Wordless Wednesday--Logan

My 15 year old nephew who gets lots of playing time each week! Also known as Ked's little brother!

Photo by Rindi Perry.

The Potter's Hand

We sang this as an anthem this morning, and it is just such a beautiful song! I thought I'd share it with you!

Just for fun! Are you a witch??!

You Are 45% Witch

It's unlikely that you're a witch. At least, no one thinks you are. You may still be interested in witchcraft, but you're by no means a stereotypical witch. While you don't seem all that witchy, people may think you're a bit weird. You're definitely a little offbeat. No one really knows what to make of you sometimes.

Are You a Witch?

Flashback Friday--Give It Up

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

Tonight is a big football game against one of our biggest rivals! There was a time, years ago, when I was a fan of the opposing team! We lived there for 4 years and I was an avid Viking fan at the time! This song takes me back to the first year we lived in the town, when I was in fifth grade. It really was one of the greatest times of my life, and I made some lifelong friends there.

So in honor of the GC/PV ballgame, here's KC and the Sunshine Band--Give it Up!



So what about you? What takes you back to the glory days today? Please share with us!!

We interrupt your regularly scheduled blogging....

due to a stinky stomach bug! I stayed home yesterday to take cupcakes to Adam's preschool class. That ended up being the only time all day I left the couch! I took every drug I thought might get me through class and made it through, but I laid down as soon as I got home. Then I was up and down all night running to the bathroom. Lovely! I called my principal early this morning. I'm sure my classroom is an absolute wreck after me being gone for 2 days, but it couldn't be helped. This house is a wreck, too, and my family is coming over tomorrow evening for a little birthday celebration for Adam. Glad they're understanding! LOL

So no wordless Wed. today....I've got about an hour and a half before the boys get home so I'm gonna take my last nap. We have to have portraits done tonight for our church directory, so I'm gonna have to muster up enough energy to find clothes for all of us and try to make myself look presentable! Wish me luck on that one!

Hope that this doesn't invade my computer and come through to you, cause it has been a hum-dinger!

Happy birthday, little bit!

My, how you've grown! This was your first Halloween, the last with Papaw. I'm so blessed by you being in our family, Adam, and am so proud to call you my son! I look forward to watching you grow even more!

I love you, sweetheart!!

Curious as a Cat #5!

1) What would you do if (or What will you do because) your workplace was (is) closed today and you could (can) do anything you wanted?
I would try to sleep late if the boys would let me, and spend time just vegging out and enjoying my family. I might go out to lunch and take the boys somewhere to play!

2) Have you ever been emotionally attached to someone in a way that was detrimental to you?
Hmmmm.....I'd say I have, like to ex-boyfriends and such!

3) What is the most beautiful word you know, in any language?
mommy

4) What one thing limits your freedom the most?
Having to go to work! LOL

5) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one. (It is a picture of a tree on a beach)
Reminds me of our cruise this past June!

Come join in at Curious as a Cat!

Cafe Chat: Gossip

Without sharing names and using specific details, please share a time when gossip reared its ugly head in your life, and what was the outcome (whether you were the one who gossiped, or the gossip was about you).

Oh my...my tongue is my worst enemy sometimes. I know of two specific times that I have spoken without knowing all the facts about something, and was called on it. It was very humbling, but I admitted that I was in the wrong and apologized. It was quite painful. The second time took quite a while to heal, and was particularly difficult since we were in the same circles and ran into each other often.

There have been times that I have been the subject of gossip as well. Several years ago, a parent came to me and wanted her child taken out of my classroom because she had heard that I was 'hard-nosed'. Though in a way, I felt good because I do expect a lot out of my students, the fact that parents of students I had taught were dissatisfied and talked out in the community about it stung. The same parent came back later and apologized with tears in her eyes, and other teachers have since been told that I was the 'best thing that ever happened' to her daughter.

Gossip hurts. It is something that I have to guard myself against. I enjoy talking and having the latest news, but I have to ask the Lord to keep me from doing so.

Do you have experience with this that you'd like to share? Come join in Cafe Chat at the Internet Cafe Devotions site!

