SUNDAY SONG

Song: "Unchanging One"
Artist: Todd Agnew

While people might let us down and while we might let ourselves down....God is right there all the time.

Hope I don't offend anyone....NOT!!!!!

COULD THIS BE ME IN 50 OR 60 YEARS?

WHILE YOU WERE AT WORK....

Philadelphia Mayor John Street felt the need to sit in line at a store that will sell the iphone at 6:00 p.m. He's been there since the wee hours of the morning. Now, if he wants an iphone, so be it. However, I think a staffer, one of his children (where's Shariff?), or someone else could have done this for him. I think arrangements could have been made.

A cop is shot within the last 24 hours (not seriously, thank goodness), the murder rate climbs higher, and what does his attitude connotate? "Eh, I can do my job from here; no problemo."

According to local news station KYW 3:

"Street planned to stay in line for most of the day, waiting for the cell phones to go on sale at 6 p.m., though he planned to step out to make some appearances."

Yeah, so he can't go into the office, but he can make his photo-ops. He can't be seen making a comment about the problems festering in the city, but he can wait in line for an iphone.

"Angry taxpayer Barbara Jendrzejewska confronted the [mayor], questioning his ability to work while waiting in line. 'I happen to be in a position where I can conduct my business wherever I am. In part, it’s because of this technology that we’re getting ready to see today. I don’t have to be in a particular place,' Street responded."

That may be true, in part. HOWEVER, there is an attitude that is being sent through loud and clear: I don't mind spending my work time and taxpayer dollars sitting in line like a moron for a GADGET!

The worst part is that he is clueless as to just how stupid he is. He has ruined the police department and its morale, dismantled a lot of the emergency protection provided to the city, can't seem to get someone to do anything good for the schools, and in doing all of this, he has made an already beleaguered city feel even less hope. It is palpable. I don't even pity Camden as much as I pity Philly.

Philly could be an awesome city with influence because of its ports and easy access to other parts of the East Coast. Rather than good things, the last 20 years (at least) have seen failed administration after failed administration with the pinnacle in mismanagement displayed by the present inhabitants of City Hall.

But, you know, the Mayor has managed to wait in line for a phone, thus continuing to show his true priorities.

(H/T KYW 3)--This link takes you to the full story as reported and an on-air interview. Please watch it so that you fully understand (non-Delaware Valley people) how inane this man truly is and why Philadelphia is such a mess.

Some more video links (he says so much worth laughing at):
NBC 10 Funny in a sad way.

WPVI 6 Philly's got WIFI, but the schools lack necessities. Street, "I can't afford the hot rod, but I can afford a $600 phone." How about you take that $600 and donate it to a food bank, or buy some homeless mothers clothes for their children?

Fox 29 Click on the video link about half way down the article. Street, "I'm here, but I am actually working." Why don't you go to your office and present the image of a mayor of a major city? Go visit the elderly to make sure they've made it through the nasty heat and humidity ok. Go thank cops and firefighters for their hard work. Oh wait, those things are beneath you.

TOO BORED FOR MY OWN GOOD...

JUST A REALLY GOOD QUOTATION:

A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take from you everything you have.


Gerald R. Ford

SEPARATED AT BIRTH?????

YOU BE THE JUDGE

In need of a cross-check....really, really hard!

Whatever Putin is smoking, I want some.

Hmmmmmmmmm....

No clue what to talk about, today. Got any ideas?

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!

YAY!!!!!! Wyatt has reached 100,000 visits! Go congratulate him and leave some pithy comments.

When it is hot and humid I think of only one band!

To do list:

1. Pray for a cold front. My air conditioner is broken (again).
2. Buy a couple of new fans (see #1).
3. Count my many blessings.
4. Be thankful Paris Hilton is out of jail. I was worried they might keep her in there for 30 days. The horror!
5. Avoid analyzing why Rosie O'Donnell dressed her kid up like a terrorist (the media uses guerrilla fighter--funny her mom is a chimp, I mean chump--I use terrorist).
6. Invest in some cold and flu medicine. Caught a chill getting mammograms and ultrasounds...yes, wisenheimers...a chest cold.
7. Make hotel reservations in Nashville.
8. Make car rental reservations to drive to Nashville (seems like such a waste of money, though).
9. Plan some fun things to do while in Nashville. I just want to hear music...lots of it.
10. Take dad out to dinner.

Don't judge a book by its cover!

Just because a guy is 72 years of age doesn't mean he can't kick your ass!

HEADLINES!!!!!!!!!

Today we have the hot, sticky, humid version of the headlines. My brain is a little warped--no air conditioning--broken. Enjoy!

Too little, too late: Gore blames scientists for climate crisis...
Wait. It's not my fault? I was afraid all my Aqua Net use in the '80s caused global warming.

Court rules against high school senior 'Bong Hits 4 Jesus' banner...
However, Crackheads for Krishna is allowed.

CANADA UNVEILS AMBULANCE FOR 1000-LB PATIENTS...
This as a result of the Canucks' breeding practices with moose. That or they are eating a lot of pancakes or something.

Barber stabs second client with scissors...
Apparently he confused flat-top with flat-line.

