Hey Howdy Hey! Its the 2010 Roundup!

Every year that I tackle this I can't help but feel the past 365 days flew by faster than a speeding rabbit in a creepy car commercial. But here we are again, speeding Sylvilagus audubonii aside, to run down the Top Ten most important/exciting/influential/awesome Events of my life in 2010.

1. Purchasing My Very Own Condo: I bought my very own place in 2010. I started the process in February and closed in April. I've been living here since the beginning of May and really just love it. I recognize this is a HUGE milestone in life, so it could rightly take up more than one space on the Top Ten List. But it won't.

2. Achieved National Board Certification: Working on National Boards made the 2009 Top Ten because it was such an overwhelming, time-consuming thing. But in 2010 I not only finished the process--I also passed. I am officially a National Board Certified Teacher as of November 2010, and if you don't know how awesome that is...I'm here to tell you that IT IS.

3. Two Weeks in the Big Apple: Two years ago I did two weeks on the East Coast--splitting my time between NYC and Charlottesville, VA. This year it was all NYC, all the time. I spent about a week at Columbia University at a Gilder Lehrman History seminar, and I spent the rest of the time touring one of my favorite cities in the world with Mariah and Greg. Good times were had.

4. Last Day at SHMS: I accepted a new position at the District Offices (starting Jan. 3rd!), so I had to say goodbye to my friends and students at SHMS. Its a truly bittersweet thing--I've been teaching there since I graduated from college, and like to think I was becoming something of an Institution in the Social Studies Department. But...onward and upward, right? New adventures await in 2011, and some doors closed in 2010.

5. Audra McDonald at Hale Center Theater-Orem: I can't deny that the opportunity to see Ms. Audra McDonald in 110 in the Shade was one of the best moments of my year. She is electric and talented and really a wonder to see. I feel so lucky to have been in the audience for one night. A-mazing.

6. Second Job: In March I accepted a position at a local night school for GED candidates. I work one night a week, teaching high school-level US History to an eclectic group of learners. Its pretty good pay for a teacher, and it gives me opportunity to teach material I otherwise wouldn't. I still might complain--now and again--about working one night a week, but in reality I know its a great blessing to have such a great gig.

7. A New Ward: After moving into my condo, and after 5 years in the University 16th Ward, I moved my records to the Singles Ward in my area. It was a little scary at first, but the members of my new ward are AWESOME to the MAX. And I love it. My first calling--Ward Music Chair. What can I say? Its what I do. In every ward. Oh well--just happy to serve!

8. Year of the Cookie: Looking back I realized I spent a good number of hours/days this year seeking out and trying the best cookies I could find. My posts from NYC made this pretty clear (Oh Levain! How I love you!), and I also perused numerous bakers in the SLC area to find scrumptious baked delights. My local heart currently belongs to SmartCookie, but I'm always on the lookout to be swayed. It just hasn't happened yet.

9. MacBook: I bought my very own laptop this year. This past week, in fact! I feel so grown-up making such a big purchase. But more than that...I feel awesome. And my MacBook is really just SOOOO pretty!

10. The "27 in my 27th Year" List: I can't deny that my year has been rather caught up in working through the 27 goals I gave myself in February. A number of "updates" are actually long overdue (I'll get on those when I can!), and I am starting to realize that some will not be achieved by Feb. 22nd. However, I know my life was very much enriched this year in my pursuit of crossing things off this year-long "Bucket List." A few notable AWESOME things brought on by the list:

• Making new friends like Jen, Colette, James, and Skyler
• Taking a class and learning to Swing Dance
• Roadtrippin' to California with Greg and Caryn
• Running 5Ks, 10Ks, and one Half-Marathon
• Camping with the Fam

All in all--2010 wasn't the most THRILLING 365 days I've ever had. But I think the highs were pretty darn high, and the lows were few and far between. And really, you can't complain too much about a life like that.

Cookie Pic here.

A Parting Gift

I think my students wanted to make me really happy just before I abandoned them to a new teacher. You know, make me miss them all the more? Your average group of kids might have tried to accomplish this by acing the final test--go out with a real Bang!, if you will. My kids are not average. No, my kids go above and beyond such mundane ideas. Rather than acing the Revolutionary War test, they went one better. They gave some of the most hilarious, unexplainable, and flat-out WRONG answers I've seen in a long while. One even scored a whopping 14%.

Bless them.

So I thought I'd share a few of them with all of you. Merry Christmas, from my students to you!

Q: Who were the important people on the British side of the war? Name at least 3.
A: "Corn Walish"

A: "Nathaniel Greene; Calvin Klein"

A: "The three important people were George Washington."

Q: What was the last battle of the Revolutionary War?
A: "Battle of the Titans"

Q: How did the British Parliament respond to the Boston Tea Party?
A: "They were very upset because they were getting better ideas."

[I assume the second "they" means the people of Boston...?]

Q: What happened at the Boston Massacre?
A: "Benedict Arnold went around the city warning people that the British were coming."

Q: What were the major difficulties facing the Continental Army?
A: “Continental Army had a peninsula that they were on.”

A: “Never stopped coming (popping in)”

[The answer did, in fact, include the mysterious parenthetical statement just as I typed it.]

Q: How did colonists react to the Stamp Act?
A: "They formed the brothers and sisters of liberty."

A: "They protested and picked up arms."

Q: Describe what happened at the Battle of Trenton and include who won.
A: “George Washington's men put fireworks on for the other side to think they were still partying but they actually snuck over the Delaware River and attacked them."

[And THAT'S why we celebrate Independence Day with fireworks! But...not really.]

A: “I think Trenton had won the battle between Lexington.”



A: “I think it was when George crossed the ? River and attacked the British…surprise. The Continental Army did.”

[Do you love how they're on a first name basis with Mr. Washington? I do.]

A: “George Washington snook up on the Hessiens when it was Xmas”



A: “The Americans won! It was epic!”



A: “The British made Washington retreat. The Americans went across the Delaware River and it became a painting**. Washington won.”

**The Painting in question. Found here.

Q: How did the Revolutionary War change America?
A: "The Revolutionary war changed America by helping its people know that one by one they suck but united they can rock the world wide."
[Let it be noted that this is the last question on the test, and I think the student in question had reached a breaking point since he'd only attempted answers on 8 of the 21 questions. Thus I'm sure in some ways the Revolutionary War does make him feel like he sucks. He doesn't suck, though I must confess his grasp of American history could probably be classified as 'sucky.']


