Look At Us!

The picture of me and Molly wearing red shirts was taken this past Christmas. My mom has it proudly displayed on her mantle. I think she needs to replace it with this new one taken at Easter. I am so proud and thankful for the new me!

Call Me Shallow if Want To...

Ok, you can call me shallow if you want to but here are pictures of my jeans and t-shirt from Aeropostle. I've also included a picture of me in my jeans and t-shirt from Aeropostle for proof that they actually belong to me! I didn't weigh in this week but according to my scale I'm down 35 pounds. My stomach continues to be the area I need to work on the most but it'll come in due time!

I am the girl who...

gets all dressed up and feels "smokin' hot" when all of sudden she looks in the mirror and sees a crusty under her nose.

has a chance to flirt with a hot guy and her mind goes blank!

is scared to wear high heels because her left knee is prone to give out on her.

rushes out of the house for a Miss Wakulla meeting only to discover that she forgot to wax her upper lip.

cries at funerals, when she thinks her mom is mad with her, when other people cry and Publix commercials.

who will write more later when she comes up with more ideas.

I've been wanting to write this for a while now. The reason being is to find a somewhat humorous way to sort of explain something a "friend" (I use that term loosely!) said to me one time...
I once had a "friend" tell me that I had low self-esteem. She also told me that I didn't give myself enough credit for the great things in my life. After getting really pissed off at her, I thought about her words and confronted her. I told her that I have been at the very top of my game and I have been at the very bottom. Needless to say, I didn't enjoy the bottom. So, I try very hard to stay somewhere in the middle. I also know that I am who I am because of God and all the wonderful people He has put in my life. I am blessed with determination and strength. I also know my talents. I don't have to go around flaunting them to other people.

Life in a Small Town

I love this small town life I lead. Its just funny sometimes. Why, do people think that just because its spring its time to create burn piles in their front yards??? I HATE burn piles. I especially hate burn piles when I'm trying to practice for my 5k and come across one while already trying not to lose a lung from running. Which, by the way, I suck. I've been practicing since last Friday and I am still only able to do a mile in a little over 12 minutes! What is wrong with me? I know I shouldn't be so hard on myself. Its only been a week and I only recently lost weight.

Speaking of weight, and small town gossip... today was the 'Teacher of the Year' breakfast. All the teachers who won for their school were honored with a plaque and $250. I haven't seen alot of people since my weightloss transformation so it was exciting to see friends I haven't seen in a while. The video was funny too because it was taken 30 pounds ago. You can really tell a difference. Anyway, my sister called me today after school and said that her friend Rachel called her. Rachel was at the breakfast too. Molly said Rachel couldn't get over how "hot" I looked. She said I really looked beautiful. To which my sister replied, "she was beautiful even 30 pounds ago." Gotta love my little sister. Which is true. I have always been beautiful, but now I have so much more energy and I'm happy with both the inside and outside appearance, so I guess I really do glow. Hope that didn't come out conceited.

Last, about small town business... I was at the beauty shop the other day getting my hair cut and colored. As my stylist is washing my hair she says, "Adam says he saw you running down the road the other day. He said to tell you that's not safe and to join a gym." Her husband is my realtor and he went to school with Molly. How funny is that?

Wanted!

As an ESE teacher, I really hate defensive parents. Especially parents who are also teachers. I'm not a parent but today, I became a defensive aunt.

My nephew Thomas went to FSU today to have his 12 month evaluation. Molly took him at 7 months to have him evaluated for delays and he turned out to be above average in all areas so they asked if they could continue watching him. He's a lab rat. Just kidding! He scored above average in pretty much everything except dramatic play and self-help skills. He scored on the low end of average in those two areas. I personally feel that is a load of crap. Just the other night we were at a restaurant and the waitress loaned Thomas two army men. (I know, Heather, ITERS folks would so die!) Anyway, he had one in each hand and had them talking to each other while walking back and forth on the table. As for self-help skills, he can use a fork and spoon when we give him one. He just prefers his fingers. Am I defensive or what??? At one point, he told the examiner, "Let me down!" She had him in a high chair while testing him. He's a hoot! The examiner told Molly that she was going to have to keep Thomas very busy when he's older or teachers are going to label him ADD. They better not! Boy are his teachers in trouble. His mom is going to be so far up their asses they won't know what to do. His nana is going to have a hit man ready and his Aunt J will waiting at a moments notice to get whomever says something bad.

He called Gene, "Poppa," the other day. It was bittersweet. I'm glad Gene is good to him and that Thomas can say Poppa, but its also sad because I keep thinking he should be calling my daddy, "Poppa." Oh well! We'll just have to tell him all about his real Poppa and how similar they are.

I love this picture. It was taken this Saturday. The sad thing is, he looks so grown up.

Running!

I ran again this morning by myself in my neighborhood. Its kind of hilly and pretty much all dirt roads minus the main one that goes through the neighborhood. I am happy to say that I ran 1.9 miles in 25 minutes. Which still averages out to about 13 minutes a mile. Its really funny because back when I started this program I thought I was going to die just jogging for 60 seconds!

Yesterday, I went to a specialty shop and bought my very first pair of running shoes. I got fitted for them and everything. I almost died when he told me how much they cost but it was worth every penny. The guy that fitted me also informed me that a person should get one to two sizes bigger than what they normally wear. I had to get a size 9! I normally wear between a 7-8 depending on the shoe. He tried to sell me some inserts but since I don't have enough equity in my house just yet, I told him I'd come back later. I looked the shoes up online last night and felt a little better about the price. They didn't jip me.

Well, gotta go wash Missy and dig up my flower beds. It looks like I'm growing tobacco plants in my front yard!

Rethinking

Ok,so remember my big plans to do a triathlon? Well, that may take a while. My friend Julie reminded me that "tri" means 3 and you do ALL three back to back. I knew that before she told me but I didn't really process how I'd feel doing all three back to back until this morning.

Yesterday I decided to see just how far I could go doing a 20 minute run. I was bummed to discover that it took me like 17 minutes to do one mile. So, this morning I met Jessica in her neighborhood and ran with her for 30 minutes. This time I made a mile in about 13 minutes. Much better but I still need some work.

I have flashbacks from middle school p.e. The ones where I'm the last kid coming in from doing the timed mile. The p.e. coach is so disgusted that he's already put the clipboard away! I remember being mortified in 6th grade to even attempt running for fear of fat jiggling and kids laughing. By 8th grade, I was feeling a whole lot more confident but I walked because I didn't like to sweat. It was also fun to piss the p.e. coach off!

My cousin has a t-shirt business. She's making me a t-shirt that says, "5k Virgin." That way, if I am the last one, people will understand why. I don't care to win. Its just the rush of knowing I've accomplished something that I've sucked at for so many years.

Oh yeah, back to this morning. I guess I ran faster because I was with Jessica. I'm not really sore tonight but I was really beat shortly after the run. So, I'm thinking I've got to do a whole lot more work before I can go attempting some triathlons!

29 days to go!!!

Remember my friend Jessica gave me the website for the 'Couch to 5K?' Well, I'm almost to week 7. Which means by week 9 I should be able to jog a 3 mile run in 30 minutes. Right now I am just focusing on jogging the allotted time and haven't been really measuring the distance. I'm doing pretty good with keeping with the time so my new goal is to focus on the distance in 30 minutes. I dug out my old Jenny Craig pedometer and dusted it off last night. You know, the $30 pedometer that was "top of the line?" The funny thing is, the time on it was the same as it was last night when I opened it, which means it hasn't been used since Spring Forward last year! Oh well! Gotta start somewhere right?

Anyway, Jes and I are going to participate in a 5k on Saturday, April 12th. This will be my first one ever. Our next goal is a triathalon. Gotta find a pool first! I am really excited about the whole thing. I figure if I write it down in a blog, I've at least got to attempt it so that I don't look like a cheeseball.

So, I made a plan last night to begin intense training. My plan: get up early to jog in the AM. Alternate swimming and biking in the PM. I got up this morning to jog and discovered it was raining! Fortunately I have an elliptical so I just used that. Not the same, but hey, its exercise! May need to contemplate a gym membership. This afternoon I'm going to Wal-mart and buy a bike rack for my Honda. Poor bike, its not gonna know what hit it! LOL!