Scientist Implicates Worms in Global Warming...
WHAT!?!?!!? I was wondering what mission they were on each time I saw them after a rain storm. Now I'm glad I stepped on them for fun when I was little.

SCIENTISTS DESCRIBE '5-FOOT TALL PENGUIN'...
Said to be a detective named Wyatt. (Go email your roast entries!)

AUDIO: TED KENNEDY SERENADES MEXICAN-AMERICAN DJ -- EN ESPANOL...
"Feeeeeeeeeeeeeeelizzzzzzzzzzzzzz *hiccup* nachos y *hiccup* salsa y aye aye aye *hiccup*.

Rosie says she won't replace Bob Barker
Apparently producers did not like her idea of "shoot the Republican" and "Guess the conspiracy theory."

Wizardry takes dark turn in new ‘Potter’ film
Harry is now an Emo kid, dyes his hair jet black, wears eyeliner, and writes poetry about how him mum wouldn't let him go to a concert--so now his life is over! Then he cuts himself to feel alive.

Police fight new menace: cuddling couples
They are ruining our world! Those darn cuddling couples make lonely, spinster types like me feel worse. How dare they be in love! Makes me want to throw a rock at them, yeah!

Texan set for execution wants to die laughing
He won't be the one laughing in hell.

Iran president turns to butcher for economy tips
finger tips, toes, ears, hands, and anything else that he deems against his dictatorship.

Beijing airport tackles pigeon problem
DINNER!

With or without the Rodham, she's still Hillary
...and a beyotch with no personality!!!

Black lab drives owner's car into river
The black lab claims that he had enough of his owner throwing his prized ball into the river for laughs. Apparently Fido doesn't appreciate the fun of fetching.

Ummmmmmmmmmmm....

America is the GREATEST freakin' place on Earth!!!!!!!!!

A BLOW TO FOOD EATING CONTESTS!!!!

Takeru Kobayashi of Japan is out of the Nathan's hot dog contest! He has arthritis of the jaw and can only open his mouth the size of a fingertip. I wonder if this problem exists in the world of adult entertainment? Just wondering. Did I say that out loud? Geeesh!

(H/T: CNBC)

I'm giving this guy a special salute...

So, what do we do with this freak?
(H/T: Drudge)

What it takes

I learned a few things and was reminded of a few things yesterday while I was taking part in my friend's wedding festivities.

There is something different about a wedding when two believers are involved. I've been to about nine or so family weddings. There was something missing from their weddings that was quite present at "D's" wedding--God.

I know, as a believer, the importance of marrying a believer; in fact, it is pretty much a directive in the Bible that it has to be done. I've vacillated on that one over the years. But I finally had a light bulb moment yesterday. It is not just that the "other" person in the relationship is a believer, it is that both people simply put God front and center of that relationship as a result of God being front and center in their lives apart from each other.

The minister said a few things that resonated with me: 1. We can never love or be loved more than God loves us or the other person, but we have to strive to love the other person as God would love that person; 2. Pray together--out loud, in front of God; and 3. Honor what that ring represents. I know I joke about wanting to elope if someone ever loves me enough to marry me. It has more to do with what that moment represents and it was talked about yesterday. Yeah, the food at the reception will be great (and it was) and it will be fun to dance around and act silly (and it was) and it was wonderful seeing my best friend look radiant and beautiful and her husband looking quite handsome, but most important are those promises they made to God and each other, in front of God. So many people ignore those vows and take them lightly because they just wanted the party. It's like saying the vows have become a mere formality.

Those of you that have been lucky to have married great people...own it and be thankful. Remember to show them that you love them. Sssssteve has an awesome example of a good marriage. Go read about it. (You'll have to scroll down a little.)

Now, unless I ever get married, I'm done talking about weddings. The end.

P.S. Look at the way "D's" husband looks at her. WOW! I can't even imagine what it would be like to be loved that much. That look on his face was non-stop all day.

SUNDAY SONG

What: "Someday"
Who: Michael Sweet
Why?
Inspired by I Thes. 4:13-18

Reminds me of Hebrews 11:1

This excerpt from the lyrics means a lot to me:
Someday I know my heart and soul
Will be free
From the pain they hold on to
I'm holdin' on to someday

Thought for the day based on a sermon I am listening to as I write this:

Think back. Move forward. It's time.

Phillipians 3:12-13 You can't go back or linger in the past. Whether it was good or bad, it will never be recreated. Foget what lies behind. Maybe the future holds something much better. We'll never know if we are distracted by the past. (Turning Point--David Jeremiah)

The lyrics to the song, if you are interested, are a click away. :)

I dance?