And, with no further adieu, my absolute favorite!

Q: What year was the Declaration of Independence signed?
A: Benjamin Franklin


What else is there to say? Goodnight, and Good luck.

Mucho Love to These

Its Christmas time. I've probably never been busier in a holiday season than this year, and thus the lack of posts all month long. But despite my absence from the Blogosphere, I have been alive and doing what I do best--organizing, shopping, and eating. Mostly in that order. So may I share a few things I adore about the holidays? Mainly those things that fall into that last category of my life--eating--but maybe a few more.They're only available at Christmas Time. And I love them. Candy Cane Tootsie Pops. DELISH! I took some to the WJHS Christmas Concert Thursday night for our own personal "concessions" at intermission. Yummy yum yum! They can be a little hard to find. I got mine at Target, for all you putting them on your shopping lists now.

Clementines. They're brilliant. Small and delicious. Sweetness with no seeds. Has anyone ever put the ENTIRE thing in your mouth at once? I've been tempted many a time, but generally side with not looking gross, and savoring each individual section. Only problem with the smallness of clementines is how fast they disappear into my mouth. But then, they're so small, you really can be okay to eat two. Or more. At a time.

I experienced my first Ugly Sweater Party this season. Ours was a Non-Denominational Ugly Sweater Pie Social, because let's be honest--adding pie to anything makes it better and its the Christian thing to do at Christmas to welcome people of all holiday persuasions. (Our party only attracted MORMONS, in case you were wondering.) Ugly Sweaters were displayed; pie was consumed; fun was had. Its a good time. If you don't have an Ugly Sweater--keep your eyes out. I'd suggest looking at Savers. I think every holiday season needs at least one gathering of ugly, yet cozy, sweater style. And really, there's still time for you to join in the fugly festivities this year. Get plannin' peeps!

Settebello Pizza in Salt Lake City is amazing. This marks the second Christmas Season in a row I've ventured downtown to eat there with friends, and I am hereby declaring it a Christmas Tradition. Its so good that I know I'll be keeping this part of Christmas with me all through the year, but still. So so so good. I love it. A lot. Its the kind of pizza you eat until you're full, but your mouth still wants to eat more and more. And given the opportunity you would readily ignore your full stomach and dive in for more. Best pizza I've ever had. Hands down. Love it.

Last Christmas Elisa gifted me this fabulous little book by David Sedaris--Holidays on Ice. I finally got around to reading it this holiday season, and enjoyed it quite thoroughly. The first story is my favorite Sedaris piece--"The Santaland Diaries," but I found a new one I'm obsessed with--"Six to Eight Black Men." Do yourself a favor and take 10-15 minutes to listen to Mr. Sedaris read it himself. Its awesome. Consider this link to the video a holiday gift from me to you.

Enjoy the Holiday Season!

Reflecting Back

On Wednesday I'll be leaving the middle school where I've worked for 5.5 years. I'm moving on to a new and exciting position at the District Office, and I'm really quite stoked about it. But the end of all things at SHMS has been pretty overwhelming. Cleaning out my classroom, preparing materials for the new teacher, and all whilst trying to balance the Holiday season...has been crazy.

But I still took some time to reflect back on my years at the Middle School. With no further adieu--what I'll miss. And, as this is from me, a rundown of those things I most definitely will NOT.

What I Will Miss:

• My faculty buddies from B Lunch and C Lunch
• My laptop
• Random treats from the administration or friends
• Scaring 7th Graders
  
• My truly awesome classroom with the sweet mounted LCD projector
• Cameron H., Damon M., Courtney C., and my entire 1st period.
• Having a captive audience to listen to my stories
• Creating awesome lesson plans and unit plans (And yes, mine are usually awesome.)
• The annual hilarity from the Civil War and Revolutionary War final exams

What I Will NOT Miss:

• Parents
• Back to School Night and Parent Teacher Conferences
• IEP, 504, and other parent meetings (many of which are entirely unnecessary.)
• 8th Period announcements
• The Talent Show assembly; the Dance Assembly; Assemblies as a general rule
• The Copy Room full of copiers that never work
• Grading essays
• Filling requests for assignments for sick or suspended students...and never getting any work back.
• Faculty Meetings

Be it happy or sad, I can't deny its happening--so on to the next adventure life is throwing at me! When I report to work after Christmas, I'll be sitting in a cubicle in the District Office. Huh. Put it that way and an hour-long faculty meeting might be starting to look pretty good...

Just kidding.

Gratitude Week: Last Day!

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?Tonight I'm realizing how many things--how many people--I have not expressed gratitude for this week. And though it might seem a bit cliche, its what we do. Come along for the ride, won't you?

I am grateful for so many good friends who entertain me, love me, craft with me, support me, and listen to me. Sometimes all at the same time. Shout outs to Greg, Arianne, Jamie, Emily, Andrea, Jen, Elisa, Mariah, Keith, Toffer...and the list goes on and on.

I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I feel so blessed to be a part of it, and for all the aspects that make my life amazing every day. I'm grateful for General Conferences, missionaries (like my lil' bro!), the scriptures, Preach My Gospel, CES Firesides, Institute, and the Temple.

I'm grateful for places that make me happy--Hale Center Theater, Yogurtland, Smart Cookie, Disneyland, Mom & Dad's house, and the Gene Fullmer Rec Center.

I'm grateful for Biggest Loser for inspiring me every Tuesday night to work out harder Wednesday morning. In this same vein, I am grateful for Livestrong.com. Their Calorie Counter application has made a major difference in my health this year.

I'm grateful for Sensodyne toothpaste that doesn't aggravate canker sores.

I'm grateful for Hulu.com. My TV reception is often terrible and my schedule is often packed. I'm glad I can still watch my favorite TV Shows on my own schedule.

I am grateful for books. I'm especially grateful for Favorite Books that continue to be amazing old friends every time I open them.

I am grateful for Student Teachers that make my work life easier by giving me more time to do things other than teach.

I am grateful for Groupon, for obvious reasons.

I am grateful for water--the greatest beverage in the world.

I am grateful for goal setting. I haven't done a sticker chart in a while, but my "27 in my 27th" list has been a great motivator this year.

I'm grateful to all of you who are still reading this. Life is good. This list could go on endlessly, so I'll make it end. Now.

