which is weird, but maybe that's normal around there. I know we didn't have to pay carpet cleaning or anything else so oh well. Can't wait to pay it off and be done with Johnson Companies.

I also got a card from Wilson that I didn't get before I left Owatonna and it had a $15 gift card for Perkins so naturally we promptly went last night. It was delicious! But then we went to the laundromat and the above happened. Not good.

Today I slept in for a pretty good long time. I tried to do some job hunt stuff. I also tried to help Joe out in looking for a job since I know he is having a hell of a time. Then I ate lunch and have sat outside reading a book about elementary music/singing for the last hour or so. I hope I got a little sun out there. A bird scared the crap out of me too. I love/hate the feeling when you walk back inside after being in the sun and you can hardly see anything.

I am supposed to babysit tonight for Ben and John, but their mom never called me back with a time. She mentioned the "game", which I assume is EC Crush because their dad plays on the team, and that starts at 6pm. I think she wanted me to meet them there and take the kids to the playground when they got bored and then home so they could go to some afterparty. Well, I'm sorry but if they don't call me soon I might just make other plans. She said she'd call by Friday at the latest, and I already called and left her a message to remind her to call me. I wonder if something happened or if they've changed their minds. It's not like her to do this. We'll see I guess. Becky and Theresa are gone until tomorrow so I don't know what I'd do, but I hate waiting around.

I got an email from Kathy, my Owatonna mentor, and I MISS HER! What a nice and funny and cute lady. I miss talking to her everyday. *sigh*

That's all for now I guess. Bye.

Ugh

I do not feel good today. Or yesterday actually. I feel like, if I am going to be actually sick, please get it over with. I feel on the verge of nauseousness and the runs(graphic I know) but it never happens. At first I thought I was dehydrated, but I drank a ton of water and peed a ton too. I just don't know. I have also been SO tired this week. I know that work is draining, but I shouldn't be this tired. Last night I went to bed before 10pm and tonight I took a nap for 2hours. I still haven't been sleeping the greatest, but it could be worse. Last night I slept okay, with the exception of the thundertorm. I just hope I feel better tomorrow. As soon as I get through tomorrow(at the friggin pool again) then I think I will crash and feel better maybe.

HIH is going fine, I just wish it wasn't so exhausting. Imagine 20 6-7yr olds running around, not realizing how loud they are, and being ridiculous. It's harder than you'd think. Part of me really wishes I was still in T1 because I miss naptime when most kids slept for 2 hours. It was like an extended break. Today, I totally forgot to even take a break! I guess that means that I'll be taking an hour break tomorrow or leaving early. I'd prefer the latter. Wouldn't want overtime now would we?

I have applied for a couple of more jobs. One is full time elementary in Waukesha, one is the same in Elk River, MN and the other one is .8 in Sun Prairie(well I am not completely done with that one yet either). I called Owatonna early in the week, and the human resources lady was, well, uncaring. Here I had my hopes up, and she crushed them saying "what's posted is what's open" over and over. She also more or less said that they had more important things to decide on. Whatever. I know that it still might change once the music staff actually meets with her and the superintendent, but it's frustrating when you feel like you are getting no where. It makes me want to leave Owatonna and get a fresh start no matter what. I miss my coworkers there though too.

I have been cross-stitching(haha - from Dollar Tree) and I forgot how addicting that can be. It's soothing for the mind, yet it makes my hands and back sore because I sit there for hours concentrating on it. I have also been watching too many episodes of Two and a Half Men. It's not like it's the world's greatest show, it's just on at the right time and we don't have that many channels. Last night I watched So You Think You Can Dance. It's so cool to watch some people dance. GAHD, how do choreographers do that?! I am almost more impressed with them than the actual dancers.

I should probably get going to bed, just didn't want anyone to complain about my last of posts. TGIF tomorrow!

Saturday!