Today my best friend and sister (in Christ) got married to a really nice and decent guy. He's best friends with my friend's brother. West Point grads, y'all. Good men. This was an emotional week for me, and thank God, for very good reasons. Graduation is emotional because I'm saying good-bye to kids I've known for four years. The mama side comes out with them--can't help it. Then, the "we found something" that turned out really well. That was scary, but it really made me stop and think about my life and the fact that I've retreated into a shell these past three years (ok-almost six years, but that includes a heavily broken heart that I want to ignore). I haven't lived much and I intend to do so. Then, today, my friend got married. She's moving really far (TX) and she gets to begin a new adventure in her life. I'm excited and happy for her and at times, can't contain my joy. I don't cry in public. I don't cry happy tears. I did both today. A little girl that was helping me with some hostess duties shadowed me. When the minister (I'll get into the wedding itself another day--when I've come down a bit.) was praying over the happy couple, I lost it. (I was doing so well, too.) The little girl asked me if I was crying and I said, "Yeah, but they are happy tears." She patted me on the back and said, "It will be ok." (Awwww...10 year olds are awesome.) Later she advised me that I should go somewhere and find myself a husband. I didn't realize it was that easy. ;P

So, I got to pin roses on the lapels of soldiers today. My hands shook. They've been places we never want to see. But the part that struck me the most today (aside from the little girl) was what my pastor had to say during the ceremony; that's what I'll get to another day.

Also, apparently after retiring my dancing shoes many years ago, I can still get a little funk-like groove on and still have good rhythym. I danced to one song, in honor of the '80s, with my best friend. Ok...I'm crying again. I'll stop here. This is the song that inspired me to dance! :)

CAPTION CONTEST!!!!!!!!!!!

As always, have fun with this! Thank God for freaks!

I'll post winners Monday afternoon.

**Wyatt has a caption contest, too. Go there. Now.

Winners (you all are):
1. Anonymous (Skul?):
Want to see my crystal balls?

2. Sssssteve:
Girl: Isn't it beautiful?

Merlin: I thought you said let's get stoned by the hedge!

3. Bud the Chud:
After 40+ years of being a geek, Bud finally meets a girl.

Not timely, but funny

SIGH OF RELIEF!

Today is the longest day of the year according to the calendar. This afternoon I experienced two very long hours after wondering for about a month if I for sure do not have cancer. I've had cysts for about 13 years that appeared after a heinous car accident. But when you are told that more and more tests are needed, your brain tends to go a little mushy. Today, they found something they hadn't ever seen in me, so that added to the angst and the length of time before I found out, that I indeed have cysts and not cancer. Praise God!

The whole time I was telling one of my friends that I truly believe God has a lot left for me to do...and I still believe it. Today, I feel like I was given a reminder to be better to myself and to others. Today I was reminded that not everyone is as blessed as I am.

I'm telling you things a little more specifically because I want you all to take care of yourselves, too. The past three years have been hard, health-wise, but I'm getting better and I look forward to even more progress. I feel like today was an affirmation of that. Three years ago I was tested for another form of cancer, and like today, everything was ok.

Please, guys, urge the women you love so much in your lives to get tested and to take care of themselves. Guys, you do the same for all the guy stuff. I want you all around for a really, really long time. It's scary and uncomfortable, but better safe than sorry.

After waiting for the news I went out to my car and cried. Finally, I feel hope for a lot of things that I'd given up on and I needed this kick in the butt. This song came to mind. Btw, that car accident? It was exactly the same hit this car takes, but with an F250.

You know all that stupid stuff that bugs us all everyday? Think of how stupid it really is. Thousands of women today got news opposite to mine. I think worrying about what other people think of my appearance and about me in general is pretty dumb, now, eh? If people at our age and older are still shallow like teenagers, who needs them? I'm not going to be an idiot anymore.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR PRAYERS, FINGER CROSSING, AND GOOD THOUGHTS! I HAVE REALLY, REALLY APPRECIATED EVERYTHING.

Ummmmm....

So, I've got nothing. I have a lot on my mind, but it would drive you all away. I seem to be driving people away these days (not such a good feeling, but it's what I do best).

Ummmm..........ok, how about a "battle?"

BEACH & A TROPICAL DRINK?

OR

MOUNTAINS & BEER?

The guest list is up to you. :)

THIS WOMAN HAS BALLS!

The woman in this clip tells it like it is and the cleric on the receiving end doesn't like it! She gets my respect!

Cliche? Hackneyed?

I remember watching this when I was 10 years old. I was so excited, because the singer had long hair. (It really is an illness, I tell you.)

May they rest in peace...

I'm very saddened by the news of the firefighters from South Carolina. I have a high school friend who is a firefighter and does confined space rescue. I pray for his safety once in a while. He's really brave and loves his job. I couldn't imagine him doing anything else. It is a calling and a loss like this hits all of the firemen around the country.

I also have a high school classmate that I have known since I was little. His dad was killed in a house fire when the floor collapsed. He thought more of his children were inside and he ran back in to get them. Everyone was safely outside or spending the night with friends. (Good time to mention that you do need 'meeting' points, folks.) After a while in the hospital he could not recover and died. I have been afraid of fire ever since. In fact, when I was in elementary school (around the time of Mr. H's death) we had the usual visit from the fire department. Every opportunity I had to shut off a gas burner or to blow out a candle, I did. I was that afraid.

Those bad memories of people grieving because someone's life was lost to a fire returned today. It is all just very sad and my heart goes out to the families, friends, and brothers of those firefighters.

Be safe, Birdman!

Humanity defines a nation

A lot of people say that the United States' lack of humanity as it pertains to the unborn, the aged, and the infirmed is shameful. I would agree. So when I say this, I am not casting stones: Iraq has got to get its act together, and it has to begin with how they treat each other, especially those who are the weakest. This story just broke my heart. ***Be sure to watch the news clip that accompanies this story. It will break your heart, but will also show the contrast in the care and concern of our troops over many others in this world.

