Wow! What gorgeous weather we are having here in upper east Tennessee. Absolutely glorious. Sunny. Cool. Just perfect.
Today has been a really lovely day. The weather. The fact I slept in. Just piddling around the house.
Then we made our first trip to a brand new Sam's Club. Wow! We spent a couple of hours up there. It's really nice. I know there are those who don't care for Sam's/Wal-Mart...but when you're on a very tight budget, you gotta do what you gotta do.
Did I mention the fact that we had to have our car repaired? I had purchased my tires from them (a few years ago) and had purchased the road hazard insurance. Well, I picked up a nail in a tire last week, so I finally made the time to take it up there for repair. Nice new thing...if you have a Sam's Club membership, you can have your car tires repaired for free, even if you didn't buy the tires there!! Sweet, huh?
I hate to even think of it, but I need to get back to studying. Our prof. continued lecturing on chapters which weren't going to be covered in our test last Thursday. We are now two weeks ahead of schedule according to our syllabus! That means I need to get busy and read to get caught up to the lectures. I just wouldn't read those chapters before the test because I needed to concentrate on the chapters we were being tested on. So now, I need to play "catch-up." For those of you who don't know...I am back in school earning my degree in elementary education. I am currently taking a Biology class.
So.......off I go. Reading and reading and reading and................
Here's hoping your Saturday is as glorious as mine.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Feelin' Kinda Mellow
For a Tuesday, today was pretty good. Had a Biology lecture but not too bad all around day.
I must admit that for being near the end of September, the heatwave continues in the Southeast. We were in the 90's!!! Good grief. Have I ever mentioned how I don't DO heat??
Busy day making sure I get all my information together for my trip next week. The acolytes (or a goodly portion of them) are off to Washington, DC to the National Cathedral for the Annual Acolyte Festival. My daughter is an acolyte and I am the coordinator/liaison for the corps. Been on the phone trying to make sure we have all our "t's" crossed and "i's" dotted. I'm so excited. I can't wait til we depart. This is gonna be a marvelous adventure. I've never been to the Cathedral. I think our kids will really enjoy this and be amazed.
Thanks to the generosity of a few folks I know through the internet, our endless fundraising and various other contributions, we've been able to get enough money put together for the trip. Thanks be to God.
I have to admit that I am rather nervous. This Thursday I have my first Biology exam. My poor little brain is so full of information I feel like I'm gonna explode. I've been going over and over my notes. I hope and pray I can remember all the information. My professor is from India. He does a really good job, but he is very difficult to understand at times.
Speaking of studying, I better get back to it.
I must admit that for being near the end of September, the heatwave continues in the Southeast. We were in the 90's!!! Good grief. Have I ever mentioned how I don't DO heat??
Busy day making sure I get all my information together for my trip next week. The acolytes (or a goodly portion of them) are off to Washington, DC to the National Cathedral for the Annual Acolyte Festival. My daughter is an acolyte and I am the coordinator/liaison for the corps. Been on the phone trying to make sure we have all our "t's" crossed and "i's" dotted. I'm so excited. I can't wait til we depart. This is gonna be a marvelous adventure. I've never been to the Cathedral. I think our kids will really enjoy this and be amazed.
Thanks to the generosity of a few folks I know through the internet, our endless fundraising and various other contributions, we've been able to get enough money put together for the trip. Thanks be to God.
I have to admit that I am rather nervous. This Thursday I have my first Biology exam. My poor little brain is so full of information I feel like I'm gonna explode. I've been going over and over my notes. I hope and pray I can remember all the information. My professor is from India. He does a really good job, but he is very difficult to understand at times.
Speaking of studying, I better get back to it.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Jena 6 and the 21st Century
Racism, Bigotry, Gay-bashing, Sexism..........
Are we really a society of racists and bigots or are we just really stupid?
Do we never learn from our past?
I honestly just do not get "it".
When I was growing up (northern born and bred), my parents always taught me to treat EVERY human being with the same dignity and respect as they gave.
Not until I moved to the South (whilst an 8th grader), was I ever confronted with racism and bigotry. (This is not to say there are no racists or bigots up north. I had just never been confronted with it.)
