Flip Flop Days

And 6 months later...

2009-12-18T20:14:00.002-05:00

That's how long its been since I last posted. Those of you that still read my blog are well aware of the fact that I am pregnant. I am now in my 7th month or 30 weeks. I am really feeling the weight. My back aches, my feet ache at the end of the day and I am just really tired. Today I am really grouchy! I just want to lay down and cry. But that's what I want to do many days...nothing out of the ordinary. The tears are unbelievable while being pregnant! I cry all the time...over everything...crazy emotions!

We still have our condo for sale and we may have an offer coming in next week. Someone came by today and loved it!!! Yippee! Her mom would be buying it for her and wants to take a look too and had many questions about the place. Keep those fingers crossed that this is the one! Then the stress is where will we live? An apartment? Buy a house? Live with my parents? Not really excited to be moving so close to my due date, but would love to sell the place!

I'll try not to let 6 months pass before updating again...but in 2 months I'll have a baby in my arms and may neglect the blog once again...

Summer is here...

2009-06-19T20:01:00.003-04:00

And boy is it ever hot! Of course, my girl, Peanut loves sitting in the sun. So I try to take her out as much as I can bear.

I am doing homework for the next 3-4 weeks. Have I started on my research papers? NO! I know, I know, get a move on. I have big plans for next week...homework every day!!

I had a very productive end of the year and was able to pack up my entire room before 10 am the day after the kids were finished. Everyone was shocked. I wasn't. That was my goal. The movers came in and started taking all of my stuff out to the storage area. I am really excited to see my new classroom and how decked out in technology it will be.

I had some training last week for a technology program I will be in during the year. I learned how to make a podcast, movies, interactive power points. We are getting some really neat things. Can't wait to try it with my new class...ok, I can wait.

I wish there was more to report...soon...I hope. Stay tuned...

You had to be there...

2009-05-03T12:23:00.002-04:00

Saturday morning, Phil and I headed down to Ringling Museum for my cousin's wedding. It was a very lovely garden wedding and with less than 50 people attending. Odd for my family. But it was very nice. Hot, but nice.

After the wedding Phil and I checked in at our hotel and headed to the reception at Ceviche. YUM!!!!! OMG!!!! YUM!!!!!

My aunt and uncle got a room too but, he and the kids came down with the flu so it was just my aunt at the wedding and reception. Well, somehow she talked my other aunts and mom into staying and partying that night with Phil and I. They had no extra clothes, no makeup, nothing.

With a stop at the local goodwill for some sleep clothes and going out clothes, they were finally all set. The stop at goodwill was story enough. Phil was the only male amongst all of us women and we have this ongoing joke that all of my aunts are his "bitches." From my "cougar" aunts to hoochie mama shorts...oh my!

We all changed and took the hotel bus to a local resturant to meet up with my uncle and aunt(whose son got married) for dinner and drinks. The place we went to was a little on the classy side, and our goodwill outfits...haha! Many laughs and stories.

This morning, we all got up and went to breakfast after they had a knock on their door from a neighboring hotel guest at 7am to ask them to quiet down. They were no where near as loud this morning as we were last night!

Just a lot of fun and laughs! Phil was a good sport!

I guess you had to be there!

Here I am!

2009-05-01T19:53:00.003-04:00

I've been missing!! I was found under my computer and stack of research papers.

I was taking 2 classes this semester towards my Master's and they were kicking my butt! I barely had time to breathe this semester. But, I have finally finished...this semester that is. I have 4 classes left and will be taking 2 of them this summer.

So, you are probably wondering what else I have been up to. I am enjoying my husband and being married. He has been soo patient with me and my crazy schedule.

I had an intern this semester that was less than par, but from what I hear, he is graduating and has already applied to teach. Kind of disappointing, but it was out of my hands.

Stay with me on this one...My step-dad's mom's boyfriend, but was once married to her sister, so he is technically his uncle...you still with me?...his name is Pete. Well, Pete is/was a wonderful man. He put the floors down and the french doors in my place. He built an addition onto our house when I was a kid. He was a great handyman. He loved his mom like no other man had done before. He was patient, funny, and lived life to it's fullest.

Pete passed away last night, Thursday, April 30. He had a stroke in February and never recovered. They tried everything they could, but he was gone long ago. They tried one last thing and he wasn't responding, so they knew the time had come. The papers were signed and many, many tears were shed as we stood by and watched him pass away. I have never seen death the way I saw it last night, and hope I never have to witness it again. It was all very surreal. We watched the lines on the monitors flatline and the numbers drop. We wept as this man we all cared for slipped away. Prayers were said for a fast journey to heaven, there would be no other place for him that's for sure.

I was more emotional than I thought I would be. But, I think my pain was for Marion, my step-dad's mom. I watched her as she uncontrollably wept holding tightly to his hand. I don't know what I would do if Phil were to suddenly die and I had to stand by and watch him leave me. This is the closest to having a family member pass away I have ever had. I know more will come as it is inevitable. I'm not sure what is worse, watching someone die or not getting to say goodbye to them. Maybe they are equally painful.

Pete and Marion danced the night away at our wedding. I know he is dancing in heaven and is looking forward to dancing with Marion again!

I'm married!

2008-11-19T17:46:00.006-05:00

Here I am! What a wonderful day we had for our wedding! The weather was perfect and all of our friends and family were there to help share in our day. Here's a few pitcures from our day.

Here we are listening to Lorrie talk about the meaning marriage. She did a wonderful job marrying us. We were her first ceremony and you would have never guessed! Phil did have tears in his eyes when I came down the aisle. It was so sweet. I smiled the entire time and teared up when Caroline sang beautifully.

Here are my brothers. They read a poem about hands. I loved it when I saw it and wanted them to be a part of the wedding so I knew this would be perfect for them. They did a great job!

Announcing...Mr. and Mrs. Matthews!

This shot I love. I was playing with Phil's toes since he was so nervous and was trying to get him to look at me some. He was listening intently to Lorrie.

We partied into the night. Then we woke to smoke in our room. There was a 4 alarm fire 2 buildings over from ours. We had to evacuate the hotel and ended up going home to sleep for a few hours since we live close. Then we got up and went back to the hotel to get our things and head to Miami to get on our Honeymoon Cruise.

I'll post some reception pictures soon! I need to get them off the photographer's website.

Here's some pictures from our Cruise. We went to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. Martin/St. Marteen. Wonderful!! The water was so clear and so blue. In St. Thomas, we had a few Bushwakers-our cruise director told us to only have one because at 2 we may not make it back on the boat. Well, we had 4 and we made it back on the ship. Our room was amazing. We had a balcony room-I will never go back! The cruise was long, so when we got bored we would grab some drinks or a bottle of wine and sit on the balcony and relax.

St. Thomas pics:

Here we are in the water in St. Thomas. It was amazing and so refreshing!

This is a view of the beach we are at in the above picture.

Awwww!!! Same spot overlooking the beach in the above picture.

This was the first Bushwaker of the day before hitting the beach in the above picture.

Stay tuned for Puerto Rico, St. Martin and reception pictures.

Amazing!!

2008-10-23T20:03:00.002-04:00

So much has happened since the last post!
The RAYS in the World Series!
Only 15 days until the wedding!

It's all so amazing! The rays spirit is definately alive in our house. Phil and I have been diligently watching the games and even ventured out to Ferg's to watch one of the games. Just to be here in the heart of it all is awesome! This city has come alive and of course everything is RAYS and BLUE! Each week, during the post-season, we have had Crazy Rays day at school. The kids have been allowed to paint their hair blue, wear a "Rayshawk" and wear temporary tatoos. The kids have loved it. There have been many cowbells at school on those days and of course those horns.

On the wedding front...I had an awesome shower at Robin's! The girls went all out and it was just what I was hoping for! We got lots of great gifts and I'm dying to open them and use them but we are waiting.

There are only 15 days left! I had my hair trial yesterday and it was interesting! She really curled my hair and it was a little much for me. Haven't seen my hair curly in a LONG time! We will work on the hair and I'm not worried. It will be perfect!

Also picked up some paper to start cutting for the guest book. Kip's going to take pictures of the guests as they arrive and each guest can write us a message or sign their name. Then I'll take the pics and put them in an album with the messages from our guests.

We met with Lorrie-our officiant and my good friend. I wrote out the ceremony and it was so nice to check that one off my list. Remaining on the list: buy cake servers, pay the vendors, get the card box ready, wrap my girls' gifts, deciding on our girls' day before, figure out where everyone is sitting (I dread that task!) and a few other little things...

I'm getting really excited and I'm especially looking forward to the honeymoon to be able to relax!

This weekend though, Robin, my mom and her friend are going to Mount Dora for our annual craft fair shopping day. We're meeting at 5:15am and will not return home until after dark. I am excited!!! I always look forward to going.

Not sure when I'll post again...maybe when I'm Mrs. Matthews?!

One month left!

2008-10-07T17:23:00.003-04:00

Yikes! It's getting soo close!

Boston was a blast! We all had soo much fun and laughed quite a bit. It rained all weekend but that didn't dampen the fun. We had many tasty drinks and took in the sights of Boston and Providence. Cari showed us the town and was a great tour guide! As soon as I get everyone pics I'll post the ones I can...

My shower is this weekend and I'm getting excited! It'll be at Robin's house-THANK YOU ROBIN!!

Now if people would just send back their RSVP's for the wedding I'd be a happy camper! We still have several out and Phil thinks we will just tell them they can't come...I tried to explain that they may just show up and we won't have food or seats for them...so I'll be making a few (several) phone calls next week!

We have a cake tasting on Saturday and my dress fitting next weekend. We are getting our marriage license next week too. I picked up the favors today and am getting together with Faylene for my flowers this week or next. It's all coming together and though I'm a little worried, I am trying to stay positive and not let the little things get to me. I know I need to keep thinking that way.

ONE MONTH!!

45 days and Boston bound!

2008-09-24T19:58:00.003-04:00

Today we have 45 days until the wedding! It's getting so close and still a lot to wrap up. But no time for doing wedding stuff...I'm going to BOSTON for my Bachellorette Party this weekend! I am packed, Peanut's packed and my sub plans are finished. Robin's meeting me here and then we will take Peanut to the vet for boarding and then off to the airport to meet the rest of the gang at Friday's for a pre-flight cocktail and a bite to eat. It's supposed to be chilly up there and I am sooo not ready for that! I live in Florida where we are only chilly for a few days and I try not to leave my house those days, except for going to work...

Anyway, I'm sure a lot of pictures will be taken. I'll try to post some of the better ones, but I understand I will be drinking a little bit this weekend, so no embarrassing pictures will be posted!

45 days...

2 months!!!

2008-09-08T19:38:00.002-04:00

Today is 2 months until we get married. Kinda weird to think about it. You know when we first got engaged I knew the date would come, but it was soo far away. Now that we are 2 months away, I am freaking out. Is everything going to be ready? Will the DJ, photographer and drummer show up? Will it rain? Will I have a zit? Haha!!

I know-I need to stop stressing about things that I can't change or do anything about at this point.

There is still so much to do. Like write out the ceremony, write our vows, confirm the flowers and figure out what she's going to do, decide on and order the cakes, find a cake topper, buy the unity candle, finish buying the girls some things, OH and the 2 BIGGIES-figure out what Phil and the guys are going to wear and plan the honeymoon. We have been getting back the RSVP's and it's exciting that everyone is so excited about coming. Every once in a while, someone writes a little message on the card and it's so nice.

We got our first gift today! Phil's grandma sent us a check!! A big one too!!! So far she is the only one that won't be able to make it.

So with 2 months left, I better get off here and get to work! Oh and I need to make hotel reservations for the night before and night of, work on the guest book, the list goes on and on...

God was on our side!

2008-09-01T20:05:00.002-04:00

This weekend was our Cuzzins' Campout. My mom's side of the family gets together every Labor Day for the past 12 years and camps. We stay in cabins with AC and have meals together and play games, etc. Well this year we went up the Swannee River. Our place was really cool. It was a huge campground. Lot's of activities and of course the river.

My grandma's brother in law, Chuck and his son John brought their boats with them. Saturday, John took some of the little kids and a few adults for a ride. He also had his wife and their dog with him. Chuck brought the kids' parents and some other adults. A few hours after they left, we got a call that there was an accident. John's steering stopped working and the kids were thrown from the boat. The boat them crashed into a tree on the bank. The kids were all wearing life jackets and the adults jumped out and helped the kids to safety. His mom was hurt really bad-a large gash in her head and injured her foot. Also my cousin, Bryn hit something-not sure what-and had a large gash in her head. They had a difficult time turning her over and getting her to the bank. All the others have minor scrapes and bruises.

John's dog wasn't so lucky. She was lodged into one of the compartments in the front of the boat and died. They tried pulling her out but her body was lifeless. The boat the adults were one were not close. Someone from John's boat called them and said the kids were ok. When they caught up to them it was chaos. Kids were crying, adults were crying, John's wife was very upset-the dog was their baby. John was in shock. Bryn and Karen were rushed to the Hospital. It was quite a scary day. Lots of hugs, crying, and praying. We are thankful that all walked away and the EMS couldn't believe that the injuries were as minor as they were. On the other hand, John and his wife are mourning the loss of their baby. I feel so terrible for them and couldn't wait to get home and hug Peanut. The weekend went on, but John and his wife couldn't bear the pain so they went home. I think it was probably good so the mourning can start and help them as they prepare for a life without their girl.

I'm sure we will never forget this camping trip and thank our lucky stars that no person was severly injured.

We had a low key Sunday. None of the kids wanted to go to the river after what had happened. Instead we went on a slide they had there. It was like a long slip and slide but had a hill it went down. It was soo much fun. Phil slipped on the way down his first time and hurt his lower back so he sat out after that. The rest of us couldn't get enough. Phil and I were supposed to go horse back riding later that day but due to his injury we decided against it.

All in all it was a good time. Stressful, scary, and sad, but we made the best of it.

Oh my!

2008-08-25T21:24:00.003-04:00

Only 2 months and 2 weeks until we get married. I am starting to feel like everything won't get done in time. I'm short of breath right now, starting to hyperventilate and I'm sitting down. Overwhelmed is an understatement! The invites are done-for the most part. I have a few addresses I am waiting on, but the majority will be in the mail tomorrow or Wednesday! That is one major check on my ever growing list!

Now I need to help my mom find a dress, take my dress in for a fitting, find something that Phil and the guys are going to wear, nag Phil to plan the honeymoon, and the list goes on and on! I don't even think I really know what all needs to get done.

On a lighter note, this year's class is soooo sweet! I love them! They are so well behaved and actually are afraid if they have to put their head down in time out.

This weekend we are going on our Family camping trip. Peanut is going to the vet for boarding. I know she will hate it since we have been together for a long time. Not sure when it was that she was in boarding last.

Ok-time for bed. Tomorrow it will be 2 months and 13 days. AGH!!!!!!!!!!!!

Holy SH**!!

2008-08-14T19:16:00.002-04:00

86 days left! I can't believe that we only have 86 days until the wedding.

I'm back to work and my room is ready. This year I feel a lot more prepared than last year. I know what is expected at the Fundamental school and am more comfortable. Also we only had 1 day of meetings. All the others were spent working in our rooms.

Phil and I joined the gym this week. It's only $10 a month. We started last night and tonight we are taking a break. hehe! Oh and I've eaten out every day for lunch too. Tomorrow we have an all day training to go over new Kindergarten things and of course will eat out again. But we are for sure going to the gym tomorrow!

Saturday we are going to our tasting for our reception. I'm excited to see what our choices will be! I also NEED to work on the invitations!!

Only 35 minutes until Big Brother! It's eviction night and I am bummed that either girl will be voted out! APRIL, JERRY and MICHELLE need to GO HOME!!!!

I'm back on...

2008-08-08T20:55:00.002-04:00

My computer has been returned to me. It has been wiped clean so no more viruses and also no more documents and pictures. I do have a DVD of pictures and everything else that was on my computer when it crashed.

I am sitting here in the backroom of my place and actually scrappbooking! Well, sort of. My principal gave us 4 index cards to decorate and label with different things.
My Favorite hobby...
In the future my goal is to...
The person/people I look up to...
My favorite subject...