EXPLANATION

I'm bored. I know, I haven't been done everything for school for 24 hours and I am bored. For 10 months I pretty much think about something school related from the time I wake up until I finally fall asleep (every freakin' day). I'll probably be weirder than usual for a few days. I have to adjust to the idea that I can have a life, have some free time, and breathe without stress.

Btw, remember how a couple of weeks ago I mentioned some medical tests? I have to get another one Thursday. It is important and I'll talk about it more another day, but for now, just pray that everything is ok (as expected). It is meant to be a "yes, you are fine" definitive test, but nerve-wracking just the same. The past month I've had a few tests and a few blood tests. I need a break, now. I need to have an awesome summer after three years of "ick."

I'll be working on some things over the summer. I would like to have a day trip at least once a week and post pictures. I plan on going down to Tennessee for about five or six days. I'd also like to become the exercise freak I once was. The thyroid seems to functioning and the metabolism finally seems to be jolted out of its slumber. This time next year (Lord willing) I should be thin and really active, which would mean the world to me. Everything in its time. Since September, I've lost close to 50 pounds. I know the difference and that is what matters. (My mom took in a pair of pants last week...two inches on each side of my waist!)

So, that is the state of RT.

I've been saving up some headlines--time to purge!

McCain Says He'll Fight Clinton's 'Pork'...
Hillary's? Will he eat the cracklin's?
Bill's? Pulled pork?

TOWN: $500 FINE FOR SAGGY PANTS...
How much for saggy t*ts?

SHOWDOWN: Pelosi wants to allow lawmakers' adult children to tag along on taxpayer-funded travel -- for free!
Well, you know, the royal family needs to go places. I know, how about we give them some Dom, too.

SQUIRREL GOES ON RAMPAGE, INJURES THREE...
Apparently a relative of this guy.

Motel patron uses Bible to set blazes
Talk about being on fire for God!

Indian man, 73, fails school exams on 38th try
The stereotype is apparently a myth.

Lose weight and get drunk faster: US study
Woooo hoooooo!!!!!!! I'll be an even cheaper date.

Driver almost chokes on bag of marijuana
Ummm, reminds me of...nevermind....we never got caught!

Fla. cops catch man accused of peeping, peeing while wearing lingerie with blond wig
And folks, that is how I met Sssssteve (First with Flair)!

Woman complains to cop about "bad crack"
Det. Wyatt responds, "Sorry, Ma'am. I didn't mean to bend over and pick up my pencil in front of you."

N.C. fines man who switched car from diesel to soybean oil
North Carolina has hippies?

Two Chinese officials jailed after bridge built by blind man collapses, killing 12
Note to self: Even Chinese built bridges are cheap and junky.
(I'll skip the obvious joke...too easy.)

Republican punches Democrat on floor of Alabama Senate
About freakin' time! Apparently the Democrat didn't feel anything: no sense, no feeling.

Lion and tiger kill man on building's roof
Oh my! Was there a bear in the vicinity?

Lumber magnate marries woman who is 62 years younger
Guess he's got some good, pressure treated wood, eh?

Wisconsin woman: Deep-fried testicles 'taste like chicken nuggets'
I always found that . . . oh . . . nevermind.

Polish lawmaker equates short skirts with loose morals, says they should be outlawed
(Insert polish joke here!) Yeah and big feet and big hands equate...IT IS A MYTH, I TELL YOU!!!!!!!!

No charges in case of mannequin salesman caught boiling skulls in his apartment
I can't think of a caption for this, but this would make a creepy movie.

Telephone company: Woman's name is too gay
What's wrong with the name Pat MacDyke-Carpetmuncher? (She took her partner's name.) [Wow. I gotta get my butt to church...this is bad, today.]

Bulgaria's last 3 dancing bears freed
Once in the wild, they were beaten and their tutus were hung from the top of a pine tree.

The grind's almost over to forge two perfect balls
Grinding? Perfect balls? Heh...I've heard that one before.

Toddler served margarita in a sippy cup
Finally, a cure for teething and the annoyance of small children screaming in the middle of restaurants!

Man says he found snake head in beans
Ummmm....(I've been bad enough.)

Streaker sets off school extinguisher
Guess he had a "smokin'" bod.

Three-legged dog Jack the Peg saves Australian family
Arrrrrrrrrrgh he be a pirate dog!

UN SECRETARY GENERAL: CLIMATE CHANGE BEHIND DARFUR KILLING...
Seriously, what the heck are they smoking?

Exclusive: Suicide Bomb Teams Sent to U.S., Europe
Again I ask: It is the end of the world and I'm still not good enough? Dang.

WHO ARE YOU??????

The MOXARGON group has a "What type of conservative are you?" quiz on its blog. Go there to take the quiz (or stay here, but still visit them...spread the linky love).

