What in the world have I been doing that keeps me from tending to my poor, neglected blog? Hunting for sharks with a paper clip and a piece of string a la MacGuyver, of course!
You know me better than that. This isn’t a confession post. In fact, I’m thinking of this as more of a purging of my brain since time has limited me (see how I go shifting the blame to something as arbitrary as time?) to doing some writing. When I get stuck in that rut I remember that I’m just supposed to write. Just WRITE. And not think about how hot this laptop is getting on my legs. Or if I’ve taken my vitamins today.
I’ve not taken them. This will be a random brain swamp clearing.
We have many issues in school with cell phones but one that I’m beginning to hate, and I mean HATE WITH A BURNING PASSION, is when kids get in trouble at school, text their parent, and then I have an angry mother or father in my office yelling because their son or daughter has been “wronged” and I don’t even know what the story is. This lack of taking responsibility on the part of our students (the collective “our” that belongs to society) is maddening. Kids aren’t dealing with the issues, they’re just calling mom or dad to get them out of trouble. Double UGH with a side of WTH. I mean, really.
Maybe I should number the rest of these. Some people seem to like the order and neatness of that.
2. One of my students is reading a book called “Dread Locks: Dark Fusion #1″ and she asked that I read it with her so we can talk about it. How can someone say no to that? They can’t. There. I’ll answer the question for you. They just simply can’t. So, I’m reading some adolescent fiction right now that I picked up from our school library. For adult reading, I’m reading “Julie and Julia” by Julie Powell. To feel like a real geek who is reading a book based on a blog I’m reading it on my Kindle. It’s really kind of awesome to do that even though I like the feel of paper in my hands now and then.
3. Candles. Does anyone use them anymore? Are they good to give as gifts? Personally, I think they’re kind of crappy to give but that doesn’t stop me from having them even though I know they’re horrible to burn inside a home because of the black marks they can leave on the walls. I’m asking for a friend who always gives them as gifts and I give her crap about it so any help is appreciated especially if you side with me on this.
4. The People of Walmart website. I am unashamedly checking it out nearly every day and i’m in awe of what people choose to leave their homes in knowing they might be photographed by an unsuspecting cell phone camera.
5. I’ve lost several pounds. It’s not because I’m trying too hard, either. Isn’t that annoying? Don’t you want to smack me now? But honestly, it’s stress and forgetting to eat lunch now that I’m back at work. That’s ok, though. The Cafeteria French Fries have had their time living on my thighs and that’s quite enough of that, thank you very much!
6. Music. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of “Angry Johnny” by Poe as well as the thump-thump music of Caspar and the sweet, sweet sounds of Diane Birch. This appears to be summing up my moods which, now that I’ve listed them, are bi-polar at best.
7. I haven’t made a quiche in over 8 months. The last time I baked one of them after doing it from scratch it was horrid and everything in my life appeared to be going wrong at the time. My mother said (dramatically, I might add), “I can taste your disappointment IN LIFE in this quiche.” I believe I am scarred from this experience.
8. My BlogHer Beauty Hacks post is up about how the young teen girls are dressing these days and I am so happy about it. In fact, I compliment the girls I see in school on it every day so they get positive reinforcement.
9. Last year I had a difficult time with a student and she truly gave me a hard time. It was over-the-top dramatic and I laughed it off especially when I found out that she really hated me once she told a co-worker that her dad has a crush on me. Now, I don’t deal with that stuff. Translation: I ignore it. I’m not about to date a parent of one of my students. EVER. It’s just weird to me. This girl spent her year narrowing her eyes at me and always acting out in front of me and basically being a real pill. It got to the point where I had my intern do all her discipline because she acted out way worse when I was involved. This week she gave me a handwritten letter telling me that I’m her inspiration and apologizing for her past behavior and this:
You’re encouragement and enthusiasm and attitude has changed me and made me see that I am much more of a person I thought I was and I want to thank you for everything you have done for me. I gladly thank you because now I have someone in my life I can look up to and someday follow the footsteps of to be something in life so thanks!
10. Well, damn. That was a great way to end my week when I think no one is benefiting from what I do.
September 11, 2009 @ 5:10 pm | Filed under Brain Swamp, Everyday Mundane, Impulse Control, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (20)
Meg Evans Said,
September 11, 2009 @ 5:49 pm
I just read Julie and Julia. It was entertaining (I haven’t seen the movie yet). The only thing, I seemed to break out the book whenever I was eating…which was fine until she’s at a part where she’s trying to extract marrow from a cow bone or eating/preparing kidneys or boning a duck. Okay that last one made me giggle, but the rest made me a little queasy over my morning cheerios. So I had to find something else to read over breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Don’t give up on the quiche! My last few were “soggy on the bottom” as my husband put it. Didn’t stop me from eating it.
And now I’m off to check out that people of walmart site. Happy weekend!
Lu Said,
September 11, 2009 @ 6:03 pm
I am enjoying a glass of not too bad Riesling and I had to put it down after giggling at your post. Your randomness was all over the place and so entertaining. Just what I needed today. And, how good is that to have that student give you a message like that. It made me all warm inside…right along with the wine.
Michelle Said,
September 11, 2009 @ 6:19 pm
I don’t know what to say, specifically, about this post- except that I loved it. I loved the reflection on your music choices of late and the quiche comment. I love that you are reading that book with your student. No wonder you inspire your students, like the last one who wrote you that note.