So being the scrapbooker that I am I decided I had to decorate the index cards with scrapbook paper and of course they all have to be scrappy. I want to use some pictures like for the goal one and people one, so I went to the dvd full of pics to get some and oh my...I didn't realize how much stuff/crap I had on there! That might have to be tomorrow afternoon or Sunday's project.

Yesterday was my birthday and it was very nice. Now I didn't get as nice of a present as last year, but really how can you top an engagement ring?! Phil made us dinner-Chicken Marsala, YUMMY, and he gave me an ipod. Yes, I am the last one to get one! It's soo cool. Love the ease of using it and the sound is amazing with these headphones!

Back to school on Monday! UGH! Actually, I am ok with it. I need to get off my rear and lose some of this weight I gained over the summer. I need to zip up that dress!! We are also joining a gym and I'm going back to WW.

Tomorrow I'm going to get a pedicure with my mom, her first, and then lunch. Later on, I'm heading out for a girls night with Diane. The boys are watching the Bucs and I'm sure will be having a few drinks themselves.

News

2008-08-04T15:35:00.003-04:00

My laptop has been wiped clean. No more virus...

But the good news is that the man called to ask what I wanted off the computer and was able to save ALL of my documents and my pictures. He rocks!! So I will be backing everything up from now on. No more saving to the hard drive!

I just got back from the last pool party of the summer and am now going to relax for a little while until I go to a birthday dinner for a friend later.

I plan on spending tomorrow doing absolutely NOTHING since it's my last day off before school starts back. I have to help a new teacher to the county on Wednesday and babysit on Thursday and Friday.

Update

2008-08-01T23:04:00.002-04:00

Where do I begin? Well, let's see...

my computer has a virus...
I started working on the invitations...on the computer with the virus...
I am PMSing...
Need I say more????!!!!!

So I somehow got a virus on my computer. I looked it up and it's a low risk virus...so that's good and it seemed simple enough to get rid of. So I do what it says to get rid of it. One step says to put the computer in safe mode...I do it...and can't log in to my computer. Said computer is not owned by me. It is school property so I call the help desk. The girl tries to get me out of safe mode but to no avail. She tells me I can bring it in and they can look at it. So I do...Not so sure that was a good thing as I was kind of shunned when I walked in (another post). Anyway I am computerless. I am feeling violated as they needed my password to get into the system and since this is a school computer I was to use it for school only. HA! I have pictures of naked men on there. Only kidding. But I do have some pictures of my personal life and of Peanut's accident on there and need those for the case when we go to trial...

I borrowed my laptop from school to help ease the pain of not having a computer, and it won't connect to the internet...AGH!!!!!! Phil and I have tried everything we can think of but to no avail.

Oh and the invitations too... I started working on them (on the borrowed laptop) and a monogram too. Well, I don't have that anymore. I now have to start all over from scratch. But the borrowed laptop won't connect to the wireless router and therefore can't connect to our wireless printer...so how am I to print the invites???

I'm PMSing...need I say any more?!

So there you go...Questions???

Yes, Phil has been very supportive by saying I can't wait for your period to be over! I keep reminding him that my period is not why I am having a breakdown!

Yes, Phil has been very supportive and even looked into purchasing Microsoft Office for his computer so I can keep working on the invitations. Way too expensive...

Yes, Phil has been very supportive by still telling me he loves me. I know I am driving him crazy but what am I to do???

Last Class!

2008-07-15T12:34:00.002-04:00

Tonight is my last class for summer session! I can not wait for my life to be back. I have some wedding planning to do and am tired of reading, reading, reading!!! One good thing is that I am halfway through and will get a pay raise in the fall! I plan on emailing my secretary at school tomorrow to find out what I need to do to get that ball rolling. More money would be very nice about now!!

Waiting...

2008-07-01T09:26:00.002-04:00

I'm sitting here waiting. Waiting for my AC to get turned off. We are getting a new roof and our AC will be off for 2 days. UGH!! We were supposed to have this done in the Spring-when it was cooler, but now we are having it done in the heat of summer! Fun!! Now I just saw the weather for today and storms are rolling in. Oh goodie!! So maybe they won't do it today, so they can do it when it's even hotter out later in the week or next week. Well, Peanut is as close to me as she can get. She is scared of the noises they are making.

I'm also waiting as long as I can to work on a paper that needs some tweaking. The draft is due tonight and I'm not too happy with it so I need to try to fix it. I just don't even want to work on it, as it took me forever to get it finished and now to go back and change things...

I've written a letter to the hotel owner for not upholding their end of the contract with our reception. I need to send it today. I am demanding they pay me the amount they are having me pay for a new place. OR I can file a civil suit against them...I got all this lingo from my friend Caroline since she knows people-lawyers. Gotta get that out TODAY!!!

We registered on Friday night! It was an experience, but LOTS of fun! And we picked out some really great things that we both love!! We are almost 4 months away and I still have soo much to do, get my dress altered, make the invitations, figure out what the guys are wearing, decide on the cake, choose favors, help my mom find a dress, book the honeymoon. What am I waiting for?!

Catching up!

2008-06-22T09:44:00.003-04:00

Here I am! Class has been kicking my butt but I have a moment to catch you all up.

Phil and I went to the Cubs/Rays game on Thursday when the Rays had a Grand Slam. It was an awesome game and even though the Cubs' lost, Phil still had a great time. It was the first time the Rays and Cubs played and since Phil is a big Cubs fan we had to go. That was his birthday present from me. We had outfield seats but a great view!!

Been busy babysitting my cousins on Thursdays and Fridays. They are sweet girls and keep me busy!

Our parents met on Saturday night for dinner. We were going out for Phil's birthday and figured we'd invite our parents so they can finally meet each other. It went fine. I was a nervous wreck but everyone seemed to get along ok.

My neighbor is being a ROYAL BIATCH!!! You all know I got this new car. Well, now I can't pull into my parking spot so I've been parking in another ladies since she has no car and have requested that the board change my spot. It's the boards' decision and they assign spots and recently moved around some spots to help other residents out. She hasn't had a car for 3 years, and isn't getting one in the near future. Well, I wrote her a note-she wasn't home for me to talk to her-requesting that we switch spots-mine is only 2 over from hers. I never heard anything from her but sure heard about it from my neighbors. She was very adamant that that was her spot and she wasn't going to part with it. Our president basically says she doens't have a leg to stand on. He's on my side. Well last night as we were getting ready to leave for dinner she knocks on the door. So I go out and talk to her and she basically tells me that she's been here longer than I have and that she doesn't want me to park there. She tells me that the spot is hers and it's written in her condo documents (our documents clearly state that the board reserves the right to assign spots). She also tells me that she needs it for when she has guests over. Umm-she hasn't had guests over in a looonnngg time. And our guests are supposed to park on the street. Why she won't just trade with me is insane! She's being uncooperative and unreasonable! It's not like I'm asking that she no longer have a parking spot!! Anyway, Phil and I are Pi$$ed off!! We have a condo meeting on Wednesday and I'm hoping that the board can help. By the way there are no other available spots for me to even park in. UGH!!!! I soo want to sell this place and move!!! I can't wait to get away from these people! Between the rude people upstairs to the Biatch-enough already!

We found another venue for our reception and have it booked. I like it better than the other one!!

I sent out the Save the Dates yesterday. I set up a wep page for our guests and the info is on the postcard. We meant to bring our mom's theirs last night, but forgot them at home. I wanted them to get them first. Oh well. We will drop them off today.

This week is another busy week. Phil's birthday is tomorrow and I have class tomorrow and Tuesday nights. I have some projects due next week and are meeting with my group this week to get it all worked out. Then the condo meeting on Wednesday. Then babysit Thursday and Friday.

Hope you all have a great week!!

RUT RO!!!

2008-06-11T10:17:00.002-04:00

I called our reception site yesterday to set up a tasting. We chat for a while and then she tells me that they are now under new owners and will be doing some construction to the hotel which should be done a week before the wedding. (Sure-we all know how construction works!! I'm sure there will be a delay!) Then she tells me that the new owners and possibly reducing the banquet room which would then not be able to accomodate our guests!! Are you kidding me?! Now what am I supposed to do?? Sit and wait for the owners to decide? Hope that the construction will be complete? Stand there and make them work faster? AGH!!!! I have been on the phone this morning to see who is available for a reception site and now I'll have to find a caterer and figure out th ebar situation. UGH!!! And I was hoping to catch up on classwork today as I have some major stuff due next week.

I can't change the date since I already have a DJ and photographer so that's out.
Keep me in your thoughts that it will all work out and we will still have a very nice reception.

On the road again...

2008-06-09T09:47:00.002-04:00

Just can't wait to get on the road again...

That's right-we got a new car!! Here's a picture.

It's a 2007 Chrysler Pacifica with less than 4000 miles. We got it for a GREAT price from Carmax. If you haven't had experience with Carmax, the next car you buy should be from them. There is no haggling and we weren't pressured to buy. Plus they even bought my car!! Yes, the broken one with a transmission that doesn't work. They gave us $1000 for it! I couldn't believe it! It's much more than what we would have gotten for it if we had an ad in the paper.

It drives so smooth and has sooo much room. Perfect for a family (which we will hopefully have in the very near future).

Adios!

2008-06-05T17:18:00.002-04:00

-to the kids...last day was Tuesday. It was a nice day. I'm excited to meet my kids for next year as this group gave me a few headaches along the way. I have rearranged my room and even have things copied for the new year. My teammates were so kind-they gave me a gift card to the movies and a way to go card since I had a rough group and it was my first year at the school with lots of new expectations to learn, understand and enforce.

-to my car...it has officially run out of energy to go any further. The transmission is shot and I'm not going to put $1000 into a 10 year old car. I told Phil I am alright with not having a car for the summer and just using his when I need to do things. We may decide to get a new (or new to me) car though.

-so I guess I need to cancel my auto insurance?! Hmm...more money into the wedding fund!!

We're having a shower for Laura on Saturday at Kip's so tomorrow I'll be looking for a gift and getting the food I'm supposed to bring.

Oh and on the wedding front-we get to pick up my band tomorrow afternoon!!!

That's it. Been reading, and doing classwork for my 2 master's classes...ugh!

Crazy...

2008-05-26T19:16:00.003-04:00

Busy that is.

School is winding down and the kiddos are very excited and so am I. As of today we only have 6 days left. WOW! I can't believe this year is almost over.

On the wedding front, we went to the mall yesterday to hit all the Memorial Day sales. We were walking by the store where Phil bought my ring and he asked if I wanted to get it cleaned while we were here. So we stopped. Next thing you know we were trying on wedding bands and then we bought them. I thought we'd need more time, but we both were happy with what we picked so we did it. We will get my ring on June 6 and his ring will come in a little bit afterwards. Mine is a channel setting with 12 round diamonds (gold). It looks very pretty with my ring. Phil went with a Tungsten ring (silver) which is sturdy and doesn't easily scratch. Yes our rings won't match, but I'm ok with it. I can't wait to see my ring again.

Oh, out photographer emailed us the other day that she will be bringing another photographer in training so I'll get her photos as well...for no extra charge!! Sweet!!!

I bought earrings for the bridesmaids this weekend too.

Later this week we will go to the beach to take some pics to use for our Save the Dates.

I started back to grad school a few weeks ago and have been up to my ears in reading. UGH! I have to read 3-5 chapters each week for 2 classes. It's not the kind of reading I like so it's pretty boring. And I have to drive across the bridge to my classes, 2 nights a week, since they don't offer them at this campus. Traffic is no fun at that hour!!

Ok-better get back to reading. Still have a few chapters to finish before class tomorrow.

Check!

2008-05-09T16:34:00.004-04:00

The bridesmaid dresses-Check!!!

My mom saw this dress in the Sunday JCPenney's ad. I checked it out and thought it was cute. After going to see it in person, and trying one on myself. I shared it with the girls and Diane and I went to check it out. We decided to go for it. I got a dress for Cari and Robin in their sizes and they fift perfect. Ready for the best part?!! They were only $25 each!!!!

Here's a picture:

I know it's not your typical bridesmaid dress, but the colors are the colors I'm using. Also the girls can wear them again. In fact, Cari wants to wear it before the wedding. haha! I might go get myself one to wear too-not to the wedding of course.

I am soo glad that is done. I was starting to get worried that I wouldn't find a dress for the girls that I liked in a decent price range.

Resting comfortably...

2008-04-30T19:16:00.002-04:00

Peanut is resting on her bed. She looks sooo much better that the last time she had surgery!! No drains this time, but staples across most of her back. She came home and actually ran in the house. She has barked a few times too, but I think that must hurt, because after the first bark, the second bark gets much weaker.

She has a few days of pain pills and will have a recheck in about a week to get the staples out.

We are planning on sleeping on the floor tonight. Not really looking forward to that, but I'm afraid between Phil and I we may roll over wrong and hurt her. Once Phil leaves for work tomorrow we will be jumping on the bed. I've taken 2 days off work to make sure she is ok. Oh and he is going away for the weekend, so we can have the bed to ourselves this weekend.

I wanted to go scrapbooking for a few hours this weekend and I still may, but I need to see how she is doing on Friday. I stopped at Blockbuster before I picked her up and got a few movies to keep me busy. I also have some books. I know I could work on the wedding stuff, but there isn't anything I can do right now. We had a little bit of luck dress shopping on Sunday. We found one dress that would be perfect, but it didn't come in brown. Big Bummer!!

Well, thanks for your well wishes for Peanut. I'll keep you posted.

One Word

2008-04-28T17:19:00.002-04:00

I got this from my friend on Myspace...

You...Can...Only...Type...one...word
Not as easy as you might think.
It's really hard to only use one word answers.

1. Where is your cell phone? ..............couch
2. Your significant other?..................Phil
3. Your hair? ..........................................ponytail
4. Your mother? .....................................kind
5. Your father?........................................(for me I'll answer step dad) great
6. Your favorite thing?............................beach
7. Your dream last night?........................none
8. Your favorite drink? .......................water
9. Your dream/goal?...............................healhy
10. The room you're in?..........................living
11. Your ex?..........................................alcoholic
12. Your fear?..........................................attack
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years......motherhood
14. Where were you last night?..............home
15. What you're not?.................................slim
16. Muffins?...........................................chocolate chip
17. One of your wish list items?.............debt free
18. Where you grew up?........................here
19. The last thing you did?.......................myspace
20. What are you wearing?...................... clothes
21. Your TV?..............................................on
22. Your pets?............................................ Peanut
23. Your computer? .................................essential
24. Your life?.............................................crazy
25. Your mood?..........................................blah
26. Missing someone?..............................nope
27. Your car?............................................old
28. Something you're not wearing?......shoes
29. Favorite Store?...............................Ann Taylor
30. Your summer?....................................lounging
31. Like someone?....................................sure
32. Your favorite color?........................green

Ok, so I didn't use 1 word for some, but I did for most of them. Now you try!

A little relief

2008-04-24T17:58:00.003-04:00

Today Peanut had her CT scan. The doctor called a little afternoon to report that everything went well. It doesn't appear to be into her chest cavity and should just be a little under the surface. He says there's only 1% chance that it could be in her chest cavity. Whew!! I am so relieved to know that it should be minor. Of course the estimate has gone down considerably as well. That's another huge relief! She will have surgery on Tuesday so say your prayers that all goes well. He even said she may be able to go home that day! Or just a one night stay, depending on how she recovers.

The wedding planning continues to progress. Not sure if I told you, but I booked a DJ and the girl that's doing my flowers gave me a lower rate than before since I want things simple, yet elegant. I need all the help I can get to cut costs! I am going to sit down this weekend and see what's next to do...I already know, but need to figure out when to do it...save the dates!! Gotta figure out a time when Phil and I can go to the beach and take some pics to use with the save the dates. I have tentative plans to go dress shopping with Robin on Sunday so hopefully we can figure out a bridesmaids dress option.

Keep Peanut in your prayers that she can make it through this and not have to visit the vet for anything other than vaccines!

AGH!!!