While in college, (in the mid-70's) I began dating men of various ethnicities. For the most part I didn't experience any problems. However, I would, from time to time, endure the childish, uneducated slur. When my husband and I married, my family was not exactly pleased. They were very concerned for our safety and job securities. Well, being the kind of person who believes in living her life honestly, I ignored the reservations by my family and have been happily married for 14 years. We also have a BEAUTIFUL, brilliant daughter.
In the 30+ years I've been intimately acquainted with the adversities people of color must endure in this country, the place I have found to be most problematic, has been in the judicial system.
After my apartment had been broken into (in the early 80's) I was in a detective's office to identify some of the items they had recovered. In the middle of this, he excuses himself because he has to go check on the "n.....'s" washing their cars. I said, "exCUSE me????" Oh, sorry, "I have to go check on the spooks".... OMG. I couldn't believe that I was actually hearing this.
Another time I was serving on a grand jury (late 80's). A couple of officers made sure to inform us when a perpetrator was black. They never announced when someone was white. I remember saying to my fellow jurors, "it doesn't matter what color their skin is, we are to listen to the facts based on the evidence." During this same time, one of the jurors tells a very "off-color" joke.
Since when is it okay to do this? And here we are some twenty years later and no better off. I don't know all the facts in this case in Louisianna. I wasn't there. I do know that if what I've heard so far is true, that three white boys got off "scot-free" after a hate crime while six black boys got put in jail for fighting. I'm not saying there shouldn't be punishment for beating someone unconscious. But where was the justice when the white boys hung nooses in a tree? They were clearly trying to intimidate the black students. That is considered a hate crime. Where is the justice?
Have you ever been on the other side of a hate crime? I have. It doesn't feel good at all. It doesn't make sense. Bullying, of any kind, is not right. If we don't stand up and start standing together to care for our brothers and sisters, then how could we expect anyone to stand up for us? How can we look ourselves in the mirror? How can we sleep at night? How can we call ourselves Christians (or whatever religious ilk)?
Are we really a society of racists and bigots or are we just really stupid?
Do we never learn from our past?
I honestly just do not get "it".
When I was growing up (northern born and bred), my parents always taught me to treat EVERY human being with the same dignity and respect as they gave.
Not until I moved to the South (whilst an 8th grader), was I ever confronted with racism and bigotry. (This is not to say there are no racists or bigots up north. I had just never been confronted with it.)
While in college, (in the mid-70's) I began dating men of various ethnicities. For the most part I didn't experience any problems. However, I would, from time to time, endure the childish, uneducated slur. When my husband and I married, my family was not exactly pleased. They were very concerned for our safety and job securities. Well, being the kind of person who believes in living her life honestly, I ignored the reservations by my family and have been happily married for 14 years. We also have a BEAUTIFUL, brilliant daughter.
In the 30+ years I've been intimately acquainted with the adversities people of color must endure in this country, the place I have found to be most problematic, has been in the judicial system.
After my apartment had been broken into (in the early 80's) I was in a detective's office to identify some of the items they had recovered. In the middle of this, he excuses himself because he has to go check on the "n.....'s" washing their cars. I said, "exCUSE me????" Oh, sorry, "I have to go check on the spooks".... OMG. I couldn't believe that I was actually hearing this.
Another time I was serving on a grand jury (late 80's). A couple of officers made sure to inform us when a perpetrator was black. They never announced when someone was white. I remember saying to my fellow jurors, "it doesn't matter what color their skin is, we are to listen to the facts based on the evidence." During this same time, one of the jurors tells a very "off-color" joke.
Since when is it okay to do this? And here we are some twenty years later and no better off. I don't know all the facts in this case in Louisianna. I wasn't there. I do know that if what I've heard so far is true, that three white boys got off "scot-free" after a hate crime while six black boys got put in jail for fighting. I'm not saying there shouldn't be punishment for beating someone unconscious. But where was the justice when the white boys hung nooses in a tree? They were clearly trying to intimidate the black students. That is considered a hate crime. Where is the justice?
Have you ever been on the other side of a hate crime? I have. It doesn't feel good at all. It doesn't make sense. Bullying, of any kind, is not right. If we don't stand up and start standing together to care for our brothers and sisters, then how could we expect anyone to stand up for us? How can we look ourselves in the mirror? How can we sleep at night? How can we call ourselves Christians (or whatever religious ilk)?
Lovely Day
After the week I just endured, today was a most welcomed relief.
I slept in late and just kinda chilled. I did finally manage to get busy cleaning the house, doing laundry, and so on. But, I've been very remiss in my studies.
