Amginjax...My Life...My Perspectives...

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T23:22:00.000-05:00

Gilliamsen Christmas

2011

I don’t know how to start this year’s letter to everyone. It is usually very easy for me to tell you all what the past year has been like. This year was full of ups and downs emotionally for all in our family. Without my mom here, it’s just not the same. The photo above is from last year (Dec 10, 2010) Wreaths Across America Ceremony. The Cemetery was absolutely breathtaking. I went to this year’s Ceremony, but do not have a picture like the one above.
Okay, I will start with Dad. Have you heard of the movie “That Darn Cat!”? Well, Boo Boo, Mom’s cat got out one day while dad was on the deck playing with Gunny (the black lab). Dad thought he could just shoo him back inside with his cane but that didn’t go so well. I was on the phone with him when I lost the call. I called him back and got no answer, so I jumped in the car and headed over to his house. I found an ambulance and fire and rescue in front of the house. Dad had fallen on his face on the back patio. Literally, on his face! He ended up with a nose that was broken in 3 places, a broken cheek bone and a gash across his eyebrow and bridge of his nose. He really looked horrible! He is healing well, but every once in a while I will hear him say “That Darn Cat!” Gunny has found a place on dad’s bed at night and is quite happy there. I am happy to report that the cancer on his kidney is gone and has not returned. Prayers were answered.
Dad misses his true love each and every day and at times it is very difficult for him. He is thankful for friends and family who are giving him strength to heal his broken heart.
Kim and her family are doing well. Kim retired and is enjoying staying home at the moment and being involved with the girls and their school activities. Both the girls, Kathryne (a sophomore this year) and Virginia (the freshman) are in the band. Neil was there for all the football games with the girls. Kim even worked a couple of Jaguar Football games to fundraise for the band program. Both girls are in the IB program at their High School and are doing really well. Kathryne is taking Driver’s Ed and loves it when she gets “the truck”. It won’t be long until Virginia is driving. Kathryne is taking Latin and loves it, and Virginia is taking Latin and really doesn’t like it. Both girls are active in their Youth Group and took a Mission trip to New York City. I can’t believe how fast they are growing up!
Lissa and her kids, Paul and Katelyn are still in Miami. Lissa is teaching at South Miami High School. Paul is a senior this year and is applying to several Military Institutions along with other Colleges. (Can you say, PROUD GRANDPA?) He still plays baseball and Scouts are watching him, so we will see what happens. Katelyn is a sophomore this year and has become quite the photographer. Her photos are amazing and she has a talent that could take her places. Katelyn also enjoys working with her Church Youth Group.
That leaves me. I am teaching Intensive Math this year to 6th, 7th and 8th graders and find it very challenging but rewarding when I see the “light bulb” go off and a student “gets it”. I have been working on losing weight and am proud to say that I am 30lbs lighter and 2 sizes smaller. I am struggling with plantar fasciitis for over a year and have found a little relief (dad researches for me to try different things). I am hoping one day I will wake up and be able to walk without any pain.
Dad and I have dinner every Friday at my apartment. We watch a little TV, he cooks (even brings the food to cook) and we drink a little wine. My Lab, Jaxson loves him and the cats are starting to come out to greet him when he comes over.
That’s been our year. I hope your year has been wonderful and your Holidays are full of love, good health, laughter and family. Please keep in touch.

God Bless~

The photo here is from this year’s Wreath Ceremony at Jacksonville National Cemetery. I had just put her Wreath there. Mom is at rest in the lower right corner.

It's been over a year...

2011-12-28T20:01:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been over a year since my mom passed away. It is still fresh, even today. The holidays are tough, and so are special occasions. I am hoping that living without her will get easier, but there are so many memories and things that bring me to tears in a spit second.
My family is coping, but it is still really difficult. My mom was so strong. She fought for her health every minute of every day.
I am taking care of myself a little better these days. Have lost 30 pounds and am still working hard at it. I bought myself a hula hoop to try to get some exercise and to have fun. (still need to do it though) :)
Anyway, I am going to try to blog more often...it makes me feel better.
Thanks for reading, and Peace~

My Mom

2010-11-13T20:57:00.003-05:00

Where to start? I lost my mom last week suddenly. She complained of pain and we called 911. The ER doctor took a CT scan and it all went downhill from there. Mom had an ischemic abdominal stroke. Her intestine was blocked from it's blood supply. It was inevitable that she would pass. We decided to have the surgeon go in and see if there was anything that could be done. He came back about 45 minutes later with no good news. She would be gone shortly.
We had to get my sister up here from Miami, so the ICU kept her going until the next morning. My mom was such a fighter, she didn't want to give up that last breath at all. Sadly, at 115 pm on NOV 2nd,she passed.
Everything since then has been a blur. Thankfully my cousins came in, one from NY and the other from CA. They were a blessing.
How do you handle the death of a parent? I don't know what to do at times. However, we believe that she has shown herself in some photos that were taken the day of her funeral and the following Sunday when my cousin was leaving.
That's a story for another day.
Thanks for listening... and mom... I am still listening.

Kidney Failure

2010-07-24T23:01:00.001-04:00

My mother has recently lost her kidney function in her remaining kidney. We are learning as much as possible about dialysis and how to live with her condition. My father is a rock during these trying times and will NOT let my mother give up. I treasure my parents and hope they are with me for a long time to come.
Thanks for stopping by. It sure helps putting my thoughts in words. If anyone has some advise for me it is very welcome!