Well, I must go get ready for work. Take CAre, J

Healthy vs. Hippy

Ok, so I hope I don't offend anyone by the title of my entry. My sister is on this health food kick which has inspired us all to look more carefully at labels. We want Thomas to make good choices and hopefully not have the obesity issues we've had. Besides that, we are learning so much about the evils of processed foods and how they can contribute to other health-related problems (i.e. allergies, diabetes, heart disease.)

Molly has really been doing some research. So much so, that she and my mom are contemplating buying a goat so Thomas can have unpasturized goat milk! Yesterday she called me and asked me if I'd go to Lake Ella today because they were having local vendors come and sell their homegrown produce and baked goods. I'm not a tree hugger or anything but the more I learn about pesticides and perservatives, the less I like to buy produce from places that aren't within a 200 mile radius of where I live. So, I was all excited about getting some fresh fruits and veggies while helping small businesses.

I should know by now that my sister exagerates. I love her dearly but I keep forgetting that her major in college was Political Science as well as how many years she was in sales as a banker. So, we arrive at the lake. We put Thomas in his stroller and head off to find this grandeous produce. After warding off tons of nasty ducks and geese, we find the vendors. There were maybe 6 tables set up. Nobody had fruit and the plants/veggies they were selling looked pitiful. Not to mention EXPENSIVE! Molly bought lettuce, green onions and asparagus for $8.00!!!!!
Next, Molly takes me to this vendor who sells food that is not "cooked" and void of any meat. The lady is kind enough to let us sample her wares. Molly goes first and tries this red crispy looking thing and says, "MMMM, Janie, you have to try this." I actually believed her and took a bite. OMG!!!! I could have licked someone's armpit and gotten the same effect. This lady is also known for her "healthy tea." So, Molly paid $10.00 for a mason jar of this stuff I swear I put in the coolant system of my car. The man selling the tea explains to Molly that he will "loan" her the mason jar and she can return it the next time she comes or give it to someone else. It doesn't matter, he says, as long as she reuses it.

The whole situation is quite comical. After we left, I swear I needed an IV full of Diet Coke. I will continue to respect my sister when it comes to Thomas and his eating habits. I myself am also trying to get healthy, BUT I am NOT ready for special teas and armpit cakes.

On Being Healthy

This is me at my thinnest in 1997, with my Grandma Tucker. She is my inspiration to get back to this size.

I remember when I first started this diet I sort of went through a grieving process. Silly maybe but I did. All I could think about was all of the food I was giving up. Like most folks from the south, food is a social thing. I have the best memories which involve sitting around the table eating and talking with family and friends. Then there's the fact that eating was a freakin' hobby for me. If I wasn't eating, I was planning my next meal! If I was bored, I'd eat. If I was sick, I'd eat. If I was celebrating... you get the picture.

Like a recovering alcoholic with alcohol, food will always be an area of weakness for me. I am happy to say that I am getting better. The other day, I tasted a cookie and spit it out because it tasted like I was eating sand. I'm enjoying the smell of food more.

Exercise is also an area of weakness that I have to make a conscious effort to include in my day. My thyroid plays havoc on my endocrine system and there are days when I feel like I'm walking in a fog. I have to force myself to move. (Yes, I stay current with my TSH levels but I really don't have faith in the medical profession.)

While I love buying smaller clothes and looking "oh so hot" its not about all of that this time. Instead its about preventing heart disease, diabetes and other terrible things that run in my family. Both my mom and daddy started taking blood pressure medicine in their 30's! I don't want that. My Grandma Tucker died way too young as a result of heart-related problems. On days when I feel like crap and don't want to exercise or eat right, I think about her. I see her face and it makes me want to make her proud.

More Thinkin'

WARNING!!! This entry is deep and it includes alot of rambling. So, you've been warned! I guess I've had a lot of time on my hands lately because I've been doing a lot of thinking. One of the things I've been thinking about is my birthday this year. I'll be 32 in May. I should be sad but actually I'm happy about it. I'm the healthiest I've ever been, both physically and emotionally. I'm lovin' life. I was thinking about turning 32 and for some reason it made me think about my mom. It made me think about my day to day routines at 32 and what her day to day routines were at 32. At 32, my mom had an eleven and seven year old to raise. Which I have to say she did a fantastic job raising us on her salary. She didn't have a college degree or tons of credit card debt to help us get by. My mom had just recently bought her first house all by herself. She had already been married for 10 years and divorced for almost 2 years. I wonder if she ever thought about life the way I do or did she even have the chance? She was so busy just making ends meet. I wonder if she had any idea that a little over a year later, my daddy would move back in with us, they'd get remarried and he die within two weeks of that? Talk about growing up fast! I feel like I'm pretty mature but I have NEVER been through the things that my parents went through growing up as kids and then growing up as husband and wife.

I often wonder if I'll ever get married or become a mom. Deep down inside I think I want both of those things but I'm also scared at the thought of being a wife and mom. I have a pretty good idea of just how much work it all takes and I'm not sure if I have what it takes. I think it scares me to think that I could possibly have to bury my husband and be alone like my mom. Not sure I want to experience that pain. Then there's shallow thinkin' like today when I was driving to my parents for dinner and all I could think about was how I've lived alone for about 7 years and I'm not sure I'd be able to share my space with someone else.

I guess for now there's nothing to worry about. There's no sign of Mr. Right anywhere around anyway. If he does come along, I guess I'll deal with my fears then. A long time ago, a good friend of mine told me something thats stuck with me over the years. She said, "Janie, you have a love/passion for children. Aren't you scared you'll lose them like you lost dad? Why don't you put a barrier up for them when you teach?" It really made me think. She's right. Which made me think about a famous quote that goes something like this... "It's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." Teaching is my passion. I can't imagine my life any other way, but had I been scared of losing my students and not taught what would I be doing? I'm rambling, but its good for me to sort my feelings. My point, if God has plans for me to be married He will help me with those fears of mine.

Just Thinkin'...

My mom's oldest brother died this past week. They had his funeral this past Sunday in Milton. So, my mom and I drove over to Milton early Sunday morning for the service. Now, funerals aren't my specialty. In fact, I think the last time I went to one it was in 2002 or 2003. As a Christian I guess a funeral shouldn't really be a sad thing but I guess its the saying "bye" that sucks. I've never been really good at that part, so I try to avoid funerals at all costs. However, in this situation, I felt like I should go for my mom's sake.

Can you believe I forgot my damn kleenex? Me, the snot queen, left her kleenex in the car! I haven't been snotty lately thanks to my new diet and regulated hormones (that Yaz is good stuff!)so I guess I figured I'd be fine. Not to sound too insensitive but I didn't really know my Uncle Charles all that well so I figured I'd be ok without the kleenex. WRONG! Each one of his children got up and said something nice about him. My Uncle Ron made a very endearing speech too. The next thing I know, I'm crying my eyeballs out and snot is pouring down my nose. There was no hiding it. I had to discretely leave the graveside service to get kleenex from my car. There's no being discrete when one parks her in FRONT of the where the service is being held! Fortunately it was a few hundred feet away so no one could hear me blowing my nose! I was so afraid my mom was going to have a stroke right then and there thinking that I was leaving her there alone. Fortunately, she knows her overly emotional daugher and knew what I was doing!

I guess what got to me was the speech my Uncle Ron gave about how time here on earth is so short and we need to make the most of it by honoring our parents and spending time with them. His words are so true. I used to get so aggravated traveling with my mom. I'm usually the one who drives. She'll be snoring like a freight train and then all of a sudden, jump and yell, "watch it, Janie!" Talk about making a driver piss their pants! There would have been no reason whatsoever for her to yell this but her reflexes cause her to react. I'm getting better at laughing it off but there are times when I want to stop the car and get out. Sorry, I digressed. Anyway, my point, my mom has her ways, but she's my mom. She devoted her whole life to us. I owe her. I also respect and love her very much.