Feeling much better today

Thank you for your kind comments. I had my pity party last night, complete with panic attack on the way to Chris' Mamaw's house, where I made him bring me back home. I just could not face trying to converse and act like everything was okay when it WASN'T. I would have upset Mamaw, too, and I hated to do that. So I stayed here, watched Miss Congeniality and worked through some work-related emails, and fell asleep early. I know that Chris was worried about me. In 10 years of marriage, he had never seen me in such a state.

To answer some questions, this is not a hivey rash, it is more of a flat, dotty rash. I have been fighting this since mid-July. I have been told it was shingles (and took a round of Valtrex, I might add), taken one shot of steroids, taken two rounds of oral steroids, had a skin biopsy, been told I was allergic to Prilosec and then also all other class of acid blockers as well. ALL to come back to the fact I broke out AGAIN. It has been very trying, especially as I deal with my husband, almost 5 year old and 7 year old, church issues, starting back to full time first grade teaching, starting into a graduate program, and dealing with issues at work. So do ya see why I was pretty down last night??

But after some alone time and some intense prayer (read: begging the Lord), I feel much better today. I have put my big girl panties on and am dealing with it. Not that I'm not still discouraged, but I'm claiming healing in Jesus' name. I am asking everyone that I know to pray, and if I flare up again, I'm going to ask my dad to pray a prayer of healing over me. This is quite bold for a United Methodist born and bred girl to say all this, cause it just isn't usually our way, but I know that the Lord has Power over all, and I know He doesn't want me to suffer. If I have to start coming off my medications, then suffer it will be. I really fear for my mental health if it comes to that.

Will you please join me in this? Will you please pray that the Lord will take this rash from me, and that it will never flare again? I would so appreciate it, and will sing His praises when it happens!

You may read these same words on my other blog and if you frequent the same sites I do, may see it there too. Please forgive me for not restating this at every site. I thank you for your prayers again, and know that Jesus will be the conqueror in this!!

extremely discouraged and frustrated...yes the rash

I just got back from the dermatologist where we looked at the results of the allergy tests they started on Monday. Guess what turned up??


A big fat NOTHING!

It was all I could do to keep from bursting into tears right then and there in front of the doctor, nurse, and Isaac. Will this rash never end??? Yeah, we keep seeming to get it under control, but then go a few weeks and it is back! Right now, I'm using an antihistamine cream, but will it just come back when I stop using it?

If it does come back, then he suggests stopping taking the Diclofenac. That helps control the fibro pain and the IBS. The other things that I take are for the anxiety and depression. So basically, I'm screwed if it comes back. I could be having to change meds for quite a while.

I just want to shout I give up! I want to crawl in bed and sleep for about 2 months. I've HAD it. I haven't even gone to get Adam at daycare yet cause I just don't want to see anyone. I need to go to the drugstore and pick up a refill....again, don't wanna do it.

Please pray, cause I'm just.....argh. I can't even put it into words anymore.

I feel like a traitor

I'm wearing a Virginia Tech t-shirt to school today.

Which may not seem like a big deal to you, but being that I am a lifelong Tennessee fan living on the Tennessee/Virginia border, I take a lot of ribbing, especially given this years' lackluster season. But I do have a good reason to wear the shirt!

Today Jonas Houseright, a Gate City native and a former student of our school, is coming to read to our students as part of a program that Frank Beamer has started.

So I'm showing the team spirit. Now, I do have a bit of rebel in me.


I'm wearing Tennessee socks!

Some rebel and traitor I am, huh??!

Flashback Friday--Eye of the Tiger

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

I still get thrilled at this movie! My sister Brenda LOVED this movie. I don't even remember how many times she saw it in the theater! I saw it twice in the theater myself! Who didn't get pumped up by Rocky beating up Mr. T? I always had trouble liking him after that, too! I could use pumping up today, so I present to you...Eye of the Tiger!



Share a song that takes YOU back!! And have a great weekend, too!

Wordless Wednesday--Soccer boys

Isaac


Adam
Photos courtesy Rindi Perry. Happy Wordless Wednesday!

And the rash saga continues....