Peace and love~

New School

2009-11-22T19:55:00.002-05:00

I just recently decided to leave St. Johns County to work in Duval County. I loved Landrum, but was offered a job at Kernan Middle School. It was very hard to decide, but my family supported me in my decision. It is much closer to home, and I am happy. I will never forget my Landrum Family, and my Botball students!

Still Recovering

2009-09-23T21:42:00.003-04:00

I had a ruptured peritoneal tendon repaired the beginning of May and am still recovering! The Surgeon had to repair the tendon, and also reconstruct some ligaments. The recovery has been slow and painful. I just started Physical Therapy and hope that this will help. I can't describe the sensations I have in my ankle and foot. They are weird. Tingling, numbness, tightness, swollen... Sometimes shoots of pain travel through the entire foot. Wondering how long this will be like that.

Recovering from Ankle Surgery

2009-06-15T22:35:00.004-04:00

I had ankle surgery on May 1st, after being in pain since November. Things are going slowly, but getting better as days go by.
According to the surgeon, he reconstructed the ligaments and repaired my torn/ruptured peroneal tendon.

I was non weight bearing for a week after surgery and used a kneely walker. Way cool, but was a pain at times. It was much better than crutches and easier than a wheelchair though. I was in a boot for a month, and am now in a brace.

I still have swelling and pain, and very weird feelings popping up now and then. The tingling was the weirdest feeling as the nerves started to come back to life. I can only move my foot up and down so far.

There may be an infection in my incision where it didn't fully close. So, I am back on antibiotics for 10 days.

This was a difficult surgery and it seems like forever to recover~

No mention of PT yet. I am wondering if I will have it?

I'll keep you posted~

Peace~

twitter

2009-04-19T22:14:00.002-04:00

Had to try the Twitter thing. I am pretty bummed about it right now, because the site is overloading! To many twitters! It is pretty discouraging. Have any suggestions?

Yoga

2009-02-08T18:36:00.003-05:00

My principal has given us the best gift... He started a Yoga class for us at school. I started two weeks ago and absolutely love it! It is refreshing, relaxing and yet quite hard. It is a beginner's class and we have about 15 teachers participating. It is once a week and I so look forward to Wednesdays after school.
I wonder why it took me so long to find Yoga. If I had tried it earlier, I might not have the aches and pains that I do now.
I can not make Wednesday's class because I have physical therapy for my ankle. I tore the peroneal (not sure of the spelling) tendon in my ankle when I fell in November. It is quite painful and is still swollen. I am determined though to get through this and keep up with the Yoga.
If you haven't tried it yet, go find a class and enjoy!~

That's all for now~
peace~

Hi Again

2009-01-13T20:29:00.002-05:00

I have not been blogging in a while. Started a new school year that is really hectic. My health is fine, thank goodness. Mom and dad are fine. Christmas is over, setting sights on the New Year.
I found that I miss the blogging.
This a great place to reflect and give my thoughts a voice. I need to get back to taking care of me. To much stress in life could kill you. I think I am going to start yoga. Any thoughts?

Peace~

It's OUT!

2008-04-29T21:59:00.003-04:00

I haven't been blogging lately. Had my gallbladder removed last week, and am recovering slowly, but surely. Visited with my surgeon yesterday for the one week check. She told me that I had approximately 10 stones, 1.5 cm in diameter. I wonder why I was in so much pain!
I went back to work yesterday, and only worked a half day. Today was my first whole day and I am seriously very wiped out!
Just wanted to keep you informed... thanks for all the well wishes!

Peace and Love~

OUT OF SORTS LATELY...

2008-04-13T08:43:00.002-04:00

I have been out of it lately. Since the Florida FCATS, I have not had the energy to do much blogging. I am still having my surgery to remove my gallbladder later this month. Dad is in the hospital after having his removed on the 11th. He is supposed to come home today. They had to do another procedure because a stone was stuck in one of the common bile ducts.

We went to NY a couple of weeks ago and my cousin brought his fiance with him from California. She is a great gal, and we welcome her to the family! More on the trip on another post...

I just wanted to post so that I can get back into the blogging! I've missed it...

Peace~

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-03-11T22:16:00.003-04:00

My mother's birthday was yesterday! She is 74 years young. She is my hero! She is the light of my life. She is Super Woman!
My mother has been through so much since she turned 49. That's when she suffered a major stroke. She then went on to suffer several heart attacks, and had a quadruple bypass. A year ago she had an aortic valve replacement. She is like a Timex, she takes a lickin and keeps on tickin.
Every time I think I have troubles, I think of her and mine go away.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Love you!

Me... Plan a Middle School Dance?

2008-03-07T22:02:00.002-05:00

My Botball Club is hosting a dance for St. Patrick's Day. I have never done this before! There will be over 1000 kids at various times of the night. I am so nervous. I just ordered a mess of decorations online, and have the chaperones, the DJ, and the police. Parents will volunteer, kids will clean up, I will go crazy! I keep thinking...what could go wrong? Well, everything! But I must remain positive about the situation. We (the club) need the money. We have to pay back the school $1800.00 for our registration fee for the competition on March 29. The dance is the 20th! I hope it works out and everyone has a great time!

Night All~ Peace!