2008-04-22T21:36:00.002-04:00

This weekend I noticed that Peanut started getting another abscess in the same spot as usual. My heart just sank knowing that surgery was coming. I waited until this morning to call the vet in case I was dreaming it was there. We had to see a different vet since the one that operated on Peanut is off until Friday. He said surgery is inevitable. He recommended getting a CT scan to see what it is that's not draining fully. That has to be done at a vet specialist office. They gave me the numbers and sent me on my way with some antibiotics to stop the infection. As soon as I got in the car I called and got an appointment for tomorrow morning for a consultation with a surgeon. At that time the surgeon will evaluate Peanut and decide the course of action to be done. I plan on getting the estimate and then...

once we leave there, I have to go to mediation with my attorney and the pit bull's owner. I sure hope he steps up and takes some responsibility for this. The bills keep adding up. I'll bring the estimate along and tack it to the total bill!

Please pray for Peanut and I to make it through this. My hope is to have this debt paid off, and have many more years with my girl, Peanut! Most especially the latter of the 2!!

Whinning and men

2008-04-18T22:07:00.004-04:00

My poor dear is sick in bed. He came home from work today complaining that he was getting sick. Then I hear him moaning and groaning and whining. Men sure are whimps when they are sick! He got the chills and we had to turn off all fans-I am sweating!!! Then he takes a hot shower because he is cold, gets on long pants, long sleeves, and under 2 comforters, still moaning and groaning the entire time. I, being the good future wife, take his temp, give him meds, and make him drink and eat. He started off with a 99 temp, then 100.4, then 101 then 100.6 I'm hoping it will keep going down.

I think the last time I was sick like this, he didn't want to get sick so only brought me gatoraid and left.

I know, I know. Men are different from women and can't handle being sick.

On a different note, I think I found a DJ. Robin and I are going to look at Bridesmaid dresses on Sunday and I'm trying to find someone to do my makeup for the wedding so I have a few calls out for that. It seems to be coming along. We have a tight budget so we are trying to keep things simple but fun and different. I'm getting excited to have some more things to check off my list! I just need to keep things moving!

Off to tend to my sicko. It's medicine and temperature time.

Lazy Weekend!

2008-04-14T21:21:00.002-04:00

I did absolutely nothing this weekend and loved every minute of it! Ok well, I did do something. I babysat for my 3 month old cousin (the one born premature) for a few hours while my aunt and uncle celebrated their 3 year old daughter's birthday at the park. She is such a cutie and was awake the entire time I was there. That was fine with me. I may have a summer job with them as a nanny for a few days too.

I also got my hair cut and did laundry but other than that, the couch is where I spent most of the weekend!

On the wedding front:
I have booked a guy to play steel drums for our ceremony. I am still looking at bridesmaid dresses as I haven't found any that I really like. I am in the process of looking for a DJ so if you know of anyone, please pass along the info!! There sure are a lot of "I's" in this wedding planning aren't there?!! Hmmm...will have to work on that! Anywho, I am trying to plan out the details of things for the ceremony and reception...you know...the little things that will make it more personal. I need to get Phil to commit to a night to take some pics at the beach so we can get a move on our Save the Dates. Maybe this week.

For now, I'm back in the groove with school and it looks as though I'll be loosing a child this week. He used his hands a little too much to solve his problems...if you know what I mean. I am sad to see him go as I've seen him learn so much this year and have a place in my heart for him. I know it's nothing I have done as I haven't raised him for the last 5 years and it isn't anything that he learned in the class, but it's still hard. I feel as though I've failed in something.

Oh and another thing-I go to mediation on the 23rd. I am hopeful that the dog owner will give up some money so I can pay these bills!! I don't look forward to reliving that day, but know it's essential in the case against the dog owner.

Have a great week!

I forgot!!

2008-03-23T18:55:00.002-04:00

I forgot to send my invitations for the wedding. That's what my dream was the other night! It was the day before the wedding and I didn't send them out. I had to call all my guests and make sure they were coming.

I sure hope that doesn't happen in real life. I've been on wedding planning mode for the last week or so. Looking up a ton of things online-favor ideas, invitation ideas, bridesmaid dresses, etc.

Today we had Easter lunch at my aunt's house. We rode our bikes over since she lives closeby. We strapped the salad to the back of Phil's bike and made our way over. Of course when it was time to leave, our bellies were full and we had to ride home.

My family is funny! They were talking about how they all get along and if they do not agree with each other, they get over it and move on. They don't usually hold onto something for too long. Anyway they were planning to have a big family blow up for our wedding and were going through the different scenerios of what to fight about. They thought it would add more excitement to our wedding. Of course they were joking but it was funny listening to them plan it out.

We are going camping this coming weekend. My aunt and uncle and their family are going to Ginnie Springs and Phil and I decided to go too. We will go up on Saturday morning and come back late on Sunday. They are letting us use their tent so we just need our sleeping bags and other camping essentials. I am looking forward to going away, even if it is for one night. It will be a nice start to Spring Break!

Bubble gum medicine and wedding progress

2008-03-20T20:24:00.004-04:00

Was I the only one that called it that as a kid? I always loved getting that medicine when I was sick. Then one time I got it and it tasted funny. I think they changed the formula.

Well, Peanut can't have it. She vomited 3 out of the four times she had it. I called the Dr. again yesterday and they said to take her off of it and see how she does on the other medicine. So far so good! I sure do hate having to clean her sore, it's starting to close up and I have to keep going in and injecting peroxide in it and then the ointment after that. Poor thing. She sure hates it! At least she's not vomiting any more.

Here's a picture of her when I first got her. She was soooo skinny and peuny looking!

I think we are hiring a photographer. She lives in Naples. Only charges $50 and hour! She is trying to get into the wedding biz. Right now she takes baby and family photos. We have been emailing back and forth and she has been very helpful. Today she emailed me some of the photos she's taken and they are really nice. She has an artistic touch to her photos and from the photos I've seen has an eye for detail.

Tomorrow is Friday! My favorite day! I'll be headed to a friend of the family's retirement party after school. She was put back into the classroom this year, since her position was cut, after being out of it for probably the last 15-20 years. She sure wasn't happy about that so she is retiring. Her last day is the Friday before spring break starts and she won't be back after the break. She teaches Kindergarten too and I don't know if I'd be able to walk away like that mid year or so late in the year. I think I'd want to carry them the rest of the way. Oh well, she is ready and good for her!

Have a happy Easter on Sunday!

Here we go again!

2008-03-18T15:18:00.002-04:00

Back to the vet. Peanut had an abscess form again and has had one on and off for the last few months. Recently it disappeared and I thought, finally they are healed!!

Nope-last week, I felt one forming again. I took her to the vet yesterday and they confirmed it is another abscess. They shaved the area, cleaned it out (gross) and sent her home with lots of medicine. This time I have to drain the area with peroxide and insert an ointment into the wound. Yuck! But I will do it with care as she is my girl and anything to help her get better!

They also said that if the infection doesn't go away, they will have to go back in and open her up to see why the drain isn't healing right and why there is an infection continuing.

So we go home, Peanut is thrilled to be out of there, I'm nervous again about the possibility of surgery again, but hopeful that the anitbiotics will work.

I give Peanut her medicine around 6pm last night and clean her wounds as directed. I could see the lethargy setting in. She was drowsy from 7pm on. Around 7:30 I bring her on the couch to snuggle with her as this was a pretty stressful afternoon. She was fine and sleeping comfortably when around 8:30, she jumps off the couch and goes back in the bedroom. I see what she's up to and notice that she had vomited. The concerned mama that I am calls the vet to see what's up.
They told me to try it again tomorrow and make sure she has food in her stomach and give her the meds after she had eaten.

This morning she has her energy back and ate her food just fine, I give her the meds and clean her wounds, then head off to work. I am hoping to come home to no vomit and a dog still living.

Well, 1 out of 2 isn't bad. She's still alive, but there was vomit. AGH!!! I called the vet after cleaning up the mess and am waiting to hear back as to what to do next. I did give her some food since she threw it all up earlier today. I am hoping that they will change her meds to something different or reduce the amount she is getting.

I will be sure to add this to the bills for the pit bull's owner!!!

Just call me a tourist!

2008-03-16T19:11:00.002-04:00

Why? Well, yesterday we went to the beach and as beautiful as it was outside, it was also very windy at the beach. I was actually chilly. So I kept my shorts and shirt on. I didn't put one drop of sunscreen on. I even had it in my beach bag!

I am paying for it today. I am in soooooo much pain and look like one of those tourists you see around town with their legs, arms, and face lobster red.

I am drowning my skin in aloe lotion and wearing as little clothes as possible. I'm also taking Ibuprofen for the pain. I think it's time for my next dose.

We went to a St. Patrick's Day party last night and I had to go home as I was in soo much pain and starting to get the chills.

TV world:
Big Brother-what were those house guest thinking wanting James back in. I read the spoilers and know who won HOH...I'm just sick to my stomach thinking about who may end up going home now. AGH!

It's on tonight so I'm looking forward to that.
Take care all. Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day! Wear your green!

A Dreary Thursday...

2008-03-06T17:29:00.002-05:00

Though a productive one! I had 3 kiddos out today and one is challenging so it was kinda nice at school. We got a lot done. It's amazing how different the class is without some of the kids.

I just got back from walking an running at the park and it's getting chilly and drizzling outside. Phil's on his way home from work and he's cooking tonight!!! Yippee!!

Anyone watching Big Brother? I am soo glad that Alison went home last night. She sure was mad that they unanimously voted to evict her! I haven't liked her from the beginning. And now someone gets to come back from being evicted...I wonder who it will be. I hope it's Jen or Parker. They really got screwed because of Alison and deserve another chance. Am I just talking to myself about Big Brother or does anyone else watch it?

Ok-so now it's raining harder.

I snagged this off Kip's blog...
A- Attached or single: attached
B- Best Friend: Peanut, Phil and lots of girlfriends.
C- Cake or Pie: cake, but I like the box type with jar frosting!!! YUMMY!
D- Day of Choice: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
E- Essential Item (s): hair tie, water, debit card
F-Favorite type of music: Country
G- Gummy Bears or Worms: yuck!
H- Hometown: St Petersburg
I- Indulgence(s): dark chocolate
J- January or July: July-January is toooooo cold!!!
K- Kids: just Peanut!
M- Marriage Date: will be November 8, 2008
N- Number of Siblings: 2 brothers
O- Oranges or Apples: actually neither
P- Phobias or Fears: heights, being alone
Q- Quote(s): Life is short, Buy the shoes!
R- Reason To Smile: I'm getting married, I'm losing weight, I'm at a great school, My family is healthy-All is good!
S- Season: Fall
T- Tag Four: Robin, Michele, Cheryl, Roz
U- Unknown Fact About Me: I am pigeon toed
V- vegetarian or meat eater: meat eater!!!!
W- Worst Habit: biting my nails
X- X-Rays or Ultrasounds: huh? X-Rays...??
Y- Your Favorite Food: chicken sausage, pizza, cheeseburgers, Italian food, dark chocolate...oh so many!
Z- Zodiac: Leo

Last movie: hmm...can't remember! Guess it's time to go to the movies!!

THE dress!!!

2008-03-01T15:52:00.005-05:00

I found it! My mom and I went to David's Bridal on Thursday and started the search for my wedding dress. We found a few and I was actually thinking by the end of the day on Friday that one of the dresses would be the one.

This morning I had an appointment for Jon's Bridal in Tampa. My mom and grandma drove over. The lady, Denise, was very helpful and listened to what I wanted or what I thought I wanted. We tried on some dresses and after nothing really jumped out at me, she started bringing me some other dresses that she thought I might like. Well, I found it!

My dress is called a candlelight color-basically ivory. It is tafetta, gathers in the front towards the top and has just a little bit of beading and sequins. It looked very flattering in the mirrors. On of the mirrors was a distance away and she kept having me look into that one since that's what I'll look like in the pictures. Each time I looked in that mirror with the other dresses on, I didn't look right in the dresses. But with this one on, I looked perfect. She asked me in the beginning how I wanted to look on my wedding day and I told her I wanted to feel/look "pretty". When I tried on this dress and looked in all the mirrors, I said "It's so pretty!"-without realizing it.

So I won't keep you in suspence until November (or later) when the wedding pictures are back so show you the dress...

Here it is...The hair is not how I'll wear it, not the veil or headpiece I'll wear, the straps need to be taken in some and of course the length, but it fits perfect. Once I loose another 10 or more pounds it may need to be taken in some.

EDITED!! The pictures have been removed and now you have to wait until the wedding or wedding pictures to see! Sorry!

What do you think???

I love it!!!!! I want to put it on again! We left it at my parents' house since Phil is living here now.

I love it, love it, love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know, I know...

2008-02-26T17:21:00.003-05:00

It's about time!

What's my excuse this time-well, I went away to a scrapbooking retreat and had a BLAST!!!! I got soo much accomplished. I worked on Phil's pictures from his childhood and a few of our recent trips we've taken. I ate a lot too, but didn't gain any weight so that's good!

Then I had to spend some good quality time with Phil. We went to the hockey game on Saturday night for FREE! And had all the food and drink we could want for FREE and parking too! We had a lot of fun. His boss gave him the tickets and we are hoping to be able to get the tickets again another time. Free food and drinks and great seats are worth the drive to Tampa-even if the team isn't doing so great right now.

Oh and I've been having parent conferences too. I still have some left but will be done on Thursday afternoon. Not to mention, I've had to go to some meetings at night for school too.

So here we are to today...

It's stormy out-windy, cloudy, dark...supposed to storm tonight and get really cold too. Good sleeping weather-just not really looking forward to wearing all that extra clothing tomorrow-ugh!

I scheduled appointments to go try on dresses. I have one this Thursday and then one on Saturday. I'm a little nervous! It's really getting overwhelming! I'm trying not to think about it too much so I don't get stressed, but when I do think about it all, the anxiety kicks in!

So there you have it. You are all caught up for a few weeks. I'll be sure to take pictures of the dresses and post them for the next time I post.

Another Tag from Michele

2008-02-09T09:12:00.000-05:00

10 Years Ago: I was living in Orlando, teaching 3rd grade and hating every minute of it. My family moved to Tennessee and I was living with my friend Diane in a tiny appartment.

On my to-do list today: Finish the laundry, go to the mall to find something cute to wear cuz Phil and I are going out to a Beach Bar this afternoon, go to the Beach Bar :-)

What I would do if I were suddenly made a billionaire:pay off my credit card bills, buy a house on the water, buy a boat for Phil, buy a new car, pay for the wedding, invest, maybe quit teaching and start a business.

3 places I have lived: St. Pete, Orlando, Jacksonville

5 Jobs that I have had:
Sandwich maker at a resturaunt
Cashier at Burger King
Day care teacher
Nanny
KDG teacher

5 Things people don't know about me:
1. I was Salutatorian for my High School's magnet program.
2. I'm pigeon toed.
3. I am an only child, but LOVE my 2 brothers!!!!
4. I'm allergic to cats and dogs.
5. I love dark chocolate truffles!!

I tag:
Robin and anyone else who reads my blog!

Time to catch up!

2008-02-04T18:58:00.001-05:00

I have been enjoying coming home to someone. We are getting along very well and he is a sweetie! We take turns cooking and washing the dishes and tonight he is cooking. I told him I was starving so he made me an appitizer until our dinner is ready. Yesterday was Superbowl Sunday and we decided not to go anywhere and just hang out here at home. We made a pizza and watched the game-well he did-I scrapbooked! He couldn't believe I was going to scrapbook, but I told him the game really doesn't matter to me-just the commercials. I thought they were so so. My favorite was the dalmation and horse one.

In a few weeks I'll be shopping for wedding dresses. Kinda getting nervousm, but excited too.

Ok-gotta go-Dinner's ready!!!

Here I am!!

2008-01-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

So sorry about the delay in blogging! Phil has been moving in and I've been getting rid of a lot of things and cleaning the house.

We had a garage sale this weekend and did great! We cleared out soo much stuff and whatever didn't sell we took to the Boley drop off center. The money we made is going into the Wedding fund. :-(
I was hoping I could use some of it to buy some new clothes, shoes and some things for the house.

We had our wine tasting a few weeks back and had a blast! I'll post pictures soon.

Gotta get back to cleaning and preparing dinner.

Puppy Days!

2008-01-01T21:15:00.001-05:00

No Peanut and I didn't add a puppy to our family.

We are dog sitting Honeybun while Robin and her family are enjoying some vacation time on Orlando.