I went back to the dermatologist yesterday to start the allergy testing. It was interesting...a nurse put a bunch of little circle patches on my back and drew a grid to show were each one was located. She then taped it all to my upper back. It is a strange feeling! It has been on for about 24 hours now, and is starting to feel itchy. They will take the tape and patches off tomorrow, and I go back to the doctor on Friday to see what the results are. Part of me is afraid I'm gonna be allergic to stuff I can't get away from or don't WANT to give up, like milk or cats. I guess whatever shows up, I'll remove it and reintroduce stuff to see what has been causing the rash/itch!

I'm just ready for this to be O*V*E*R!

I don't have class this week cause our professor is at a conference in Mexico. Tough for him, huh?! I feel like I've been given a gift of an evening at home!

Hope ya'll are having a great week!

Curious as a Cat #4

1) Why do we give people hugs?
To show them affection and comfort.

2) When have you most shocked yourself?
When I've done some crazy things that I didn't think I had 'in me'....right, Robin?! LOL

3) Where would you consider constructing a small altar in your house or yard?
In the back yard in a shady spot near a grove of trees

4) If you could change one thing about your typical day, what would you change?
The gettin' up time til about 8!

5) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one. (it was a picture of an electrical outlet)
It reminds me of when the boys were babies and we had to keep all the outlets covered!

C'mon....join in the fun! Click here

prayer for today

Lord, help me not to be irritated at my husband and others today. Help me not unsaid things into the things that are said. Help me take people and their actions at face value. Help me not to be resentful. Help us to pick up this house so that we can enjoy tomorrow. Thank you, Lord, for helping this itch to subside. Please continue to heal me, and if it be Your will, Lord, help us to figure out what is causing this. Help me greet others with Your love and grace and to be genuine and loving instead of sarcastic.

I'm really struggling right now, Lord. I am feeling inadequate in much that I do and say. Please help me to focus on what I am doing and do whatever task is at hand to the best of my ability.

Help me to continue to fight urges toward foods that I don't need to eat. I know that my body is to be Your temple, and that I need to work toward being the best me I can be, as far as my health goes.

Thank you again for the opportunities that you have placed before me concerning teaching and leading children. Help me to speak with kind and encouraging words, even when I don't feel well. Help me to be an example of how to rise above my shortcomings. Help me to be effective.

Just wrap your arms around me, Lord. I'm not feeling like ME today, and I need Your help.

Flashback Friday--Bang on the Drum

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

I think I heard this song on KZ106 in Chattanooga every morning of high school as I was getting ready for school. It set the right mood for such things as pep rallies and ballgames, and the weekend in general! So to set your weekend up right....here it is!!



So what is on your mind this fall Friday?? We wanna know!

Went back to to the doctor

...now they are thinking it is some type of contact dermatitis. So I've got a cream to treat the current outbreak, and I go back 3 times next week to have an allergy patch test. Though I hate having to go through that, something has got to give! Thank you for your prayers...please keep sending them up! I am feeling them!!

It is back.

The dreaded stinkin' never ending rash, that is. It is so very depressing. It may just be the major contributing factor to the huge funk I've been in this week. I am breaking down and calling the dermatologist office again tomorrow. And asking if I need to be referred to an allergist or what. I soooooooo don't want to go back on the steroids. I'm so over this, and over feeling blah, and over not being appreciated at certain places that I frequent. I don't feel like going into that right now, but please, please say a prayer or two or hundred?? I could really use 'em!

Wordless Wednesday--Homecoming

This week is Homecoming Week! I need to take pics of me and Isaac as we dress up for the spirit days...yesterday was Hillbilly/Camo Day, today is Sports Team/Book Character/Nerd Day, tomorrow is Twins/Mismatch Day. One of my nieces is on the Homecoming Court as a Freshman Attendant! I'm so proud of her and excited!!

Curious as a Cat #3

1) What is the single most important ingredient for a spiritual life?
prayer, hands down

2) Who is the person you know with the freest spirit?
Milly is who comes to mind first!


3) How does it make you feel when you hear people argue?
tense

4) What one thing would you give to each of your ex-lovers?
a headache. Just like they gave me! LOL

5) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.
(It is a knife and fork) Reminds me of a fancy restaurant!

Haven't been very bloggish lately....sorry, ya'll! I had a paper due today and I've been procrastinating and stressing about it! I promise I'll do better!