I awoke with a horrendous headache. I was out of migraine meds, so I took Aleve instead. It took forEVER for it to help. But, finally, the headache subsided.
I've manage to watch more television than I normally do. Kinda nice to just kick my feet up and chill for a day.
I slept in late and just kinda chilled. I did finally manage to get busy cleaning the house, doing laundry, and so on. But, I've been very remiss in my studies.
I awoke with a horrendous headache. I was out of migraine meds, so I took Aleve instead. It took forEVER for it to help. But, finally, the headache subsided.
I've manage to watch more television than I normally do. Kinda nice to just kick my feet up and chill for a day.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Thank God It's Friday
This has been another week from h - e - double hockey sticks. I'm so glad the work part of the week is over and done.
Went to Super Walmart after work today to buy a few things (yeah, a cart full later...). I'm really starting to hate Halloween. They had all these costumes out at the store and of course my daughter (who is nearly 11) just had to find her costume. Well, finding a costume we can agree on is nearly impossible. But, we finally managed to find something. This cheap little costume and the accessories cost nearly $30!!! She'll wear it for one day. Jeez, what a racket.
I saw a house decorated for Christmas! I shit thee not. Bows, lights, wreaths, tree, and so on. Good Lord, deliver us.
Think I'll just chill a bit tonight and surf around the 'net for a bit. Maybe even play a game or two...which is something I love to do but haven't in a very long time.
Went to Super Walmart after work today to buy a few things (yeah, a cart full later...). I'm really starting to hate Halloween. They had all these costumes out at the store and of course my daughter (who is nearly 11) just had to find her costume. Well, finding a costume we can agree on is nearly impossible. But, we finally managed to find something. This cheap little costume and the accessories cost nearly $30!!! She'll wear it for one day. Jeez, what a racket.
I saw a house decorated for Christmas! I shit thee not. Bows, lights, wreaths, tree, and so on. Good Lord, deliver us.
Think I'll just chill a bit tonight and surf around the 'net for a bit. Maybe even play a game or two...which is something I love to do but haven't in a very long time.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
I am Pooped!!!
What a week!
Went to the Vestry meeting this past Monday to "set the record" straight on a few things. I was very well received and thanked over and over for being there to clear up so much. I even received phone calls and emails the next day! One to apologize for the way I've been treated lately and one to thank me AGAIN for coming, what a great job I did, would I be willing to come to every meeting?????? Uh, no. But, I must admit that I feel somewhat better. I now know that my angst is not with a group of folks, but with one. He does NOT speak for the majority.
Well, today just about did me in. Dropped daughter off at school, went to the office for a bit, left for school at 9:15, attended lab, had packed a picnic lunch which I enjoyed with Jimbo (some folks will know of whom I speak), back to the classroom for a looooong lecture, back to Bristol just in time to pick daughter up from school. From there we went back to the office until a bit after 5. Then we had to go buy a pair of socks, make a deposit at the bank, go to the grocery store and spirit daughter off to her cheerleading practice. While she practiced, I studied. Then home to feed the family, the animals and then off to pick up hubby across town where he dropped off his truck for service. Back home to fold clothes, put more clothes in dryer, bake two pineapple upside down cakes and two batches of brownies. I finally sat down to eat a sandwich then had to wrap said baked goods. Jeez, I'm pooped. Wonder why????
Well, the baked goods are for yet another fund raiser we are doing to earn money for our acolytes. We have raised money to attend the Annual Acolyte Festival in Washington, DC in early October. We now need to raise the funds to help us get through to the end of the year. Like purchasing additional albs and cinctures. For paying for lock-ins/training sessions. Anyway...that's what the baked goodies are for.
I've had a very interesting week. That I must admit. I began the week with a very heavy heart. I knew that I had to face the Vestry to discuss some "issues". But that all worked out great. I was told by our Director of Christian Formation that she plans to "retire" January 6, 2008. (There goes my sounding board!) Although I'm sad for me and the parish, I'm very happy for her. Our organist was accosted by a member of the parish during our annual Rally Day get together this past Sunday. My Biology professor just keeps on lecturing even though he's about three or four days ahead of the syllabus. That means he is lecturing on stuff that won't be on the test next Thursday, but we still have to listen to it all and read all the chapters concerning the new information. My head is about to explode!