Lessons Learned

As I mentioned before, I worked security at the Carrie Underwood/Keith Urban concert last weekend. I have one of Carrie Underwood's CD's but I haven't listened to it in quite a while. So after the concert, I pulled out the CD and listened to it. It's funny how this song really stood out this time. It's called, "Lesson's Learned."

"There's some things that I regret,
Some words I wish had gone unsaid,
Some starts,
That had some bitter endings,
Been some bad times I've been through,
Damage I cannot undo.
Some things,
I wish I could do all all over again,
But it don't really matter,
When life gets that much harder,
It makes you that much stronger,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were,
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
And everyday I wondered how I'd get through the night,
Every change, life has thrown me,
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned.

There's mistakes that I have made,
Some chances I just threw away,
Some roads,
I never should have taken,
Been some signs I didn't see,
Hearts that I hurt needlessly,
Some wounds,
That I wish I could have one more chance to mend,
But it don't make no difference,
The past can't be rewritten,
You get the life you're given,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were,
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
And everyday I wondered how I'd get threw the night,
Every change, life has thrown me,
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned.

And all the things that break you,
Are the things that make you strong!
You can't change the past,
Cause it's gone.
And you just gotta move on,
Because it's all
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
From everyday I wondered how I'd get through the night,
From every change, life has thrown me.
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned,
Lessons learned.
Lessons learned."

This song is so true. Which leads me to another point. My friend Chellsea, who is wise beyond her young age of 17 says, "Don't regret the past, its what makes you who you are today." I hope I didn't change that up too much. I'm going to have this made into a wall hanging.

I did it!!!!

Remember the 'Couch to 5K' program Jes told me about? I am actually on week 5. Today I jogged for 8 minutes straight and nobody was chasing me! I haven't done that since Costa Rica back in 1993 when I was running from the policia. (Seriously, I did, long story, wasn't my fault!)

I think I overdid things though, because yesterday, I did short intervals of walking/jogging for about an hour in Tally, where it is eversohilly. I swear I thought I was going to lose a lung! I woke up this morning feeling like Barbie must feel after my sister used to pull her legs off!

Ok, so call me a

BRAND WHORE! My friend Amber tried to convince last week that I could shop at American Eagle and Aeropostle. I didn't believe they had stuff in my size. Apparently they do because I am down from a size 18 to a 14! Now, I fill up every bit of the 14 but nevertheless I am a 14! Who knows, maybe I can actually be a size 10 one day??

I didn't buy anything because I'm cheap. I want to wait until I'm at my goal weight before I buy anything expensive. I may however go back this weekend and buy one outfit. I'm tired of using zipties to hold my pants up with!

It was intimidating at first because when I walked in the stores I figured people were thinking, "why is this big girl trying to buy clothes in here?" Then I figured who cares?

By the way, Amber has been a terrific cheerleader for me. She's always bragging on me and encouraging me. Thanks! Amber

Big, Sexy Hair

I've been looking for a new line of hairspray and mousse for my hair. My stylist sells Redkin products and while I love the shampoo and conditioner, on days when I actually do style my hair the styling products just don't cut it. So, I went in search of a something new and found this line: Big Sexy Hair. Surely this stuff has got to work. If anything, it makes me laugh when I see the big red cans sitting on my bathroom vanity.

The funny thing is, when I first saw the products, I had a flashback to 8th grade summer camp. I had these two friends who were sisters that I met their each year. (Trish, Deb...) Anyway, I was always envious of their hair. They both had the biggest, best curls money could buy. I'm thinkin' they were permed??? I always wanted hair like that. I tried for years and years, even after big hair wasn't in to have big hair. I finally gave up a couple of years ago. At least now I have my Big Sexy Hair products! I'll let you know how they work when I actually style my hair.

Drunk People Aren't So Funny When...

you're sober! This Friday night, my friend Amber and I got the chance to work security at the Keith Urban/Carrie Underwood concert. It was a great opportunity being as how we got to see the concert for free and got paid. The downside was that we had to wear these stupid uniforms, which made us look like Mr. Roger's clones. We had to wear black pants, a white shirt and a red sweater. Not cute. Especially since they assigned us to the suites where all the rich people are seated.

At the beginning of the night, these rich snobby people would come in and not so much as look at me. By the end of the night, they were my best friend! I even got kissed on the cheek by two guys at the same time. How crazy is that?

The scary thing is the civic center actually ran out of beer! I guess I'm getting old because all I could think about is how many people were packed into that civic center and just how many people were going to drive home drunk. I will end this entry with Carrie Underwood's song, "Wasted." Hrmmm... some folks should really listen to that song.



Thanks Trish for telling me how to do this!

Thighmaster vs. Dentures

Yes, that is indeed a picture of Suzanne Somers with her very own Thighmaster. My friend Jes and I are always swapping exercise equipment. I told her that since I have been losing weight I should probably start toning. So, she graciously loaned me her Thighmaster. I tried really hard not to laugh as her 10 year old son, my surrogate nephew, demonstrated how to use it. Let's just say, one wrong move and the boy would NEVER be able to have children. I thanked him and took the Thighmaster home. I figured it would be a piece of cake, right? Wrong!!! I waited a couple of weeks to use it. Once I mustered up the strength to begin weight training I pulled it out of my closet. In case you haven't figured it out by now, I am a princess and I HATE to sweat or do anything that causes pain to my body. So, I sat in a chair and attempted to use the Thighmaster. I didn't even make one whole squeeze. All I could imagine was the damn thing flying up from my thighs and busting out my teeth! Needless to say, I found another less threatening toning exercise I'll be using and Jes will be getting her Thighmaster back!

Ramblings of a Weightloss Diva

You know, I should have gone to school to be a doctor. If they didn't get sued all the time and deal in blood and guts I probably would have. I had to have some lab work done last Friday to check my Thyroid and Cholesterol levels. Am I old or what? The nurse calls me yesterday to tell me that the doctor needs to see me right away because my Thyroid levels were too high which means instead of being hypothyroid, I'm now hyperthyroid. While being "hypo" isn't all that grand, I'm used to that one. Its the one that contributes to making me feel tired and fat all the time. Personally, the "hyper" one is the scary one for me because of the crazy side effects that can happen. Neither is good, but I like to stick with what I know, being "hypo!"

Anyway, I try to explain over the phone what I think the problem is. My labs came back showing that my thyroid levels were too low in December so my doctor upped my Synthroid. In the meantime, I've lost 26 pounds and so maybe I need a lower dose of Synthroid. The nurse says, "Well, you still need to come in." So, I left school today around 9:30am to go to the doctor. I basically paid her $15 to TELL HER what the problem was and she wrote me a perscription for a lower dose of Synthroid!

Before I left the doctor of course wanted to know how I'd managed to lose 26 pounds in 2 months. So I explained the plan to her and told her about the supplements. She explained to me that she would NEVER perscribe supplements because she's found that most of the time people who take supplements just gain the weight back once they quit taking them. My doctor is about 100 pounds soaking wet so you can imagine how perturbed I was to have to defend myself about this diet. Nevertheless, I did. I said to her, "I have been fat all of my life. You name a diet, I've been on it. This diet has taught me portion control, how to eat healthy and basically helped me quit craving carbs. I am determined more than ever NOT to gain this weight back!"

She's not the only person who has mentioned this to me and I'm kind of sick of people telling me about statistics related to supplements. I'm not a dumbass! I know what I have to do to keep this weight off.

There are times when I get emotional about my weightloss journey. Maybe I shouldn't be so shallow but its been a struggle. There have been times when it has affected my self-esteem. When I was in college I lost about 60 pounds thanks to good ole phen phen. For the first time ever, I looked hot. I felt sexy and confident. Then, second semester my first year of teaching, I got a terrible case of hives that even Benadryl couldn't cure. I went to every allergist from here to South Carolina seeking answers. All they could attribute it to was my Thyroid antibodies attacking good cells. And worst of all, all the doctors could perscribe me were strong antihistimines and HIGH doses of steroids. Little did I know back then the effects of antihistimines and steroids. I wasn't as quick to research side effects like I do now. Besides that I was so miserable all I wanted was relief. I am proof of the evils of steroids. All I wanted to do was eat. I would wake from a dead sleep, eat pb & j sandwiches and wash it down with Sunkist! So, that summer of 1999 I went from a size 12 to a size 20! Of course the antihistimines just made me want to sleep, so exercise was out of the question. Not sure where I'm going with this point, but just to explain my sensitivity. From 2000-2007, I have probably spent over $10,000 on weight loss plans. I would lose 10-15 pounds but nothing really kept me motivated. This is the first time in eight years that I feel like I have a plan and that I can do something about my weight.