Then Sings My Soul Saturday--Voice of Truth

As you have probably noticed, music speaks to me. I can often find songs that can say so eloquently the groanings of my heart. Tonight as I was driving home from my Girls Night Out, I listened to this song and was overwhelmed with gratefulness. I am so glad that almost 20 years ago when I attempted to take my own life, that the Voice of Truth was the One that I heard and listened to. I am so glad that the Lord saw fit to fight the Devil for me! And so I thought this would be as good a time as any to share this song with you. God is SO good and is always faithful...He never changes. I am so glad of that! Enjoy this song and video, and know that He loves you as well!!



For more Speak to my Soul entries, visit Signs, Miracles, and Wonders!

Flashback Friday--Can't Let Go

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

I heard this song last night on my way home and boy, did it take me back! It reminded me so much of the unrequited love that I felt in college. The fella was my friend and sometimes the person I argued the most vehemently with. I certainly don't mind that I didn't end up with him, but boy, at the time, did it hurt!

I'm feeling a bit melancholy this week as we have had the 6th death of a family member of someone on our faculty since August. This time it was the 51 year old husband of one of our Special Ed. teachers. Very sad. If you could remember her and her two teenage sons in your prayers, I'd appreciate it!

The video can't be embedded, but click on the link to go see it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLkwbUPfk3g

Now what about you? What is taking you back today? Please share!!

Wordless Wednesday--Record Breaker

Photo by Rindi Perry

She was able to capture the record breaking kick! 49 yards, ya'll! He rocks!

Let me tell you about what I wore today

A friend of mine brought me 6 huge trashbags of clothing that she was no longer able to wear back in May. I got quite a few things out of them, and so did another coworker. When we were finished, B just said I could donate the rest to the yard sale we were getting ready to have at our church. Somehow one small bag of stuff didn't get taken to the sale and ended up in our den. I pulled it out the other day to see if there was anything else in there I would wear. To my surprise, I found a great pair of pants! Now, if I had not picked out the pants before, that meant that they had not fit very well. So I tried 'em on again since I've been dieting for 2 weeks....and they fit wonderfully!

So I wore them today!! Success feels awesome! The scale says I've lost about 5 lbs, but until today I was still on the steroids. I hoping more falls off now that I'm off of those! I have lost inches, for sure, esp. in my belly. And the great thing is if I don't eat lots of carbs, I am not hungry! Not to say I wasn't tempted today by 'breakfast for lunch' at school, but I resisted well! Chris has even created a homeade salad dressing that I really like on salads...so much so that I actually ASKED for one tonight, which is so usually not like me!

So keep encouraging ladies! I can do this, I AM doing this, and it feels good!

Curious as a Cat #2

1) If you had to exchange souls with someone you know for one day, who would you pick?

Hmmmm, that is a tough one! I think I'd like to exchange souls with one of my children, cause their souls are still pure...but I'm not sure I'd want them seeing my soul. Can it be a one way exchange??

2) When were you happiest to come home?

after any long trip, I'm pretty happy to come home. I was always happy to come home after a week of camp with Visually Impaired children....now THAT was hard work!

3) What is your favorite part of the yesterday?

nap time!! LOL Otherwise, Sunday School.

4) What has been your greatest accomplishment in life so far?

Giving birth to my children.

5) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

(It was a picture of a little black dress and a suit beside it)

It reminds me of the fact that we don't ever have any events to get that dressed up for! LOL

Priceless

Winning a ballgame 44-0

Breaking your own field goal record by 3 yards

Making 8 points in a game

Doing it all on your 18th birthday= PRICELESS

What a difference a week makes!!

Happy birthday, Ked.....you sure do make me proud!

Flashback Friday--Kiss

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

OK, internets, this is the ULTIMATE Flashback song for me and my friend Robin! I could say so much about this song...from back in 7th grade when it came out and the fun we had in Mr. Fields' Pre-Algebra class to the fact that Chris was arranging the purchase of my engagement ring on the day Robin and I went to see Prince in concert, but all I really need to say is what Prince says in the song....

You don't have to be cool to rule my world.