You scored as Reagan Con, Reagan Con: You believe that America is the solution and not the problem, a strong defence, and the smiting of all those who stand against freedom. Your motto: "What would Reagan do?" Reagan Con 100% Libertarian 92% Evangeli-Con 75% Log Cabin-Con 67% Neo-Con 58% Paleo-Con 50% What Kind of Conservative Are You? created with QuizFarm.com

THE LIST

No. not "that" list. I don't have one of "those" lists. I'm talking about my checklist:

• Exams graded. . . check
• Grades completed and printed out . . . check
• Copies of grades to supervisor and guidance . . . check
• Grade/attendance records submitted . . . check
• Count all of my books . . . check
• Set aside copies of exams and unclaimed graded work . . . check
• Account for my professional development hours . . . check
• Turn in my keys . . check
  
• Get my checklist signed by four departments and three administrators . . . check

Tomorrow: Paycheck and graduation! Wooooooooooo fk'n hooooooooooooooo!!!!!! (Er...not very evangelical of me, eh?)

Now for the thought of the day:
When my grandmother that died 10/05 was in an assisted living/care center, they used to have people come in to play the piano. The person would usually play songs from the '20s-'40s...you know, to appeal to the youth of those attending the time set aside for music. I wondered as I would pass by on my way to my grandmom's room what might be sung when I am in old-age home at 90 years of age. I mean, I don't think I'll be able to bang my head. Great. I'll have to listen to synthesizer music from '80s, won't I? You know what? Maybe it will actually be a little like this:

The Sunday Song

Last night, well actually the past few weeks (off and on), I toyed with the idea of putting a song on the blog that expresses my faith. Lo and behold, I go on Little Miss Chatterbox's blog and she had the same idea and beat me to it. So I was thinking, I'll put up a song on Sunday evenings and she can have the mornings. :) The songs I put up won't always be what you might consider Christian, even though they are. I'll be choosing what speaks to me in the hope it will find space in your heart or mind. If you aren't given to my faith, it is fine and dandy with me. The music is usually good and you don't have to listen if you don't want to. I won't be offended.

This song is titled, "Saint and Sinner" by Derek Webb. He's an edgy little guy. I love this song because it reminds me of who I really am...far from perfect. Enjoy.

Happy Father's Day

This is my dad. He's a couple of years shy of 70. You'd never know it.

Father's Day is a day of pride for a lot of the men-folk who visit my blog. You have children or stepchildren (or serve as father-figures to grandchildren, nieces, and nephews), and from what I've read in your blogs, you love them and would do just about anything for them, because you want what is best for them. That's why I like y'all so much. :) It is my hope that your children show you the same love and respect.

I hope you use the memories of your own fathers to inspire you to be just as awesome or to do things better, of course, depending on the relationship you had with your own father.

Here are two quotations I found that seem to be really good advice:

The great man is he who does not lose his child's heart ...

To be in your child's memories tomorrow ... you have to be in their lives today.

Please use the comments section to provide a favorite memory of your father, something that made you grateful to have the father you have, or to provide your favorite moment (so far) as a dad. Of course, you don't need to be a dad to leave a comment. :)

Happy Father's Day!!!!!!!!

A joke for my blog buddies who partake...

Good joke: Brewer's Convention

Really long, totally voluntary, MEME

This MEME can be found at Parkway Rest Stop. It is a pretty humorous blog out of NJ...go visit. If you decide to answer all or some of the questions, please let us know you did, so that we may visit your blog to see what you wrote. Hey, it is a chance to pimp yourself! :) This is really long, but I have no life, so it is ok. :)

Were you named after anyone?
My mom swears that I was named after one of my dad's girlfriends after he said "no" to Maria and Marjorie Helen [Thank God for that small favor...even though it was after my grandmom.]

When was the last time you cried?
Today, on my way home from work. Not talking about it.

Do you like your handwriting?
Yes. I've worked really hard at it. It was messy when I was a youngin'.

What is your favorite lunch meat?
German bologna (must have sour cream and onion chips with it)

Do you have kids?
NO! I spend my days with up to 400 +/- students I have taught at any given time during their four-year stay at my school. One hundred or more a year.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?
Not sure. Probably.

Do you use sarcasm a lot?
What kind of freakin' question is that? I gave a class an answer sheet to an exam yesterday. There were 50 questions. A kid asked, "How many questions are on the test?" I said, "One hundred." That student and friends thought I was for real and asked where the other answer sheet was. Yeah. I love sarcasm.

Do you still have your tonsils?
Yep, and they are HUGE!

Would you bungee jump?
Ab-so-freakin'-lutely not!

What is your favorite cereal?
Golden Grahams or Cocoa Krispies

Do you untie your shoes when you take them off?
Nope.

Do you think you are strong?
Physically...no. Mentally...been told I am, but I know better.

What is your favorite ice cream?
A mixture of Haagen Dazs chocolate and coffee ice creams are way yummy!

What is the first thing you notice about people?
Their eyes.

Red or pink?
RED!

What is the least favorite thing about yourself?
My weight. I also have a hard time believing compliments. I hate that. I want to be grateful.

Who do you miss the most?
My best friend is getting ready to move more than half the country away from here...I'll miss her the most. (Well, I've let go of all the "baggage" and you do tell your friends more than your grandparents.)

What color pants and shoes are you wearing?
I'm not wearing pants, and I am not wearing shoes.