Sodom & Gomorrah Rediscovered

2008-03-05T21:10:00.003-05:00

My mom and dad are regulars at Panera Bread. They run into people from time to time that strike up conversations with them. (Well, my dad, my mom doesn't speak because of her stroke.) Anyway, the other day, a young man started a conversation with dad about the iphone. The conversation led to the young man telling my dad that he works for a research company and that he was on an expedition that found what they think is the City of Sodom from the Bible.

He even showed my dad a sample of the sulfur balls they found there! Apparently, he keeps it in his car! This young man claimed to have even seen a pillar of salt (maybe Lot's Wife?) My dad was so enthralled with the story that he told me about it.
I googled Sodom, and found the article with photos of this discovery. (click on the title of my post and you will go to the article). I am curious to know if anyone out here has been to this site? Do you have photos to share?

Peace~

Mothman?

2008-03-04T20:29:00.001-05:00

I must have been under a rock... I just watched a previously taped episode of Paranormal State. It is on A & E. The kids were investigating the sightings of Mothman in West Virginia. It was right before the Silver Bridge collapsed in 1967 I think, that the Mothman was sighted. I had never heard of him before. I googled the Mothman, and wow! There is a lot of stuff out there about him. I am curious to learn more...

Has anyone any information for me about the Mothman? He is even featured on YouTube!

Peace~

Two Surgeries in April

2008-03-03T19:48:00.002-05:00

Wish me luck... I am going to have 2 procedures in April. One should be minor, and the other is the removal of my gallbladder. I am hearing that the gallbladder surgery should be okay. Recovery based on how well you follow doctor's directions.
My pain is almost gone. But the knowing that there are stones in there is really upsetting. I do not want to have that pain that I had before anymore!

Peace!

Survivor

2008-02-28T20:25:00.002-05:00

I love this show!! I have been watching since season one and look forward to each and every season after. I am fortunate enough to work with a fellow teacher whose son-in-law was on Survivor Guatamala. It was such a neat season to have someone on there that is related to someone I know. That was the only season that I actually bought the team buff he was on and the merged buff.
I enjoyed the China season, to be able to see sights never seen before! It is actually educational. Anyway... that's all tonight folks.
Still feeling not so great...

Peace!

I've been tagged...

2008-02-27T20:55:00.003-05:00

I have been tagged by Tina! I am going to copy her directions for the way this is supposed to work. Here is the deal...You must list one fact about yourself for each letter of your middle name. Each fact must begin with that letter. If you don't have a middle name, just use your maiden name. After you've been tagged, you need to up-date your blog with your middle name and answers. At the end of your post, you need to tag one person for each letter of your middle name.
So, Here goes:
M-Mystical
I- Independant
L-Loveable
I-Idol Fan
S-Smart
S-Sensitive
A-Adorable

So, if you are reading this, you are now tagged! Please send me a comment with your answers! Have fun~

Are Gallbladder Problems Hereditary?

2008-02-27T20:45:00.004-05:00

Okay, my dad is having Gallbladder attacks and has been having them for about 2 years. I started having problems 2 months ago. Does anyone know if those things are hereditary or not? His attacks are much worse than mine though. He feels like he's having a heart attack. That's what we thought his first attack was. He ended up getting stents that time. Since then he takes a mixture that the doctor made for him to help with the attacks.
I am very curious about this, any comments would be welcome.
Peace~

American Idol

2008-02-26T20:30:00.004-05:00

Is anyone else out there kind of disappointed in American Idol this season? I usually vote every season for my favorites, but this time no one stands out to me. I am watching now and none of the guys so far are rocking my boat. Maybe it's just me...
Danny Noriega is weird to watch. He needs to go! What do you think? Who are your favorites for the guys and girls?
On a different musical note...I am so proud to see the New York Philharmonic Orchestra play in Korea. Saw a snippet on the TV of them playing the National Anthem and almost cried. I hope this opens up a whole new beginning for our countries.

Source of my pain?

2008-02-25T21:09:00.000-05:00

I went to the Dr. today to see if my gallbladder is the source of all my pain. She told me that I probably should have it removed. She saw about 4 stones in there. Gross! My problem now...when to have it done. We have FCAT Testing coming up in 2 weeks, can't do it til after that. My spring break is not until the end of April, so I'll probably get it done then. Please wish me 2 months of minimal pain.
Night all!

Scrapin' on the Beach

2008-02-24T21:44:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I spent the day scrapbooking at a beach house in Ponte Vedra Beach with 3 of my friends. I brought my dog with me so that I wouldn't have to worry about him home alone all day. The house was on stilts, and right at the ocean front. We started at about 3:00 and scraped until about 12:30 am. I went home, with my dog, and the 3 others stayed the night there. It was so relaxing and peaceful to hear the ocean waves in the background. We had a wonderful time learning new techniques and just gabbing with each other.
I went outside just to take a breather, and looked at the moon. It was spectacular! It was so bright with the moonlight hitting the ocean. Tried to get it on film, but just couldn't do it with my camera. I really wish I could. It was very dark out there and the stars were very visible. We need to do this again...
My dog is a Bichon Frise, and has never been on a beach. We walked down to the beach and the minute he stepped on the sand, he loved it! I brought him down to the water but he wouldn't have any part of it. He was so funny to watch. I think he had a good time, he got to go in and out of the house on the deck that wrapped around the house and just smell the ocean.

Crazy Bird(s)!