My how I have forgotten about the energy that puppies have. She never stops! I'm surprised she doesn't pass out from the amount of playing and energy she expends. Poor Peanut too! She has been a real trooper with sharing everything with Honeybun. She plays with her and when she's tired she will just sit there while Honeybun whines for her to play.

Then there's meal time...AGH!!! Peanut wants to eat Honeybun's food and vice versa. But look out-if Peanut tries to eat Honeybun's food she snaps at Peanut. I finally figured out that I have to hold onto Honeybun while Peanut devours her food. She knows that whatever she leaves Honeybun will finish it. Normally Peanut will leave her dry food for later in the day-not anymore-she has been just chowing down.

I boarded them for New Year's Eve so that I wouldn't have to worry about getting back to them early. They were thrilled to see me and each other as they were seperated while boarding since they aren't from the same family.

Before I picked them up, I stopped by the pet store to get some bones. That was a nice little moment of silence as they chewed away. I should have napped, but no I caught up on everyone's new years. From the scrapping divas at Linda's to my mom and grandma's annual New Year's Day shopping spree. I never seem to make it as I am a little tired (hungover) from NYE. Oh well, maybe next year!

Speaking of Next Year...I will be married this time next year. At midnight I was emotional cuz it's really gonna happen...we are getting closer to the big date. Don't get me wrong, I am very excited and looking forward to getting married, just nervous about taking that huge step in my life!

I asked another friend to be in my wedding. Diane-she had a big role in Phil in I meeting and I was with her when she met her husband, Bill, which is Phil's best friend. So it only seems fitting that they are in our wedding.

Tomorrow is my step dad's birthday so we are headed up there to sit by their fire pit, eat and celebrate his day. But in the morning we have to go to a funeral-Phil's great uncle passed away on the 26th. He was 97 so it was just his time.

On Thursday the YaYa's are getting together for some Wine. The YaYa's are a great group of ladies that get together at Kip's for pool parties and have great times! We have had marriages, babies, divorces, breakups, cancer, and many other times to laugh, cry or celebrate. This time, we are going to a Wine tasting in Safety Harbor for free-I won it at a bridal show. Afterwards we are taking a Limo home-also won from a bridal show. We are bringing food to share and may just make it a little more than a wine tasting as we will have the limo for 3 hours. We are really looking forward to seeing each other and spending time together. Some of the YaYa's have moved away and others can't make it, but there will be 5 of us there ready to drink some wine!

So I think I've caught you up and you should be good for a few days! LOL!

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T10:34:00.000-05:00

I hope each of you have a safe evening!

Michele tagged me for and end of the year Challenge...

What did you do in 2007 that you'd never done before? a few things-went back to school to start on my masters, hired an attorney

Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year? didn't make a resolution but have one in mind for 2008-recycle more things and ride my bike 4-5 times a week

Did anyone close to you give birth? yes-my uncle's wife, on Christmas day, but she was delivered early, at 28 weeks, so she's in the NICU until March. My cousin's name is Allston Cross so keep her in your prayers

Did anyone close to you die? not close to me, but a volunteer from my school passed away and Phil's great uncle died just the other day

What countries did you visit? Bahamas

What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007? a new car

What was your biggest achievement of the year? going back to school for my masters and moving schools (really leaving my comfort zone!!)

What was your biggest failure? gaining weight

Did you suffer illness or injury? just a minor one compared to Peanut's wounds

What was the best thing you bought? a new switch to keep my AC running

Whose behavior merited celebration? not sure

Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? not sure

Where did most of your money go? Peanut's bills, daily living bills, and clothes!!

What did you get really, really, really excited about? Ummm....getting engaged!!!!

Compared to this time last year, are you: much happier, richer, nicer. don't know

What do you wish you'd done more of? gone to crops

What was your favorite TV program? Desperate Housewives and Reality Shows-Amazing Race, Biggest Loser, Big Brother...

Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year? no hating

What was the best book you read this year? still reading it-The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks

What did you want and get? a Diamond Ring!!!!

What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 32 and got engaged!!!! First I went to Kip's for a pool party, then out to dinner with Phil and then to the beach where he proposed!!

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? By far-not having to deal with a pit bull attack!!

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007? comfy lounge pants, no bra, t-shirt and no shoes and hair in a pony tail

What political issue stirred you the most? don't know

Who did you miss? no one

Who was the best new person (people) you met? my new staff-they are wonderful!

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007. Take chances, no matter how scary it may be!

Don't Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle!

2007-12-24T09:56:00.001-05:00

Only 1 more day! Are you ready? I am! Is your shopping finished? Yep! Are the presents wrapped? Sure are!

I am so glad to be on vacation. I was starting to really stress out last week...just too much to do and too close to Christmas! But time for some rest.

This is a picture of my girl-I put this on my Christmas cards. Isn't she precious?! She hated every minute of it!

This was at the beginning of the photo shoot...

Now this one is towards the end...

So today we are off to have our family Christmas Eve lunch with my mom, Bill and brothers. My parents wanted to start a tradition for our family so that's what they came up with. We go to Bennagin's. Later on today, we are headed to Grandma's for her Open House. We have Oyster Stew, finger foods, and get to open Grandma's present! Tomorrow we will go to my mom's for Christmas day dinner. Pretty busy time!!

Hope you have a Wonderful Christmas!

Tagged by Robin...

2007-12-16T12:19:00.000-05:00

1. What one person has most inspired you in your career? I think my mom since she is a teacher and I always wanted to be a teacher.

2. If money were not an issue, where would you live? I'd have a home in Florida on the water-west coast and a home in the mountains with a wonderful view.

3. What is the best advice you ever received? If you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all. AND You get what you get and you don't throw a fit-got that from former student and use it all the time with my kids.

4. What is your favorite time of the day? I like crawling into my bed and curling up with Peanut.

5. What is the best invention since sliced bread? not sure-maybe the microwave, ceiling fan, computer, digital camera...lots!

6. Not including family or friends, the top three things you’re thankful for? I am thankful to have a career that I love, the opportunity to further my education and that I own my home.

7. If you had that mobile phone service, who would be in your top five (Which five people do you talk to on the phone the most)? Phil, my mom, Phil, my mom, oh already said them, umm...grandma...that's it really-everyone else I text.

8 What things need to happen for you to have a good day? Wake up

9. What is your favorite every day outfit? shorts, t-shirt (no bra-I know TMI) and no shoes or flip flops

10. When you are alone in the car, what do you do? sing

11. What kind of vehicle do you drive? Nissan Sentra

12. What one person, whom you have never met, do you wish you could have lunch with? My mom's dad

13. What is the one part of your body that you like the most? my hair, eyes

14. What song, playing on the radio currently, is your favorite to hear? Bubbly

15. What is the one piece of advice that you wish you could give someone? Don't know...

16. What are you looking forward to right now? Getting married

17. What are the TV shows you watch every week, and hate to miss? Desperate Housewives, Amazing Race, Biggest Loser

18. What is the dinner that your family eats once a week? chicken

19. If you just won $100,000, what would you use the money for? down payment for a house, pay off my debt, and the rest for the wedding/honeymoon.

20. Name one random fact about you that you think most people do not know. My hands shake a lot.

I've been tagged!

2007-12-02T19:42:00.000-05:00

Michele tagged me so here goes...

1. Colored lights or white lights on your house or not at all? no lights on my house-live in a condo, colored on my tree

2. Hot chocolate or Egg Nog? hot chocolate

3. What's your favorite holiday dish? don't have a favorite

4. Does Santa wrap the presents or just sit them under the tree? definately wrapped!!

5. Do you hang mistletoe? no

6. When do you put up your decorations? whenever the mood strikes and when there's money to buy a tree...no tree yet...

7. What's your favorite holiday tradition? everything...love it all!

8. What's on the top of your tree? there will be an angel

9. Do you have a nativity displayed through the holidays? I have one...need to get it out this year

10.Candy Canes, traditional or flavored? Or Chocolate Covered Cherries? actually none of them...but if I had to...it'd be flavored candy canes

11.What's your favorite holiday goodie to make and share? Reese's fudge

12.What's your favorite Christmas song? The First Noel

13.When did you learn the truth about the "magic" of Christmas? I don't remember how old I was, but I do remember recognizing Santa's handwriting...I wasn't crushed though!

14.Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Yes at Grandma's

15.Is there a special ornament or Christmas decoration that you wouldn't feel like Christmas without? My christmas tree skirt that Grandma made for me when I first got my place. Also my stocking that my other Grandma made for me. Oh and every year my mom gets me (and my brothers) an ornament. I have started doing this with Phil and hope to continue when we have a family.

16.Do you take neighbor gifts/treats to anyone, everyone, a select few? Some people, usually my volunteers in class, and this year my teammates.

17.Is your big meal on Christmas Eve, Christmas morning or Christmas afternoon? Well, lets see...we all (aunts, uncles, cousins, grandma, etc) get together on a Saturday or Sunday before Christmas, then Grandma has everyone over for Christmas Eve (we have Oyster Stew and open her gifts), then my mom has us up for Christmas day along with some other family members...so that's 3 big meals!

18.How do you decorate your tree? lights, ornaments from my childhood, new ornaments, etc.

19.Snow? Love it? Dread it? Tolerate it? LOVE IT!!! Just don't want to live in it! Visiting it is fine and would love to go skiing soon!!!

20.Do you remember a favorite gift? All of them!

21.Do you have a family get-together during the holidays with extended family? YEP-see above!

22.What's the most important thing that you must do each Christmas season? make my Christmas cards

23.Do you bake Christmas cookies? yep

24.Do you leave cookies and milk for Santa? no, but hope to when we have a family

25.What's your favorite Christmas memory? Can't pick just one so every Christmas was memorable!

I don't think there are any others left to tag so...if you want to pass this along in an email to others feel free!
Merry Christmas!

Too Funny!

2007-11-27T21:05:00.000-05:00

I got up this morning and got ready for work. After getting ready I got Peanut off the bed to take her outside for a quick walk. I always carry her to the door, put her down and get her leash on. Well, this morning when I put her down, she took off for the bedroom. She hid under the bed. I think she thought I would be taking her for another long walk! I didn't bother getting her out from under there and just left out the puppy pad.

We took this afternoon off from walking as I was on the phone with Animal Control. They are still trying to serve the owner of the pitt a notice and fine him. He won't answer the door or return their calls. He's a real a**hole!!!

Anyway, I'll be back on the walking track tomorrow, but will leave Peanut at home. :-)

Walking the weight off

2007-11-26T18:10:00.001-05:00

That's what I am hoping to do. Yesterday I got up and went walking. I ended up at Kip's and then home 2 hours later. Later I drove what I walked and it was 4 miles. WOW! Then I ate Pizza and garlic knots. YUMMY!!! I know, I know...but at least I walked all that first!

Today I wore my pedometer and it broke mid day-it was on the fritz anyway...but after school I took Peanut for a walk. We didn't end up at Kip's but we ended up walking 3 miles...

Peanut was a little tired! She had to be carried some of the way. Along the way we found a tennis ball and Peanut was thrilled. She carried it some of the way and we played a little fetch while walking.

Now dinner is in the oven and she is still playing with that tennis ball. It was a long day today at school, but I'm glad to be getting back into the groove. My kids were pretty good today too and we got some assessments done today.

Tomorrow I think I'll leave Peanut at home and I'll go for that 3 mile walk again...oh and I'll have to go get a new pedometer too.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T19:02:00.000-05:00

I hope each of you have a great day tomorrow. Don't eat too much turkey and stuffing!

We are planning on going to my aunt's for my family's dinner at 1 and then to Phil's mom's at 3. My mom invited us up to her place afterwood but I don't think we will be able to move after 2 dinners. We shall see-but probably not as Phil is sick...he stayed home from work today and said he feels miserable. I may head over in a little while to watch a movie with him-maybe-don't want to get myself sick but want to take care of my sickie.

In the morning we are going to do the Turkey trot. It's become a family tradition now and I am planning to run/walk the 5k with Tim's help. Then we'll be walking with mom in the 1 mile fun run/walk. That should help work off one slice of turkey with gravy right?!

I've been enjoying this week as I have off. Sleeping in and staying up late-ok 11 is late for me since 10pm is my usual bed time.

Today I went to Evos for lunch with my grandma and my uncle from Texas. YUMMY!! I think I found my new favorite food!

I also scrapbooked a little today. I am still working on a mini album from my first cruise 2 years ago.

Peanut had doggie day spa tonight-bath and nail trim. She hates me now but I'm sure she'll get over it soon.

Phil just called so I'll head over and bring him some gatorade and icies.

On a Roll...

2007-11-14T18:03:00.000-05:00

I have been hitting the pavement and walking! I have some weight to lose and some toning to do. You know we are nearly a year away from the big day but, never too early to start!

I walked one day last week and so far 2 days this week.

Anyway...I have a wedding/renewal of vows to go to this weekend. My cousin had a civil ceremony this summer and now is renewing her vows and having a reception. My uncle from Texas is coming for the wedding and staying through Thanksgiving. I can't wait to see him. He hasn't met Phil either so I'm glad he can meet him before we get married.

I am looking forward to the break. I'm hoping to go look at some dresses and get an idea of what's out there.

I still love my job and my new school, but the kids are starting to wear on me! Today was the Teach In at school and the kids were crazy but we had some pretty good speakers. We even learned how to Hula Dance! We saw some really neat xrays and of course saw the firefighter put his gear on. It was a pretty good day-only 2 more to go!!!

Challenge Tag

2007-11-11T18:40:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by Robin...

Thanksgiving is just around the corner.
Share:
1. A childhood Thanksgiving memory.
2. A family Thanksgiving tradtion.
3. Five things you're thankful for...besides family, friends and health. Give it some serious thought and be specific.

My childhood memory of Thanksgiving is always watching the Macy's Parade. I always liked seeing the balloons.

Our Family Traditions:
*Always getting together with everyone...and I mean everyone. We have a large family and I just love getting together on this holiday to see everyone.

*In recent years we have been walking/running in the Turkey Trot.

*While we are letting our dinner settle we plan out our shopping day for Black Friday. Last year was the first year I didn't go. Not sure about this year-I usually shop for myself on that day and with the wedding looming, I need to cut back on that.

Five Things I am Thankful for:
1. That the vets were able to repair my girl and give me more time to love her.
2. That I have a career and love what I am doing. I am thankful that I have switched schools and finally feel like I can teach.
3. That I own my home. I am so thankful that I am not renting and haven't been for over 6 years now.
4. That my Grandma is doing so much better now!
5. That I moved back to St. Pete after college. I was able to be a part of my brothers' lives and watch them grow up. I think we have become close because of this.

Now I tag Kip!

Let the Countdown begin!

2007-11-08T18:48:00.000-05:00

We are a year away from the wedding. Next year at this time-(6:48pm) we will be celebrating! I am getting excited now-before it was so far away to really feel like it was real. Now I'm just smiling knowing that I'm getting married!!

Today was a rough day though. I got up and thought about it being a year away only to get on the scale and see that I am at my heaviest. AGH!!! Time for the diet to begin! \

Then my kids were just rotten today at school! I had one kid tell another "You are an a%%hole." OMG! I couldn't believe my ears. Then he threw a stick at another child! In the meantime I had another kid tell some others to "shut up." Yes-I know that is nothing major so I asked him to come over to me and he wouldn't get up-was just going talk to him and tell him that wasn't nice. Then he started throwing mulch at the other kids. AGH!! I had to practically drag him back to the class for him to start kicking the charts and knocking them over when we got in the class. I tell you I was quite over them!!!

The rest of the day went ok. I got home with the idea of going for a walk...well I had a parent call me-she does this often-I don't answer her calls. Well she left a message this time regarding her daughter's jacket being lost and that it wasn't at her afterschool care so they wanted to go in my room after school but since I wasn't there they wouldn't open the door for her. So she wants to know if it's in the room or if it was stolen or lost and informed me that she would be there in the morning to look for it. She drops off her daughter at 7:30...well tomorrow I'll be at breakfast with some friends at that time so good luck getting in lady!!