Happy Gratitude Week 2010!!

Picture from Wordpress

Gratitude Week: Friday

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?
Today I'm grateful for music. I may or may not have just engaged in a short solo Kitchen Dance to my current Pandora Station. And that may or may not have been the reason for my great feelings of gratitude today.

I love music. I love making music, listening to music, dancing to music, and sometimes even pretending to compose music. Yes, pretending. I am NEVER successful so its more like an imaginative game.

I have eclectic music tastes and most artists and genres will pass muster with me. I love songs with a good beat that I can dance or run to. I love songs with great lyrics that move me and make me thing. I love music with no lyrics at all.

I appreciate that I have some musical ability to sing and play music. And I appreciate that I can recognize rhythm.

I am grateful that we live in a world with so many types of music, because really life without music would be sad indeed. No soundtracks to backup your movies or your life. No tunes to wake you up in the morning. Nothing to car dance to in the middle of a traffic jam. No beautiful hymns to join in with during Church services. No happiness, I'm sure.

I love music. I'm grateful for music. And, if you don't mind, I think I'll jump back in with some more kitchen dancing since this is wrapping up pretty quick. Having music in my life--for that I am truly grateful.

Click here for one of my favorites to dance to!

Photo from howstuffworks.com

Gratitude Week: Thanksgiving Day!

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?
I'm composing this Blog post from the comfort of my couch, Esteban. I'm cozy in pajamas and I know the warmth and happiness of bedtime is just around the corner. I'm looking forward to bedtime because I am all tuckered out with the games, visiting, and other Thanksgiving festivities. And I'm also really, really FULL. My belly is tight with turkey, stuffing, rolls, mint slush, cranberry fluff salad, and multiple slices of pie. In this situation, its hard to settle on just one thing to write about in a post on gratitude. But then I realize that I'm literally "settled on" the perfect topic.

Tonight I am grateful for my home and everything inside it--including Esteban the Couch. Three bedrooms, a ginormous walk-in closet, two bathrooms, plenty of storage, and a lovely living room/kitchen space make up my little house. And I love my little house. I'm so grateful that all the pieces fell into place this past Spring, allowing me to become the homeowner of this merry pad.

I'm grateful that just over a year ago I decided to grow up a bit and purchase a wonderful bed and an heavenly mattress set. Its the centerpiece of my bedroom and it makes bedtime one of my favorite parts of the entire day.

I'm grateful that my foray into furniture shopping this autumn was so successful. I left Furniture Row the new owner of not only the coziest couch this side of the Mississippi, but also a chair that perfectly matches my home interior and is comfy to boot! (For those of you wondering about the coziest couch on the other side of the River, it can be found in a 3rd floor apartment on Broadway in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City.)

I'm grateful that being inside my house gives me a peaceful, happy feeling. A feeling that makes me look forward--everyday--to going home. That's what we all deserve, really. So on this Thanksgiving Night, safe and happy and warm in my lovely little home, I'm feeling truly grateful.

Photo by Me

Gratitude Week: Wednesday

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?

Today I'm grateful for my job. Perhaps I'm feeling so grateful because there's no work until Monday and its payday, but be that as it may I am grateful for steady employment.

I've been teaching history for going on six years now. Despite the occasional "craptacular" day, I really enjoy my job. I appreciate that its different every day--a new topic to teach with a new lesson plan. And since you're dealing with the constantly changing teenage psyche, its usually an adventure.

I appreciate that I have amazing students this year who make me laugh and keep me on my toes.

I appreciate my awesome co-workers. I've made some lasting friendships with other teachers at my school.

I appreciate colleagues who encourage me to tackle crazy things like National Boards (I passed!), Gilder Lehrman seminars, and even new positions that will stretch me in ways I never considered.

I also appreciate having a second teaching position once a week with an entirely different set of learners. The extra pay is nice, and working with an older group of students is kind of refreshing. Plus I can get away with watching the Spot Collins classic, Newsies, for class by tying it into our study of Labor Unions. Woohoo!

As one who loves to be productive, I appreciate having a job and a place to work each day. And I'm really grateful my job is fun and rewarding to boot! On this Thanksgiving Eve, pondering how this job allows me holidays, weekends, and other large chunks of time OFF work...I'm even more grateful. So thinking of my awesome job, tonight I am truly thankful.

Photo from dorisday.net

Gratitude Week: Tuesday

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?

Today I'm grateful for warm things. Its blustery, blizzardy snowy-ness outside. And the temps are bitter cold. The very idea of having to go out in it tomorrow to drive to work is disgusting. With an attitude of gratitude, though, I can say I'm honestly grateful for all the warmth I'm surrounded by right now.

I'm grateful for sweatshirts. Hoodies are amazing. I'm wearing two.

I'm grateful for hot chocolate. I like to boil the water on the stove so its uber-hot, thus allowing me to warm my hands for minutes on end around the toasty cup.

I'm grateful for my furnace.

I'm grateful for slipper socks. Especially the blue and gray kind with Mickey Mouse on top. I love that the "sock" aspect allows me to wear them and my black fuzzy slippers. That's right--doubled up on the slippers, too.

I'm grateful for blankets. I love piling blankets on my bed so that I can burrow under them and sleep toasty warm with cold air surrounding me. That's actually how I sleep best. And I'm certainly grateful for sleep, but that's another post for another day.

I'm also grateful for those things--some intangible--that make me feel warm inside. Things like exchanging texts with a friend while we both watch a favorite TV show in our respective homes, making exciting plans, getting a package in the mail, or wearing a new outfit and wearing it well.

I love warmth--especially on a snowy night. To be warm on a night like this? For that I am truly grateful.

Picture from coverbrowser.com

Gratitude Week: Monday

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?


Today I'm thankful for my family. All of them! Growing up I never really thought of myself as close to my family, but now I can see that we are TIGHT. And its awesome.

I'm grateful for amazing parents who love me and support me in all I do. I love that they get excited when I come by {which I do ALL the time}, and invite me to movies and dinner and all sorts of things.

I'm grateful for siblings who I can talk to and hang out with pretty much anytime and its a good time. I'm grateful that we're all friends now, despite many fights and unfortunate words sometimes thrown at each other as kids.

I'm grateful for some pretty awesome in-laws who I actually like. Am I alone in fearing my siblings would marry strange and/or creepy people? I'm glad they didn't.