Last night I stayed up way too late talking to Becky first and then Theresa. It was nice though. AND, I got to sleep in today so who cares! Plus I didn't wake up at 4am for once in a long time. Today I am just going to relax, try to get a better tan, and possibly go help out with part of Chippewa Valley Brigades rehearsal.

Yesterday was a very interesting day at HIH. First, this kid started burping like when you're about to throw up so I frantically found the nearest garbage can. He ended up spitting up more than anything a little watery puke maybe. But he burped a million times. I kept waiting for the big gush of vomit but thankfully it never came. I felt his forehead because he had been coughing in the morning. I hadn't thought much of the coughing and thought that might be why he threw/spit up, but I was shocked when I felt his forehead. He was THE hottest kid I have ever felt in my time at HIH or ever. I took his temperature and he had a fever of 103.8! So, I had to call his mom to come get him. While I was getting him water, and trying to get him to eat a little lunch(he mom asked me to get him to eat something) the other teacher there came up to me asking me what to do because another kid pooped in his swim trunks. So, then we had to wash the poop out and throw his swim trunks into the washing machine with stuff from the infant room. Then the mom got there and was very nonchalant about her kid being sick and having that high of a fever. I mean, the kid was literally shaking and stuff. I felt really bad for him. Well, anyways then we went to Fairfax pool later on. We had to ride the city bus and transfer to another bus, all with the regular old people or people with disabilities with 20+ kids and teachers. It was interesting to say the least. At the pool, we also literally had to get all of the way in and play with the kids. It was okay, I sort of got a little tan started. Thank goodness the weather warmed up a little. It wasn't as bad as I had expected. On the way back, half of the kids were nodding off on the bus and we had to keep them awake. After we got back and I had my break, a little girl came up to me because she peed her pants. She really didn't seem embarrassed at all and she was like, "Well, the bigger problem is that I kind of got in on the floor in the bathroom". So, I walked in and there was a huge puddle around the toilet. She said she was having trouble getting the bathroom pass on the handle and didn't make it in time so I had to explain to her that it is more important to make it on the toilet than it is to get the pass on the door. She had to change into her extra clothes which were too small for her because who knows when the last time her parents had to change out her extra daycare clothes. It was kind of funny though. So, yes I had to clean or tend to puke, poop, and pee all in the same day. I could expect that in the Toddler 1 room that I used to work in, but not with the kids going into 1st and 2nd grade. So, like I said, yesterday was an interesting day at HIH. AND, it didn't even really make the day go by any faster either. This is why I am so happy that it is finally the weekend.

Had a bunch of problems with charter this past week, and I think it is finally all figured out. I am hoping so because there is nothing worse than sitting on the phone with them for hours and not getting anywhere.

My/Our birthday is two weeks from today and we still haven't decided what we are going to do. Originally we were going to Madison for Scouts home show and to party at Stadium Bar like last year. It was amazing last year, but this year the show is on a Sunday and I just doubt it would be the same. Plus, Errin can't be there because Kilties aren't at that show this year. Also, Joe and Stephanie won't be there because they have a little infant, not to mention their other two young kids. I don't blame them at all for canceling, I could have told you that should and would happen. I don't want to spend the money to drive there, find a place to stay, go out to eat and drink if it is going to be a huge letdown. We just don't know what we will do instead. I hope if we go out in EC, that people we come up or over to hang out. At this point in my life, I almost think it would be more fun to go out with Mom and Dad. :) That would be a great birthday present.

Time to go clean and see about sitting outside today. I also have some errands to take care of. Have a happy Saturday everyone!