She is a pain! She calls me for no reason-and no I didn't give her my number. I made the mistake of calling her from my cell phone and she decided to keep my number. She calls me to know what she can do for reading, that she feels she is falling behind (she is reading and writing just fine!), that she forgot her folder at school, and now to tell me about her jacket. Tomorrow I will be letting her know to not call me at home anymore unless it is an emergency such as her daughter being in the hospital and not just for a cold or broken bones. I will also inform her that I remind the children to get their belongings before leaving for the day and if her daughter forgets something then she will have to wait until school starts the next day to get it. If it's her jacket then when she's cold tomorrow she'll remember to take it home won't she.

OK-enough venting!!! I did take my walk-3 miles! I need to keep up with that so I can drop some of this weight. We'll be going dress shopping soon and I can't wait!!!

Take care all! I'll keep you posted on any wedding plans as they arise!

Warning-Graphic pics below...

2007-10-25T21:01:00.000-04:00

I finally sent away the paperwork to have the pitbull classified as a dangerous dog...

I know it took me a while-but I really didn't want to have to relive that day and remember her yelps.

I had to include pictures with the report and they just brought back a ton of memories.

I just wish he would pay the bills. I can't take the fact that I am sitting here in debt while he is just living life as it should be. I would love to have that extra money to pay off other bills, pay for the wedding, etc. Let alone have her live pain free and without anxiety. I know the day will come when he will pay off my debt, but in the meantime when I hear the dog bark it makes my skin crawl. My neighbors told me that the dog got out last weekend. It's gonna happen again and I pray that whatever dog it is makes it out alive like Peanut.

Her abscess is healing nicely and she's almost finished with her medicine. I'll leave you with one of my favorite pictures of her. Isn't she precious?! I love her!

Catching up...

2007-10-21T17:48:00.000-04:00

Last week was a short week of school as we had Friday off. I had a great time at a scrapbooking class with Robin on Thursday night. It was nice to scrapbook! I haven't done that in a while. Robin is trying to talk me into going to a Winter Scrapbooking Retreat with the scrapbooking gals, but with the wedding approaching, every penny is spoken for. I told her I'd have to talk to my banker-aka Phil-to see if I could go.

I love my school and but had a tough day on Thursday. I had to write a referral for a child and it breaks my heart. I know I had to do it, but it's still hard to do.

Friday I spent time working in my room to get a little more organized. It was nice to have that time to do it. I think there was only one other teacher at the school that day. I left around noon to take Peanut to the vet for a follow up for her abscess.
Seems as though she is healing fine where her abscess is, however she still is draining in one spot and the vet thinks she may always have that as an issue. I just have to keep it clean and dry so she doesn't get an infection...but she also said she may get an abscess every once in a while...hmm. I'll just keep adding that to the pit bull owners bill!!!

Saturday night we went out with some friends downtown and today spent some time watching football. Tonight I need to get ready for the coming week. I start conferences this week and have 2 on Monday. Another cool thing about my school is the secretary schedules all the conferences!! Can you believe it?! WOW!! She just asks what days, or times don't work for us during conference week and works around them. She even asks others to attend if I need them there-like Speech, or Guidance, etc...

Well, nothing new on the wedding plans. Just puttering along. I'll have to put up a link to the reception cite so you all can see pics.

2 in one week!

2007-10-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

I know-can you believe it?!

Well...I have a lot to update you on.

First-We have a reception cite! YAY!!!! We are having the reception at the Heritage hotel in downtown St. Pete and we were given a pretty good deal since we are friends with the GM. So one thing to check off my list and about 100 more to go. Actually, I am relaxed now, knowing that the reception site is taken care of.

Second-Peanut had to go back to the vet this afternoon. She had this mass under her skin that was tough but had an indentation in it...I had just been keeping my eye on it as I figured it was scar tissue. Well, I got home from work this afternoon and her fur was matted there so I knew something was wrong. We went to the vet and it turns out to be an absess. So they cleaned it, and shaved that area and gave her some pain meds and antibiotics. I'm just hoping that is clears up and doesn't come back.

Third-I am getting a check from the dog owners insurance company to pay for my medical bills...not Peanut's. We are still going after the owner for that and for my pain and suffering too.

And Finally-GO KNIGHTS!!!!! UCF is plaing USF tomorrow and though I am a USF student, I have to root for the KNIGHTS!!! That's where I had all my college fun!

I'm updating!

2007-10-08T21:05:00.000-04:00

I've been harrassed by those who want to read more current things on my blog so here you go...

My grandma had triple bypass surgery 3 weeks ago and was in the hospital for 2 weeks due to some complications. She's better now, and we are all taking shifts to care for her. I'll be over there tomorrow night to give her dinner and get her ready for bed then I'll come home and rest. I'm glad everything worked out ok with her. She is a trooper and was off the ventalator within 3 hours of the surgery. I love her dearly and want her to be around to meet my children.

The wedding plans are slow going...I've put things off for a while now that we've changed the date and it's a ways away. I know time will fly but I was a little busy recently. I've called a place today that we are thinking of having the reception and am waiting to hear back from her.

On the school front, I love my job. Did I already tell you that? Well, in case you forgot I'll tell you again...I love my job. I have a room mom and she rocks! She notifies the parents of things we need in class, prints flyers, you name it-she does it.

Phil and I are doing great, except he keeps adding to our guest list and tells me that I'm the one that wants a big wedding...hmm...
By the way we have a wedding website, it's still in the works, but here's the link...
http://www.theknot.com/ourwedding/AmyVail&PhilMatthews

Stop by and see the site. I have to update it at school as my home computer doesn't like that I visit that site, so it will get updated when I have a few moments.

I guess that's it. Check back again in a month for another update... :-)

Don't save the date just yet...

2007-09-16T17:25:00.000-04:00

We keep changing it!
First we were thinking December 2008. Then we switched it to March 29, 2008. And now we have moved it yet again! November 8, 2008. So there it is-but don't pencil it in just yet. You never know what can happen with us.

We sat down this morning and figured out our budget as we don't want to put anything on a credit card. So I'll be eating PB&J's for a while.

So here's some more things we have thought of to make our wedding complete:
Everyone that comes to our wedding/reception needs to bring everything-from their own fork to their own chair to their own music. Oh and we can't forget that they need to bring their own drink, their own party favor and of course they should bring us a gift too! What do you think?! We are thinking our wedding will be the best that anyone has ever attended! And if they want their picture taken they need to bring their own camera and make sure to send us copies!

Actually, we will have a nice wedding! I am not worried....yet. I would like to just get a place reserved before our date is taken and we have to move it for the 4th time!

The latest on the Wedding Planning...

2007-09-15T09:14:00.000-04:00

So my Dear Fiance (add a little sarcasm here) doesn't like the places that I've picked for the reception and wants me to keep looking. Um...isn't he getting married too?! Anyway, he wants to just look in the phone book for a reception place...(more sarcasm here)...so I pull out the phone book and being a smart ass turn to "R" for Reception locations (I'm sure you know as well as I do that they don't have that category in the yellow pages). I tell him ohh, no, there isn't anything listed-now what? Well let's look under hotels....ok-there are over 200 hotels and some I have never heard of and have no idea where they are...so he says let's look this weekend. So we may not get married until 2010 at this rate. Did I tell you we moved the wedding date up to March 29, 2008. That way we can have Spring Break for a Honeymoon.

I was talking to Robin this morning about the woes of finding a reception place and she had a great idea!

We are going to get married right here in the garden where I live...all the guests can hang over the balconies, and afterwards the reception will be in my place, we will shuffle them in and only give them 10 minutes for each group of people to get their food, drinks, and cake...oh and charge for the bathroom-HAHA!!! (We are kidding, but you know I will be telling Phil these plans!!) I think these are the best yet!

On another note, I still love my school and my class so much! I miss everyone at BPE-ok not everyone, but most of them.

Say a prayer for my Grandma on Tuesday. She has to go in and have her arteries looked at as she's been having chest pain. So pray that everything looks good or if they do find something that they can fix it with no problems!

That's it-take care!

I LOVE....

2007-08-26T11:13:00.000-04:00

* My new school!!!! Everyone is so nice, they do their job, they don't complain, and they are always willing to help.

* My new class!!!! They are sooo sweet! Even my little pistols are so sweet. And their parents-OMG-they are so very supportive. I had one little boy that was hysterical on the first day and he calmed down soon after I started reading a story. A couple hours later, he told me that he loved me. Hasn't cried since! I do have another boy that gets teary every few hours, but once I reassure him that we will be going home soon (even if the day just started) then he is fine until an hour later-when I reassure him again. I LOVE THEM!!!

* My Fiance!!!! We are so happy! Even Phil is getting into the wedding planning with me. He still picks up my hand and looks at my ring. Yesterday we were at a friend of his house and they hadn't seen the ring or us since we got engaged. His wife and I were in their daughter's room talking all about how it happened and in walked Phil to make sure that he did a good job. Of course she and I both said yes!!! He is moving in soon and don't tell him, but I'm not ready to share my bed every night with him. I enjoy having the bed to myself. Not to mention, if I don't want to wash the dishes or throw my stuff on the table and leave it for a few days, I don't have to worry about someone else getting irritated that I am not cleaning up. I know that will have to change.

* My dog Peanut!!!! She got the all clear from the vet last week and she is almost back to her old self. They are so impressed that she has healed as well as she has. I told them I didn't know what I was going to do now that we don't have to go to the vet every week. We have been there every week-sometimes twice a week-since this has happened. I told them that I will have to bring her by for a visit so they can see her. She will be boarding there in a few weeks when we go to PA, so I know she will be in good hands and will be spoiled!

* My family!!!! My brothers are now out of the house and off to college. My mom and stepdad are beside themselves. The house is quiet. I told my mom that she needs to pick up scrapbooking more so she can occupy her time. At least we have a wedding to plan so that will occupy her.

* My friends!!!! I have asked Robin to be my Maid of Honor and am so happy that she said yes. I promise not to be a Bridezilla! Now I need to ask a few more friends to be in the wedding. But who? I have so many great friends.

So there you have it! I'm off to clean my house. Enjoy your day!

Did I tell you

2007-08-13T17:39:00.000-04:00

That I'm engaged!!! I still can't believe it! I am on cloud nine and can't stop smiling. I love my ring and love my fiance! It's weird calling him that. He's been really great about listening to my ideas and looking at what I've found in the magazines. I don't want to wear him out so I'm trying not to talk about it daily. But it's so hard not too! That's all that's been on my mind.

Until today, well only a little bit of it anyway. I went to my classroom today and man what a mess! I never knew I had that much stuff, but after 9 years of teaching, I have collected quite a bit. I tried to get my furniture in order and it was really tough-always is, but was getting easier, but now that I have a portable with different furniture than what I'm used to, it was the hardest yet. But I left there with it all how I wanted it, so tomorrow I'll start unpacking my stuff and unit materials. FUN, FUN! Anyone want to help?!

Ok, gotta run. Peanut and I are headed to the vet for a follow up visit. She's doing ok, been limping some, so she's in pain and I can't seem to pick her up without hurting her. :-(

I'm engaged!

2007-08-08T18:05:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, August 7th was my birthday and Phil and I went to dinner at Carrabbas' and then to the beach to watch the sunset. Before we left for dinner he told me that I can open my present when we get back from dinner and the beach.

As we were watching the sunset and looking around at everything, he says Look what I found in the sand. I turn to look and he's holding a ring-I was shocked! So he asked and I of course said.....YES!!!!!!

Here's a picture of my beautiful ring.

It's 3/4 ct. and is a Leo diamond-apparently the cut is better with a Leo diamond and the clarity is supposed to be better too. But I don't care about all that-it's just beautiful!!

I can't stop smiling and looking at the ring!

It's been a nice summer!

2007-08-04T16:31:00.000-04:00

And it is nearing it's end...how depressing!

Even though this summer has had some hard times, I have enjoyed my time doing absolutely nothing!

I didn't tell you but, I went up to North Carolina in the middle of July for a little over a week. I had been really stressed out with everything going on with Peanut, and then Phil and I had a tiff...so I was talking to my mom and about things and crying to her, and she told me to come with them to NC-the next day-Sunday. Originally, I was to "babysit" my 19 1/2 year old brother while they were away so he wouldn't have any parties, but she said it'd be ok and I should come with them. Then it dawned on me that my final paper and presentation for my one class was due that Wednesday and my for my other class I had a final exam. So I called my professor and told her that I needed to get away, and I'd email her my paper if that'd be ok. She said sure no problem. So, I told my mom that there would be no way I could do my paper before the next day, so she said they'd wait until Monday morning. Sunday morning, I woke up at 7am and got right to work, finished my final exam and other items due for the one class and then started the dreaded research paper citing 8-10 research studies...UGH!!! I started working on it around 11:30am and did not finish it until 3:30am!! But I got it done and had no worries! I could leave for NC in the morning at 6:30am and not have one thing to stress about. I sent my professor my items and that was that. Or so I thought!

Off to NC...Peanut, me, grandma, mom and my step-dad. I slept most of the way up there and decided this would be a great time away from everything. I gave my professor my # in case there was a problem but wouldn't you know, we had no reception. On Wednesday we were headed to our next cabin and we stopped at some shops along the way-I found an internet cafe and decided I better email my professor to let her know that I had no reception, well she emailed me that she hadn't recieved my paper! AHG!!! I quickly emailed my neighbor describing exactly what to do to email her my paper. Then decided I better call him too. Needless to say, after quite a bit of walking him through things, he finally sent it on it's way. Thank goodness!

Peanut and I (and everyone else) had such a relaxing time. No phone service, only 1 TV channel, and secluded in the woods. We had really cool weather and even got COLD at night. Here are some pictures of us and our adventures.

Here's Peanut looking down at Bill, my step-dad. She loved putting her head through the slits on the balcony.

Here she is just looking at us from the outside,

she often would leave the cabin and sit on the porch. Isn't she a cutie!

Here she is feeling free as a bird. She had no fears to leave to porch and would just wander off. At one point, my mom and grandma were worried that she'd take off down the road and my mom didn't want to have another emergency with her.

I finally had to tie her up so she wouldn't run away.

Here I am at the local brewery. Very neat place. Bill and I each bought our own jug of beer. This picture was taken at our 2nd visit to the brewery. We went the day before-Friday-and decided we need to fill our jugs again before heading home. They were closed, Sunday and Monday so we had to head back on Saturday. That meant we had to finish our jugs on Friday. Each jug holds a little under a 6-pack.

This is the first cabin we stayed at in Murphy, NC. My mom works with the lady who owns the cabin. We stayed here from Monday to Wednesday. It was a very nice cabin. We each had our own room and bathroom. All the amenities-washer, dryer, beautiful porch, etc. but no reception for the TV. We watched some movies.

Here we are in front of the 2nd cabin near Waynesville, NC. We stayed here from Wednesday to Monday. There is more to do closer to this cabin. Downtown Waynesville was very cute and quaint. We were close to Cherokee, Maggie Valley, and Sylva-where the brewery is. My younger brother friend's parents own this cabin. They had 1 TV channel and had a phone, but only 1 bathroom and 2 bedrooms. But hey, you can't complain when it's free-right!

So there you have it. My trip to NC. Did I tell you I want to move there?! I would right now, but think I'll wait until I finish my master's before making that decision. It's just so calm and relaxing there.

What a day!

2007-07-31T13:56:00.001-04:00

I was so enjoying the rain and thunderstorm we were having here this morning as I was trying to sleep in...but then, I heard drips in my shower...well I've always had the drips, but the drips were making a bit louder sound. Seems that we were not draining properly. We as in the rest of the people on the downstairs. So we called the plumber who came out and released the drain to the sewer and snaked us out...problem solved...I was lucky that my tub didn't overflow and there was no overflow from my toilet, but still serious scrubbing needed to occur in my place. My neighbor has a shower in his place with no tub, so the water overflowed and went throughout his entire place. Sewer water at that. YUCK!! His rugs are soaked, speakers ruining, some furniture ruined. I am so glad that I'm not in his shoes...

So a cleaning I go...scrubbing away the yuck! Then I jump in the shower and as I neared the end of my shower, the toilet gurgled again...AGH!!! I flush and sure enough, it rises to the top...and the plunging didn't help one bit. I check with my neighbors and they hear gurgling too...so we have to call the plumber back to fix it again. Man! Good thing I wasn't going to do anything today-except scrapbook, but now I may put that off until tomorrow.