2008-02-22T22:00:00.004-05:00

I acquired my friend's Quaker parrot a few years ago, and she is a trip! I am watching House and all of a sudden, she starts whistling. It sounds like she is trying to whistle the Andy Griffith Show theme song. She also is known to call my friend's dog, Claude a lot! It is a fast "Claudey, Claudey, Claudey"! I think she is mimicking a cough now. It is amazing to listen to her and my Timneh Grey get going together. They interact with each other all the time. The Grey doesn't talk that much though. He (? never layed any eggs in 15 years) says hello when the phone rings and says "all right bye" while I am talking on the phone. Balou is his name. He loves to meow and make the sound of the microwave all the time. He loves bells as well. I love them both.
Peace and Love~

Long day, tired...

2008-02-21T22:22:00.001-05:00

Had the test done to check my bladder. It is fine. Next step is to see a surgeon about my gallbladder. What next? Have to find the source of this pain!

Night World...

Congratulations Tim and Pam!

2008-02-20T21:36:00.002-05:00

My cousin called me this evening from Santa Barbara California. Actually, he called my mom and dad first, then my sister in Miami, then me. He had good news to share. He got engaged this weekend to his girlfriend of two years.
I always thought he'd be a confirmed bachelor. It seems though, that he has found the love of his life, and I am very happy for him! So, Congratulations Tim and Pam.

New TV!

2008-02-19T20:03:00.004-05:00

I bought an Olevia 32" LCD HDTV the other day. Consumer Reports rates them one of the best if not the best out there. So far, so good. My dad gave me his older Harmony s20 remote because the remote for Dish Network won't work on this TV yet. It works great. The only problem I am having is that the DVD player isn't hooked up correctly. It plays, but in black and white and is not looking very good. I have to keep playing with the connections or ... maybe I need a new DVD player to match the TV?
Not much else to write about this evening. Still trying to figure out where my pain is coming from, and not feeling real good tonight.
Rest Easy World,
Peace and Love.

Thank You!

2008-02-18T20:05:00.006-05:00

Thank you for reading my posts. I am very new to this sort of thing, and am finding it to be quite addictive. I've always thought who'd want to hear what I think. I am flattered that some of you do, and read my posts.

I was very lucky to get a comment from Adam Pick, Double Heart Valve Surgery Patient and Author of The Patient's Guide To Heart Valve Surgery. His blog is so interesting I have to share it with you. I wish I had known about his book before my mother had her surgery. We were informed as to what to expect, but a lot of things where terrifying for us to see. His site has so much information, you have to check it out if you like that kind of education, or if you know of someone who is going to have this surgery.

http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/

Thanks Adam!

26.2 With Donna: The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer

2008-02-17T22:26:00.002-05:00

I am not a runner. However I did do a 3 Day 60 mile walk 5 years ago. It was the 3 Day Walk for the Cure. I saw runners today in Jacksonville Beach running on JTB. It was a sea of Pink. It sent goose bumps up my arms and made me cry. My friend, who is a Breast Cancer Survivor (I did the walk for her) and I were on our way to Michaels and got caught up in the traffic from the race. We happened to go down the street where the race had started and ended trying to get back on JTB. Runners were still coming in after 6 hours and 40 minutes. We saw the last man come in, what a sight. The police cars were following him, and the race was over. I admire people who can run, and run for a purpose. Thank you if you are one of those people, and thank you if you support in any way, to find a Cure.

Peace and Love.

Diabetes

2008-02-16T21:49:00.001-05:00

My mother and sister have type 2 diabetes. My sister has a wound on her big toe that really is scarey. She is going to a wound clinic and I pray that they can help her heal. I am very worried for her.

My mother has been able to manage her diabetes very well since she had an aortic valve replacement. I know the work that is involved to keep the blood sugar levels right. I give her insulin shots on a regular basis. I don't think my sister has been as diligent about monitoring her blood sugar as she should have been, and that makes me angry. I do not want anything to happen to her.

My great grandmother killed herself because she had a wound that went gangreen. They did not have anything like they do today to prevent infection like that.

If you have any type of diabetes, please take care of yourself. It is a serious disease.

Peace and Love.

February 15

2008-02-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

No school today, it was an inservice day for us. I went to a Tech Fair at a local High School and saw some great things to use in the classroom. Just have to ask to get it! Maybe I can dream anyway.

I love the car so far! Was able to finally sync the phonebook with the car and it is working wonderfully. No more hands on talking! The average MPH in the city is anywhere from 24 to 29 MPG on the sticker, and I am at 26.7 right now. It is great!

Plan on having a relaxing weekend. I hope so!

Peace and Love!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T21:31:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone! Hope you had a wonderful day. My student's made my day today. I made a mistake though and allow them to munch on their treats in class. I'll never let that happen again! They were wound up tighter than a spring! Anyway, got the lessons accomplished and all was well.

Have a great night!

Peace and Love!

My New Car!

2008-02-13T21:13:00.005-05:00

Here is a picture of my new car! I love it so far!!!
Short post tonight, kind of tired...

Oh, one more thing, I entered a photo contest on AnimalAttraction.com. It's a really cool online community for pet lovers that also helps homeless pets.
Whoever wins the contest gets to select their favorite animal shelter or rescue group to receive a $250 donation from AnimalAttraction. Please rate my picture and help me win the contest!

Thank you.

Peace and Love

New Car!

2008-02-12T21:14:00.001-05:00

Well, I got my new car tonight. It was the longest day ever waiting and waiting for school to be out! Everything went flawlessly. Such a smooth transaction and I love my new 2008 Ford Focus. It has the Sync feature which is very cool! It is raining here, and was raining when I brought the car home, so I don't have a picture yet. Will post one when I get it.