Oh yeah, so my cholesterol levels decreased a tremendous amount! I'm so thankful. Its funny, because now adays, its not so much about looking "good." I know I look good size 20 or smaller. Now, its about living to see 40 and higher. Both sides of my family have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Bottom line, I don't want any of that. So, I have to do all that's in my power to take care of myself. Well, its late and I should really go walk my dog. Good Night!

p.s. I tried on some size 16s and they were loose!

The Face of An Angel

Is this the face of an angel or what? I can't believe Thomas will be one on Wednesday. It seems like it was just last week that I drove through a tornado(ok, not through it, I stopped off at a Cracker Barrel to wait for it to pass!) just to meet him for the first time. I couldn't be there for his birth but I got there shortly thereafter. I still tear up thinking about that day. He is the most amazing kid ever. You know my issues with men, so I used to worry that I wouldn't be the cool aunt, but I think I'm going to be ok. I'll also be the aunt that cries whenever he has his "first" anything. I'll be the obnoxious aunt who makes sure he gets only the best teachers when he starts school. I'll probably be the aunt who gets kicked off the baseball field for hitting the ref when he makes a wrong call on Thomas. No, that'll be my mom. I'll be asked to leave for cussing at the ref. Poor Kid!

Anyway, he's amazing. He gets cuter everyday and he "talks" all the time. He says about 12-15 words that we can actually understand. The rest is jiberish and lots of hand gestures. I think Molly used to do that too, come to think of it. The best word he says is "J." Sometimes, he'll throw in the "aunt," but mostly it's "J." It melts my heart!

Upping my Ante!

After watching last week's Biggest Loser I got a wild hair to up the ante on my weightloss program. Fortunately, I didn't watch last Tuesday's episode until last night so today is my first day upping my ante. (I know, grammatically incorrect, my freshman English teacher would have a fit... that's ok, she stifled my creativity.) Anyway, it was a gorgeous day so I decided to drive down to Shell Point and do my walk/jog intervals on the beach. I'm doing this program called 'Couch to 5K' and by the time I'm finished I should be able to jog for 3 miles without dying. We'll see. Right now I'm on week 4 and it feels rough. So today was my off day so I decided to do an hour of cardio by completing weeks 1 and 2 on the beach. I felt so good when I was done but boy does my body ache! I'm going to go soak in some epsom salts once the water cools down a bit. Without trying to sound too granola-ish, it was really a beautiful experience, though. Even with my headphones on I could hear the birds and the waves crashing. I did NOT however hear the white American Bulldog who came pouncing up on me and slobbered all over my exercise pants. Fortunately, I have experience with American Bulldogs, thanks to my nephew Max, (Maggie's dog), so I knew to stay calm and he wouldn't hurt me. His owner came ran over shortly and leashed him. While I love dogs, I don't feel all that comfortable around strange dogs.

Anyway, I feel ambitious so I'm thinking about doing my week 4 run tomorrow morning around 7am at the beach again. It would be cool to see the sunrise. We shall see. This princess is NOT a morning person. Gotta go, my water is ready!

The House on Marie Circle

As a kid, I hated our house on Marie Circle. I hated the yard because it was soooo big and I basically hated Crawfordville, because I felt like my family was ripped apart to come live here.

Now, when I go to visit my mom I think about the good memories that made in that house on Marie Circle. I'm thankful my mom didn't sell the house when she had the chance. That house is a symbol of my mother's determination and strength. She bought that house all by herself and made it a wonderful home for us to live in. As for the yard, its only a half an acre but if you look around now a days, a half an acre in a new subdivision is unheard of. I also appreciate the fact that my step-dad is the one who cuts the grass, trims the hedges and fixes things. As for Crawfordville, I'm thankful to live in a community where people know who I am. I love the variety of trees, living less than 45 minutes from the beach, and this crazy small town life.

I was thinking about life today and how mine has turned out while helping my mom with some yard work. Yes, Janie Tucker was doing yard work. I swear it must be the diet and B12 shots because otherwise, there is NO WAY I could have been raking and using a pitchfork to dump leaves into a wheelbarrow! It was definitely my good deed for the year!

Seriously, my mom is having a fence added to one side of the house for Thomas. She has plans to add a swing set, play house, and some other things that no little boy should live without. So she says...lol! So, I figured I should help. Anyway, during trip number 3 to the backyard burnpile, I looked around at the backyard. I had a flashback to when my dad moved to Crawfordville to live with us. He was in the backyard telling us about his dream to one day own a shop back there. The memory was bittersweet because while I'm sad that my daddy never had his own shop in the backyard, I'm happy that my step-dad does. I love going back there and smelling the mixture of grease and oil. I know, call me weird but it reminds me of my daddy. He was a mechanic.

All in all, I have to say, on a day as beautiful as this, I am happy to say I was out doing yardwork in Marie Circle.

Momma Knows...

You'd think after almost 32 years, I'd learn that I can't get anything past my mother. One summer years ago, my sister and I put our money together to pay the neighbor kid to come cut our grass so we wouldn't have to do it. Of course we asked Mom how she liked it and she bragged on us. Wouldn't you know it, a week later the damn neighbor kid stops by and asks my mom if she'd like him to cut her grass again!

One Christmas, my mom picked out this hideous Christmas tree because she felt sorry for it and put it in the living room. While she was at work, Molly and I drug the tree "way out" into the backyard and bought another one from the Christmas tree farm. How she didn't notice what we had done, I'm not sure but she didn't. A few months passed and Mom and I went "way out" into the backyard to look for our cat that had gone missing. Oops, I forgot the tree was still there!

So, here it is, 15 or so years later, and we're still trying to pull one over on my mom. She's been talking about how she wants her house cleaned really good. She's not a dirty person but she has ALOT of stuff in her tiny 3 bedroom 1 bath house. The flooring is the original linoleum that was put in the house back in 1988. There is dust everywhere. The baseboards haven't been cleaned in like forever. My step-dad works on cars on the side, so the bathroom can get sort of dark from the grease and grime. You get the picture. So, my sister knows of this lady who has just started her own cleaning business. We ask Mom if she'd like to have her house professionally cleaned and we offer to pay for it. She of course says, "no, I need to get rid of some stuff and clean the house first before anybody can come clean for me." So we passify her by saying, "ok then, we'll clean for you on Monday before the girl comes to see what she's up against." Molly and I both knew full well we WEREN'T going to clean on Monday. Our plan was to call the girl and ask her to come over and clean. She came over and she "cleaned." I told her explicitly what should be done and explained that some areas would need some potent cleaners sprayed first. My first mistake was that I didn't stick around to see what was done. Molly did. When I asked Molly how the girl did she said she did a good job. The bathtub looked 100% better. Unlike when I was a kid, I didn't call my mom to ask her if she liked the job "we" did cleaning her house AND she never called us to thank us. Today I went over to help her with some yard work and decided to see for myself what was done. It was evident the lady dusted some parts and she did clean the bathroom but besides that I'm not sure what else she did because everything else was still in need of some major cleaning. I was pissed. AT first, I was irritated with Molly for not checking the lady's work, then I had a flashback from the days when Molly and I still lived at home. My sister's version of clean involved throwing everything under the bed including her dirty underwear and dishes she was too lazy to put in the kitchen. So the more I thought about it, I was agitated with myself for not sticking around to make sure the lady did what we had agreed upon. When my sister showed up at my mom's I showed her the house and we decided we had to tell Mom the truth being as how she assumed we were the ones who "cleaned" her house. She just laughed. We all agreed that we weren't ready to hire another cleaning lady.