What was the last thing you ate?
I just ate a cheeseburger delivered by a really stoned delivery guy. My mom said she could smell the herbage. Hey. How does she know what that smells like? Hmmmm.....

What are you listening to right now?
I am watching a Phillies game.

If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Brick red or burnt sienna

Favorite smells?
What the air and earth smells like after it rains, popcorn, pumpkin pie, leather, and sandalwood...not all combined, but sandalwood and leather....yee gads watch out! That's a man scent...drives me...nevermind.

Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?
My mom, to tell her I was leaving work and to see if she needed me to stop anywhere.

Favorite sports to watch?
ICE HOCKEY! Baseball, football, NASCAR, UFC, and sometimes skiing.

Hair color?
Some gray that needs to be dyed. Natural color? Reddish, light brownish, auburnish. Dyed? Same thing, but with blonde highlights. I'm thinking of getting a little more blonde/strawberry blonde when I get my hair done Wednesday.

Eye color?
Really pretty blue eyes. That is one good thing I know I have.

Do you wear contacts?
Yes. Not all the time, though.

Favorite food?
Fried chicken and mashed potatoes

Scary movies or happy endings?
Happy endings. It doesn't have to be a tear-jerker, just some hope is nice.

Last movie you watched?
Pirates of the Caribbean (with one of my classes).

What color shirt are you wearing?
I'm not wearing a shirt. I'm wearing a gingham night gown.

Summer or winter?
Fall. I love the smells of burning wood, wet leaves, and the warmth with a cool breeze (plus the humidity is usually low).

Hugs or kisses?
While I love a good hug, I like nice hot, wet, monster kisses. Not that I like to kiss monsters...well, given my past...nevermind.

Favorite dessert?
Ice cream.

What book are you reading now?
I read for a living. However, in addition to summer reading for school, I will be reading Joyce Meyers's The Power of Simple Prayer and Preston & Child's The Book of the Dead (suggested by a teacher at my school) for my own enjoyment.

What is on your mouse pad?
A really cute kitty cat.

What did you watch on t.v. last night?
Reba reruns, American Chopper, and some hot rod show, then Craig Ferguson.

Favorite sound?
Rain. Guitar. Piano. The whine of steel guitars, especially in old, sad country songs.

Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Beatles. I really don't like the Rolling Stones. My mom used to have an original copy of Meet the Beatles and I used to love listening to it, especially to learn to harmonize (well try to harmonize).

What is the farthest you have been from home?
Los Angeles. Misspent youth.

Do you have a special talent?
I've been told as such. What? You think I'm telling you that? Never!
One that I can tell you is that I can think of a song or song lyrics for almost any situation or to say what I want to say without having to take the risk of actually saying it myself.

Where were you born?
Philadelphia (Two months early, transferred from one hospital to another in a basket in a police car...was turning blue...good times!)

OINK, OINK!

Skul sent me a photo of the piggies in his backyard. I believe Mrs. Skul took the picture. :) That's a lot of bacon and barbecue. YUM!

SERIOUSLY...

If you have talent.....express it and don't be afraid to take that risk!

RUTH BELL GRAHAM

Obviously, I did not know Ruth Bell Graham, but here a few of my observations and what I think her life illustrates:

A week or so ago, upon the dedication of Billy Graham's library, I watched an old interview with Ruth Graham. During the interview they asked about her early years with Mr. Graham. What struck me was when she said that while she was getting to know Billy Graham she said to God that if it was His will, "It would be an honor to marry him (Billy Graham)." Early on she saw his potential, maybe before Billy Graham even saw his own potential. What this also shows is her submission to God's will. That's a hard one, as any Christian who truly believes in God will tell you. It also shows her willingness to follow Billy Graham wherever God took him. I know it is "unpopular" to talk about submission, but the truly Biblical sense of it is that the wife submits to her husband because he is following what God has placed before him; meaning, the husband is submitting to God. (The man is supposed to treat the wife as God would treat her...btw.) So, when Ruth Bell Graham stated so plainly that she'd be honored to marry Billy Graham, she knew that she'd have to rely upon him (with some input from her, of course) to ultimately make decisions based on how he believed God was leading. That's brave and I believe it brought blessings into her life.

To me, Mrs. Graham seemed to embody the grace and intellect I'd like to have some day. I've been thinking a lot about my faith and how I "walk it." (I know...I have far to go.) Imagine your spouse being on the road all of the time and having to raise your kids and deal with all the domestic stuff yourself the majority of the time. Imagine being fiercely smart, put together, and talented, but choosing to put that to the side of your spouse's calling. Not easy. Again, that is grace. It is also God granting Billy Graham His grace to do what he needed to do as part of his calling.

As many of you know, there is a Bible story about Ruth and how she moved from her homeland to take care of her mother-in-law. Widowed and broke, she also had to resort to gleaning the scraps of grain from a field of a distant kinsman named Boaz. Long story short, he saw her dedication to her task and to her mother-in-law and they ended up together. Why am I telling you all of this? I looked up the meaning of the name, knowing this story. The name Ruth comes from Hebrew meaning "friend." Yes, Ruth Graham loved her husband in a romantic sense, but to live the life they did, she also had to be his best friend and to be his confidant. Imgaine the stories she's heard! Wow! Imgaine all of the amazing things that she witnessed God do, just because she submitted to God.