I'm grateful for my adorable nephews and niece. I seriously love these kids and cannot get enough of them! So glad they came to our family.

The bonus in all of this is that with Thanksgiving being a low-key family holiday--I'll get to see them lots and lots. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Gratitude Week: Sunday

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will be Blogging each day this week about those things I feel most grateful for this year. Fair warning--they're bound to range from the inspiring to the mundane. But such is life, no?

I am grateful for Dessert, especially that of the Baked Goods variety. Perhaps this stems from my experiment last year of abstaining from all sweets for a school year. Or perhaps its because its the American Way. In either case, I am so grateful for the wide variety of treats available to me. Whether homemade or created in a bakery, I find great happiness in the occasional treat. To be more specific, this year I am especially thankful for:

• Smart Cookies
• Ginger/Molasses Cookies (in all their varieties)
• Red Velvet Cake
• Pie
  
• Nearly Perfect Chocolate Chip cookies (I found multiple in NYC)
• Crumbs Cupcakes
• Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

This has been a splendid year for the baked goods in my life. And for this, I am truly grateful.

A Book Review for #15

In April, I began the journey to accomplish goal #15 Read Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage from the 27 in 27 list. It is a really long book, and definitely not one I could have sat down and read as the only book on my Reading List. Instead, I made it part of my daily scripture study--reading 10 or 15 minutes a day. And not even every day, to be honest. It took me 7 months, but it was absolutely worth it. This book is amazing.

I learned so much about the Savior's life and I feel I came to know Him a lot better. And really, that's what we're supposed to be doing, right? Learning about Him so we can become like Him. I know some people might be off-put by some of the highly intellectual language in the book--words like "tinctured" and "erstwhile" and "interdicted"--but really, you'll make it through.

I'm glad I made this one of my goals, and I'm really happy I'm able to cross it off the list. Its definitely one of the most spiritually fulfilling things I've done this year.

**Let it also be noted that my bookmark for the entire 7 months was a Spiderman stick-on tattoo. Does that mean something? You tell me.

Happy Anniversary!

On November 1, 1995 I was tasked with playing flag football in my 1st period, 7th grade gym class. I was game, but my left knee wasn't. Before the end of the class period, I found myself on the floor with a dislocated kneecap, forced to listen to the inane babble of friends/teachers who were trying to keep me calm until the paramedics arrived. Yes, the paramedics. And though I understand now why they kept asking me stupid questions about what book I was currently reading or how my Halloween had gone the night before, I still maintain the questions are stupid when your standpoint is from the gymnasium floor and you're looking at your left leg that now appears to have TWO knees to it. Just sayin'...

Its been fifteen years since that "fateful" morning and its crazy to consider how much my life since then has been affected by a kneecap getting a little "out of joint."

Fearing a repeat (...which did happen multiple times. AUGH!), I began avoiding many physical activities. The obvious result there is that I got fat. As I got fat and out of shape, I didn't find much to like about myself and, ironically, I also upped the chances of another knee injury. And as I stagnated in a dislike for myself, other areas of my life were affected--especially socially. I sometimes joke that I went to BYU for four years--the land of happy engagements and crazy dating--and dated nobody. Its not really a joke, because that is how it went down for me. But I can see now why it went down that way. When you don't like yourself, you're not really sending out the positive, healthy vibes a possible marriage partner might respond to. Heck, I wouldn't want to date the person I was in college!

Sorry if this is starting to get really depressing. I promise there is a silver lining and here it comes!

You see...I figured some things out. And I started running and losing weight and getting healthy--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Today, on my 15th Knee Anniversary, I'm happy with who I am. I'm aware of the limitations the genetic lottery has handed me in my crazy-jointed knees, but I don't obsess over it and I will actually jump into a game of volleyball or Ultimate Frisbee now and again. I still feel safer running in a straight line down the road, but at least I'm active! And happy. And its that journey to happiness that I now celebrate every November 1st.

Happy Knee Anniversary, all!

Here's to many more happy years to come.

You know you might be bored when....

• You watch Parts 1 through 4 of Robert Downey, Jr. on "Inside the Actor's Studio" via those happy people of Youtube, and also request his Academy Award nominated film Chaplin from the local library

• You make an apple streusel pecan cake with no clear idea of when/how/by whom it will be consumed

• You declare Popchips and a hard boiled egg to be "Dinner" because the afternoon snack was 600 calories of milk and cookies

• You think about eating the last 200 calorie cookie BECAUSE YOU CAN!

• You decide now is a good time to start at the first post of a random stranger's blog in February 2008 and work your way forward

• You wander on and off Facebook hoping something has changed...but it hasn't. (Note: You can't stay on too long or people will notice that you've been on FB for 4 hours straight and start thinking you don't have a life. Its all about appearances...)

• You start feeling pouty that you haven't actually signed up for Netflix because it would be perfect for a time like this. But you still don't sign up for Netflix.

• You conveniently ignore at least two useful things that could be done (i.e. folding laundry, getting the mail)

• You Blog about your boring afternoon.

That's another Utah...FIIIIIIRST DOWN!

A few weeks ago, through the graciousness of the Barnett family, I got to cross another goal (#17) off my 27 in 27th list. They offered me one of their season tickets to the University of Utah vs. San Jose State game at Rice-Eccles Stadium. It was AWESOME!!!

I was lucky enough to attend a game when the Utes played well and kicked some serious trash. The Utes beat the Spartans 56-3. It was totally wicked. And it was especially fun to watch the game with a lovely crowd of rather rabid Utah fans. Thanks Barnett Family!!

(I love that Gary is the only person aware AND making an effort (sorry Steve!) in this photo...)

Go Utes!

Fist Pump

Word of Warning: Video does contain a few colorful words. But my overwhelming reaction to this is a fist pumping, barbaric YAWP! Right on, Mr. Mali. RIGHT ON.

Meet My Faves: Andrea

Episode 4 of the Meet My Faves series moves into an entirely different part of my world--namely, the part of my world that involves students and textbooks and Elvis-impersonator assemblies. I met Andrea at the middle school where we worked. Seeing as we're both Sassy Single Social Studies afficionados, its no surprise we hit it off so quickly. Coworkers and students regularly mixed us up, and I think its just a good representation of what good friends we were meant to be.