Went to the Vestry meeting this past Monday to "set the record" straight on a few things. I was very well received and thanked over and over for being there to clear up so much. I even received phone calls and emails the next day! One to apologize for the way I've been treated lately and one to thank me AGAIN for coming, what a great job I did, would I be willing to come to every meeting?????? Uh, no. But, I must admit that I feel somewhat better. I now know that my angst is not with a group of folks, but with one. He does NOT speak for the majority.
Well, today just about did me in. Dropped daughter off at school, went to the office for a bit, left for school at 9:15, attended lab, had packed a picnic lunch which I enjoyed with Jimbo (some folks will know of whom I speak), back to the classroom for a looooong lecture, back to Bristol just in time to pick daughter up from school. From there we went back to the office until a bit after 5. Then we had to go buy a pair of socks, make a deposit at the bank, go to the grocery store and spirit daughter off to her cheerleading practice. While she practiced, I studied. Then home to feed the family, the animals and then off to pick up hubby across town where he dropped off his truck for service. Back home to fold clothes, put more clothes in dryer, bake two pineapple upside down cakes and two batches of brownies. I finally sat down to eat a sandwich then had to wrap said baked goods. Jeez, I'm pooped. Wonder why????
Well, the baked goods are for yet another fund raiser we are doing to earn money for our acolytes. We have raised money to attend the Annual Acolyte Festival in Washington, DC in early October. We now need to raise the funds to help us get through to the end of the year. Like purchasing additional albs and cinctures. For paying for lock-ins/training sessions. Anyway...that's what the baked goodies are for.
I've had a very interesting week. That I must admit. I began the week with a very heavy heart. I knew that I had to face the Vestry to discuss some "issues". But that all worked out great. I was told by our Director of Christian Formation that she plans to "retire" January 6, 2008. (There goes my sounding board!) Although I'm sad for me and the parish, I'm very happy for her. Our organist was accosted by a member of the parish during our annual Rally Day get together this past Sunday. My Biology professor just keeps on lecturing even though he's about three or four days ahead of the syllabus. That means he is lecturing on stuff that won't be on the test next Thursday, but we still have to listen to it all and read all the chapters concerning the new information. My head is about to explode!
Sunday, September 16, 2007
What a Beautiful Sunday!
Well, today was a very lovely day. After the week I had, I was very, very pleased that all went well at church today.
Today was our annual Rally Day. We picnic together and worship together and just have fun. The kiddies can make crafts or have their faces painted or play the piano.... Anywho, both of my co-chairs for the event couldn't be there! So, of course all was left to me. Toward the end of the event, I was getting ready to ask for folks to help with clean up but I got derailed by an overflowing toilet in the Women's restroom. By the time I got the mess cleaned up and the toilet unplugged, nearly everyone was gone! One family stayed and put up the crafts and paints for me. One gentleman, bless his heart because he brought the hot dogs to be grilled and made the chili and helped in the kitchen, stayed until we had all the dishes and pots and pans done. I soooo appreciate him.
By the time we were done and I locked up the building, daughter and I came home with me intending to study. But I decided I needed to go to my folks' house and blow the debris off their long driveway. (My Dad couldn't get his blower to work yesterday and nearly killed himself trying. He has a very serious heart condition and is not doing well.) So, I packed up and went over there. After that was done, I came home and plopped on the couch. Instead of studying, I took a much-needed long nap. I just couldn't keep my eyes open.
Husband came home around 4 or 4:30 after "dealing" with his mother and two of his younger brothers (I shan't post about all that drama). Hubby says, "how 'bout we go out to dinner tonight?" Are you kidding me??? Oh, yeah. I was soooo happy not to have to cook tonight.
The temps in our region are absolutely magnificent. It was in the 70's today and the 40's last night. Oh, yeah. Now you're talkin' my kinda temps!!
Here's to looking for more of the same!
Today was our annual Rally Day. We picnic together and worship together and just have fun. The kiddies can make crafts or have their faces painted or play the piano.... Anywho, both of my co-chairs for the event couldn't be there! So, of course all was left to me. Toward the end of the event, I was getting ready to ask for folks to help with clean up but I got derailed by an overflowing toilet in the Women's restroom. By the time I got the mess cleaned up and the toilet unplugged, nearly everyone was gone! One family stayed and put up the crafts and paints for me. One gentleman, bless his heart because he brought the hot dogs to be grilled and made the chili and helped in the kitchen, stayed until we had all the dishes and pots and pans done. I soooo appreciate him.