I saw a quote by Mrs. Graham: "Just pray for a tough hide and a tender heart." She had a husband under constant scrutiny. She was of a faith increasingly under attack. She had to deal with criticism. I think her quote says it all. Be strong, yet compassionate.

As you may notice, she held on to her maiden name. I think it was because of her closeness to her father. He was a missionary/surgeon (both parents were missionaries to China). Because of the relationship she and her father had, she honored both of her parents in her adulthood with her work in the Ruth and Billy Graham Children's center, a hospital for children in Asheville, NC. How did she fund that work? She funded it through royalties from her writings (prose and poetry). She was allowed that major blessing because she submitted to God and His will.

When we submit to God, He puts us where we are supposed to be in His perfect timing. All of that leads to immense blessing.

My sick, sick family!

My cousin just emailed this to me. Keep in mind, he is the son of two missionaries, has two small children, a great wife. This sooooo reminds me of the punk rocker, sporting the Docs. Wonder if he still has that Sid Vicious t-shirt I bought him on South Street. He's not right, y'all!

HERE'S ONE I HAVEN'T TRIED, YET...

I'm not feeling too deep of thought this week. I have a lot on my mind and don't have the spare brain cells (only have but a few to begin with) to give to deep discussion. However, if you ask the Magic 8-ball a question, I'll be sure to provide an unprofessional, unknowledgeable, terse, and sometimes tactless response--in phrase form, of course. HAVE FUN!!!

I did ask the 8-ball a question and it said the, "outlook doesn't look good." Yep.

The "ball" will provide answers as you ask the questions. There will be no time limit.

ON THIS DATE, 1970:

The Beatles had their last song topping the charts. Every time I hear this song it means more and more to me.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR...

Last week, in anticipation of tomorrow, the last day of classes before our final exams begin, I wrote a list of things I've learned about the students. My observations ranged from "boys smell like hoagies in the spring and try to cover it up with AXE" to how truly impressed I am at the ability my students have to deal with tremendous pressure and stress, yet still get things done. My school is really, really demanding and has high standards. That's not to say the students who need help in any way possible way do not receive help. Our school is a huge family and from the kids to the administration, we all care about each other very much. Yes, we have our resident jerks, but for the most part I can count them on one hand. Seriously.

When I was thinking of writing this, tonight, after grading the last of the essays for the year, I thought about what I have learned about myself since I started teaching.

The school: I love it. Does it stress me out to no end? Yep. In fact, this past September/October I found myself leaving in tears quite a few nights because of all the stress I knew I'd endure. I decided to not be so emotionally tied to my job. I gave it to God and said, "move me if you want...anywhere...I'm not stuck to this comfort zone anymore." Yes. Comfort zone. Even with all the stress, it is an awesome place to work.

Me as an educator: My job is never done. Even during the summer I'll be getting ready for next year. I'll be thinking about my kids from previous years and wondering how life is treating them. My first group of kids graduated from college this year. Wow! Aside from all of that, I see room for improvement and a desire to continue teaching. There are kids I reach that other teachers do not, from an academic standpoint and from a just-trying-to-get-through-life reality that these kids live. I'm still trying to understand the really smart and motivated kids. I relate to the lower and unmotivated kids, but somehow I've ended up teaching the higher levels. God's grace.

Over the summer, after a brief time to enjoy my best friend's wedding and a visit with my cousin in Tennessee, I'll be back to work planning for next year. I have a lot of ideas and I'm thinking of ways to streamline some of what I do so that I can be a little more organized. I'm literally reading at least 500-1,000 pages of paper a week (grading). That is aside from reading, updating plans, and planning.

Me as a person: Teaching has definitely made me more patient. I'm hyper (yet shy...don't get that one) and I see a task at hand and bull through until it is done. That can be stressful to me and those around me, so I've learned to be a bit more patient with myself. I've always had patience for others (well except the idiots on the road in the morning).

I learned a great deal about compassion and how to hold my tongue. I used to be quick to anger. Then I stopped taking things personally. It isn't about me. The kids are having their lives and I am so not a part of it. We plan and think about these kids from the time we wake up until we go to sleep. Really. Some of my best lesson plans, based on specific needs within my classes, have been "brainstormed" in the shower or on my way to work. Now, I find myself praying on my way to work. I pray for my friends and for my kids. I think of their needs beyond the classroom. I've learned that my assignments can be a little late if it means that a kid doesn't have a breakdown because of the load he or she is carrying. Sometimes an assignment isn't really as important as it once seemed when you hear about something in a child's life. Compassion is key. Good thing the kids understand my dry wit and sarcasm. I'd be screwed; that's going nowhere.

There is one other thing I've learned, though. I need a life. With all that I've said in the previous paragraphs, my lack of life is painfully evident. While I am satisfied with my job, I am not satisfied with the state of my personal life. Teaching takes a lot of a person's life. However, in giving so much of my time and energy I've seemed to have lost myself a bit. There should be more to life than work and home, back and forth. That is my summer assignment (that and reading my book about prayer).

So hopefully you all will see pictures of my adventures this summer. Then maybe, I'll have something more to write about than headlines and ice cream. :)

New battle!