Watching Big Brother tonight, taping the second hour of American Idol. Have a good night.

Peace and Love!

Unexpected...

2008-02-11T20:27:00.000-05:00

Went to my doctors appointments today. Took the day off from school. Very disappointed with the Urologist however. He says we may never find out what is going on. I am going for a test on Monday to check out my bladder though. I was just hoping he would tell me something... The other test today... don't know the results yet. Hopefully will know this week sometime.

Now, for the unexpected part. Went to pick my father up at the Car Dealership. He dropped his car off for service. We went into the office and chatted with the guy we buy our cars from, and... I ended up buying a new car! I thought I could get it tonight, but I will have to wait til tomorrow :( It is a 2008 Ford Focus. Beautiful with the Sync in it. I am so excited! What is even better is that I raised my credit score enough in the past 2 years to get an awesome interest rate. One of the best I have ever had! I am very proud of myself!

A lot of excitement for one day. Can't wait til tomorrow to get my car!

Peace and Love!

Botball Workshop

2008-02-09T08:57:00.000-05:00

Spent all day at the Educator's Workshop for Botball. If you don't know what Botball is, check out the website, www.botball.org

It is a wonderful program that students in Middle and High School participate in all around the world. I have had a team for the past 9 years or so. Sometimes we do well, and sometimes we don't. One year we won the regional competition beating many High Schools! This year is different. They have included an iCreate in the kit. It is really a Romba without the vacuum elements. Should be interesting.

Here's a photo,

The kids build the robot with the irobot base and program it to do the specific task given. The robot is autonomous and must run its program in 90 seconds to score as many possible points as it can. It must stop after 90 seconds or it is disqualified. It is a tournament in which schools compete against each other. I can not tell you how exciting it is!

Have to go now... Peace and Love!

Blogspot Group/Survivor

2008-02-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

I just joined the Blogspot Blogger's group on blog365. I hope I can learn a lot from this group. I would like to make my blog as interesting as I can.

Watching Survivor Fan VS Faves. So far it has been pretty good. Want to see Fairplay go home. He says he wants to, but you never know what he is thinking in that devilish head of his. I watched him on Celebrity Bull Riding and that was tough for him, but good as well. Can you tell I like Reality TV? Survivor Guatamala was great. Judd is the son in law of a teacher that I work with at school. I got a lot of insight that season.

I love this show!

Cats and Lasers

2008-02-06T21:49:00.000-05:00

Not a great picture but...

I am sitting here watching Ghost Hunters International and being bugged by a cat who wants to play with the laser. Sheba is all over the place! She is knocking everything off my chairside table trying to get to the laser! Now she is walking all over the laptop! Cats are hilarious when they want to play!

With everything going on right now, it is fun just to laugh at your pet while they are going crazy!

Peace and Love!

Still don't feel good

2008-02-05T20:54:00.000-05:00

I know that I don't want to be one of those people who complain all the time because I know there are people who have more problems than I do. But I am scared right now. Not knowing what is wrong with me is on my mind all day and I know there is a problem because I am still in pain.

I made another appointment with a different doctor for Monday morning. Let's hope this one doesn't cancel. For now I just need to relax.

I think reading other posts on blog 365 is a good way to start. Thanks for helping me relax and take a peek into your lives and thoughts.

Peace and Love!

Still Not Right

2008-02-04T19:47:00.000-05:00

Got a call from the Urologist that I was suposed to see on Wednesday. He had to cancel because his father is ill. What to do now? They told me to go back to my doctor and give another sample to see if I still had signs of a Kidney infection, and then go from there. Well, I did, and I do. Now I am really scared. My doctor gave me the name of another Urologist whom I will call tomorrow to see when I can get in. In the meantime, I have pain meds and am drinking Cranberry Juice. I hate that stuff!

Not much in the mood to write more. See you tomorrow.

Something to Ponder & Tom Petty

2008-02-03T20:08:00.000-05:00

What would a chair look like if your knees bent the other way?

I am really enjoying the half time show of the Super Bowl. Tom Petty is bringing back a lot of memories with his songs that he is singing. He is timeless! I missed the National Anthem though. I hope the Giants win! To many car ads on the comercials...

See you tomorrow~

My Bichon Frise

2008-02-02T20:34:00.000-05:00

I had my Bichon groomed today. Boy did he need it! He had to be cut very short because he had some pretty bad mats in his hair so I bought him a little jacket to wear outside till he grows out some. He looks great! It took them 5 hours to get him back in shape. Poor baby.

I also went and had my windshield wiper motor fixed at the service center. I have been there 3 times for different things and each time they had to order parts. Today was no different.

Both my parents have a bad cold so I have been checking in on them a lot.
I hope they feel better soon. I hope I feel better soon too.

What'd you think of LOST the other night? Tell me!

TGIF!

2008-02-01T21:41:00.000-05:00

I am so glad it is Friday! I have had a very long tiring week. I guess with wondering what is going on with me right now, it has taken its toll. Worrying about health issues takes a lot out of you. I just have to learn how to take time to try not to stress.

I want to share a link with everyone about cyberbullying. This is a big issue with school kids these days. Research has been going on and this site has a lot of answers for parents, teachers, students and everyone. Please visit. It addresses facebook and myspace issues.

See you tomorrow!