By the time we were done and I locked up the building, daughter and I came home with me intending to study. But I decided I needed to go to my folks' house and blow the debris off their long driveway. (My Dad couldn't get his blower to work yesterday and nearly killed himself trying. He has a very serious heart condition and is not doing well.) So, I packed up and went over there. After that was done, I came home and plopped on the couch. Instead of studying, I took a much-needed long nap. I just couldn't keep my eyes open.
Husband came home around 4 or 4:30 after "dealing" with his mother and two of his younger brothers (I shan't post about all that drama). Hubby says, "how 'bout we go out to dinner tonight?" Are you kidding me??? Oh, yeah. I was soooo happy not to have to cook tonight.
The temps in our region are absolutely magnificent. It was in the 70's today and the 40's last night. Oh, yeah. Now you're talkin' my kinda temps!!
Here's to looking for more of the same!
Friday, September 14, 2007
I Made It!
Whew. It's finally Friday. The end of a hellacious week at work. I can't remember when I've ever been so happy about a work week coming to an end. This is one of those times I am most grateful.
In addition to having a productive day today at the office, the temp has cooled down, it rained all day long...a nice long, steady rain which we desperately needed. Yes, life is lookin' up.
A busy weekend awaits, but at least most of it is fun stuff. We plan to attend the downtown Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion in the morning. They have FREE kids events from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Then we have a birthday party to travel to in the afternoon. Like I said, busy...but fun! I'm looking forward to that. I just need to figure out how I'm gonna eak out some study time.
In addition to having a productive day today at the office, the temp has cooled down, it rained all day long...a nice long, steady rain which we desperately needed. Yes, life is lookin' up.
A busy weekend awaits, but at least most of it is fun stuff. We plan to attend the downtown Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion in the morning. They have FREE kids events from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Then we have a birthday party to travel to in the afternoon. Like I said, busy...but fun! I'm looking forward to that. I just need to figure out how I'm gonna eak out some study time.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Busy, busy times
Today is Thursday, which means it's my looooong day for school. I have a morning Biology Lab (2 hours) a thirty minute break followed by a 1 hour 20 minute lecture. Sweet Lee, my dear friend, fills in at the office whilst I'm away. He answers the phone, directs folks, stuffs bulletins and redoes coloring boards for the kiddies. He also does a host of other items...like filling finger fonts with Holy Water, making business cards for staff members. Oh, he's a gem. A real "jack of all trades".
Todays lab was actually a lot of fun. We had to test many items with certain chemicals...see if/what reaction we got and document it. Then, we had to test unknown items with known chemicals and figure out what the unknown item was. It was a blast. I love mixing and swirling test tubes.
Thursdays begin with me taking daughter to school, going to the office for a while, going to school for a few hours, returning to the office for several hours (usually working until 6 or 6:30). Whew. Loooong day. But so worth it. I can't wait to be a teacher.
I must keep telling myself that. Yes, I want to be a teacher. I CAN do this. I WILL do this.
I'm pooped. But, it's a good pooped.
This weekend promises to be very busy. I have a ton of studying and reading to do. It's also our Rhythm and Roots Festival. Do a Google search for it, if you have an interest. People come from all over. It's not really "my thing", but tons of people love it. Saturday morning, they have a bunch of games and activities for kids *FREE. Of course, I'll be taking daughter and probably a friend of hers. I took her and a couple of her friends last year and we all had a blast. There is soooo much to do.
Then we have to get home to get ready for a birthday party daughter is invited to. We travel to Johnson City. Then I'll finally get to come home early evening to relax before I have to go to church on Sunday morning for our annual big picnic at church. Whew. No rest for the wicked.
Todays lab was actually a lot of fun. We had to test many items with certain chemicals...see if/what reaction we got and document it. Then, we had to test unknown items with known chemicals and figure out what the unknown item was. It was a blast. I love mixing and swirling test tubes.
Thursdays begin with me taking daughter to school, going to the office for a while, going to school for a few hours, returning to the office for several hours (usually working until 6 or 6:30). Whew. Loooong day. But so worth it. I can't wait to be a teacher.