I think we've learned our lesson this time! I also realized just how close my sister and I are. We've have different views on things but all in all, I'm so thankful to call her my sister. We make a good team but we will NEVER be able to outwit our mom!

Letter to the Big House

I got an e-mail from the National Board website asking people to write their district's representative regarding the possible cut in funds. I've included mine in this blog. I took out my personal info incase some random person does a search and finds my blog. I don't want anybody to come after me.

February 19, 2008
Dear Representative Coley,
My name is ... I have 10 years of experience teaching children with special needs. Currently, I am teaching preschoolers with severe language impairments at ... I am also a National Board Certified teacher who appreciates your steadfast support of teaching excellence in Florida—and specifically, for past support of the Dale Hickam Excellent Teacher Program.
As I’m sure you are already aware that the Dale Hickam Excellent Teacher Program is the only successful state-funded pay supplement based on excellence in the classroom. The budget for the program has already been cut by $14M during the special session, which could result in reducing the mentoring bonuses that teachers earned by performing extra work – after they have already done the work.
My concern is that the Dale Hickam program could be again in harm’s way because of the state’s need for additional budget cuts in the current fiscal year. Further reducing the mentoring bonus provided by the Dale Hickam program could compromise the future of the entire program. Many teachers would likely be wary of future mentoring commitments if there is no reasonable assurance they will receive the promised compensation; and many teachers might not be paid for mentoring work that they have already done – which would be unfair.
I understand Florida is facing severe economic and budget challenges; however, teachers and the students they serve are critical to the future of our state and our nation. Speaker of the House Andrew Romanoff said it best when he stated, “Its cheaper to build a child than it is to repair an adult.” Thus, funding directed into classrooms and targeted to quality education should only be reduced as a last resort.
Again, I appreciate your past support—and for doing the right thing now on behalf of education excellence in your state. If I can ever be of assistance to you, feel free to contact me at ..., or e-mail me at ...
Sincerely,
Me


The phone numbers and email addresses of the members of Florida’s House Schools and Learning Council are listed below. To send an e-mail, simply:

Click on the e-mail link ("Contact via Web Form") that will connect you with your elected official (see below).
Prepare your personal e-mail using the above information to craft your own message.
Send it (and don’t forget to include your name and other information so your elected official will know you are a constituent).


Representative Joe Hill Pickens
District office: 3841 Reid St. Ste. 5, Palatka, FL 32177-2509
Ph: 386.312.2272
County: Bradford, Clay, Lake, Marion, Putnam, Volusia
E-mail: Contact via Web Form

Representative Trey Traviesa
District Office: 410 S. Ware Blvd. Ste. 105, Tampa, FL 33619
Ph: 813.740.7655
County: Hillsborough
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall
District Office: 1521 NW 54th Street, Ste. 1521 E. Miami, FL 33142
Ph: 305.694.2958
County: Miami-Dade
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Thad Altman
District Office: 7025 N. Wickham Road, Ste. 108, Melbourne, FL 32940
Ph: 321.752.3138
County: Brevard
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Marti Coley
District Office: 3094 Indian Cr. Bldg. L, Rm 108, Marianna, FL 32446
Ph: 850.718.0047
County: Bay, Calhoun, Gadsden, Jackson, Leon, Liberty, Okaloosa, Wakulla, Walton
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Anitere Flores
District Office: 1405 SW 107th Avenue, Ste. 205-C, Miami, FL 33174
Ph: 305.227.7626
County: Miami-Dade
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Clay Ford
District Office: 1804 W. Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32501
Ph: 850.595.5500
County: Escambia, Santa Rosa
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form

Representative Bill Heller
District Office: 400 4th Street N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Ph: 727.552.2573
County: Pinellas
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Martin Kiar
District Office: 6600 University Dr. Parkland, FL 33067
Ph: 954.346.2813
County: Broward
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form

Representative John Legg
District Office: 10014 Grove Dr. Ste. B, Port Richey, FL 34668
Ph: 727.869.8600
County: Pasco
Email: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Janet Long
District Office: 5511 Park St. N, Ste. 101, Colonial Bank Bldg. St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Ph: 727.545.6421
County: Pinellas
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Charles McBurney
District Office: 76 S. Laura Street, Ste. 200, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Ph: 904.359.6090
County: Duval
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form

Representative Seth McKeel
District Office: 250 E. Highland Dr. Lakeland, FL 33813
Ph: 863.647.4896
County: Polk, Hillsborough
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Bill Proctor
District Office: 900 SR 16, Ste. 2, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Ph: 904.823.2550
County: Clay, St. Johns, Flagler
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative David Simmons
District Office: 393 Center Pointe Cir. Ste. 1427, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Ph: 407.262.7520
County: Orange, Seminole
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Representative Shelley Vana
District Office: 1280 N. Congress Ave. Ste. 100, West Palm Beach, FL 33409
Ph: 561.640.6120
County: Palm Beach
E-mail: Contact Via Web Form.

Amendment One Sucks!

So, I've been hearing rumors all along about the possibility of the state doing away with the National Board incentives but today I found out that there's a possibility that all the mentoring we've been doing will not be compensated for either. I am pissed! I understand its a bonus and as a veteran teacher its my duty to be helping new teachers. However, there are two ways to mentor in our district. One is via the NBPTS program (that's me) which means I volunteer my 90 hours through out the school year and at the end of June I get a bonus. The other way is directly through the district which means those teachers get their money through out the year in their paychecks. Again, I'm not trying to sound greedy but I put a heck of alot of time into my job. Its bad enough that as a pre-k ESE teacher I'm not even recognized as a real teacher, but now the state wants to take away the tiny bonus I earn. You know the other pathetic thing about my job... I have 10 years experience teaching WITH a master's degree and without my National Board Incentive I make about $38,000 BEFORE the government takes my taxes!

While I'm on my soapbox, let me tell you where Florida is headed since this fu*&ing amendment has passed... have you ever been to New Orleans? There's potholes everywhere, people pay to have their kids in private schools because their schools suck to high heaven AND the poverty level is rediculous! Way to go folks... that's going to be us real soon! I guess I'd better apply for a second job!

22 down, Alot More to Go!!!

Ok, so you can't tell it too much in this picture but I really have lost weight. I bought this shirt two Christmas' ago but couldn't really wear it out in public due to my fat rolls showing. Now I can! The jeans I have on are my Seven Jeans. NO, not the size 7, its a brand. They are a size 16. I haven't worn these in quite some time either!

I just love having energy. It would be really cool to make it to my goal weight!

The Value of a Picture

I'm addicted to digital scrapbooking these days. While I was looking through some old pictures I came across this picture of my parents. It was taken about a week before my dad was killed in a car accident in December of 1988. Who would of thought this would be their last picture taken together? We have tons of copies of this one photo. My mom even used it to have an oil painting done of our family portrait years ago. My point to this entry? Take lots of pictures. Keep them close to your heart for memories later. I can't wait for Thomas to be old enough to tell him about his Poppa that he's named after. Actually, I can wait...

Girl's Night Out!

Make a slideshow - it's easy!

My Friend, Jessica

Jes and I have been friends since the 10th grade. We've been through alot together. Here is a montage I made.

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

My Name is Janie and I Am OLD!!!!

Jes and I met another one of our high school friends for dinner. After dinner we went "out." While I had a great time with both Jes and Julie, I have come to realize that I am too old for clubs.

For one, I didn't drink enough to really get a buzz. So I was able to notice the numerous drunk people surrounding me. I felt bad for some of them, stumbling around, and/or sucking face with strangers. Please don't think I'm being self-righteous. I'm not. Believe me, I've been that person stumbling around... among other things. All I could think about was that long-ass drive back to Wakulla and how unsafe it would be for me to drive drunk.

Second, we just sort of stood around. I'm not good at making small talk with people, especially guys.

Third, all I could think about was the smoke smell that lingered in my hair and how I had clean sheets waiting for me at home which meant I HAD to wash my hair before going to bed.