One More Day

I am so glad tomorrow is Friday. Hand in Hand has worn me out so much this week. Part of it is the kids and the schedule, but part is also my sleep schedule too. I know I've said this before but I just hate Free Choice time. Puke. I went from structure and jam packed lessons with kids at school to so much free time. We walked to the Farmer's Market today(which was lame because there were maybe 4-5 vendors). It was okay, but they were so loud and crazy on the walk there. They spread so far apart on the side walk and then we have to regroup to cross the street. They just do not understand the concept of taking large and quik steps to cross the street fast. No matter if we start crossing with no cars, they take so long that one always shows up and they have to wait for us. Finally, on the way back I couldn't take it anymore and made them walk in silence the rest of the way back to HIH. I also made this one kid do a fix it because he was yelling at us teachers and not listening. When his mom picked him up she basically blamed it on his meds, CMON! I mean, if his meds wear out an hour and a half after having them, maybe it's not the meds, OR he needs stronger meds. I am all for meds for certain kids, but sometimes I think kids just know that they can get away with it. Then I found out that one of the kid's brother is someone I graduated HS with. Ha! I am getting to know the kids better and what works, etc. Today I hit the jackpot when the older kids joined us at the end and were being ridiculously loud, I made up a scavenger hunt on the spot where they were disqualified if they made any noises with their voice. Ha, they were realllllly into it. It's like yesterday when I started I Spy and they got into it too. I just need to keep them on their toes more to keep them interested and entertained.

Picked Becky up from work and we went out to Charter in Altoona to fix the mess they made. Then we visited Theresa at Dollar Tree and came back home. Becky and Theresa had El Patio for lunch and I ate their leftovers for dinner. I never knew the cheese dip could reheat so well, nor did I ever know they could have leftover cheese dip.

I am currently watching 30 Rock on demand. I have never seen it, and am not paying attention so I probably won't even know what is funny about it.

I was hoping to hear from Owatonna, and I called the human resources person today but no one answered. I guess I will have to keep waiting. Theresa's interview went well I think so if they offer it to her early next week I'd really like to be able to tell her whether or not I am staying. I think if they offer it to her she should talk to Dr. Young or Dr. Dickerson and see what they think. I don't want people to think we just based a decision like that based on living with or near each other. They showed her the school and band room so I think that's a good sign.

I think I am going to clean the apartment tonight now that Michelle has left Eau Claire. We really need to unclog the bathtub drain. It's sick. I have never really had the stomach to pull wet, decomposing hair out of the drain. I think I could gag just thinking about it not all being mine anyways. I also want to move some more things around so we don't seem so friggin crowded. Theresa wants our old table and chairs, and our old entertainment center back from the people we gave it to a year ago. I personally don't care or think we need them. We don't even have a vehicle to move them, and we would have even more shit to move later in August or whenever we leave. I really miss two things from the Lakeville apartment: garbage disposal and dishwasher. I have hated washing my dishes by hand and I keep forgetting that food can't go down the drain now. It sucks to pull wet food chunks out of the drain. Next year, hopefully I can have those two things again, along with a washer and dryer in unit.

This weekend I have absolutely nothing going on. I am totally going to sleep in until noon and then sit outside and tan. Today was finally a nicer day. I even worked up a little sweat walking to and from the Farmer's Market with the school age backpack on. Tomorrow we are going to Fairfax and swimming. I am really anxious to see what that will be like. I should try my swimming suit on and see what it looks like now. Ugh, who wants to do that when they feel fat and white.

Christine is in Germany. She left on Tuesday. I really wonder if she is having fun or what she's up to over there. I bet she is really exhausted at this point. I can't remember if it is at the beginning or the end that they have to stay with host families. That's something I have never done before. I'd imagine it would be very awkward and tough, but interesting. I hope they liked her "American" gifts.

Grandma and Patty and Lucy get here next week. It will be nice to see them in Menomonie. We also have Morgan's baby shower on Father's Day. It's co-ed and basically just family and family friends so I think it will be fun. Mom is going all out and making a mashed potatoe bar. If you had to pick a family that would do that, it would be ours, right? haha.

I have a message from Joe that I should listen to and call him back. I'm sure he just wants to talk about the baby. I'm excited to hear about him. It sounds like he's doing really well. So, I should probably go do that now. Happy Thursday!

Is it bedtime yet?