She is already healing!

2007-07-12T10:46:00.001-04:00

I am so amazed! Last night when we were at the vet, they showed me one hole that is still open and to just keep it clean. They even opened it up for me to see inside-I about threw up! So when we got home, I cleaned all her open wounds, and the gross one too-ugh! This morning I tried to open the one-and it wouldn't budge! YIPPEE!! I don't have to look at it anymore-I mean YIPPEE, she's healing!!

And she's still breathing normal!!

Peanut's Lifesaver!

2007-07-11T22:46:00.000-04:00

This is Dr. Kern. She is the vet that has been primarily taking care of her. She told me the day after her surgery that she was worried all night about Peanut and called the vet in the middle on the night to check on her. I just think she is great! She is very upfront with things and I like that-knowing what might happen lets me not have such a shock if/when it happens. (Like her pneumonia and the hole in her lung)

We had our vet appt tonight to get her staples and drains out. She looks so much better already! There will be a little more draining and she has some open wounds that will heal in time, but I can handle that! Like I said before, Peanut is not out of the woods just yet. We are still to take it easy and that's fine by me. She hasn't had her toys yet, and I think I'll keep those away for at least the next month...her ribs need 2 months to be sure they are healed so I think until then, we will be doing a lot of lounging! Like I said, I don't mind! So if you are in the neighborhood, we are welcome for visitors!! Better yet, I'm ready to get out of the house for some adult time!!

We brought the vet staff some cookies and brownies tonight along with a card and picture of Peanut. They thought it was very nice, but it's the least I could do for their care and devotion for my girl! I know they will be getting my money-well not mine, eventually the other dog owner's money-but I know how it feels to know that you are appreciated!

Besides, everytime we walk into the vet, they know Peanut by name!!

She's sleeping right now and looks so peaceful! To know that 2 weeks ago, her life was in jeopardy is just baffling. Maybe tomorrow I'll wake up and this will all have been a really bad dream!

Long time no blog

2007-07-10T22:40:00.000-04:00

As most of you already know, my girl Peanut was attacked 2 weeks ago by a pit bull. We were outside ready to go walking when it came over and just bit into her back. It was the most horrifying experience I have ever seen! I felt so helpless!

But my girl is pulling through! She is resting a lot, and taking it easy. She has been on lots of medications and is starting be act like her self again-barking/growling when people pass my door. Her barks are soft now because of her lungs, but I'm sure in time, her barks will be back to normal. She wants to be everywhere I am, which is normal. But she isn't too fond of going outside to go to the bathroom now. When I take her out, she just sits there are looks at me like I'm crazy. There are puppy pads around the house for her to use and when we can go walking again, hopefully she'll be back to normal in that area.

I hired an attorney to take care of getting money to pay for the huge vet bills. The owner of the pit bull will not return my calls so I'll let the attorney take care of that!

Here are some pictures of my girl and her recovery. I'll start with the better ones and work my way to the gross wounds. They really aren't that bad in the picture, but I know some people have weak stomachs. I'll end things here too, so if you don't want to go on you don't have to. I did caption the pictures though...Anyway, we go to the vet tomorrow evening to get the staples and drains out.

Here she is when she first came home from the vet-resting on the couch.

And here she is in the oxygen cage. She had to go back to the vet 3 days after we'd been home because she was breathing funny. She had a collapsed lung with air in her chest cavity and pneumonia in the other lung. Doesn't she look so pitiful?!

Now for the kinda yucky ones-they are really just sad looking.

This is the side that had the bad lung wounds. She has staples from the top of her back to where her front leg is. There are drains coming out to help the inside wounds heal. They had to shave her back...

Here's the other side-see the staple and drains. This is the side that ended up getting pneumonia.

And this is the top view of her. This looks the worst. I just felt soo bad for her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

2007-06-13T11:06:00.001-04:00

Today is my mom's birthday. She is 29 and holding...if you figure I'm 31-she had to be not yet born to have me!

When I was younger, I always knew my mom's age as she was 20 when she had me. Well she kept trying to tell me that she was 29-every year. Being the smarty pants that I am, I would always tell her she was wrong and that couldn't be. I used to think nothing was wrong with telling your age. But as I'm getting older, I see why she wanted to remain 29.

So Happy 29th Birthday Mom!
(not that she'll see this as she doesn't know about the blog)

Also Happy Birthday Gracie!

I am on a roll...

2007-06-12T09:39:00.000-04:00

And it's not even 9:45 yet!
This morning Peanut and I were dumping her garbage from her walk :) and we found a wallet in the alley. I picked it up and looked to see who the owner was...then decided to call the police so they can drop it off to the owner since he didn't live in the safest of neighborhoods. Since I had to wait for the officer to pick it up, I decided not to go back to sleep but rather start laundry...then washed the dishes, loaded the trunk of my car with things to take to the shelter, and just now dismantled my old computer in the back room to take to the dump...it is no longer working so is of no use to a school or shelter...so off to the dump we will go...

But I realized that my wireless router needed to connect to something for my laptop to work...uh oh! Don't tell me I need to reconnect the computer and now will have to keep it! UGH!!! Well, I checked out the cords and I don't need to keep it!!! YIPPEE!!! It works and I thought I'd blog to test it out too.

So, now I'm headed to the shower, and off to the dump and shelter to unload my car! I feel so free of the junk!!! I'm also taking a TV that no longer works to the dump so I am cleaning house!! When I'm done, I need to head up to my mom's to drop off part of her birthday present-a large plant. When I'm done, I'm planning on doing my homework and take a nap!

Oh-by the way-I LOVE MY NEW SCHOOL AND PRINCIPAL!!! More about that later!

I'm beat!

2007-06-05T12:17:00.000-04:00

So Saturday was Tim's birthday-my brother. He turned 18 and we all went to dinner to celebrate. One day last week, we were discussing where we were going to eat when my mom and Tim tell me that the family was going to Universal Studios and did I want to go. Apparantly teachers get in free for a limited time and can bring guests for only $40 each. So I said sure, but then I realized I have a dog to worry about...where would my sweet girl go? (They were going to leave on Sunday evening and stay in a hotel and then go to US on Monday) I didn't want to take her to the dog sitter as I want to be able to have her when I go away for longer periods of time, not just for the night. Then I thought about putting her in the kennel-which I just hate to do, but sometimes is necessary. But, she would have to stay for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday as we wouldn't be back in time for me to get her on Monday night and Tuesday I have training so I'd have to get her after that. So I'd be charged $60 for the kennel-not exactly a free trip to Universal... so I declined. Then when we were at dinner, I got the guilt trip, puppy dog eyes from Tim that this will be the last time that we will all hang out as a family since he leaves for college soon. Boy did I fell the guilt set in. Those boys sure know where to hit me!

So my mom called my aunt, who lives in Orlando and has dogs and asked if we could stay with her for the night and leave my girl with her while we are at US-she's a teacher and is out for the summer. She said sure and not problem about Peanut. She is a dog person and understands the needs of a dog. So off we went.

She tried to make friends with Peanut from the get go and Peanut actually didn't mind her. Her dogs didn't mind her either and Peanut couldn't get enough of them. She didn't sleep that night because she knew there were dogs in the house and she wanted to play.

We had a blast at Universal. I felt like a kid again. It was fun to ride the coasters with my brothers and some of the rides the whole family went on. We went on some a few times. We went to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventures. (We got in free to both) It was fun, fun, fun!!! But, man we were tired!!! I slept great last night and was supposed to go to that training today, but I just couldn't get out of bed. I was looking forward to go to the training too. So, here I am. Home, not at the training, and wondering what I should do today. I think I may go to the new Whim's and see what it's like and then organize more school stuff. That's my plan for the day. Peanut is already napping. If you are a teacher, and want to go to Universal for free, let me know and I'll get you address to get your free coupon.

Productive Research

2007-05-30T22:25:00.000-04:00

I was trying to catch up on my homework last night but was not having any luck. So this morning I headed to the Library for some help. I am so glad I did. I am caught up on homework and now have a better understanding of how to find research articles. I got a surprise while I was in the Library. A parking ticket. I guess I spent too much time in the Library-3 hours...and only had 2 1/2 hours in the meters...oh well.

So on tomorrow's agenda:
pay bills
wash sheets
start going through the piles and piles and piles of things I brought home from my class
call around for renter's/homeowners insurance
start on my next homework assignment
clean up scraproom
make a card for my brother
buy Peanut a new toy
and the most important-get a pedicure

We'll see how many of those things I actually get done.

I am soooo glad I am on vacation!!! It is so nice!

Tag-I'm it!

2007-05-29T13:32:00.000-04:00

Robin tagged me on her blog.... to play this game!! The game is SCATTERGORIES...it's harder than it looks! Here are the rules: Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following. They MUST be real places, names, things...NOTHING made up! If you can't think of anything, skip it. Try to use different answers if the person before you had the same 1st initial. You CAN'T use your name.

Your Name: Amy
1. Famous Singer/Band: Aerosmith
2. 4 letter word: also
3. Street: Abbey Road
4. Color: Auburn
5. Gifts/Presents: antique items
6. Vehicle: Altima
7. Things in a Souvenir Shop: angels
8. Boy Name: Andrew
9. Girl Name: Ansley
10. Movie Title: Ace Ventura
11.Drink: Apple Cider
12. Occupation: Author
13. Flower: amaryllis
14. Celebrity: Angelina Jolie
15. Magazine: Audubon
16. U.S. City: Atlanta
17. Pro Sports Teams: Athletics
18. Fruit: apple
19. Reason for Being Late for Work: aches
20. Something You Throw Away: ads in the mail
21. Things You Shout: AGH!!!
22. Cartoon Character: Ariel

And now I'm supposed to tag someone...I tag Roz. Roz are you reading this?? Your turn...

Whose idea was it anyway?

2007-05-28T23:19:00.000-04:00

I don't think it was mine, but if it was, I must have been on drugs or something. Only kidding, but seriously, why did I decide to take 2 Research classes this summer????

OH MY GOODNESS!!!! One is really kicking my butt. I have 4-5 different (in depth and difficult) assignments due every 3-4 days. So if you don't see me, you know what I'll be doing. Good thing I'm not working this summer, and no I didn't want to go to the beach every once in a while or just be a bum a little but this summer...oh well. As for the other class, I can handle it, but it's still a tough one!

On a side note, did I tell you how very excited I am about going to the other school??!!! I am SOOOOO excited!!!!

Had a fun, relaxing weekend-good thing since I'll be spending the rest of the summer on the computer or at the Library doing research.
Saturday, we went on a friends' boat and it was just a nice time.
Sunday, we went to the beach-again very relaxing. Sunday night I decided to be a bum on the couch in my comfy clothes instead of going out and getting all dressed up.
Today, I went up to my mom's for a cookout. Then home to do homework-UGH!!!
Tomorrow I will be back to my classroom to get the last remaining items. On Friday, I took 3 truckloads to the new school and one truckload of things home to go through and get organized.
I'll be setting the turtle free tomorrow in the pond at the school. I'll be sad to let it go, but glad to know it can continue it's life in a nice (roomy) place. (And don't tell it-but I'll be glad to not have to clean it's tank every few weeks!)

Well, I have caught you up on my OH SO FUN SUMMER-not.
I'll try to get out of the house every so often and let you know what I do.

Where have you been?

2007-05-19T10:24:00.000-04:00

So sorry about the MAJOR delay in blogging!

Been kinda busy...
My intern was finishing up so you know who had to take over teaching...

Let's see, then I went on a cruise...had a blast!!! It was soo relaxing...here's some pictures... Oh and I got strep throat right before I left so I was on antibiotics.

Still made sure I had fun though!!!

Here's the boat when we were in Nassau, Bahamas.
And here's the view of the water from Half Moon Cay-the private island we spent the day at. We just floated in the water all day. I am still peeling...

When we got back from the island, a few of us treated ourselves to a Do it Herself Spa Night...We laughed sooo hard. Here's Kip, Linda, Jayne, Me and Robin as we are preparing to spoil ourselves.
And here we are after we oiled ourselves up before festering in the Sauna...don't we look attractive!?

It was so nice to relax! Linda, when are we going on the next cruise? Sign me up!!

Then we got back on dry land and I got a call for an interview at a Fundamental School.

The interview was this past Thursday and I was a nervous wreck! But, Friday morning, they called and offered me the position. I was so excited. Of course I said yes, and then it hit me. The tears came, the overwhelming job of packing up 9 years of teaching materials, and the last day of school for the kids. But, I made it through the day and at the end of the day, I realized that I couldn't watch this group of kids grow up, like I'd done for the other little ones I'd had. Then the tears flowed a little more. But, I am very excited about the change I am making. I'm ready for something new! I will miss everyone at my school now, but look forward to the new experience.

I made my volunteers some end of the year gifts and they loved them! I really liked how they turned out too! Here's some pictures:

I took photos of each of their children during the year and put them on the cube and added embellishments, and such...

Ok well, I'm off to my brother's graduation party.

I hope I have given you a little something to hold you over until the next time I blog! I'll try not to wait so long next time!

Have a great day!

It's been a while...

2007-04-16T20:33:00.000-04:00

Yes I know-the cobwebs are quite thick.

I had a very busy weekend.
My mom's cousin-my 2nd cousin-got married this weekend. He is 26 and we usually see him at Thanksgiving every so often. Anywho-we drove up to Jacksonville to get my brother and then drove down to St. Augustine where the wedding was to be held.
He is my grandma's nephew so she had many of her sisters in town-it was nice to see/meet them all again. I hadn't seen a lot of them in many years. They all look and sound alike. All of them are quite loud and talk over the other-it's kind of like when all my aunts get together.

So we walked around downtown St. Augustine for a while on Friday night. What a cute little town. Then we all came back and had a porch party. 3 of my mom's sisters were there too and their children so we had several rooms right next to each other.
Saturday we woke up and got ready for the noon wedding. It was very nice. Then we took a trolley to the reception but since we were early, we hung out downstairs at the brewery. They had some really yummy beers on tap. Finally it was time to head upstairs for the reception-again very nice-yummy food, etc...
They rented trolleys to take us from the church to the reception and vice versa but the trolley wouldn't be leaving for the church until 6pm and we had eaten our meals, had cake, etc and it was only 4pm...so we walked back to the church (only a few blocks) and got the car to go back to the hotel.
There was an after wedding party/luau at the beach at 8pm so a nap was in order. After my nap, we all headed to the luau. It was ok-lots of young kids (listen to me-as if I'm old) mostly the bride and grooms friends in their early 20's. We didn't stay too long as it was really windy and rainy so back to the hotel we went. We were planning on another porch party, but my cousin (8 years old) had sand thrown in his face at the luau by another kid so my aunt and uncle had to take him to the ER to get checked out as some sand got in his eyes. He did have a scratch on his eye so they gave him some meds.
Sunday we woke up and went to the shrine across the street from our hotel-(a shrine for mothers I think-can't remember the exact name of it) then headed over to the fountain of youth. I drank the water there so should be getting younger as we speak (or type) hehe!!
It was a loooonnnnnnngggggggggggggggg drive back home. We had to drop Pat back off in Jax and of course buy him some groceries and get some dinner, so we made it back to Clearwater at 8:00pm.
I picked up Peanut and made it home just in time to watch Desperate Housewives.

I was beat today! I did not want to get out of bed, but I did.
So that was my weekend. I'll post some pictures soon of some of the highlights.

This week's agenda:
*register for summer classes-going to take 2-yikes!!!
*grocery shop
*laundry
*get my homework done for my class

I think that's it...don't want to overdo it...but Robin keeps telling me to
SAVE FOR THE CRUISE, SAVE FOR THE CRUISE, SAVE FOR THE CRUISE.
So I can't do any shopping and I must stay busy here at home!
Enjoy your week!

Coming to an end...

2007-03-31T09:39:00.000-04:00

Spring Break that is.

I had a really good week!

Monday a bunch of girls went to the beach.

Tuesday some of us walked on the beach.

Wednesday a few of us went kayaking. That was really fun! We saw a ton of Sting rays! I'm not too sore so that's good too! Just nice and relaxing!