I have a question... LOST

2008-01-31T20:31:00.000-05:00

I watched the 2 hour episode of LOST last night, and am watching the premiere tonight. I am so glad it is back on! I do have a question though... who is in the coffin that Jack went to see at the funeral home? Any ideas? And do you think Kate is with Sawyer now? How will Jack get back to the island? Will he even get back? I have so many questions! I know I only said I had one, but I can't help it! I am not the only one am I?

Let me know what you think?

Should you charge your doctor?

2008-01-30T20:09:00.000-05:00

OK, got up this morning to go to my doctor's appt. Had to be there by 11:00 so I wasn't in a rush. Got a call at 8:45. The doctor had to cancel. Do you think they should be charged like they charge us if we miss an appointment? It would be nice to get a $25 check in the mail with an apology don't you think? I wasn't really upset, I hate to go to this doctor... You know the one... anyway, went to another doctor to find out why I am still in pain from my Kidney infection after being on antibiotics for a week. Left what I needed to leave with them so they could find out if there was still an infection and waited for a call back.

During the wait time I paid a visit to another teacher friend of mine who teaches at a High School on the Beach. She was having her kids do a project about the book that they read using no words. It was very interesting to watch. She brought in some of her scrap booking supplies and it was very cool to watch these big kids go at it. Kids who really don't like to read or have a hard time reading were very engaged in the project. Some of the stuff they did was really good! I met her principal and asked if I could have a job there teaching math. He said, you never know!

I used to teach High School, and miss it dearly. The kids are so great and so interesting at that age. I miss the athletics as well. Someday I will be able to go back. For now, I am fine where I am, in the Middle School. (They are funny as well!)

I am babbling. Anyway, the doctor called back, still have a problem and they referred me to another doctor. I go to him next week. In the meantime, I am taking the pain medication and using the heating pad. Please pray that it is nothing serious. I am kind of scared right now.

LOST starts tonight, can't wait!

I'm gonna sign off now, nite...

PS If you like my new music on the blog, please let me know! Click on it and you can get one for yourself.

Night again...

Taking a Day...

2008-01-29T20:28:00.003-05:00

I am taking tomorrow off from work (teaching) to go to Dr. appointments and such. This is the first day all year that I am missing... Oh no, I don't want it to be to much fun! I am probably going to visit my friend at her school, just to see what she's up to after my appointment.

Not much happened today. Went to my WW meeting and lost 1.2 pounds last week! Horaaay! I am on my way!

Can't wait for LOST to start! House is new tonight, thank goodness! Gotta go now...

Peace and Love!

2008-01-29T20:28:00.001-05:00

Where Were You When...

2008-01-28T20:05:00.000-05:00

I remember when this happened. I was living in the infirmary in College as a night caregiver at the time. It paid my tuition. And I had my own little apartment upstairs. I was in the living room watching TV when it happened. I couldn't believe my eyes... It was so sad... I think about this today and the lives that were lost that day. I am a teacher, and I can only imagine how the young teacher felt as she got the chance to travel into space, only never knowing she would never return. I am sure she was very proud as were her family, friends and students. I will not forget her or any member of that crew. I hope we never have to witness an event like that again in History.

This Day in History

Space Shuttle Challenger Breaks Apart (1986)Seventy-three seconds into its tenth launch, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated, killing everyone on board. Investigators concluded that a failed O-ring, a rubber seal located in the right booster engine, caused a chain reaction that resulted in the external tank's structural failure and the orbiter's ultimate disintegration. The tragic event was captured on film, and within an hour, more than 75% of Americans had heard news of the disaster. Who was Christa McAuliffe? More...

Another Sunday...

2008-01-27T21:18:00.000-05:00

I decided not to reinstall XP, but bought a spy sweeper program that caught some cookies and another trojan. Hopefully, that will end my problems. The installer isn't trying to install random things when I start up the laptop now, so that's good.
The only thing left to figure out how to fix is the screen that comes up at the beginning that asks you which XP to start. Any ideas? How do I get rid of the one that doesn't work?

Back to work tomorrow, report cards go home with the kids so I am sure the emails will start coming in for conferences! I love my job! The kids keep me young with what is going on in their lives and the things they enjoy.

One of my Botball members was surprised to learn that I had an airsoft pistol! I told them I wanted to play one day. Really I won't but it would be fun! I really want a wii, but can't afford it right now... maybe when my tax return comes in... who knows? They say it is really good exercise.

I've rambled enough for today, see ya tomorrow!

Had to post again

2008-01-27T00:33:00.000-05:00

I took the quiz on bookcentrics blog about finding out what fruit I am. Here are the results:

You Are a Strawberry

You are friendly, outgoing, and well liked by many people.
You are popular, but there's nothing you ordinary or average about you.

You a very interesting person, and you have many facets to your personality.
Sometimes you feel very conflicted. Your different sides of your personality pull at you.

You are a very sensual and passionate person. You are fiery... you can't help it.
In general, you keep your passionate side under wraps. You are only wild in private.

What Type of Fruit Are You?

Take the quiz!

PS didn't reinstall XP, I chickened out. We will see what happens!

Reinstalling XP tonight

2008-01-26T19:43:00.001-05:00

ARRGGGG! I am going to reinstall XP tonight, got a trojan virus that I can't get rid of! What a mess... I hope I can get everything up and running again. Wish me luck!