SCOOPED ICE CREAM
VS.
SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM?
WHY?

Glimpse into my world...

Feel free to add your own. I'm sure you have them, you sickos.

A thanks to those in harm's way...

A PHILLY FAVORITE

I'd say this song is somewhat timeless. :)

UMMMMMMMMMM.....

Spelling Bee Champion On CNN - Watch more free videos

Sometimes having a #1search isn't a good thing...

WELL, I GUESS I HAVE DECLARED MY LOVE FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE...

Dear China

Since China won't publish the truth about their own human rights abuses, I thought I would. As you all know China won't allow certain truths about their government to be shown; however, all I need is to visit my sitemeter (wink, wink).

So, China...once upon a time 18 years ago, your countrymen were brave enough to protest against the government. While one tank soldier chose to not run over a countryman, others were killed by soldiers and/or police.


Many people were killed. Many were jailed. Many went missing. Many sought exile here in the U.S. or in other parts of the world.

I was stunned (not really) to find out this evening that newspaper editors were fired for bringing a slight bit of attention to the protests of 18 years ago. So here are the pictures that your government doesn't want you to see. I hope you are allowed to taste true freedom, someday. I'm grateful I have been blessed to live in a country founded on freedoms, especially freedom of speech.

HEADLINES!!!!

Maybe I'll have something insightful to post someday soon, but until then...enjoy the headlines!

Pork shortage in China intensifies...
A bacon shortage? THE HORROR!!!!!

June snowstorm closes highway, dumps 8 inches in Wyoming...
Residents seen building Al Gore-men and melting them in effigy.

Big Turkey incursion in Iraq would be U.S. nightmare
Those big turkeys are frightening.

New Bacteria Named After Brazilian Scientist
Now he has a new pick-up line, "Hey baby, I got love germs I wanna spread. Care to catch 'em?"
(I'm not even good at fake pick-up lines...I'm hopeless.)

Students take TV fight to Venezuela Congress
Wait. They elect a DICtator and they think they'll have democratic recourse? Idiots.

Meet Bono? I'm not interested, says Canada's PM
Guess he's a Celine Dion fan. Blek.

Cops raid wrong place, kick man in groin
In the cops' defense, they mistook "Operation Sunshine" as wake-up calls for the alarm clock phobic.

English fans pool cash to buy their own soccer team
Wyatt, I've got my summer pay. Wanna see if we can pool our pennies and buy the Flyers? I've always wanted to own a hockey team. (That would be so cool!)

Police are easing age and fitness rules
If I ever want to quit teaching...

Origin of Deja Vu Pinpointed
I could have sworn I heard that somewhere before...(wha, wha, whaaaaaa)

Serious day...

After getting an important test done, today, I have to get a follow-up, shortly. I don't want to talk too much about it right now. I'm drained from thinking about things. Just keep praying for me. Thank you.

(Btw, the winners of my caption contest are located a few posts below this.)

Hockey starts soon, right?

A major congratulations to the Ducks on winning Lord Stanley's cup. May it never be empty! It was awesome to see real excitement from the team when they celebrated their win. Hockey is the most awesome sport on the face of the earth! Grit and endurance. Gentlemen as they shake hands after it is all said and done.

Teemu Selanne has had an awesome career and I am glad he is able to cap it off with the Stanley Cup.

By the way, go visit Wyatt, our resident hockey nut and pimp daddy. It is his two year blogiversary. Congratulations, Wyatt!

Hockey starts again in about two and a half months...

Trekkie Personality Test

A H/T goes to Skul, but I don't have a way to link to him, so I will just thank him for the post idea. :) I wouldn't say I'm a talented singer. I'm an ok, singer who sings best in her car, alone. ;P''''''''
You are Uhura
You are a good communicator with a
pleasant soft-spoken voice.
Also a talented singer.

Uhura 50% Chekov 50% Spock 49% Mr. Scott 40% James T. Kirk (Captain) 40% Geordi LaForge 25% Leonard McCoy (Bones) 25% Data 22% Will Riker 5% Deanna Troi 0% Worf 0% Beverly Crusher 0% Jean-Luc Picard 0% Mr. Sulu 0% An Expendable Character (Redshirt) 0%
Click here to take the "Which startrek character are you?" quiz...

So weird and random that I have to share!

I was just doing an image search of chocolate (don't ask--I was looking for something). What pops up? Chocolate Kama Sutra. Yeah. Sex and candy at the same time! Not that I'd know anything about that...well, I eat candy once in a while. I'm not even going to link to it. I do have morals, believe it or not. Actually, all kinds of weirdness pops up (8" chocolate "nuts" and chocolate boobs...geesh).

THE BATTLE!!!!!

DRY RUB VS. SAUCE
WHICH ONE? WHY?

TWO MORE WEEKS, TWO MORE WEEKS...

Two weeks from today I will not have to think about essays, quizzes, tests, articles, excuses, cheating, and parents (although, they can be really supportive). Two weeks from today begins my summer vacation! The one thing I will be most grateful for is the break from angst such as this:
(Btw...my luck with men is best exemplified by the cheerleader with something in her eye. And could I walk through the halls cross-checking people? Please?) YES! I think the singer is hot!