I'm not complaining about the evening. I had a terrific time with two wonderful friends. It was fun to see them having such a great time. I enjoyed it because they seemed to have had a good time. But, I also realized that "going out" is NOT the thing for me!

I Hate to Admit It...

but I think I actually like exercising! Is that sick or what? I've been really frustrated and overwhelmed at work lately. Nothing in particular. I just take on too many things. Its my fault.

Then of course there's this lovely holiday we call 'Valentine's Day.' Just another reminder that I'm almost 32 and still single. I can hear my clock ticking loudly.

Of course, my alter-ego tells me to be thankful for what all I do have. Believe me, I am. I just get frustrated sometimes. I'm not depressed and I know its just a phase. It'll all pass. It always does.

So my point... My friend Maggie used to swear to me that exercising really relieves stress. I really found that hard to believe that something that made you sweaty and your bones ache was a stress-reliever. Yep, she's right! I've been alternating days of jogging/fast walking with days of using the elliptical. My body craves it now. I really noticed today when I came home and was in a fowl mood just how great I felt after working really hard on the elliptical. I may have to join a gym again. Hrmmm... let me pay off the diet plan first!

Tomorrow's the big day. Last week I was down 19 pounds. Not too shabby being as how I started this diet December 31st. My overall goal is 50. I'm usually pretty good at losing the first 20. Then my mind takes over and I stop losing. This time, my mind is cheering me on. I really don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. So, I'm praying that my body will team up with my mind and I'll keep going.

Well, my bubble bath awaits!

Valentine's Day

I admit it... I hate Valentine's Day and what all it represents. Maybe if I were in love I'd think differently but right now I'm not.

It pisses me off that a normal spring bouquet costs me almost $10 on Valentine's Day when on any other day I'd pay $3.99.

There's the sheer exhaustion of what to get people you're close to. For instance, do you buy your mother flowers on V-Day? Or, should I leave that up to my step-dad?

I also hate that my students get hiped up on candy. Its just not a good combination: Already hyperactive preschool children combined with excessive amounts of sugar colored with red dye!

You know the last reason I hate Valentine's Day? Call me petty but I'll remember this forever and a day... 15 years ago, my first "true love" dumped me on Valentine's Day using a Valentine's Day card to do it! If you look up the word "pathetic" in the dictionary, you will see my name beside it!

I know, I know, I'm being negative. Go ahead, take away my Miss Congeniality trophy.

Please Pray For Dylan!

My co-teacher's son, Dylan (age 5) who is a miniature hoodini (sp?) was riding around on his four wheeler yesterday and flipped it. Right now it looks the most damage is a broken arm and some stitches. Thank the Lord, no head injuries. I spoke with Amber last night and she said his arm is broken pretty bad and it looks like its going to take two surgeries and week's stay in the hospital. Yikes! What do you buy for a kid with a broken arm to play with in the hospital? Hrmmm?

On a selfish note, please pray for me this week. As I've mentioned before my class isn't your typical run of the mill pre-k class. Put it this way, we only have 8 kiddos but we REQUIRE a teacher, a CDA, a parapro, a volunteer grama AND a nurse with us at all times! Not to mention 4 therapists who come in and out of the room. We don't work well with substitute teachers so its easier to just not have one.

Since Family Fun Day was Friday night, we left our room in shambles thinking we'd get to it Monday morning. We also have a meeting scheduled for Monday morning that I'm NOT looking forward to. So, after my run, I am going back to school to see what I can do to put some sort of normalcy back into the room with the yellow door. Yikes again!

We Broke $10,000!

I am so excited I can hardly stand myself! Tonight was our Family Fun Day. We are in phase one of a three part series to rebuild our playground so all proceeds from the Fun Day went to phase one. None of this would have been possible without the help of everyone involved. Our community was so generous.

I will close now. I am TIRED! My feet have exceeded their maximum weight capacity for the day and I need to rest.

My Car

I was driving home tonight and looked back for something. Not safe, I know but nevertheless, I did. Anyway, I had this great feeling of pride about my car. Its 10 years old and I pray to God that I don't jinx the quality of it after writing this entry. My car and I have had this sort of love-hate relationship over the years. In the end, when its all said and done, my car has stood by me. (I know I'm a sap, but what's new?)

After graduating from college, I bought a brand new Honda Civic. My payments were just a little over $300/month and because I was a recent college graduate I got a whopping 3.9% apr. Then, before I knew it, Honda came out with the CRV. I just had to have it. I was making like $25,000/ year, so money was no object, lol! So, less than a year after my Civic purchase, I called the dealer who sold it to me and told him to be looking out for one of those CRVs. Of course, he found one! For some reason back then they were hard to come by, so I ended up with a slightly used one with about 11,000 miles on it. I didn't care. It had all the bells and whistles, keyless entry, power windows, cruise control. That was July of 1999. My payments were like $429/month,which wasn't a big deal because I was living at home. Reality hit me in 2001, when I was living on my own with a car payment, rent, student loans and of course my lovely credit card payments. I tried to trade the car in for a cheaper one a couple of times but I was always upside down on my payments. Of course, its paid off now, but it was a LONG journey getting there.

Anyway, 185,000 miles later, my car is going strong. The poor things been through hell. I've hit a couple of drive-thru posts, mailboxes and trees. I've driven it as far west as Louisiana and as far north as West Virginia. My friends tease me about how it drives like a tank. You can feel EVERY bump and turn I make in it. My engine light has been on for 3 years, My brother-in-law replaced the motor in the driver side window panel. My step-dad has given it 2 or 3 tune-ups, not to mention how many brake pads he's replaced. I haven't used my keyless entry in like 2 years, b/c the key pad was stolen at a gym in West Palm.

All in all, I have to say, I LOVE my car. I love that my car insurance isn't sky high. I love that my car is paid for. I love the fact that if my nephew drops cookie crumbs in the seats its not going to harm it.

I was thinking the other day that when my car takes its last drive, I'm going to be devastated. I may have to return to therapy. I have so many great memories tied to my car. So, there you have it... Ode to my Honda CRV.

Sonny's and Vapor Rub

Ok, so I promised myself that I wouldn't tell so many stories about puking and snot but I have to tell this one. Yesterday, my sister and I went to Sonny's for lunch. About an hour before we left, I took one Sudafed in hopes to stop the sinus pressure from sucking out my brain. I hate taking two. It raises my blood pressure and my face gets all red. The one worked pretty well, until... not thinking about how I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast, I took my diet pills. Sonny's is pretty quick but for some reason today they weren't. So, instead of going 4 1/2 hours without a meal, I went 5 1/2 hours. I know, for normal people this isn't a big deal but once you take the diet pills you have to eat within one hour or bad things happen. All of a sudden my face got red, the room started spinning, and I just felt sick. Now, I deal with nausea all the time, but this was bad! So, I run to the bathroom and attempt to be discreet about puking when this lady knocks on the bathroom door and goes, "excuse me honey, do you do that at night too?" I answered, "yes. why?" Her reply, "well, if you'd rub Vick's Vapor Rub on your feet at night, that would stop." I politely thanked her and went back to puking. I felt stupid answering her but I figured if I did, I could puke in peace. Its not my favorite thing to do! Some people are so weird! If I hear someone puking, I try really hard to hurry up and get out of the bathroom. I sure don't say anything!

Happy Birthday, Thomas Ralph Clore!

I can hardly believe that this time last year we were anxiously awaiting the arrival of my nephew Thomas. Happy Birthday Baby! February 27, 2007

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

Letters to Me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fqtbMHfpXY

So I'm not exactly sure how to post youtube videos but I did discover that if you click on the title of my entry, it will take you to the youtube video I wanted to post. Call me a technophobe! Anyway, I love this song so I thought I'd add it to my blog.