OUT~

Friday Night Shows

2008-01-25T19:58:00.001-05:00

All my Friday night shows are gone! Ghost Whisperer, Moonlight, Numbers! I hope the writer's strike ends soon. I am counting the days till Lost starts again! I downloaded the 1st season on ITunes and plan to watch them again. The IPod is an amazing thing! Got the 80 gig for Christmas and love it! I finally got my I tunes on a seperate 120 gig hard drive and all is well.

What can I do now? I am going to read Twilight, hope to finish it this weekend to start the second book after that. I am going to continue to blog daily. And continue to put the heating pad on my back.

I am reading how others are feeling crumey, glad I am not the only one! Get Well soon everyone!

Peace and Love!

Feeling a little better

2008-01-24T19:44:00.000-05:00

I am finally feeling a little better today. I am sitting with a heating pad on my back now, hoping for some more relief. Kidney infections are not fun and I don't wish one on anyone.

Tomorrow is a planning day, and I plan on doing a lot of organizing in the classroom. Goodness, I don't look forward to that.

I am watching Inside Edition right now, and they are covering Heath Ledger's death. I can not believe that he is gone. Were there warning signs? From what I can see, I think so. Why didn't anyone try to get him help? It saddens me to see such a young promising young man leave the earth like that. I hope people will learn something from all this. R.I.P.

Here's something to ponder:

Why isn't phonic spelled the way it sounds?

This Day in History

Hitchcock Releases First Film, The Pleasure Garden (1927)Alfred Hitchcock was an iconic English-American director and producer and a master of the suspense thriller genre. Hitchcock directed more than 50 feature films during his 60 year career. His pioneering style, which uses suspense and voyeurism to draw the audience members into the film's action and blur the line between reality and fiction, has made him one of the most popular directors of all time. Hitchcock made frequent cameo appearances in his films and can often be seen carrying what?

Good Day

2008-01-23T20:14:00.000-05:00

Had a good day at school today. Report cards are coming out next week and the grades are posted. I can't believe the quarter is over. The kids were very attentive today, and I was appreciative. I think they can sense that I am not feeling well. I love kids!

Have you ever seen one car in the median of the road turned on it's side? Just one car... I passed as the firetruck was pulling up. It was scary. I could not see anyone from the car and it makes me wonder if they made it. I worry a lot about people. It was on my mind all day. I haven't seen anything on the news about it so maybe all was OK. I PRAY that it was and is. Life is so fragile.

On a lighter note, here's something to ponder:

Does fuzzy logic tickle?

Peace and Love!

Still Hurting...

2008-01-22T19:15:00.000-05:00

How long does it take for antibiotics to kick in and start working? The pain medicine for my kidney infection the doctor gave me isn't working! This is miserable! Any suggestions for any relief from anyone out there?

I restarted Weight Watchers today and am very excited! I am one of those people who needs to attend meetings and has not been very successful 0n my own since our group ended at school last summer. I'll keep posting my weight loss as it happens... Stay tuned!

I will just keep this picture around to keep me on track: take a look! It's a 5 pound Hershey's Bar! It sells for $49.99 at the Cracker Barrell!

My First CT Scan

2008-01-21T20:45:00.000-05:00

Tried to post with Sheba in my lap... Here's what she looks like...

I went to the Doctor today to see about the pain I have been having since Christmas. He checked me out, told me to go to the Hospital for a Renal CT Scan STAT! Talk about being scared! I went to the outpatient, and they took me right in. Had the scan and was told that I should be hearing from the doctor soon. The doctor told me that I may have kidney stones, or some sort of kidney/bladder infection before I left, so I was anxiously awaiting his call.

After the scan, I called my dad to tell him what the doctor had said and he told me "I have an extra kidney if you need it". That didn't help matters much!

I got a call from the doctor as I was going into Target to get my prescriptions filled. He gave me an antibiotic and some darvaset for pain. (I am in a lot of pain). I was told that I don't have kidney stones, but I have gallstones! What a shocker! He thinks it is just an infection right now, so I have to see if the antibiotics do the trick. I asked him about the gallstones, and he said if you are not showing symptoms, we won't worry about them right now. WHEW!

So, that was my day... Oh, it started raining and I went to turn on the wipers, guess what, they didn't work! Took the car to the dealer, they said I needed a motor. They didn't have any. So, while filling the prescriptions, I got some rainex and put it on the windshield. Hope it works.

Sunny Cool Sunday

2008-01-20T16:34:00.000-05:00

Today is a much better day! It is bright, breezey and cool...(50ish). I am into my book Twilight. It is soooo good! When I start reading it, I can't put it down. The dog gets into my lap, the black cat sits on my chest, and I read. It is wonderful!

My rocks came out ok. They got much smaller than I anticipated however. The rubies are redder, and the emeralds are a shocking beautiful green. I should have let them polish more at the end. I will experiment on the bigger gems in a few days.
Enjoy your weekend and have a great week!

Things to Ponder...

Do cemetery workers prefer the graveyard shift?

If a cow laughed, would milk come out it's nose?

This Day in History

2008-01-18T21:45:00.000-05:00

Not much happened today so I thought I would tell you what happened today in History...

This Day in History

Jim Thorpe's Olympic Medals Posthumously Restored (1983)Jim Thorpe, an American Olympian, was considered one of the most versatile athletes in modern sports history. He won Olympic gold medals in the pentathlon and decathlon, but was stripped of his awards after reports surfaced that he had played minor league baseball before participating in the 1912 Olympic Games. At the time, strict rules barred professional athletes from Olympic competition. What loophole enabled Thorpe's supporters to have his medals posthumously restored? More...
This Day in History provided by The Free Dictionary
Click here for more of This Day in History

Don't Try to Self Diagnose!