OK, today was exhausting at HIH. I'm not going to lie. You would think the day would fly by but it just didn't today. The kids were a little better, we had a more set routine, but it was just one of those days. All three of us teachers felt really tired today. I am hoping I just didn't sleep well last night and that's why it seemed more exhausting today. I slept okay but woke up at 4am and then every hour after that until my alarm went off, the bigger problem was staying up past midnight. Tonight I think I'll go to bed before 10pm. We got our weekly themes today so now we can plan more projects and games, etc. Thank God. The kids just fall apart at Free Play. If it were up to me they would have 1 hour of free play each day, and even then it might be in two chunks. I know it's summer, but we can still make things fun.

I had to move all of the cable and internet stuff over to Becky's new place tonight. Hopefully charter gets their act together and Theresa and I will still be able to keep internet up at our place. Otherwise I might as well move in with Becky-geeeez.

There are a few new jobs to apply for tonight in Minnesota. They aren't that great. I wish I could say that I have heard from Owatonna people, but I haven't. They said something about meeting yesterday or today so I am kind of bummed I didn't hear from anyone. I hope that Theresa's job interview in New Richland goes well tomorrow. I also hope my car doesn't break down while she has it. I am not looking forward to driving their POS car tomorrow at all.

Gotta go, I'm watching Two and a Half Men and trying to listen to Becky talk about Holiday.

First Day Back...

Today I started at HIH. It went alright I suppose. It was different than I expected. I am definitely excited to create an actual routine and get the expectations/procedures out there to the kids. The kids were okay today but I think they need more structure. They have WAY too much free play. Once we get our weekly themes I am going to go through and pick a song/game to play each day, or every other day. Today we played Doggie Doggie and they had a blast, and were MUCH better behaved. See, they LIKE structure. Plus some kids are just crazy and need extra attention. I am looking forward to getting to know them all better. The two girls I work with both seem nice. They are both 19 but they do a pretty good job. I guess you could say I am the lead teacher for our group. AND I found out today I am most likely getting teacher pay. That doesn't mean, $30 an hour like some regular public school teacher, it means just more than the assistant teachers. I can't even tell you how much but I am happy about that. I also found out that I do get to start getting paid on June 25th, which is good because that's when I need to register for my PLT test.

We had tiny ass sandwiches for lunch. Working at HIH and eating their lunches will be a good diet program. But then for our fieldtrip/special activity today we had cooking with Tracy(one of the cooks at HIH) so the kids all experimented with different kinds of sandwiches. They had things like marshmallow fluff, nutella, sunbutter(like peanut butter but made of sunflower seeds?)apples, bananas, and strawberry jam. It was interesting. Every day the kids go on a fieldtrip(or in this case just do something special). Every Friday we go swimming at Fairfax. And Yes, we actually get in the water with them. Not happy about that. At least I'll be tan right? haha, nah it shouldn't actually be that bad. Tomorrow I believe we are going to the library. Tonight I am going to type up a letter from us group 1 teachers to send home with parents. I feel like a real classroom teacher, it's funny.

So, now I am hungry for dinner. What will I have? I have basically no groceries here in these parts. I want to go eat enchilladas at Becky's again but she didn't answer her phone. Probably at work.

Lots to report this time...

Sooo,
Saturday night I hung out with Lindsay. We went to El Patio in Menomonie. It was fun and we got to eat cheese dip :) After that we rented a movie, Revolutionary Road, and went back to her mom's to watch it. It was a weird movie. I can't say that we understood it at all. Natalie and Topper stopped by too. It's so funny to see her pregnant belly! I am so excited to see their baby boy. Lindsay broke out an old box of notes from middle and high school that she had taped shut and we read all of them . SOOOO FUNNY! The ridiculous thing is that she accidentally kept notes from her mom to the office to excuse her from school and stuff. We laughed so much reading about past boy problems. We wrote about the dumbest, most pointless shit too. I mean, really?! In one note I wrote, "Natalie drives so slow. She's better at turning than me though." haha wtf? Then I drove home in the dark in the rain and scared myself. AND, I didn't sleep at all because Laura was punching and kicking me in her sleep.