Thursday I took Peanut to the dog beach (she needs to get some sun too) with a friend and her dog. Peanut wasn't really feeling it! She stayed on the sand and dug a hole since it was hot. I took her in the water a few times to cool off and she had to swim out. She's such a cutie. The other dog would chase the wake made from the boats. I was hoping Peanut would catch on but she didn't.

Friday was another beach day. You'd think I'd be tired of the sun, but no! I sat under the umbrella and just chatted with the girls.

I managed to get some good sun (as if getting sun is good for you) and wore sunscreen each day. And now I'm ready for the CRUISE!!!! I can't wait! We will have soo much fun-right girls?!! Robin-Kip, Jules, Linda, and Michele?!!

Other news to note: Tim-my brother (the on in HS) got accepted to FSU so he is really excited. Pat-my other brother (the one in college) is looking to transfer (remember the girlfriend situation-well they broke up) and got accepted at USF so he may go there-he's still hoping for FSU-but he needs his ACT/SAT scores to go up by a few more points and that's really hard to do...so looks like USF it will be!

I planned on sleeping in each day this week, but between getting blood drawn on Monday early morning (going to a new dr) and then the dr apppointment on Wednesday early morning, and then wanting to get umbrellas at the beach, sleeping in was not so easy. Not sure why I scheduled a dr apt in the early morning during Spring Break-but I did...then yesterday and today, I was woken up by the race cars at the Grand Prix. Wish I could go, but I'm headed to Orlando today for my friend's wedding. Should be fun!

Tomorrow I will be relaxing, cleaning/straightening up my house, grocery shopping, laundry, etc. Have a great weekend! Here's some pictures from kayaking...

Here's Beth and I...It was her first time kayaking.

Here's Candy and I...she brought the drinks...

Here's Candy and Tonya...

Spring Break

2007-03-27T19:50:00.000-04:00

I know there are more cobwebs...

Here's what I've been up to:

Beach
Sleep In
Play with Peanut
Beach
Sleep In
Play with Peanut
Tomorrow here's what's going on...
Dr in the morning then Kayaking with the girls...
Then nap
Then out with the girls...
Thursday and Friday-not sure yet-maybe dinner with Robin.
Saturday I'll be heading over to Orlando to go to my friend Heather's wedding.

If anything exciting happens I'll be sure to let you all know-I'll try to bring the camera tomorrow on the kayak trip so I'll have some pictures I hope.

Sorry this was a boring post, but currently I've been in a blah mood-yes it's spring break, but same old crap going on...
:-(

Sunny Sunday!

2007-03-18T11:45:00.000-04:00

I just got back from taking a long walk along the water. I ran a little too...

I'll be heading to the grocery store in a few minutes and then relaxing at home.

Later today I'll be heading up to my parents. We are going to dinner for my step-dad's dad's birthday. I'm not really what I'll eat, we are going to a seafood place and since I shouldn't really eat shellfish, and I'm not a big fish eater...I'll try to find something.

Last night I went to Kim's party that she had. Yummy food!!! And lots of it too!! I was going to meet up with Phil afterwards but decided my bed sounded much better! Shhh don't tell him that though! He was at a party that someone from his work was having, I made an appearance before I went to Kim's so that should be ok.

Ok-well, I think I'll get moving, since I've got all this energy. Hope you have a great Sunday!

St. Patrick's Day Fun!

2007-03-15T21:54:00.001-04:00

Your Irish Name Is...

Ella Flynn

What's your Irish Name?

AND...

Your Leprechaun Name Is:

Fluffy Ettercap

What's Your Leprechaun Name?

Update...

2007-03-15T18:31:00.000-04:00

I decided to be the bigger person in this whole situation and talked to the guy.

I spoke to the prez and told him how I thought we ought to have some sort of mediation, but first wanted to talk to the guy about it so I can be the bigger person. I saw him last night and he was alone, so I told him that I wasn't trying to be confrontational, just trying to ask you all to stop making the noise since it was after the time. He tried to tell me that it was only 10:30 (which I came back and said again that the time is 10:00 quiet time) and that he didn't think he was being loud and that his blinds needed to be put up since the nieghbors just moved in and can see through...(I think they moved in a few weeks ago-I guess he's not too bright) He "apologized" I let him talk and then I told him that I didn't appreciate getting yelled at by your gf. He told me that he heard a lot of yelling from both sides. I told him that she was doing pretty much all of it and that I don't feel that I deserved that. He tells me "Well, that's between you guys." I told him I guess it's her because I don't have a problem with her (not until now.) Then I told him that I was trying to just come up and ask you guys to stop and wasn't trying to get into a fight, and that I am just trying to live my life here and get along peacefully. He pretty much was done hearing what I had to say so he left...

I told the prez that I did that and we'll see what happens next. If it happens again...look out!!!

Anyway...I went for walk #4 this week at the park. Peanut didn't come yesterday or today since she was holding me back on Tuesday. I'm hoping to continue this weekend...

Plans for St. Patty's Day...
Going to a party at a friends. Laura (pool girl) will be in town so we are getting together for food, drinks and fun times...It's all girls so no Phil-besides he's going to a party that a guy from work is having... We may meet up after, or maybe I'll be having too much fun and not leave the party!

If you read this far-thanks! I'm sorry for the boring blow by blow above...

UGH!!! SHE IS A BI#%@!!!!!!

2007-03-14T17:31:00.000-04:00

Well, last night I went to bed a little after 10pm and around 10:30 I am just getting relaxed when I hear hammering noises coming from above yet again...I wait and try to will them to stop. But nooooo! They keep doing it and then start moving around furniture too! So I recall from a conversation that I had with the prez that the next time I have a problem with them to speak to them in a calm manner....ok Amy, take a deep breath!!! So I get out of bed, take some deep breaths so I am calm and knock on their door. The *&%$# answers the door and I (very calmly) say I am trying to work with you guys on the floor thing, but the tapping and moving of furniture has got to stop. She proceeds to call me every name in the book, well mostly that I am now the BI*&% and she threw in the f bomb and told me that she was f-ing tired of me being a b*&%$. I said (trying once again to remain calm) it is not the time to be making these noises. Again a few more lovely words came out of my mouth so seeing no resolution coming I tell her that I will be talking to the prez and she tells me go ahead you f-ing b&#$%! Then slams the door in my face....I proceeded to call her one back before she slammed it. I just cannot believe how RUDE she is and what a BI&*% she is. I was trying to be neighborly and ask them to stop so that I could sleep but, wow-she really showed her ugly side-(she is too.)

I have decided that I need to talk to the guy-the only one on the lease-and again be calm and see that these noises not occur during sleep hours... Keep in mind this is now the 2nd time they have done this and the first time, the prez talked to them...
Now they are just blatantly disregarding the rules that they agreed to live by.

I don't know how much longer I can remain calm about this!!!!!!!

It's Tuesday

2007-03-13T20:20:00.000-04:00

and that means it's American Idol night! You know what I'm doing then!

So the weather here has been absolutely gorgeous lately! Peanut and I took a long walk yesterday along the water and then again today. I had to drag her some of the way and then pick her up...poor thing! She was beat! I'll give her a rest tomorrow and go on my own.

My intern has been sick the past few days and so I've been teaching again...Loving It! I really have missed the kids and getting them to smile and see them learn! It's very rewarding!

Nothing really exciting to update you all on. The time change has really been hard to get used to in the morning, but I love the daylight later in the evening!

I'm sorry there's nothing more to tell you! I'll try to go out and do something to be blog worthy!

I am sooo disappointed!

2007-03-08T21:18:00.000-05:00

Sabrina and Sundance should be in the top 12!!!! Sanjaya and Haley should have been the other 2 that were sent home!!! I can not believe it!! The voters had it wrong!

I feel much better now that I got that off my chest!

I get to teach tomorrow as my intern has to go to a seminar all day. I'm kind of looking forward to it! I've missed my kids and doing all the fun little things we do each day.

Also tomorrow is Prom for my brother Tim. His senior year is coming to an end and I just can't believe it! Nearly 18 years ago he was on his way into the world and now...oh my...I just can't believe that they are all grown up!

There are previews out right now for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie and way back, when my brothers were little, that was their favorite! There were a few Halloweens that they were dressed as a TMNJ character...not to mention the many action figures and sheets and pj's...I had to watch the movie several times back then.

Ok I better end this before I start to cry.

Idol Watchers...

2007-03-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

I think Blake is so cute...there is something about his way of singing that I really like. At first the bebopping was a little wierd, but I think his personality shines in his singing.
The rest of the guys pretty much stink...It'll be a girl for sure this season!

Anywho-so I went to a Poetry class tonight-on how to teach my kids how to write poetry...I know what you are thinking. I was thinking it too! Kindergarteners write poetry...yep! I have faith that they can do it...I may have no more hair afterwards, but they will have poems!! Mark my words!

We had to practice writing some poems of our own tonight in class and I am a true poet! I think I should quit my day job and publish my anthology of poems! Hehehe!!

Here's a sample:

Dreams

Peanut runs
She dreams.
Peanut wags
She dreams.
Peanut barks
She dreams.
Peanut snores
She dreams.
Zzzzzzzzzz.
-Amy

Whatch think???? I'm good aren't I?!! I'll be signing a copy of my poems at your local Barnes and Noble before you know it!

That's all for tonight-Don't let the bed bugs bite.
-Amy
Oh-I may not be able to claim that one...

PS-My TV in my bedroom died. I hate not being able to watch before bed or while I'm getting dressed in the morning.

So Sorry

2007-03-05T16:41:00.000-05:00

I was notified by a dear friend that my blog had cobwebs on it. I'm here to dust them off.

What have I been up to? Not much, hence the lag in the blogging.

This Allergy season has been a killer! I have had really bad headaches, stuffy, just all around crappy feeling. It was either the allergies or the flu...I had one boy out all week. He went home early one day the week before and just returned to school today. Poor thing! Oh and I have a child with Staph infection too. Fun, fun, fun!

So resting is what I've done. I had to drive over to Tampa on Thursday and man...that drive is horrible! I left my house at 3:50 and did get to my advisors office until after 5:00. I sat on the bridge for nearly 30 minutes. Did not pass Dale Mabry until after 4:40...I know because I had to call her to tell her I didn't think I'd make our 5:00 appointment. Well, I was only a few minutes late...I signed my plan of coursework. 33 hours and then I'm done. So I think I'll start taking 2 classes each semester and then I can be done by the end of '08. 3 hours down (well almost) and 30 more to go...so 10 classes after this one.

I was supposed to go to Orlando for my friend Heather's bachellorette party, but since I was feeling lousy all week, I didn't make it. I hope they had a good time. I can't wait to hear all the stories and see the pictures.

On the agenda this week: Work, work , work, work, 4 days left...um...I have a workshop tomorrow night for 3 hours, going to do some homework and work on my project a little, um...I think that might be it for this week. If something exciting happens I'll be sure to let you all know!

Here I am!

2007-02-27T20:59:00.000-05:00

I'm watching American Idol and just love BLAKE!!! He's the blond bebopper. The song he sang last week and his performance tonight were both just great! I just had to pass that along. :-)

So my mom bought me the "Secret" DVD that has become so popular. Oprah had a show about it and that's where she saw it. It's the secret to getting what you want in life. I started watching it earlier, but fell asleep. (I had to teach today as my intern was out and I was exhausted!! Plus I haven't been feeling the greatest for a few days-allergies.) Don't tell her that. I'll try to watch it again tomorrow. I do remember some of it-that I need to emit the energy of what I want and then I'll get it...maybe I can emit the "I want my neighbors to move!!!!!" energy and then they'll do it!!!! One can wish right?!

I'm doing homework tonight and it's a little tough, so I had to take a break since AI is on and Blake did so good!

Saturday I went scrapbooking...hung out with Robin, and Kip and the rest of the gang. Didn't get too much work done. Forgot some pictures at home that I wanted to scrap. But I did start on my cruise pictures from last year. Looking forward to this year's cruise in May!!!
Sunday, Phil and I went to the beach...we froze our butts off! We met some other friends out there and we ended up going inside since it was sooo windy! It was still fun.

So, back to AI and homework...Are you watching? Who do you like? Oh and I like the shaved head guy named Phil too. He's got a great name and I am ooooohhhhh soooooo attracted to bald men!!!!!!! It's so sexy!!!! Ooh and he sings good too! Ok take care all!

It's been a while!

2007-02-18T21:23:00.000-05:00

I know!! I've just been busy.
The house sold. :-(
We've decided to wait a little while until we look into buying a house again, need to get some money saved.
School is same old, same old. I have an intern so I haven't been teaching. Kinda miss the kids! I am still in the room, but let her do everything. She's doing fine. Monday we have an early release day so in the afternoon I am going to work on report cards. FUN!! (not really!) But I have to remember that this is their first report card and this is what the parents look forward to.
I watched the Daytona 500 today-I know many of you are thinking-"Amy-watch a Nascar race." Yes and I only fell asleep for a little bit of it. It got exciting there at the end.

So, I'm cooking a chicken in the crock pot overnight for dinner tomorrow-no Lisa-not the chicken from the shower-that will come soon though. For the rest of you-I'll explain that chicken when I decide to make it.
So, that's really it. I think I'll be scrapping on Saturday...looking forward to that!
Have a good week!

Sunday evening

2007-02-11T20:45:00.000-05:00

Peanut is already asleep in my lap and I should be doing homework but instead I'm watching TV-Extreme Home Makeover and anxiously awaiting Desperate Housewives!
House update:Phil and I are going forward with the process and if we don't get that house-which chances are probably not-we are going to start looking for a house. Tonight the stomping has been loud!

So this week is Valentine's Day and I bought my sweetie a gift card to Bass Pro Shop. Since I was in Orlando today for my friend Heather's shower brunch-it was very nice Lisa-I told him to tell me something he wanted but his all day fishing on Saturday was exhausting and he was out before 8:30pm, so a gift card it is! I'm also going to go to this really yummy Chocolate shop downtown and pick up some treats.
Ok-time to work on my homework.

Yes- Jules you will be invited and you too Robin!
And no he didn't catch any fish-so we had cheeseburgers instead.

Fun night!

2007-02-10T09:54:00.000-05:00

We had sooo many laughs last night! Kip took some pics but don't think she'll put them on her blog...I'll try to get her to send them to me and I'll post them on here. We laughed and all got a little closer to each other. A few of us tried this cream that you put on your uhum and it enhances everything...all I can say is yep! Then we all got to play with the toys-not that way-just touch and see what makes it do it's stuff...no we didn't take it out of the room and yes we were fully clothed. Funny how soo many women are purchasing these things. I think men just don't understand that they just aren't getting the job done. Anyway, it was fun, we had straws and a cake to go along with the theme. It was definately "R" rated!

So I called and left a message with my aunt and still haven't heard from her...I have 2 theories-either they closed and she doesn't want to tell me, or (this is really what I think)-that they didn't close, but they are going to take the other offer.

I have a busy day today! I need to go to Tampa and buy my reader for my class and then get to work on my homework. Then I'll do some laundry, and clean up the house...Oh and I might have another card making job coming. A girl I work with is getting married this fall and I mentioned to her that I make invites, so I need to figure out pricing for her and she was going to talk to her fiance this weekend and get back to me...so keep your fingers crossed that I'm hired and that I price it good enough for me to make a decent profit and for her to buy them!

Phil is fishing today, so we may have some yummy fresh fish for dinner tonight! Have a great Saturday!

The Latest

2007-02-09T15:57:00.000-05:00

So now the closing is today by 5pm. My aunt said that if it doesn't close by the end of the day today, then they are open for offers. So, part of me is hoping it doesn't close-for obvious reasons. But the other part of me is stressing big time-gotta sell the condo, gotta get financing, gotta make sure I have money to close, gotta, gotta, gotta!! AGH!!! I know it will all work out whatever way God has planned for us. So if we don't get this house, that just means we can take out time to sell, and look and get financing. I don't doubt that we will be approved for financing, just would like to sell this place and get some kind of money out of it! My aunt and uncle wouldn't have extended the closing if it weren't for the fact that they need it for another project they have-contractors to pay, etc...

Tonight I have somewhere fun to go! I'll be going to an adult toy and accessory party! Hehehe!!! I've never been and I'm sure I'll be blushing and embarrassed but laughing too! Will tell you all about it tomorrow or when ever I blog again!
Tomorrow I will be doing homework and Sunday I have a bridal brunch to go to in Orlando.