And if we don't have to be cool for Prince, then just forget being cool for everyone else!! This was our college mantra...we sometimes seemed to be on the fringe of coolness, but you know what? I've decided I like it there, cause there are more interesting people on the fringes!

So remember this on this Friday and know that if you read my blog, you're cool enough for me!!



Don't forget to share your Flashback!!

Wordless Wednesday--We start 'em early!

Can't believe this was taken almost 5 years ago! Where has my baby gone??

Curious as a Cat

I just got in from teaching/meeting/PTO, and I'm too brain dead to be creative, so I thought I'd try out this meme!

1) Are you a leader or a follower?
Most of the time, a leader, but sometimes I LIKE to be a follower!

2) Who is the person you are most candid with?
Chris, and Robin

3) What one thing in your life would be easiest to change, but you’ve never gotten around to it?
My habit of sleeping with the tv on!

4) If you could convince any single person to change his or her mind about one thing, who would you pick and what topic would you work on?
If I could be sure that I have convinced one non-believer to follow Christ, I'd be sure to do it, and would be so happy that I did!

5) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one. (it was a picture of an owl)
This picture reminds me of the Brookside Owls, where I attended Kindergarten from November-June! Actually, the Kindergarten was housed in the basement of my church since Sullivan County schools were way overcrowded at that point, and stayed so until they built Sullivan North. We would ride a bus to Brookside each day for lunch. That was the only time I attended Brookside; I attended Cedar Grove from first grade through fourth since it was the actually school I was zoned to attend.

That was fun! C'mon and join in!

Sick on Saturday....

Yuck Yuck Yuck! As I was telling my sister a while ago, I was berating myself this morning over feeling down in the dumps still over how everything went down last night. Then after needing to lay down after the boys soccer game, I woke up feeling nauseous. So I figured out that I wasn't moping, I have a touch of something!

I saw K this morning, and he seemed to be in good spirits. Ah, to be 17 and have my life ahead of me! He has a much better attitude about it all than we adults do. I guess it is cause we take it more personally because these are adults that we work with and trust, whereas it is just 'coach' and 'how things are' with them.

I don't know that they are BAD coaches, they are just rough, and we've known that, but to see it first hand makes me want to knee 'em in the crotch! But that wouldn't be very ladylike of me, would it??!

Hope everyone else is feeling better today than me! My Vols won, too, so it is a good mood day in the S. house, at least! LOL

When does a win not feel like one?

When you hear all about how a coach chewed out both of your nephews, and made one of them cry. Yeah, some kicks were missed, but nobody's perfect. We still won by 2 touchdowns. It isn't worth psyching out your kicker. And I've never seen someone give as much as L. does on the field.

I know I'm biased, but man...in some ways I pray my boys don't play football because of situations like this. It just stinks. Have some consideration, especially with kids you know are giving it their all.

Flashback Friday--Queen of the Night

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

How about a flashback from college?! I remember having to drive to a town 30 minutes from our campus to see a movie....yes, we were out in the boondocks and the students there now don't know how lucky they are to have more conveniences closer by! I saw "The Bodyguard" with my friend Robin and her then fella and two other guys that were friends. Oh, how I cried at the end! I loved the whole soundtrack of the movie, but this one was a good one to which I could dance around the dorm room! I also remember going to a dance and flipping around like wild women with some of my sorority sisters to this song as well!

So, ladies, are YOU a Queen of the Night today/tonight?! Sure you are! Flaunt it baby!

Can't think of a witty title!

Not feeling very witty tonight, but I am thankful for some friends of ours. I teach with L, Chris used to teach with her husband S, and Isaac is best friends with their son D. We're working on how to matchmake their daughter with Adam!

L's grandmother passed away. I hate it so for her. I remember the pain I felt when I lost my Mawmaw, and she's had 15 or so more years with her Granny than I did with Mawmaw. It made me feel so good when S told me that D was okay with coming back to school on Wed. when he found out he could come to my classroom and hang out with Isaac. I am just so so thankful that the Lord brought them into our life, and especially that Isaac has such a fantastic friend in D. If I had hand picked a friend for him, I couldn't have done a better job. Of course I couldn't....cause GOD picked him, and HE is perfect!!

So if you still have your grandparents, hug 'em extra close tonight. And cherish your friends, and the parents of your kids' good friends. They are more precious than gold!