I must keep telling myself that. Yes, I want to be a teacher. I CAN do this. I WILL do this.
I'm pooped. But, it's a good pooped.
This weekend promises to be very busy. I have a ton of studying and reading to do. It's also our Rhythm and Roots Festival. Do a Google search for it, if you have an interest. People come from all over. It's not really "my thing", but tons of people love it. Saturday morning, they have a bunch of games and activities for kids *FREE. Of course, I'll be taking daughter and probably a friend of hers. I took her and a couple of her friends last year and we all had a blast. There is soooo much to do.
Then we have to get home to get ready for a birthday party daughter is invited to. We travel to Johnson City. Then I'll finally get to come home early evening to relax before I have to go to church on Sunday morning for our annual big picnic at church. Whew. No rest for the wicked.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Relief at Last!
The prayers and kind words of so many friends has helped yesterday be just a very sad memory. I'm feeling much better today...always helps me to vent a bit. I must try to be careful what I say. When I'm really mad, I could say almost anything.
Today was quite busy, but I did manage to get quite a bit done.
The weather has finally changed to something I can live with. It did manage to reach the 80's, but that will change over the weekend...we'll be in the 70's!!! Oh, yeah. This is MY kinda weather. I've actually been able to turn off the a/c and open windows. Oh, my.
I have to admit that blogging is kind of addictive. I really enjoy it and I LOVE reading others'. I must get busy with homework, however. I must remain focused on the golden ring!!! I am determined. I WILL do this.
I do have a sore throat, but I'm sure it's related to sinus drainage. Other than that...today has been a very good one.
Thanks again one and all for listening to my rant of yesterday.
Today was quite busy, but I did manage to get quite a bit done.
The weather has finally changed to something I can live with. It did manage to reach the 80's, but that will change over the weekend...we'll be in the 70's!!! Oh, yeah. This is MY kinda weather. I've actually been able to turn off the a/c and open windows. Oh, my.
I have to admit that blogging is kind of addictive. I really enjoy it and I LOVE reading others'. I must get busy with homework, however. I must remain focused on the golden ring!!! I am determined. I WILL do this.
I do have a sore throat, but I'm sure it's related to sinus drainage. Other than that...today has been a very good one.
Thanks again one and all for listening to my rant of yesterday.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Good God, It's Monday AGAIN!!!!
Well, this fine Tuesday turned out to suck even worse than yesterday.
Let's just say that our Tuesday staff meeting turned into a big argument between me and the Sr. Warden. Oh my God. Super-Micro-Management at its worst!!! Unbelievable bull crap came from this guy. He would try to chastise me for something I hadn't done, saying I didn't have vestry approval and couldn't do it anyway...and then turn around say he had just done the very thing he was telling the staff not to do!!! OMG......
I shan't go into a long diatribe on today's meeting. Let's just say that if only I could afford to walk from this job, I would.
All this bullshit over nothing. All in the name of Christ. It's just so sad and so frustrating.
Well, tomorrow is Hump Day. Surely to goodness it's GOTTA be better!
Whew.
Let's just say that our Tuesday staff meeting turned into a big argument between me and the Sr. Warden. Oh my God. Super-Micro-Management at its worst!!! Unbelievable bull crap came from this guy. He would try to chastise me for something I hadn't done, saying I didn't have vestry approval and couldn't do it anyway...and then turn around say he had just done the very thing he was telling the staff not to do!!! OMG......
I shan't go into a long diatribe on today's meeting. Let's just say that if only I could afford to walk from this job, I would.
All this bullshit over nothing. All in the name of Christ. It's just so sad and so frustrating.
Well, tomorrow is Hump Day. Surely to goodness it's GOTTA be better!
Whew.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Monday Continues
Okay...this has REALLY been a Monday. I mentioned earlier that daughter and I are feeling under the weather. Then while trying to prepare dinner, I slice my thumb with a very sharp knife. Almost passed out (can't stand to see my own blood -- but I can watch others bleed). Had to actually call my Mom (semi-retired nurse) to come over the close my thumb for me. Jeez. What a day.
Think I'll mozey on up to bed before anything else happens.
Think I'll mozey on up to bed before anything else happens.
What Color Is Your Brain?
| Your Brain is Purple |
 You tend to spend a lot of time thinking of fictional people and places - or a very different life for yourself. |
What'>http://www.blogthings.com/whatcolorisyourbrainquiz/">What Color Is Your Brain?