I love that Andrea is hilarious--first and foremost. She's a total gem with a wannabe Bad-Girl side who I can always count on to try out tasty restaurants, tell an amazing story, and be a truly golden travel companion. Whether its an online chat, an evening over pizza, or an entire vacation in San Francisco, time with Andrea is always terrific. Since her departure from our workplace--and the country!--I have missed her pretty much every day.

Best Thing: She always makes me laugh, and she laughs at my stories too. We often do this while eating. Is that too many "best" things?

Worst Thing: She lives in England. Makes it difficult to socialize other than the regular Gchats.

Where are you from?
Well, I was born in Georgia, grew up in Salt Lake, and now live in England.

What do you do for a living?
I am currently a grad student so I'm spending money instead of making it. Before that, I was a history teacher. Chances are, I will return to that profession at some point.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Such a good question. I think it depends on what type of comfort I'm craving. If it's recovering from boy-induced heartache, I like just about anything that is not healthy. If it's something to do with being together with my family, it's hard to beat fresh baked bread with homemade jam.

What color is your bedspread?
The one I have now is white with maroon-ish flowers and beige leaves. I didn't choose it and it was a free hand me down, so beggars can't be choosers, right?

What book/movie has had a major impact on you?
Another excellent and difficult question. Book-wise I would have to say all of Chaim Potok's books (The Chosen, My Name is Asher Lev, etc.) have made a significant impact on me. I'm sure there are so many more. I think every book I have read has contributed a little to who I have become, whether for good or bad, I don't know. Movie-wise I remember being powerfully moved by Glory in 8th grade, to the point of sobbing in front of my entire class, and Saving Private Ryan.

What is your favorite word?
I've recently developed an attachment to the word 'penultimate.' I never use it, but I think it's fantastic.

What is your best color?
To wear, anything in the blue family

What is your favorite restaurant?
I don't have a favorite restaurant, but I have favorite dishes at a number of restaurants. I guess if I had to choose just one, though, I'd choose a little Thai restaurant called the Mekong Cafe. Everything there is delicious.

What is one material possession you couldn't live without?
Money

Which cartoon character do you resemble the most?
Physically: Alice in Wonderland; Personality-ly: Carl, the old guy on 'Up'

Why do you think I like you so much?
Because I'm hilarious and I think you're amazing.

What is the best compliment you could receive?
I always like to be told that I'm funny, but I think being recognized as being Christlike would be pretty good too.

What is your favorite memory we have shared?
There are a couple, but walking from San Francisco to Sausalito across the Golden Gate Bridge ranks pretty high. Visiting the Grand Canyon in a downpour is right up there, though.
[Editors Note: I thought it would be the time we stumbled into SanFrans Red Light district...]

What 3 words would best describe you?
open for business*

*For the record, this answer made me laugh out loud in the middle of a silent room, leading to several awkward looks from other people.

Exciting Times!

The last couple weeks have been pretty terrific. I kept trying to Blog about life and then something else would happen before I could post so I'm finally going to stick them all on here in one big post. I was going to go in Chronological Order, but where's the fun in that? Too predictable. Instead--in order of excitement/awesomeness level.

Awesome Level = SOARING
I got a new job. I'm still working for Jordan School District, but I will no longer be teaching at my middle school as an 8th Grade US History teacher. Instead I am the Lead Teacher for the Jordan History Academy of Teachers. Its a 3-5 year position, depending on the length of the grant from the US Dept. of Ed. There are loads of perks to the position, including a trip to Boston, an iTouch, a workplace 2 minutes from my house, and the opportunity to work the year-round teacher schedule. Woohoo!!

Awesome Level = HIGH
I have learned to Swing Dance. I finished up my four-week class at DF Studios in Salt Lake last Thursday. It was SOOOOOO much fun! Am I good? I'm sure the answer is no. Am I willing to go out on the dance floor and give it my best? Heck yes I am! And by Thursday night I was feeling a lot better about my ability to actually go to a social swing dance and have a good time. This also checks #19 Take a Class Unrelated to Teaching off my 27 in 27th list. YES!

Awesome Level = ROCKIN'
Saturday night I went to the Sandy Amphitheater with some friends to see a totally rockin' Colors concert. Woohoo!! I first heard Colors when I was in high school. I've seen them in concert at least 4 times, and its always fabulous. Their music's so catchy! It was really fun to look around and see that most of the crowd was people like myself, re-living the glory days of college. Love it!

Awesome Level = SWISS
During Labor Day weekend I ventured to Midway with Greg, Taylor, Maddy, and Jeremiah to visit Swiss Days. Having never been, I was unaware that its basically a big art fair with performers and food abounding. And it was super fun! We ate ginormous scones and pie & ice cream. The guys all bought matching ties, and Maddy and I bought "matching" silverware rings. We saw some amazing Utah hair--including the biggest "bump it" coif I have ever seen. And we had an overall brilliant time--even if none of us came home on the shuttle with a giant metal sculpture.

Awesome Level = Ah-hem, FANTASY-TICAL
Friday night I hit up the Organ Loft with my sister and brother-in-law and a few great friends. The main show was a great Jackie Coogan piece. It was followed by an interesting/odd/artsy experimental film, "Utah Fantasy," featuring time lapse photography. My group of friends chuckled a bit over it. The "patrons" behind us didn't appreciate our amusement. I got "ah-hem"ed. Three times. And it totally made my night. The Carrot Cake Cheesecake I consumed later at the Cheesecake Factory was also a highlight of the evening.

Awesome Level = PRETTY DARN
Last Sunday the family loaded into a 15-passenger van and headed to Logan. My nephew, Charlie, was blessed in Sacrament Meeting. It was really great to see the Logan part of the family. Charlie's adorable!! We had a great luncheon afterward and it was nice to chat and visit with everybody. On the topic of nephews, I rode home next to Lil' Dude. He would NOT let me sleep, and he refused to nap too. *sigh* He's so cute I guess I didn't mind that much, though.

Awesome Level = MYSTERIOUS
Monday night I found myself caught up in the craziness of responding to a Homecoming invitation my little sister received over the weekend. The young man in question made Harry Potter his theme, so we responded in kind. In a whirlwind hour we put on a Poor Man's version of the Harry Potter Puppet Pals (Ours was entitled, "The Mysterious HOMECOMING Ticking Noise"), filmed it, and dropped it at the Homecoming Date's door via "Owl Post." Super cheesy, but so hilarious! Oh, and awesome, of course.