Sunday I took Scott and Laura to see the movie Up. It was pretty good, definitely over Laura's head at times and too long. I think it would have been better in 3D but Menomonie didn't have it. Then I took them to DQ and used my gift card from school. Then we went to the Dollar Tree to pick up some small gifts for the teachers I stayed with last week. After that I drove to Minnetonka to go to Grandpa and Marcia's.

I had a good time there. They eat up all of the conversations. I love getting to spend individual time with them. They are so supportive and they are so loving. haha, of course. I didn't sleep well at all there either, hopefully tonight I will pass out. We had dinner, and then had wine and chatted until about 10pm and went to bed.

Today was the last day of school. I helped clean and cover things at Washington and then checked out there and at Lincoln. Then, we had Gloria's retirement breakfast(at noon). It was fun. We sang a funny version of the "Gloria". It was sad to say good bye to everyone, but yet again it didn't seem real. Kathy and I had a small cry at Washington in the morning when I gave her her gift.

Apparently, the human resources person, superintendent, and music staff are getting together this week to move on with the music positions for next year. I am so anxious to see if they will decide this week about the position I really want. I REALLY WANT IT! So, maybe I'll be writing some good news later this week, or perhaps bad news. We'll have to wait and see.

Theresa has TWO interviews set up now. I am so excited because on of them is in New Richland, MN which is literally 15-20 minutes from Owatonna. We could live together(if I got the job there)!!!! Oh man, how things could turn around for us...I can't wait to see.

Tonight we are going to Becky's for dinner and a movie. Sounds like a date right?

I start at HIH tomorrow. I am kind of excited, but I am not looking forward to another early morning. I can finally work out the finished unpacking details and feel like I live somewhere for the first time in weeks. It's gonna feel great.

Joe and Stephanie have a new baby boy, Collin George Rodriguez. Yah!!! Another cute baby...

Oh, and the weather can get better now. Hope you all are having a great week!

OOOOOFFFDA!

Note to self: You NEED to drink water at the end of a long drinking night. Why do you always beeline for bed?! Everytime I wake up the next morning I regret it.

Last night I went out in EC. It was a lot of unexpected fun. It all started when Madeline from Hand in Hand called and heard I was in town so she freaked out because all of the old HIH crew was going to O'Leary's. The band that Jean's bf is in was playing, and we all went last year around this time I think too. It was fun to see them, but it was so loud we couldn't talk. Plus, Madeline was beyond drunk even when we got there. She kept repeating herself and was crazy. It was hilarious, she is so awesome. She got a job in MN and if I stay in MN we are totally going to meet up and hang out. After that we went to the Joynt and the Brat. It was more fun times with the UWEC music peeps. After staying out until bar close and eating Buzzy's mac n cheese pizza we finally made it home. Oh man, that pizza=awesome. Buzzy's bathroom = not so awesome. They was basically a layer of piss water on the floor. WTF? So anyways, fun was had, but dehydration and hangovers are being felt by all today. I do not know how Theresa got up to work at 9am and Michelle got up to work at 6AM!

Today I am going to finish unpacking and settling in here at the old apartment. I might do some job stuff too. I kind of wanted to sit outside and tan today, but I forgot the weather is going to/does suck. I am usually pretty tan at this point. I am one white girl, and my hands are maybe a little tan because of driving in the sun all of the time or something.

I am meeting Lindsay and Natalie in Menomonie at 6pm. Kathy was supposed to go but I got a couple of texts from her this morning saying she can't. That's too bad. We are supposed to meet at Applebees, but I think I am going to call and see if they want to go to El Patio instead. I've never been to the one in Menomonie. Then after dinner who knows what we'll do. Maybe just go to Lindsay's and chat the night away.