Yes, It's Monday
Here I am, at home, on the first workday of the week. Daughter doesn't feel well, and I don't either. I have a very sore throat...allergy-related as far as I can tell...huge amounts of drainage. So, here I sit watching "Will & Grace" (one of my favs) trying to think of something witty to say. I have nothing.......
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Losing Momentum?
I guess I should start this post with a brief explanation. I am currently the liaison for our acolyte corps at church. I took on this duty last August or September and have, for the most part, loved it. You see, our acolytes had dwindled to a couple faithful, older kids. But they didn't know what they were doing. The leader had become burned out and was just happy to have warm bodies to put into an alb. The kids would come, vest at the last second, carry whatever appointment or article they were supposed to and disappear!! Yes, they would wander the building during the service going into the kitchen to eat and drink. They would usually show back up at "just the right moment" to do their duty, but not always! I shan't belabor this point, but just put it out there so one can see the predicament we were in.
When I took over the job of liaison (which means I do the scheduling, training, etc.) I made it clear that all acolytes would need to attend training sessions, would need to find their own replacements if and when they needed to be absent, would continue to participate as an acolyte during the summer months...on and on. I had training sessions, lock-ins (a.k.a. sleepovers in the church) and the ranks grew from about six to 23! I am thrilled to add that for the first time, we, as a group, will attend the Annual Acolyte Festival at the National Cathedral in October. We've worked our buns off raising money for this trip. We have met our goal with nothing to spare. We are still in need of some more vestments.
All of this brings me to my dilemma. I scheduled a meeting for all acolytes and their parents to attend this morning right after the second service. We were to finalize our plans for our trip, sign "thank you" cards to some folks who have been most generous with their time and their money, and for ALL acolytes to try on their albs. You see, children do tend to grow in a year's time. I need to order more robes and in order to only order one time, I needed all the kids to try on their robe. Well, the oldest kids were not there because the youth group decided to have a "fun day" away from church. Then I had one mother come but not bring her child!!! Okay, so how would I measure your child for his robe?
I'm beginning to feel like the momentum and excitement for this group is beginning to wane. I hope not. I love this group and we have a lot of kids involved. I also have a faithful crew of five adults who are willing to be the leaders each Sunday morning. They take turns making sure each child is vested correctly, does their job properly and puts their robe neatly away.
Maybe I'm just projecting too much into this. I remember when I moved to this town...I was in the eighth grade...and girls weren't even allowed to acolyte!!! I had begged and pleaded with the then-rector. He finally said, "if you can get every 9th thru 12th grade girl to agree to acolyte, you may do it." So, of course I did. And I LOVED acolyting. We even had to acolyte at an 8 a.m. service!!! Imagine, teenagers getting up so early on a Sunday morning as to acolyte at an 8 a.m. service! Those days are long gone. Now we start letting our children acolyte when they enter the second grade. We do NOT participate in the 8 a.m. service. But, we DO acolyte during the summer months again!
Well, I feel a smidge better now that I have gotten this off my chest. I hope I'm just sensitive to this issue and that we don't have a problem. I think, no, I know that most of these kids just LOVE to acolyte. I hope our momentum and fun continue.
When I took over the job of liaison (which means I do the scheduling, training, etc.) I made it clear that all acolytes would need to attend training sessions, would need to find their own replacements if and when they needed to be absent, would continue to participate as an acolyte during the summer months...on and on. I had training sessions, lock-ins (a.k.a. sleepovers in the church) and the ranks grew from about six to 23! I am thrilled to add that for the first time, we, as a group, will attend the Annual Acolyte Festival at the National Cathedral in October. We've worked our buns off raising money for this trip. We have met our goal with nothing to spare. We are still in need of some more vestments.
All of this brings me to my dilemma. I scheduled a meeting for all acolytes and their parents to attend this morning right after the second service. We were to finalize our plans for our trip, sign "thank you" cards to some folks who have been most generous with their time and their money, and for ALL acolytes to try on their albs. You see, children do tend to grow in a year's time. I need to order more robes and in order to only order one time, I needed all the kids to try on their robe. Well, the oldest kids were not there because the youth group decided to have a "fun day" away from church. Then I had one mother come but not bring her child!!! Okay, so how would I measure your child for his robe?