First Impressions

I asked my 8th graders to write a 1-page response paper on their first few days of school. I suggested they could share their thoughts on any of their classes or they could just focus on my class and even on me as their teacher. I emphasized that I would never grade their response papers on the content, but rather on their ability to think and write about their thoughts.

That being said--a few gems:

"Your hair is like the Mad Hatter's in Alice in Wonderland."



"...and make sure you get a boyfriend by the end of the year so maybe you would give us less work."



"You should go out with Mr. Howard [student teacher from last year]."



"By the way my thirty seven and thirty nine year old aunts are still single so there is still hope for you."

Rather than be offended, these make me really, really happy. I think our future year together looks very bright, indeed.

Goodbye Summer

Summer break is over. I had to report back to work today for policy meetings and other boring, boring, BORING types of things. It’s a tad depressing to be back at it, but there’s nothing to be done. This summer was really fun, but also really busy. In the midst of that fun busy-ness, I was able to check two more things off my list.

I visited a number of awesome historical sites while on vacation in New York City. Check #20 off the list! I spent an afternoon with Jake G. and he showed me around the Financial District in Lower Manhattan. Specifically, we went to Trinity Church, Wall Street, and Federal Hall. I loved Federal Hall. It was here that George Washington was sworn in as the first US President. Pretty darn nifty. Let me also note that after our sightseeing we ate at a really yummy Afghan restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen. Delight!

I also had a chance to go camping (#3)—twice! Two weekends in a row, I went on an overnight camp of some sort. The first was with my ward at Lava Hot Springs in Idaho, and the second was with the fam at Lilly Lake Campground in the Uintah National Forest. I loved it. This last weekend’s family trip was practically perfect. We caught lots of fish (and I gutted & cleaned some of them myself!), roasted hotdogs and S’mores, slept cozy in sleeping bags, and had a tasty breakfast in the clean mountain air. I really just love camping, and its been too many summers since I’ve been able to go.

In reviewing the 27 in my 27th List, I must admit I'm growing slightly concerned. You see, yesterday was my Half Birthday--we are six months into this "List" experiment and less than six months now remain to accomplish what is left. To be fair, I think I'm doing a mighty fine job thus far. But I can't help but worry about a few of the remaining goals--most notably #12 Enjoy a mutually desirable kiss. I express concern here because, quite frankly, I'm not sure where that's going to be coming from anytime soon. Most of my waking hours are spent in the society of pre-pubescent humanoids...so its doubtful I'll meet somebody in my daily social circles.

But here's where you, the reader, can come in! This is not a booty call or a want ad for a hook-up. Rather, I'm in the market for a fine young man who'd be interested in going out. The hope would be that one date could turn into two or three, and eventually #12 would get the old Heave Ho--follow? I'm going to assume most of you know how to contact me in the traditional ways, so if you've got a real prospect to help me out...let me know.

10 down, 17 to go! (And a number of things in process...)

Tools were Involved

And no, I don't mean tools like the contestants on "The Bachelorette." I mean like...screwdrivers and tape measures and stuff. What I'm trying to get at here is simply this: Today was devoted to Home Improvement around my little pad. I even went to a hardware store--by myself. And it was AWESOME.

Let's back up--being a homeowner has given me opportunity to tackle all sorts of tasks I've never done before. And every time I do something on my own--like turn on the gas and light the water heater--I feel a great sense of empowerment. Today was chock full of those moments! In fact...I toted my camera around the house with me to show off my handy work.

First--and this wasn't really "handy" home improvement but I'm so happy I have to share--I finally found my perfect Salt & Pepper shakers. I'm so excited about this its embarrassing. But when you've been searching for affordable--yet perfect--salt & pepper shakers for four months...you've got to celebrate the find. Thank you Ross!!Okay, on to the "handy" stuff. I vacuumed out my furnace and A/C unit and changed the air filter. This required the use of a tape measure to figure out what size of filter I needed, and then a trip to Lowe's to track down the 14 x 20 x 1 filter. It fits SO much better than the cheap-o crap one that was in there before. This particular brand of filter even came with a Reminder Sticker, so I'll remember to perform this routine maintenance every 3 months. Good call. Here's my happy--and clean--unit now. At my Housewarming party, Erin gave me a fabulous home decor gift that's been sitting on my counter ever since. My trip to Lowe's also provided the necessary hardware to hang the sign above my sink. A tape measure was involved--to make sure the sign was perfectly centered over my ugly window coverings (that's a job for another day)--as well as HAMMERING. Really. With all that in mind--Isn't it awesome!!?My bathroom door has been opening too far and slowly creating a dent in the wall opposite. This is...not good. The helpful man at Lowe's pointed me in the direction of the Hinge Pin Door Stops. Just what I needed! There was hammering, unexpected grease, and one or two missteps, but I got the piece installed on my door--making the walls safe from doorknob dents for one more day!!! There are 5 smoke detectors in my little pad. I purchased the 9V batteries today at Sam's Club and systematically climbed on and off a stool to change every single one. This wasn't actually that hard. The hard part was making myself push the button to test each one. Man those suckers are PIERCING!! But I guess that's the point, right?The final task was a little more involved, so I enlisted the help of my best Tool Girl, Catie, to help me out. The key rack was the very first piece of "decor" I purchased for my house...and its been sitting unused in the office/nursery for a while now. I bought the screws at Lowe's, but we needed Catie's know-how and her dad's Stud Finder (So many jokes...so little time...) to make it happen. But happen it did! And here's the final product with a big Thank You shout out to Catie!

All in all, these are small tasks and small additions. But I love my little house, and I love taking care of it and all its little details.

Spreadin' the News

Just got back. Happy to report that New York City is still there. Not only is it still there, its hotter and humider (no, that's not a word. Until NOW!) than ever. I was melting 10 of the 14 days I was in the city, and it was pretty gross. We moved forward, though, and good times were still had. Recognizing that you, the reader, probably don't want a play-by-play of a fourteen-day trip, let's just hit the highlights, shall we?

1. Friends: I adore Mariah and her fiancee, Ryan. So much fun to chat and hang out with them. I also got to spend an afternoon with Jake G. He showed me around the Wall Street/Trinity Church area--and we had yummy Afghan food for lunch! And then Gregory B. came into town for the last week and I had another chum to join in NYC playtime. Good stuff!