2008-01-17T20:35:00.000-05:00

I hate to post about my health, but it's what I am concerned with right now. I have had a pain on my right side (lower abdomen), that turns around to my back on that side. It feels like a knife sticking right threw me. I have had this pain since Christmas. Although, it started as a little pain in my front and a lot of pain in my lower back. It has changed and become worse daily.

I looked on the internet to see if I could find out what it might be. What a mistake! I got everything from appendicitus to kidney stones to colon cancer. I am not sure what it is!

Has anyone else had similar symptoms? If so, please comment and let me know what it is. I am going to call the doctor. I can not take the pain anymore!

Thanks for reading, sorry not so interesting tonight...

Twilight

2008-01-16T20:14:00.000-05:00

I started to read Twilight last night and really didn't want to put it down! American Idol was on, but I couldn't tell you anything about what happened. I was so into this book. Stephanie Meyer writes so that you can picture what she is writing in your mind as you are reading. I took it to school with me today, planning on reading during my break, but alas, I was to busy. So I will pick it up again and hope I can stop to go to sleep.

I suggest you go get this book, and read! Short post this evening. Stay warm you northern folks, we are getting much needed rain here. Til tomorrow...

Peace and Love!

Blogging, Reading, Watching American Idol

2008-01-15T20:04:00.000-05:00

I don't know if I can accomplish all three! I bought 2 books at Borders tonight. The first one is Twilight by Stephanie Meyers. I have heard nothing but great things about this book! My students want to read it, my friend who teaches High School English has read it already. Her students have read or are reading it now. They turned her on to the series. She said she couldn't put it down! It is books like these that I want to dive right into. The second book I bought was Blogging for Dummies. :)

I am so new to this blogging thing, I want to learn more! I have read so many great blogs and it makes me want to learn to write as well as the one's I have read. So, I am going to do this and read the book making changes along the way. Wish me luck... Any suggestions are always welcome.

The third thing on my list is to watch the awful auditions on American Idol. I don't know why I like this program. Although my voting has diminished quite a bit as each season goes by, I still love to watch. I have no musical talent what so ever and I guess it feels good to see that there are so many people out there who don't either!

Hope your day was great! Pray that my math students do well on their midterm tomorrow! (They need it!)

Happy Birthday and Fond Memories

2008-01-14T19:28:00.000-05:00

Today is my sister's 44th Birthday and I send her warm Birthday Wishes today and always.

I get a widget from my iGoogle homepage everyday. Today's Day in History brings back fond memories. I'll explain after the blurb...

This Day in History

"Marilyn Monroe Marries Joe DiMaggio (1954)Monroe married baseball star DiMaggio after a two-year courtship that captivated America. The marriage lasted just 274 days, collapsing amid reports of her infidelity and his violence and jealousy, but the two became close again after Monroe divorced Arthur Miller. When Monroe was found dead in August 1962, it was DiMaggio who claimed her body and arranged her funeral. What did DiMaggio have delivered to Monroe's crypt three times a week for twenty years following her death?" A single rose...

My father volunteered as a Ham Radio Operator at the Orange Bowl Parade every year for many years before he retired and moved. He was the "head honcho" so to speak. His job was to start and stop the parade at times for commercial breaks. He was stationed at the beginning of the Parade every year, where the Grand Marshall's float was. We would go and hang out there and watch the Parade, helping where ever we could.

I got to see many famous people including Jackie Gleason right before he died. But this day in History brings me to memories of my Joe DiMaggio encounter. He was the Grand Marshall for the Parade in 1991. My dad had told me that he was not going to sign any autographs for anyone (contractual agreement with the Orange Bowl committee). Well, you never know, so I went and bought a regulation baseball and a black sharpie hoping for the best.

My mother was in a wheelchair at the time because she had had a stroke that left her paralyzed on the right side and she lost her speech as well. We were right by the Grand Marshall's float as the State Troopers brought Joe DiMaggio out and loaded him in. I had my baseball ready... He smiled at us and I held up the baseball and gave him that please, please, please look. He thought for a few seconds and smiled. He told the Trooper to get the ball from me (even the Sharpie), and he signed it from up top the Grand Marshall's Float! I cried and thanked him. Again he smiled at my mother and me, then waved as the Float took off.

Three people have touched the ball. Me, the Trooper, and Joe DiMaggio. I had an engraved plate made with Joe DiMaggio's name and the date it was signed: 12-31-1991. It is encased in a protective cover on a trophy-like stand. It sits proudly.

My nephew plays baseball and plays very well! He is going to be a great major league player one day. I know I told him about the ball when he was younger, but I guess he didn't remember. He is 14. Well, he saw the ball at my apartment this Christmas and went Bonkers! He couldn't believe what he was seeing. So I told him the story again. Needless to say, he thinks it is cool.

I hope you enjoyed my memories... I know I do! That's all for tonight.

First day on Blogspot...

2008-01-13T19:25:00.000-05:00

I would like to use this blog to post my thoughts and perspectives. I've never kept a diary, so maybe this is a good time to start. I think about a lot of stuff and just never get to say anything. So this is my forum.

Sometimes I may come home from school and write about the funny things my students do, or maybe just about how I feel that day. I may ask questions someone can answer for me, who knows?

Stay tuned!