I'm beginning to feel like the momentum and excitement for this group is beginning to wane. I hope not. I love this group and we have a lot of kids involved. I also have a faithful crew of five adults who are willing to be the leaders each Sunday morning. They take turns making sure each child is vested correctly, does their job properly and puts their robe neatly away.
Maybe I'm just projecting too much into this. I remember when I moved to this town...I was in the eighth grade...and girls weren't even allowed to acolyte!!! I had begged and pleaded with the then-rector. He finally said, "if you can get every 9th thru 12th grade girl to agree to acolyte, you may do it." So, of course I did. And I LOVED acolyting. We even had to acolyte at an 8 a.m. service!!! Imagine, teenagers getting up so early on a Sunday morning as to acolyte at an 8 a.m. service! Those days are long gone. Now we start letting our children acolyte when they enter the second grade. We do NOT participate in the 8 a.m. service. But, we DO acolyte during the summer months again!
Well, I feel a smidge better now that I have gotten this off my chest. I hope I'm just sensitive to this issue and that we don't have a problem. I think, no, I know that most of these kids just LOVE to acolyte. I hope our momentum and fun continue.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
About Me
Just to let you know a bit about myself........
I have been parish administrator for the local Episcopal Church for over 28 years. I am currently going to college part time pursuing my degreee in elementary education. I won't be finished in time to be able to teach my daughter (she's currently in fifth grade) but I hope to finish in the next three or four years. I'm so excited about this career change. I've always wanted to be a teacher.
It's good to have goals and dreams. It's even a little sweeter when we get to work toward meeting them!
I am blessed with a very smart, wonderful husband. We've been together for a loooooong time. We've been married for more than 14 years and have an almost-eleven-year-old daughter. We also have two dogs, a fish and a guinea pig. Yes, life is fun and fast paced at our house!
My daughter is gorgeous, very smart and the most wonderful part of my life. I never knew how much a human being could love another human being until I had her.
My husband and I feel very, very blessed indeed to have our daughter. We waited until we were in our late thirties to start a family. Our first attempt ended in a miscarriage which was devastating. But, we tried again, and hit the jackpot!!! Warning: parenthood is NOT for wimps! It's the hardest yet most satisfying and rewarding "job" you'll ever have. I know I've learned a lot in these nearly eleven years.
Guess I'll stop there for now. I'm sure I'll talk lots more about me and my family as I continue to blog.
I have been parish administrator for the local Episcopal Church for over 28 years. I am currently going to college part time pursuing my degreee in elementary education. I won't be finished in time to be able to teach my daughter (she's currently in fifth grade) but I hope to finish in the next three or four years. I'm so excited about this career change. I've always wanted to be a teacher.
It's good to have goals and dreams. It's even a little sweeter when we get to work toward meeting them!
I am blessed with a very smart, wonderful husband. We've been together for a loooooong time. We've been married for more than 14 years and have an almost-eleven-year-old daughter. We also have two dogs, a fish and a guinea pig. Yes, life is fun and fast paced at our house!
My daughter is gorgeous, very smart and the most wonderful part of my life. I never knew how much a human being could love another human being until I had her.
My husband and I feel very, very blessed indeed to have our daughter. We waited until we were in our late thirties to start a family. Our first attempt ended in a miscarriage which was devastating. But, we tried again, and hit the jackpot!!! Warning: parenthood is NOT for wimps! It's the hardest yet most satisfying and rewarding "job" you'll ever have. I know I've learned a lot in these nearly eleven years.
Guess I'll stop there for now. I'm sure I'll talk lots more about me and my family as I continue to blog.
My First Blog
I've been contemplating blogging for quite some time. I've been asked by various friends to think about taking it up and I've finally decided it's time I do.
This week has been rather surreal. I lost a very dear friend of mine to liver disease and I miss him terribly. The funeral service was lovely and exactly what he would have wanted. I even got to participate. I helped with ushering and read the "Prayers of the People". I'm very pleased I got to do that.
Just some very random thoughts here as I begin to "feel" my way around this thing called "blogging".
This week has been rather surreal. I lost a very dear friend of mine to liver disease and I miss him terribly. The funeral service was lovely and exactly what he would have wanted. I even got to participate. I helped with ushering and read the "Prayers of the People". I'm very pleased I got to do that.
Just some very random thoughts here as I begin to "feel" my way around this thing called "blogging".
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