2. Broadway: We saw Tony Award Winner, Douglas Hodge in the matinee of La Cage Aux Folles. Brilliant! He was wonderful and the show was a riot. I loved so much about it!! "If he loved me, he'd vacuum!" So great. That night we had box seats to a major Tony winner--Billy Elliot. I can't say enough how much I loved this show! Great music, amazing acting and dancing, wonderful story--maybe the perfect show. Love love love.

3. Breakfast: I had at least two A-Mazing breakfasts in the city. Community Food & Juice provided one of the best things I have ever eaten in a 7-Grain Waffle served with Lemon/Raspberry Cream sauce. I wanted to weep with joy when I was eating it, and that's not exaggerating by much. The next week we ventured to Greenwich for Creme Brulee French Toast at a place called Jane. Yum, Yum, and some more YUM.

4. Coney Island: I love this place. Shelling out $8 for the crazy wild roller coaster, Cyclone, was just the beginning of the happiness. A hotdog from Nathan's and a jaunt on the boardwalk were also wonderful. But nothing tops the pure delicious glee I found in watching the Side Show. A Contortionist, the Seal Boy, a well-endowed Sword swallower/Flame-eater, and of course--our host--a Carnie who literally hammered a nail into his own head. WOWZA!! Love love love.

5. Bakeries: Any followers of my Facebook status updates should be aware that I made a major effort to visit a plethora of bakeries in Manhattan. First prize goes to Levain on 74th and Amsterdam for the most luscious cookie EVER. Second prize goes to Amy's Bread for the best carrot cake I have ever eaten in my life. Also a good sticky bun. And butter cookie. Third prize to Jacques Torres for another brilliant chocolate-chip cookie. Honorable Mentions go to Crumbs (because you gotta love a huge Crumbs cupcake!!), Fat Witch Bakery, Magnolia (good brownie!!), and Bombolini. The final entry providing not only tasty Italian donuts, but tasty Italian eye candy as well. I should note--no pictures from the bakeries. I always intended to, but the goodies seemed to disappear into my belly too fast for me to remember the need for a photo shoot. Oh well!

6. Sights o' the City: I've done a lot of the "touristy" things before, but still managed to take in some awesome spots in the Big Apple. I especially loved the American Museum of Natural History (though their charge for special exhibits is ridiculous) and the big model blue whale. There were some great exhibits at the Met. And I really loved walking along Highline Park with a yummy coconut-almond ice cream shake from the Chelsea Markets.

So...there was a lot more that happened in my 14-day adventure to New York City, and a lot more amazing foods I got to eat. Heck, I didn't really say anything here about the Gilder Lehrman seminar at Columbia University that got me out to the city in the first place!! If you want to hear more about adventures, Reconstruction seminars, and/or great NYC food, feel free to ask*. I Love New York!!

*Obviously, I like to talk--especially about food.

From the "Me Likey" File

Just before I head out on a 2-week NYC Adventure that I'm sure makes many of you green with envy, let me share a random sampling of things I've been enjoying lately. Feel free to take these as "2 Thumbs WAAAY Up!"-type recommendations, because that's what they're meant to be.

I am happily on the Inception bandwagon, ladies and gentlemen. I saw it opening day--loved every minute of it--and I have every intention of seeing it again in theaters very soon. If you haven't seen it yet, RUN to your nearest theater and get yourself a ticket! Intelligent, ingenious, entertaining, and just an overall fabulous cinematic experience. GO. Now. In fact, its okay if you want to stop reading this post in order to leave immediately for the movie theater. I doubt anything I write below will be as entertaining as Inception, after all.

I'm in favor of riding horses named Nellie. It gives you a very legitimate reason to say "Whoa, Nellie!" for one thing. But if you can't get yourself a horse named Nellie, I'm willing to settle on a recommendation for horseback riding, period. I went recently with mi amiga, Caryn, and her grandpa. We took a trail up by the Alpine Loop and I have to admit--Utah can be lovely! Especially from the back of a horse. This is my favorite picture from the adventure because it perfectly captures how the majority of the picture-taking went: I try to pose while my horse has a different idea entirely.

I'm sort of in love with my new nephew, Charlie. Well, its Charles, but there are all sorts of nicknames already floating around. I used "Chuck" the other day and I can see that sticking. Who knows? What I DO know is that he is Adorable, and I could spend every day cuddling him and not get tired of it. "How is this a recommendation?", you might ask. Well, since 2008 I've been a big proponent of nephews, so I say if you can get one, do it. And if you can't, just look at that pic and be jealous of mine.

If you haven't seen HCT's The Wedding Singer yet, you're running out of time! It closes July 31st. And if you miss it--you should be sorry, because its brilliant. I'd highly recommend the MWF cast, because that's the cast I saw and they were fabulous. And my friend, Derek, is in the lead role MWF and he's just awesome like that. I saw the show as part of the Hale Centre 25th Anniversary BASH (Thanks Charisse!!), and it was a truly fabulous evening. I got to dress up, look sassy, and drink "Sally" Temples...a wonderful night, indeed.

And finally, on these bloody hot summer days (100 degrees, again, Mother Nature? Come on. Take a chill pill.) I'm in love with my blender and the Orange Julius it allows me to make. I adore orange julius, and its the #1 reason I invested in a blender this summer. This frosty treat is so easy to make too, with my mom's recipe. I hope its not a family secret, because here you go:

Mom's Orange Julius Goodness

3/4 c. milk
1 1/4 c. water
6 oz. frozen OJ concentrate
1/2 c. sugar
10-12 ice cubes

Put into blender. BLEND. And enjoy. In fact, enjoy as many as you can as often as you can because its just that good. Plus, I think you deserve it.

To Whom it May Concern

Dear "Just One Date" Date:

Thanks so much for a great evening. It was nice to meet you. I'll most likely never see you again because, let's face it, we're not going out again. Are you surprised? I don't know if you really are. But if so, let me fill you in on some basic reasons why we most likely will not be headed out the door for another date anytime soon--or ever. Please note that I don't say this in an attitude of bitterness, but rather this is a message that could help you in future dating endeavors. With that disclaimer, just a few thoughts:

• You might have missed this, but I'm your date--not your kid sister. Just because I'm a few years younger than you, doesn't give you leave to call me "kid." I've already got brothers and I'm not really in the market for another one at this point.