Jill Said,
September 11, 2009 @ 6:48 pm
Yay for losing weight and for kids coming around and seeing the light! Boo for snot nosed punks and their parents! They can #suckit.
Loved your BlogHer post, by the way. I got myself a shirt dress last year, actually. Does that mean I’m a trend setter? Or just that I’m dressing far too young for a 37 year old? lol
Stesha Said,
September 12, 2009 @ 12:13 pm
I haven’t read a good book in ages. I think I might try “Julie and Julia.”
Love your blog, btw.
Hugs and Mocha,
Stesha
anji Said,
September 12, 2009 @ 4:08 pm
Bannock is a traditional bread for first nations/aboriginal/native people. I have been told by every single person who has taught me or worked with me, that it doesn’t matter what version of bannock you use… that if you are making it without love, it won’t taste right.
I actually one day, made some of it and thought awesome thoughts the whole time. My ex tried it (after many failed attempts) and he said, “Wow! This one is actually edible! and tasty!”
Your mom was right. Your mood really does affect food when cooked… but, that’s okay. I bet now – at a better place in your life – that it’ll rock!
Elizabeth Said,
September 12, 2009 @ 6:44 pm
I was partial to Trigger Happy Jack off of that Poe album.
My guilty pleasure these days is awkwardfamilyphotos.com but I will deny it under oath.
Losing weight is fantastic and I’m sure you’re looking more smokin’ hot than ever…but don’t forget to eat sweetie. Eat some protein! Eat a vegetable!
*stepping off of my soapbox*
Laura Said,
September 12, 2009 @ 8:36 pm
LOVE people of Walmart and awkwardfamilyphotos. The chick with the red, furry boots (POW) is my fav.
I love shirt dresses too! Mine aren’t plaid though.
Maja Piraja Said,
September 13, 2009 @ 2:07 am
Well, now I know where my Sunday will be spent – people of Walmart!
And that’s a great letter. I love reading about your experiences as an educator
Mocha Said,
September 13, 2009 @ 5:59 am
Meg, I’m finding that I’m eating a lot, too. Just like when I read “Eat, Pray, Love” and ate, prayed, and loved when reading those chapters. Italian food was my theme for an entire month.
Lu, mmmm. Wine. Is there a fiction book about wine tasting I could read, too?
Michelle, I’ll just plan more of these random posts. Well, not plan because that would require work.
Jill, you’re a TOTAL TRENDSETTER. We can all thank YOU for this fashion.
Stesha, it’s a lovely little read. I’m enjoying it so far.
anji, that was a great comment. It’s all about the love. I wasn’t loving anyone when I made that quiche, least of all myself.
Elizabeth, sir, yes, sir! I will eat more protein and more veggies, sir! Just for you, sir!
Laura, red furry boots? Did I miss one? I did, however, see the man in knee-high yellow plastic go-go boots with a heel on them. WOW.
Maja, enjoy your Sunday getting sucked into that. You’ll leave a changed person.
Rachel Said,
September 13, 2009 @ 8:31 am
wow… That’s why you do what you do. You are the role model that girl needed to get it together and be someone. Keep on doin’ what your doin’ : )
Nel Said,
September 13, 2009 @ 3:15 pm
1. Thank you for the list. I really do appreciate the neatness of it.
2. I just discovered The People of Walmart website and I am IN LOVE. Whoever thought of that website should be nominated for some Universal Awesomeness award. Along with the creators of failblog.org.
3. I am impressed that you EVER made a quiche.
she Said,
September 14, 2009 @ 9:19 am
#4 just ruined my productivity at work. thanks a lot. lol.
#9 some of the “worst” kids really just need positive attention. i’m glad you were able to give her that.
Amy in StL Said,
September 14, 2009 @ 3:02 pm
I love shirt dresses. They’re the perfect Monday morning outfit – which reminds me I should have ironed mine last night.
Oh, and the people of Walmart site cracks me up. It’s a good little pick me up on days I’m feeling not so pressed and put together.
Laurie Said,
September 15, 2009 @ 12:35 pm
I have had students ask if they can call their parents from my office, or if they can step out of the appointment and call from their cell to get consultation, on really basic things. And I tell them no, you may not call your mom from my (college) office and no, I am not going to interrupt this meeting so you may consult with your parent. If we can’t work out the problem together there’s a problem, and while I respect the role of family in anyone’s life, I know my job well enough and take my responsibility to my students seriously enough that you WILL be able to navigate your issue on my campus without your parent’s help.
Hell yeah.
(I hate how humorless this makes me sound, but the first time a student handed me her cell phone and was all, my mom wants to talk to you, made me a hard, cold person, at least in that context.)
Kate Said,
September 16, 2009 @ 2:02 pm
I discovered the People of Walmart site a few weeks ago and I will never be the same.
God bless America.
Boston Mamas Said,
September 16, 2009 @ 8:52 pm
Random brain swamp clearing. I love it. And that PoW site. It’s like a train wreck. -Christine
Donna Said,
September 17, 2009 @ 9:36 am
The People of Walmart site made me laugh so hard! Thank you, Thank you for brightening up my day! I was having a crap day and this just had me laughing out loud at my desk here at work!
Jeff Said,
September 17, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
Honestly, I didn’t know that any one else even knew who Poe was. I’m impressed. Or you’re as big of a dork as I am. Either way…
HE Said,
October 5, 2009 @ 2:40 pm
I discovered the People of Walmart site a few weeks ago and I will never be the same.
God bless America.