Sunday I told Laura and Scott I would take them to see the movie UP. I want to see it myself really. It should be fun, and cheaper because it's a matinee. I probably already mentioned that. Then I am headed to Minnetonka for a fun filled night with Grandpa and Marcia. Maybe we'll go out to dinner again, like I need that. :)

Finally stepped on the scale to see what the past two weeks damage was...and it wasn't THAT bad, but it was still frustrating. I went up 2.5-3lbs. Actually for all of the crap I ate, and school treats from kids/PTO, and going out to eat with teachers, I think that's okay. I can get back on track and get back down in a week or two if I am strong enough. The problem is...it was kind nice eating like that haha.

Saw Becky and Rick's apartment last night when I first got to EC. It's a pretty cozy little place. I hope they enjoy living together and having their own little place. It's probably a good thing that they have a 2 bedroom apartment and still have their own space, plus all the rooms are small so that will help. Becky saw a huge centipede and freaked out the other day apparently. Gee-maybe if she got a new blog she could tell you all about it. Hmmmm...cmon Beck! and Theresa, while I'm at it!

I can't believe I haven't gotten a call from Joe yet about Stephanie going into labor. She was due Thursday and I know the baby is only 2 days late, but it sounds like she's been big and ready for a long time. I can't wait to see him. :)

I guess I should mention how the last day of school ended up going. It was weird all day, not a normal day but didn't feel like the last time I'd see kids. I got a few gifts from kids, and some weren't edible which is good. A lot of teachers/aides came to me to say that they hope things work out for me and that I am going to be missed. It meant a lot to me. It was also nice to hear them say how they think I do a good job and am a good teacher. That coming from teachers I respect, who literally saw me teach when they were sitting at their desks while I taught in their rooms, was awesome to hear. It made me emotional. The only other thing that I got emotional about was, at the end of the day when the kids got on the buses, all of the teachers lined up and did the wave, and then waved goodbye to all of the kids. That made me sad, right at the end. I guess, what are you gonna do...

Theresa just got home from Dollar Tree. haha. Still think it's funny she works there. And apparently is going back to Holiday.

Ok, I gotta eat. NOW. Bye.

Last Day with the Kiddos :(

The last day with kids is already and finally here. It's so bittersweet. I have all these mixed emotions. I mean, on one hand I feel like I am in total and complete denial that this has all come to an end. I already saw most of my classes for the last time yesterday, and it felt so weird to say goodbye. Kids are so rowdy at the end of the year they act so confusing anyways. On the other hand, it is sad when kids want to hug me goodbye and are giving me treats/presents. I have also been surprised how many teachers and staff have come in to say goodbye and that they really hope things can work out in Owatonna for me to stay within the district. It's really nice to hear. It's weird to pack up my music stuff and see the room become less full and colorful. I feel like I have done most of the cleaning/packing that I need to do so I don't know what I am going to do on the teacher workday. Thankfully, the time was changed on Gloria's breakfast and I don't have to leave Grandpa and Marcia's too early on Monday.

We had Washington's end of the year happy hour last night at Plaza Morena. It was pretty fun, again it just seems weird that it's the last one. I feel like I've done my best to be friendly and get to know people, but it's hard when I lived in Lakeville and was a specialist too. I feel like I was just starting to get to know a lot of people and the year is over. I am really going to miss the younger teachers that I got to know, and even though we would occassionally go to a happy hour, we should have planned so many more outtings. What can you do, I guess.

Like I said before, staying at peoples' houses hasn't been so bad, but it is exhausting. Everyone has been so nice and fed me well(too well). I think I've gained 10 lbs in the last two weeks. I finally slept well last night and didn't wake up until my alarm went off, and it scared the shit out of me too. Haha. I am so relieved to sleep on my own bed/mattress tonight in EC.

Tomorrow I am really excited to hang out with Lindsay, Natalie, and Kathy in Menomonie. We are still working out plans so I don't know what exactly we will do, but it will be so nice to see them again. I can't wait to see Natalie's baby bump! I am also happy to be at home a little bit more. I know I was just home last weekend, but it's just nice to be home and feel less stressed.