• I was under the impression you wanted to go out with me--hence you asking me to spend Friday night with you. As such, I guess I just assumed you'd have some idea of what we'd be doing. For future reference, ladies appreciate planning.

• If I'm going to give up a precious weekend night to spend with you--possibly a complete stranger--I'd have appreciated it if you'd spent it with me and not your phone. Hot Tip! I turned mine off before you picked me up.
  

• Spending the evening regaling me with tales of your bad boy days--without a clear indication that they're over--isn't really impressive. Next time (not with me, of course) I'd suggest steering the conversation in a direction that casts a positive spin on you and your life. Talk about your classes, family, or your achievements before whipping out your police record.

• Don't forget that this is a first date. It's okay if we keep it short. They say the best entertainment leaves you wanting more. If I get enough the first time around--SIX HOURS of it, for example--no girl's gonna need another dose anytime soon.

• No, I'm really not okay with driving.

• I'm sorry I've been sitting in your truck for the last 30 minutes, requiring you to come up with yet another zany story about your insane family. This entire awkward scene could have been avoided if you'd turned the car off and walked me to the door. And yes, you should have walked me to the door.

Anyway, good luck! I'm sure that with a little more effort, and maybe just a little thought, the next time around will be awesome. You can do it! If at first you don't succeed (and really, no, you didn't succeed here), Try Try Again!

Sincerely-
Me

P.S. And can I just give a big shout out to the few fabulous first dates I have been on in the past? Some of you guys REALLY have it down; some of you guys I went out with twice or more! (Some of you guys I wanted to go out with again, but...yeah...) Anyway, perhaps you could offer some hints, or even one-on-one tutoring, to some of your peers. Because some of them REALLY need it. Peace out. Happy dating.

**In case it wasn't clear, the thoughts herein have been compiled over several years of swimming in the dating pool. If this had all occurred in one night, with one guy, I'd have felt responsible to disclose his name as a public service to other women who might wander into his path.

Summer Happenings, including #5

Anybody else wondering where the heck June went? How did the first month of summer go by so fast?! This means I've got only 1 1/2 months left to make the summer break Awesome to the Max. Before we get to that, however, some catch up on the events of the past few weeks of Summer Magic.

Last week I hit up the water park with my sisters and two of the little one's--Lyric and Spencer (pictured here in all his summertime glee and glory). It was a madcap day of water, tubes, lazy rivering, slides, fried chicken, and lots and lots of sun. And it was a total blast! I definitely got sunburned, despite reapplying my SPF 50 sunblock on numerous occasions, but its all good now. Look at that picture again! Can you doubt how much fun we had?! AWESOME!

Father's Day weekend took the family to our timeshare condo at East Canyon Resort. We played at the pool, read books, watched a bunch of mostly mediocre movies (Boo on you Leap Year and Dear John), and had a ton of fun fishing at the reservoir. I re-learned how to gut a fish (that just sounds gross...), and practiced tying on my own hook and swivel. Woohoo!

In case you've been living under a rock for the past few days and hadn't heard, the newest Twilight film, Eclipse, opened in theaters on Wednesday. My amazing friend, Charisse, got free tickets and we hit up the 12:10 showing Wednesday morning at Jordan Commons. We tried to blend in with all the "Twi-hards" by dressing appropriately (I sported my homemade "Team Taylor Lautner" shirt (because I am)) and cheering at perfectly sculpted abs whenever they appeared. It was a serious good time, and I really did enjoy the movie.

These are happy smiles brought to you by the Salt Lake Real and Rio Tinto Stadium. I went to the game on Friday with my sister and parents--part of our Father's Day gift to Dad. The game was fun, even if it ended at 0 - 0. At least we didn't lose! I love soccer!! After the game we headed to Leatherby's and feasted on Toasted Almond Ice Cream, hot fudge and cheese fries. YUM!

Surely one of the highlights of my summer occurred last night--110 in the Shade at Hale Center Theater Orem, starring Audra McDonald. I got a ticket thanks to that amazing friend I mentioned before--Charisse. Isn't she the best!!? I don't think I'm a gifted enough writer to capture in words how extraordinary the performance proved to be. I was goosebumpy and enthralled and feel all sorts of lucky to have seen it. Really the entire cast was awesome, but Audra was phenomenal. I chalk this one up to "Best Theater Experience EVER in the State of Utah." Standing O, all the way.

And that finally brings us to a MAJOR accomplishment of the summer! I can check #5 Finish the quilt I started last year off the 27 in 27 list, because I finished it! Pictured above is the quilt I started sewing last summer--now, all done. It has been quilted and bound and it is lovely. Its currently the highlighted piece in my barely-decorated living room. Now I'm just waiting for an invite to an outdoor venue so I have reason to show it off!

Keep up the good work, folks, and happy summering!

The Problem of Summer

I love summer. Summer is popsicles, sleeping in and staying up late, reading fluff books, going to the movies, and basically doing whatever you want. Just reading that list makes me happy!! As it is, however, my summer hasn't entirely felt like that. Oh sure I've had my quick vacations to California, and yes I can sleep in when I want to. But this summer there's a boat load of work I still find myself having to do.

First I've got this Gilder Lehrman conference coming up in July. By the time I get on that plane to go to New York City, I must have completed three nonfiction history books. One of which is over 600 pages in length. Interesting, but definitely not the fluffy, beach reads I would hope to crack open in the summer.

Second, I'm working on a project for the Teaching With Primary Sources grant. I have to put together Primary Resource Sets for individual Indicators in the State Core. In fact, I am signed up to complete 18 of these sets. Yes, I get paid, but wow...I'm at "1 down, 17 to go" at this point. *sigh*

Third, I would really like to get up and going on my Curriculum plans for my night school classes next year. Life in the 2010-2011 school year will be MUCHO simpler if that gets done before September.

But going back to The Problem of Summer. The real problem is that IDEA of summer. I want to play! But my blasted logical mind is struggling to let me really enjoy the play time I take when there are all these other RESPONSIBLE things I should be doing. Blast.

I think the universe is trying to make me work too. When I asked my two-year old nephew last Sunday if we could "hang out sometime this week"--as long as it was okay with his mom, of course--she responded that he was pretty busy with playdates and other such things. Yeah, that's right. My two-year old nephew has a busier social calendar than me. Thank goodness I have those Resource Sets to keep me company, right?