Couch to 5k

My friend Jes gave me a link to this website where you can download a program on your mp3 player called, 'Couch to 5K.' Its cool, because there's a guy on the program who guides you along both verbally and with music. I've done it before on a treadmill but I had to watch a clock b/c I didn't have the mp3 program. And, that was like forever ago. So, today I did the program using my mp3 outside. At one point, I thought I was going to die. I forgot to bring kleenex. Yes, me the snot queen forgot kleenex. I also forgot to wear my seabands. What the hell was I thinking? The Lord took pity on me and waited until the very end for me to puke. My poor neighbors. I tried to be discreet but you know its hard for a nearly 200 pound woman to be discrete as she's puking. Its exciting to type "nearly 200 pound" though. Because for the first time in about 5 years, I am under the 200 mark! I weighed in on Thursday and am down to 193. Yay! The crazy thing is, for the most part my pants still fit. I seem to have lost weight everywhere but my stomach! I'm hoping it too will go down. My goal is 160. I haven't been 160 since the phen-phen days, so we shall see.

Things to Do

I love my new house but sometimes it's hard work to keep up a house by yourself. I think I'm going to make a list for my future husband of things I'd like for him to do. I'm not stupid, I realize it may not get done but I figure if I have it on paper ahead of time, I'll have more ammunition when threatening a divorce, lol!

1. Change the air filters. My new house is "energy efficient." Whatever that means. Its a pain and expensive! I have an air filter in each bedroom (3) and one big one in the hallway. I thought I'd be smart and get the air filters that supposed lasted for 3 months. They don't last for 3 months! Nope, monthly, I climb up onto a step ladder, trying NOT to fall off from the dizziness inside my head, finagel the air vent open while trying hard Not to use 3 and 4 letter words, and sneeze as the air filter falls onto my head. Then I have to somehow put the other air filter up before my arms go numb and I fall off of the step ladder. Stop laughing. I realize its a 3 foot step ladder, but I'm almost a 200 lb woman. You do the math. Short fall, heavy splat!

2. Get the debris off the eaves of my roof so that the roof doesn't rot. I bought a six foot ladder to try and do this myself but couldn't make it to the top. I even tried hoisting my leaf blower up there and that caused a big mess!

3. Check the fluid in my car so my step-dad doesn't have to. He is a real trooper about it but he needs a break. Besides that, the other day I had to add antifreeze to my car when he wasn't around and it took me 5 minutes to figure out how to lift the hood! My poor neighbors heard a few choice words.

For now, I think that' s about it.

Carded for Sudafed

Ok, so the next time I get a burst of energy to vacuum my car or blow off my driveway, I'm going to take some serious drugs before venturing outside. I've developed a nasty cold thanks to my Friday night endeavors. Its really kicking my butt. I haven't exercised since Sunday. This is rediculous. If you see a fat chick with auburn color hair on the side of road puking, honk. Its just me throwing up phlem from getting overheated. Gross, I know but what can I say?

HOw funny is this? Did you know they card you for purchasing Sudafed? Yep, not sure why. I personally hate the stuff but it was either take the Sudafed or watch as my brain exploded out my ears. Yikes, I still need to change my air filters. That should be fun. I better go do that before the dizziness comes back!

Autism Bites!

So my friend Nicole sent me this link to a website called autism bites. I added it to my links. She has a son with autism. He is the most adorable little guy who is a real charmer and extremely bright. He has some great teachers, lol! Just kidding. Anyway, about the link, Nicole says that the couple that own the website have six kids with autism!!! Yowzers! They sell t-shirts with funny sayings on them to raise money for autism awareness. Some parents with children who have autism may get upset about them but Nicole thought they were hillarious. So, I figured it was ok to post about it. She has a great sense of humor about Kanan and I am amazed at her strength and determination with him. I'm going to go look at the website now. Maybe they have a t-shirt for crazy ESE teachers, lol! TAke Care!

ESE Teacher Confession Time

If you look back on things, its hard to believe I am an ESE teacher. Especially one for children with major special needs (I hope thats PC, Trish?) When I was in high school my mom made us volunteer at our local nursing home by playing BINGO with the elderly. I know they're not considered ESE, but they were old, some had speech problems, and well, to be honest, they made me uncomfortable. I hated every minute of it. I knew not to get close to any of them because next week they just might not be there.

Then there were the "special kids" at school. You know, the ones they kept out in the "green house." You knew to stay away from them for fear of the unknown. Which was part of the reason I even got into ESE was because I wanted to learn more about the unknown.

Next came college. While I was ready to overcome my fears, I wasn't quite ready to accept all people with varying abilities. Spring Semester of my Sophomore year, I took a class on mental handicaps. I think the appropriate term is developmental disabilities now, but MH was the term 12 years ago. As apart of that class you had to befriend a person with MH and spend 20 hours with them. I was paired with a lady in her 60's. Talk about uncomfortable. I'm ashamed to say it was awkward.

After graduation, I started teaching kiddos with learning disabilities and/or emotional disturbances grades 1st -3rd. I was cool with that. No big deal. I just knew I had finally become an ESE teacher. Whew, hoo! Then someone from the district asked me to take on coordinating our district's Special Olympics. YIKES! Begrudgingly, I did it. But like high school, I was so uncomfortable. We even went to state and I was a nervous wreck. Needless to say, Ashley, our Child Find specialist took it over the following year and had made amazing gains ever since.

Ok, so before people start making voo-doo dolls of me or blasting me as a hippocrite, let me get to the point of this entry. Its funny how one's peceptions changes over time. Two summers ago I had the chance to teach summer school to some high school students with developmental disabilities. WE had a blast. The girls told me about their crushes, the guys talked about cars, hunting and job related stuff. These kids are no different from typical peers. Some just need more guiding than others.

I don't know if my attitude has changed with maturity or what, but I love teaching these types of kids. They make me appreciate small things in life. They help me see the good in people. They make me want to be a better person overall. People will say things like, "Oh you must be a special person to do what you do." Nope, I'm no different than anybody else. Its the kids that make me feel special. Its the kids that have softened my heart and opened my mind.

I've had people pointblank ask me how God could be so cruel to let a child be born into this world like this. Or, what will be the quality of life for these types of kids? Well, as for the God question, I don't question Him. He has his reasons and when He's ready, He'll let us all know why He does what he does. As for the second question, related to quality of life. What's the quality of life for a typical kid? Its what you make of it. As teachers, parents, and caregivers, its up to us to help them find their way and make the most of it. We sure can't feel sorry for them either. They have enough obstacles to overcome as it is!

Ashley brought some of the guys over the other day to see me at Pre-k. It was touching that they remembered me. I think some point down the road, I'd like to teach high school again, but this time, teach kiddos with developmental disabilities. I also feel the need to get more involved with Special Olympics again. I need to make up for lost time. I'm closing this entry with a quote from Special Olympics. I'd like to have this on a plaque. Its funny b/c the whole time I was going through the Teacher of the Year process, this is what came to mind:

"Let me win but if I can not win let me be brave in the attempt."

New Links

So, I've added some new links to my blog page. Many things go through my mind as I think about each one. One is about my friend, Trish who after a normal pregnancy, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl with special needs. The other one I just added is about a couple in NJ who after IV found out they were pregnant with triplets. Unfortunately, one of the babies died at around age 4 months. I found their blog while looking at Trish's blog. I read hers daily. I guess my point for posting about each of them is that they really make me think about life and appreciate the little things. I saw a sign the other day that said, "Appreciate the little things in life, because tomorrow they become big things!" Its so true.

I haven't read the one about the short bus just yet, but I thought I'd post that one too.

So, if you ever have time and want to read some quality stuff, they both have great entries. Have kleenex handy, though. Its way better than Lifetime!

14 Down, 35 To Go!

I don't have any pictures yet to show you the transformation but I'm lovin' this diet I'm on. I started it on December 31st and as of January 24th I have lost a total of 14 pounds! Its funny how me the sugar diva isn't craving sweets. I even like to exercise. I think its the B12 shots giving me more energy. I'm actually able to keep up with my new little friend at school, who was born addicted to drugs. Any ideas on ways to help him let me know!