So, I walk into my room at Lincoln this morning to find bright yellow flip forms. How funny that Wenger decides to donate free flip forms on my LAST DAY OF SCHOOL! And they are giant and yellow, they take up half of my small room. Now how am I supposed to play running games?

Not much more to report. Hope everyone that is finishing up student teaching is having fun and everyone already on summer break is enjoying it too.

Tired...very tired.

I have not slept well the last 3 nights in a row. I have tossed and turned all night. I just can't seem to konk out anymore. Granted, I understand that I haven't slept in my own bed any of those nights either, or at my house/apartment. I am sick of staying with people in a way, but it's been fun and I've saved money on gas. I also get to school with so much extra time in the morning. Now that my band lessons are done, I have much more time around lunch to get stuff done too. I WILL finish my report cards today. I meant to yesterday, but didn't of course.

3 days left with kids at school. At this point...WHOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooo! I just can't believe that I already start with Kindergarten/1st grade at Hand in Hand on Tuesday. What was I thinking? That reminds me, I need to call them.

I feel like I really need a long vacation at this point, where I actually take a little road trip. I don't know/care where I'd go, but I want to go somewhere. Friday I am not going to the Lincoln picnic thing because Ijust want to get home already, and I have to stop in at HIH anyways. I'm sad to miss it, but at the same time I am so tired, and I don't even want to be around here anymore.

Of course, there are no jobs being posted for elementary music in WI or MN lately. Kind of scares me. I am just trying not to freak out. Hopefully one of the 3 jobs I applied for(1 being Owatonna) will call for at least an interview soon. I just HAVE to get a job next year. I will die without one.

Life is boring to an outsider for me right now, so I'll post when it gets more interesting.

Last week with kids...

Today was the first day of the last week of school for students. I was suprised at how "calm" they were. I mean, you'd think they'd be extra rowdy. I am sure by the end of the week I won't know what to do with myself and will be pulling out my hair. It's fun to just review the year with the kids, and play fun games. I am sad to see them go. I told a couple of classes that I won't be here next year today. They seem shocked, but what are you going to do?

Today I had to drive from Menomonie to Owatonna for work. I did NOT sleep well last night. I was sleeping in Laura's bed and I think I just had too much on my mind. Anyways, Dad and Dan worked out this whole new route for me to take so I wouldn't run into traffic in the cities. Needless to say, it did not help. It took me over 3 hours to get there. I had to have my principal start my first class for 5 minutes. She is a former music teacher, and I actually think she enjoyed it(hopefully) because she stayed a little while after I got there too. I missed a road because I never saw it, AND I WAS LOOKING trust me. Then, I thought I'd just take the "other route" that they said I could take, stopped and bought a map and went with it. Never would I ever go that way ever again.

After school(well I am still there I guess) I talked with my mentor Kathy about life and my weekend. It was nice, and I am staying at her house tonight so we need to find something to do. I want to go see UP but I think I will save it and take Laura this weekend? I don't know, it might be just as fun to go with Becky, Theresa, and Michelle too :)

I am almost done with all of my grades for the quarter/year. It feels great!

I left EC in a huge rush yesterday and I forgot to bring some things with me for the week, like my hair dryer, pillow, and shampoo/shower stuff. I wish I was able to think more clearly when I was leaving, but unfortunately I couldn't think at all. Oh well I guess. Mom said if I bought a hair dryer she'd buy it from me this weekend because hers recently exploded.

I went to Dairy Queen with Chrissy last night before we went to go see Morgan again. It was nice to spend some time with her one on one and talk about stuff. I remember all that happened when I was 17 and hopefully she feels comfortable talking to me about anything, seriously or not.

OK, I am going to eat my orange and go to Wal Mart. WHAT are we going to do all night? I just want to curl up and watch TV? or something.

Love.