Well...

2007-02-04T14:14:00.000-05:00

Here I sit and can still hear them above me. We had a board meeting on Wednesday and the prez suggested that we form a committee to see what the sounds are and if they are bad or not. If they are bad, then we will look into amending the bylaws, if it's unbearable, then they will have to remove them. I don't think it's fair to ammend the bylaws because someone "lost them and didn't know they couldn't" Oh and he claims that I never told him about the carpet....ARE YOU FU***** KIDDING ME!!!!???? Oh and he says the prez told him that he could put them down-the prez says he never had a conversation about that with him...Anyway, I haven't spoken to anyone here since Weds. and don't look forward to the listening session this Weds...who's to say that the noises they produce on Weds are the same noises that they produce on a normal everyday basis? And how valid is this going to be? Oh and the other people at the meeting claim they hear the person above them and they have carpet...I told them that if they think they can hear them now-just wait until they are allowed to put other flooring in and then see how much they can hear them then! I don't think these people are man enough to stick to our own rules...well they are all gay men so that pretty much explains it! They just want us all to live peacefully...well we would have had they followed the rules!!!

So because of this drama in my life, I've decided that I think I don't want to live in a condo anymore...I have been driving around the neighborhoods and have seen some really cute places and happened to talk to my aunt yesterday and she told me about a house that they own that they have for sale. So I go by and look at it and OMG! It is sooo cute and for a REALLY good price in the area it's in...2/1, huge fenced backyard, hardwood floors, new tile in kitchen, washer, dryer, garage, new blinds-dishwasher-fans, etc...just precious! So I call her back and tell ask her how much is it and she tells me and then says they were supposed to close on Friday for it, but the guys' financing didn't go through, but it could go through on Mon. Well, I take Phil by and he loves it too...I called her back today and said if he can't come up with financing, hold it for me and we will start the processing for my house to sell and for me to get financing...My mom's not too happy because she wants me to have a ring before we do anything like that. I agree and have told Phil that I don't have a commitment yet from him and I'll continue to drop hints to him about it...
But that house may not go through since the guy can come back on Monday and have financing but I am still going to go through the paperwork to see what I can get so if we see another house I'll be ready...
Phil is ready to get the truck loaded up and move in tomorrow, but I keep telling him that it's not that simple...the process is long and I can't do anything unless this place sells and can use the money as a down payment. So...that's the latest. I'll keep you posted! I'm not holding my breath, but it'd be nice to move onward.
So with that-enjoy the superbowl! I don't care who wins...just like the comercials, and the food at the party!

Thanks for the Advice!

2007-01-24T17:55:00.000-05:00

I did report him to the board-my neighbor next to me is the prez and the other guy on the board is 2 doors down and then I'm the other person on the board...So the prez was already meeting with our attorney about other issues so he said he'd talk to the attorney about the floor situation too...well...the attorney said we have to write a letter to both the guy above me and another guy that has wood floors and tell them they have 30 days to take it up and put carpet down...I know I will be hated for some time, but I don't really care-they did something they weren't supposed to do and they both knew it was against our bylaws.

I have my last in person class tomorrow night-then it will be online. I will be glad that I don't need to drive over there!

Other news...my parents attended their last soccer game last night-my brother had his last game of the season and the one in college is wanting to transfer to his girlfriend's school and quit soccer...so it was a sad night for my parents and bro who will not be playing in college.

That's it. Have a good one and stay warm!

Advice please!

2007-01-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

UGH! So many of you know that I live in a condo...well in November, the lady above me sold her place. A young guy bought the place and he and his girlfriend live there. Well, shortly after he moved in-(Thanksgiving morning) while he was in the middle of fixing it up, he came home around 5:00am and since his parking spot is right behind my bed, I could hear him pull in-don't really care and didn't really notice the time until he and his girlfriend were upstairs and it sounded like they were stomping all around-I am assuming at this point that he has ripped up the carpet since I could hear them walking-stomping-around and never could hear the lady before him...then the gf was yelling at him and again I could hear it all...I was so p***** and they finally stopped yelling around maybe 5:45...so I finally close my eyes again and then 6:00 I hear sawing coming from the bathroom upstairs. Now I am fuming!!! So I had to be up at 6:30 so I'm sure you can imagine how furious I am at this point. Well, I decide that I'm going to knock on his door and tell him to stop sawing...I do but no answer...Then when I finally get up for the day to meet my family for the Turkey Trot and hear no noises anymore from his place-he must have fallen asleep-oh but not for long!!! I slam EVERY door-several times for no reason but to wake his a** up! Remember I've been up for 2 hours for no good reason. I guess I woke him up-oh darn-because he was on his balcony when I was leaving so I go off on him telling him that I can hear everything-from him sawing to them yelling and that it was the wrong hour of the day to do either and I say I know you are working on your place but hurry up and get carpet because I can hear all of the walking around. Later that day he apologized and I said thanks he said it'll never happen again...so I tell him I did look up the carpet thing and the 2nd floor has to have carpet from wall to wall except for the bathroom and kitchen. He says ok thanks...

Fast forward to the next few months...I hear her/gf walking around all the time-reason why I know it's her and not him because when he's there alone, I don't hear any kind of walking-maybe he just stands by the front door...but not her-when she's there I hear her walking all over. It's like she's stomping instead of walking...I've been frustrated thinking well he knows about the carpet-he has the same bylaws and rules as I have and I wish he'd hurry up and get carpet...
So on Wednesday night I hear water start to trickle down from somewhere. I go looking and water is coming from above and into where my air unit and water heater are located. I haven't had my air on in a few days so I assume it can't be me-so upstairs I go to see if he's leaking-anyway he is and what do I see on the floor of his place?!!!!????!!?!?!?!?! WOOD FLOORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I about flipped out! But I contained myself and came back down and pulled out my condo documents to make sure I am reading things right-yet again and I am....SO.....now that you all are asleep....WHAT DO I DO???????????????????

I am on the board for the condo, and am going to say something to the president but come on people...you live in a condo and you agree to the rules before you move in but after you are in, you can't decide not to follow them.
WHAT DO I DO??? PLEASE HELP ME!!!! ADVICE PLEASE!!!!!!

Sorry about this being so long, but I had to give you the background!

So Here's What I Did

2007-01-15T21:40:00.000-05:00

First I talked on the phone to some friends, then made some lunch, then I straigtened up around the house-sorted all my piles and made sure I had no bills due-or overdue.
I ventured into my scraproom and organized my things. I put things I need to work on in their own folders so it will be easy to grab them next time I crop.
Then Peanut and I went for our second walk of the day. We didn't make it as far as I'd hope to. I think she was tired from our loonnggg morning walk. We came back and she was out in no time on the couch. It was then time to make dinner, so that's what I did-oh and I made my lunches for the week-salad with some chix. After dinner, and a little bit of news watching, I decided a bath was in order. Then I finally made it to the scraproom to get some work done.
See-I told you I'd find plenty of other things to do besides scrap! But it's now 9:45 and I did a few pages in the Vegas album and then worked on and finished a small wallet sized album with Peanut pics...It'll be my brag book and I'll keep it in my purse, then I can show off my girl. So that's it. I hope you got a lot done today! It's time for bed as I have an early meeting tomorrow so Good Night!

My brain really hurts!

2007-01-15T13:27:00.000-05:00

I just finished my first assignment for my class and man, that was rough! I don't think I've used those brain cells in quite a long time. They were a little dusty and I think I've misplaced some since I talk to 5 year olds all day long. My brain was hurting, and my stomach was churning-not from being sick, but from being nervous about whether or not my thinking was on the right track. AGH!!!! I hope this class gets a little bit easier-either that or I hope I can understand things a little better. At any rate, I have posted my response to an encyclopedia (yes-an encyclopedia!!) article on Critical Theory and now I wait to see what the professor thinks.

So now the day is mine-It's 1:30 and I think I'll scrap...don't hold your breath though! First I have to clear off my scrap table and then I'll find that I have dishes to clean and laundry to do and of course call my friends and see what they are doing, and then I'll find that the floor needs to be cleaned...so many things to choose from. Why do I always find other things to do instead of scrapping? I think because it is a challenge to get started on a project or a page and it's easier to do things that I know how to do and can see the final outcome or how it should be. With scrapbooking I can't always see the end. Do you have the same trouble? Either with scrapbooking or something else? What is it?

Ok-time to start on whatever project it will be and I'll let you know later what I did and I'll take pics too...I know you are dying to see my clean floor and dishes clean and my laundry finished...

Fun Scrapping Day!

2007-01-14T18:05:00.000-05:00

I think we all had fun yesterday scrapping! It was nice to see Robin, Teri, Jules, Michele, Alice, Cheryl, and Diana. It was also good to get an album started that I had been meaning to work on for a while. Now if I could just keep up the motivation to continue working on it. Maybe tomorrow...Today I am not feeling well. My stomach has not allowed me to do much...I was supposed to go to my cousin's baby shower but I didn't want to get her sick so I stayed home and slept. Then I finally got up and made to way to the store to get something to eat other than toast, and ran into Kip. I am going to just finish out the day on the couch so won't be close to my steps today...Tomorrow I'm going to do my homework for my class and was planning on going to the Library so as not to get distracted but with it being a holiday I'm not sure it'll be open, so instead I'll go to the park or beach.
Oh, my mom called today and said when are you bringing back my album...I think she really likes it!
Sorry for the boring post-just don't feel well.

Back to School

2007-01-11T21:46:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight was my first class and I have a feeling I'll do OK... :) There are about 12 of us in the class and yours truly is the ONLY person that lives in St. Pete...I also felt old in the class...there are 3 of us that are not in our 20's...Not that I'm there to make friends...
Anyway, I have to read this article that is from the Encyclopedia all about Social Theory...about 20 pages or so and respond to it by next week...Can you say FUN??!!
We have to do a class project about a Social Theory-war, homelessness, racism, poverty, etc...So gotta start thinking about one that I want to work with...
So if you don't hear from me much...you know where I'll be-at the Library, or reading...I think I'll be sure that my sub plans are all ready in the event of a mental health day!!!

Saturday, I'll be scrapping!! See you there Kip, Jules, Michele, and Robin too-(I'm not doing the walk-so we can ride together) I need to figure out what I'll be working on while I'm there...Also I have plans to see Phil-since I haven't seen him since Monday as we've both been busy. (So-Robin-maybe I need to take my car so I can leave early...I'll call you.)
Sunday, I'll be at my cousin's baby shower.

And I know you've been wondering about my steps-Wednesday's grand total was 15, 061. Today was 9,600...less than what I'd like, but I didn't have time to talk my long afternoon walk-so back to it tomorrow. I have to get more than 15,000.

More steps and a tag!

2007-01-09T18:35:00.000-05:00

Ok so yesterdays ending steps was a little more than 10,900...so today's goal-more than that.
After school, Peanut and I went on a little longer walk than yesterday and as of now-6:30 pm-I have 11,200! So tomorrow's goal is more than today!

Ok-now for a tag from Michele.

Here are are the rules to play:
1. List 5 weird things about yourself or your pets
2. Tag 5 friends and list them.
3. Those people need to write on their blogs about 5 weird things, and state the rules, and tag 5 more people.
4. Don't forget to let the people you tag know by posting a comment on their blog!

1. Five weird things about myself or my pet.
1. Peanut sleeps with me-but what is so weird about that?
2. Peanut doesn't give kisses.
3. Peanut barks at everyone that goes into the bathroom.
4. I always have to sleep with a comforter on-even if it's hot out.
5. I don't like Jello-the consistency makes me gag...

2. Tag 5 people...
Well-it appears that only about 3/4 people read my blog-and since one tagged me and most of the others have been tagged except Robin-so Robin-you are tagged...

How many steps did you take?

2007-01-08T18:15:00.000-05:00

Today I made it over 10,000 with a few hours left that I'll be walking around the house and take Peanut out one more time. I'm very excited to make it to 10,000...now tomorrow I will walk more! Each day I want to add more and more steps...I know the weekends will be tough without working but maybe setting the goal of walking a little more each day will help me add more.

On another note, today was back to work/school and the kids were ok. It was really hard to get up this morning and going to sleep was no cake walk either. But, we had a really good day. Many slept during our rest time and I was ready to pass out after school. I did close my eyes for a few minutes. If it weren't for Peanut, I probably would be waking up about now-6:20, but since she has to go to the bathroom it gets me up. So off for our walk we went.

So there it is, off to a good start on the walking.

Oh Goodness!

2007-01-06T09:58:00.000-05:00

I think I might be in over my head! I just read the syllabus for the class I am taking and the professor even is saying the course will be challenging. Great!! Just what I was hoping for. Now don't get me wrong-I knew the class probably wouldn't be a cake walk, but now I'm scared! And the list of readings we have too....AGH!! Don't look for many postings on here...I'll be busy reading my life away. I think I'm going to make a plan that every week-on a certain night, I'll just leave my house and head to the library and get my work done. If I stay here, your blogs will taunt me and Peanut will keep bringing me her ball, and the TV will want to be watched and of course my friends will all need me to call them....so yeah-I'll be busy. I'm already stressed! I couldn't sleep last night knowing what was ahead...I finally had to tell myself that I can't do anything about it now so go to bed. Now I'm up and the stressing had begun again.

Today, Phil and I had talked about going Kayaking...so hopefully we will do that. Enjoy your day and say some prayers that I'll be able to keep my head above water with this course!

What's New?

2007-01-05T15:17:00.000-05:00

Well, nothing really! I just got back from paying my tuition to USF so I'm poor again! Just when I thought I could see the light after the Christmas shopping extravaganza...Oh well...I am working on my education right-I'm a student again and that means I'll be poor for a while. Good thing I have an ID card now and I can get in at the movies cheaper-that is if I can still afford the price-and other discounts.

On another note, there are only 2 1/2 days left of my vacation. AGH!!!! I'm not sure I'll be able to get back into the sleep routine-staying up until 12:30am and getting up at 10:00am is really starting to sink in. I know Peanut will not be ready for me to be off the couch and gone all day.

Resolutions: I have never been one to making and sticking to a resolution, but this year I have a few things I want to work towards so here goes...I'm telling you in hopes that you'll keep me on track...

1. I want to lose at least one size and a few inches and a few pounds before the cruise in early May...so here's how I'll do that...I just bought a pedometer and plan on taking more steps than the day before. I'm also going to eat smaller portions. I had to quit the gym since I was just giving them my money every month with me not showing up, plus I'll have a cheaper gym through USF if I choose to go.

2. Budget my money better. It seems that every year I say this, but this year, with going back to school, I really need do it...so here's how I'll do that...I am not going to go to Ann Taylor to buy clothes just because they send me a coupon every month or so. I'm going to check my account on a more regular basis so I'm more aware of how much I have in there. I'm going to put money aside for the cruise and only spend what I bring.

I think that's it for now. Now if I stray once or twice, I'll just get back on track. Wish me luck!
Now time to put some Christmas decorations away and take a nap...maybe not in that order.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-01T22:09:00.000-05:00

Hard to believe that it is a new year! I hope you all had a great night. We had a nice time. Today Phil and I went to the Outback Bowl and it was sure a wet day. It was still a good game and Phil's team won-Penn State-so that was good!
We were both very tired so nap time after the game was great!
Now just one more week left until I go back to work, so I plan on enjoying it by doing nothing. Oh and I'll take Peanut to the dog park too.

There's a quiz on the right side-take it and see how well you know me.

The Beach in December

2006-12-30T19:01:00.000-05:00

Yes-you got it! I went to the beach yesterday. I got some sun and had some drinks too. It was sooo nice to relax in the sun...in December too! I don't think I have ever been to the beach in December and I've lived here all my life. I was going to go again today but instead went to an outdoor bar and had some drinks with some girlfriends. We let out our frustrations and soaked up the sun. Now I've napped and am headed out to get some sushi. I'm looking forward to it since I haven't had it in a while.

Gotta go finish getting ready! Have a great night!
Tomorrow, I'll be making a side dish to take with us to a friends' house for New Year's Eve. And on Monday I'll be at the Outback Bowl. I hope it doesn't rain too much!
Happy New Year!