Things To Do On a Friday Night When...

you're single, broke and in a funk: (before I get into that, as my friend Wendi would say, "let me set the stage.") So I had my interview for the District Teacher of the Year on Wednesday. My mom bought me a very nice suit and let's just say I looked fantastic. I went in with a big smile and felt like I really charmed them. I wasn't even nervous. I'm thankful for everyone who prayed for me and gave me support. I didn't win, but I sort of figured I wouldn't b/c I teach Pre-K ESE. Its sad though b/c for a while I actually thought I could win. I'm not trying to brag on myself, but I work with some fantastic people who make it easy to do my job and my administrators make me feel like I'm important. I love what I do so I'm enthusiastic about it. My poor principal told me that the she was really proud of me and that the assistant superintendant was impressed with my interview skills. BUT... she said its the Pre-k thing that's against me in competitions like that. I was really upset at first but when I think about moving to a different school just to be recognized for an award I laugh.

I need to be at Pre-K. It's my passion for now. I know that God sent me there for a reason and one day I'll figure out what that reason is. Right now I think its for Playground rennovations. the fire marshall came in and told us that our playground is a fire hazard and all of it needed to be removed! I could have saved him his time and told him that over the phone! So, I'm developing a committee to devise a plan to rennovate the playground. We're unofficially in phase one by having our Family Fun Day. Monies earned from that will go towards providing some new equipment. Phase Two will be the trickiest b/c that's when I'm going to need the big bucks. Anybody with ideas on how I should go about this would be wonderful. I sort of have a plan but ideas are always appreciated!

Oh yeah, anybody interested in buying some "donation" tickets let me know. For some reason I can't call them, "raffle" tickets. We've got some cool prizes.

So, back to the title of my entry. Things to do... after getting the word that I didn't win, I was in a funky mood. One part of me wanted to lay on the couch, watch t.v. and eat ice cream.

Of course, I have this other part of me who when the going gets tough the going wants to go shopping. But being as how I don't get paid until January 31st. I opted against that part.

Fortunately, I have this alter ego who told the lazy part of me to shake it off and do something positive. First I took my dog for a long walk. Which was no easy task because we kept seeing stray dogs and Missy refused to walk without first trying to get in their territory. Then I cleaned. I mean I cleaned. I even used the leaf blower! My drive way is very small but I bet I blew that sucker off for at least 20 minutes! I got the shop vac down and vacuumed out my poor car.

By that time I was feeling much better and I received an e-mail from Sara's husband who reminded me of the reason I do my job. (Thanks Geoff!) Its not for the awards. Its for the kids. Which leads me back to setting the stage. I have a purpose and that's all that matters!

So, I'm fine now and I have alot of work to do. Take Care! J

Care-free and Fancy-Free

Is this the face of an angel or what? When I look at this picture I don't know whether to cry, smile or just stare. I'm not a mamma, but I couldn't be more proud if this I had birth this kid myself. I hope he's always this care-free and fancy-free!

I went back to work after Christmas break this Monday. Getting up early hit me like a ton of bricks. By Friday, I was somewhat back in the routine. It was funny, because I was sort of dreading going back. You know, my kiddos had been out of their school routine for 2 weeks. No telling how much gluten they were succombed to, lol! But it actually turned out to be a pretty cool week back. I got hugs from two of my boys and one gave me a big kiss on the cheek. Wasn't really expecting that! My friend who tantrums when asked to do something, just said "nope," instead of tantruming this week! I thought that was pretty amazing. My friend who screams to express his general wants and needs not only signed but attempted to verbalize some words. My buddy who falls on the ground to avoid walking, actually had some pep in his step. Nobody got bit or hit either! Wish us luck, we are getting a new addition to our classroom family. He was born addicted to crack. As I've said before, I don't know how parents with special needs kiddos do it. My hat goes off to them. Thank God I'm taking B12 and am on this diet. AS for the diet, I've lost 7 pounds total. Yay!

So, over the break I had to fill out this application for this project I'm doing. I wish I could have filled it out after this week. Before this week, I was sort of bummed about the progress my students were making and my teaching abilities in general. I also waited until the last minute to fill out the mile long application so it was rushed and my heart wasn't in it. Looking back, I can see just how much we really do affect these kiddos. While on paper, it may say, "make a snowman," there's so much more to what we're doing. Oh well, I'll just have to charm 'em in the interview part of the project. Gotta go clean. I'm having people over tonight.

Updates

So, I weighed in yesterday and lost a whopping 4 pounds! The doctor was shocked b/c he said my thyroid was out of whack and I need to up my synthroid dosage. Hrmmm, that could explain the sheer exhaustion and extreme sensitivity. So, its not all because I'm fat and hormonal (notice the air of sarcasm? I just love doctors!) He didn't say that, that's just what other doctors have told me before. The other strange thing was my triglycerite count was extremely high. For being a fat girl, I normally have normal cholesterol levels. So, I did some research and guess what? Your thyroid can affect your cholesterol levels! Go figure?

This diet works too. Today was the first day that I went out-out. I went to the movies and sat b/t two friends eating popcorn and didn't crave the first kernal. To top it off, we ate at my all-time favorite restaurant, Logans. The yeast rolls were right beside me and I didn't touch them! I even ordered grilled chicken, salad and veggies on a stick and only ate 3/4 of it. Lord, I pray this continues to work.

If you want a chance to clear your sinuses, go see "P.S. I Love You." Talk about a tear-jerker. It was funny with some great meaning behind it. It really makes you think.

Speaking of sinuses, most people who know me, know that I live life in a nauseated state most of the time b/c of my terrible post-nasal drip. Well, my hair stylist is pregnant and she had these things on her wrist called "SeaBands." So, I asked her about them. I bought a pair today. That's the best investment I've ever made. I'm scared to type about it for fear I'll jinx myself! Now if I could find something to stop the pnd I'd be in perfect shape!

Well, its late and I should be doing other things, like working on that project that's due Monday! Aaghhhh!!!!

Our Family Pictures

We had these pictures taken a couple of weeks ago. Molly coordinated the outfits and scheduled the appointment at Penneys. Its a Christmas miracle that we all made it on time and actually smiled for the camara. Well, most of us smiled, lol! We haven't professional shots done in several years.

New Year's Eve Party!

Who knew a New Year's Eve party could be this fun without the use of alcohol?

My stepdad went to a lot of work to set up a nice area in the backyard for New Years Eve. We grilled out, enjoyed fireworks, chasing Thomas and hanging out. I'm sad to say that I didn't make it to midnight. My sinuses were off the chain so after I left my parents I went home, took drugs to stop feeling nauseated, threw up the nausea drugs, brushed my teeth and went to bed. I have to say though, that I am feeling much better!

Happy New Year 2008!

So, I should be working on a project for school that's due January 7th. Instead, I'm procrastinating. I've been on MySpace, uploaded pics, watched t.v. and basically avoided work in general.

I don't have too many New Year's Resolutions this year. A big one of mine this year is to get out more. How am ever going to find Mr. Right if I'm always at home? Another, which seems to be one I've had for the past 20 or so years is to lose weight. Its not because I don't feel beautiful. I am beautiful. Its because I'm uncomfortable and tired all the time. I can't breathe when I bend down to tie my shoes and I need more energy to keep up with my little guys at work. Not to mention hanging out with my main squeeze (Thomas) who's been walking since he was 9 months old!

So, I've decided to go on this diet thats the new rave around the school district. Its called 'First Impressions.' You take diet pills and supplements, get weekly B12 shots, and eat basically a low-no carb diet. Its all under a doctor's supervision. I've been on the diet pills since Thursday and they really do work. I have to make myself eat. Those of you who know me, know that I obsess about eating. If I'm not eating, I'm thinking about what to eat next. I started the actual dieting yesterday. I don't even crave carbs! Is that crazy or what? I weigh in this Thursday. I'll keep you posted. Take Care! J

Merry Christmas 2007!

Santa and his Elves!

Thomas, Missy and ME!

A very sleepy Christmas bear.

Yummy ornament.

Hmm, these trees are just my size.

This Christmas was great. We had dinner together in my new house. I couldn't have asked for anything more. Its terrific that both Eric's family and ours get along so well. Thomas enjoyed picking ornaments off the tree. He wasn't much into presents. Eric smoked a delicious turkey. The rest of the food was catered by Winn Dixie and yummy dishes people brought with them. We did miss Gene. He was in Boyton visiting his mom.