Wordless Wednesday--Adam and Papaw

I'm a bit nostalgic today thinking about my friend losing her grandmother. This was taken 2 weeks after Adam was born, with Chris' grandfather. I'll have to post about Papaw one day...he was a special man!!

This was taken on Halloween...Adam was dressed up like a ghost!

I promise I'm not gonna do this every day!

But I need to remind myself...I ate carbs this evening. I had class, had to get something to eat and got fish, which was good, but it came with rice and hush puppies, which were not. So I'm hungry now! Craving anything carby! I ate a snack of sugar free jello, but it hasn't registered to the brain yet. I may try some protein here in a few if the cravings don't pass.

Class was good....but it ran over and then we got into a conversation in the parking lot, so I didn't get home til after 9:30. Now I gotta 'come down' enough to sleep!

Please keep my friend Leanne and her family in your prayers. Her grandmother passed away this morning. Leanne is my coworker and also my friend, and her son and Isaac are best buddies. This is hitting Leanne and her son Drew pretty hard!

Til later....

Diet Day #1

Chris and I have taken the diet plunge! Both of us need to lose some weight. I decided a few weeks ago that I was going to do the South Beach Diet because though I haven't done the exact diet before, I have done one similar and had success. The Curves Diet is based on South Beach, and I lost about 10 lbs. without much trouble a couple of years ago. The first two weeks are the hardest because all sugar (well, most! :D) bread, pasta, and fruit are eliminated.

I was really proud of myself for NOT giving into temptation today! Twice I was presented with candy and didn't eat any! First, bags were placed in our boxes from a local realtor full of candy. Put it on my desk without opening. Second, I attended a workshop on Educational Law and the sweet friends of mine had candy on the table for us...and I didn't eat any! So yay, me on that!

I've had to go to the bathroom lots more today, and I can't really figure that out. I haven't drunk more, but have much more urgency to go! I may have to look this up on some of the South Beach message boards out there!

So wish me luck! I am not brave enough to put 'out there' how much I weigh, but I'd be happy to lose 10+ pounds. I really NEED to lose 20, but I'm trying for 10 first. Baby steps, right?

30 books in 30 days

Yes, that is right....30 books being GIVEN AWAY in 30 days! How awesome is that? Check out A Peek at My Bookshelf and how she's giving away a book a day during the month of September!

I love it! I'm sure you will, too, so go! Go! Go!

Flashback Friday--You Oughta Know

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

Sorry this is up late girlies! I remembered it once I was on the way to work, but it was too late to turn around.

I'm ill today because of even having to take the prednisone and also cause it is coursing through my veins. I hate it, and I hate that I feel this way, but such is life at this moment. So I thought of a Mad Woman song for today!

This song takes me back to 2 years or so after I graduated from high school. I played the heck out of the Alanis Morrisette CD in my pretty new car...a green 2 door Grand Am with a sunroof! I remember thinking of an ex-boyfriend who had attempted to reconcile with me (somewhat) after he broke my heart. I also remember listening to this song while my niece (who was high school age at the time) was in the car, and I would try to turn it down when she said the "f" word, but then I always seemed to miss it and turn it up right when she said it! It was a very empowering time in my life: I lived on my own, was paying my own way, working my first full time job, and felt very independent. Though I am very glad that I met Chris soon after, I'm very glad that I had that time to show that I could stand on my own two feet and survive, and even thrive. Life was good, despite the mad woman song pick! LOL

So here it is ladies!



What is taking YOU back today??





Have a fantastic weekend!

Everybody stand back: I'm about to pitch a fit!

Copied and pasted from my favorite parenting message board, cause I'm too over it to type it all out again!

I haven't mentioned it in case it was a fluke, but it clearly is not. I've broken back out in the rash. I started taking OTC Prevacid for my hiatal hernia on Aug. 12. I stopped taking it last Monday, the 25th, when I noticed a faint rash coming up on my stomach. I treated that with the prescription topical cream I was prescribed earlier and it cleared up for the most part. Last night, I noticed that I had a tad bit on my thighs. And this morning, there were two telltale (no pun intended) large areas of rash on my behind. :cry So I called the dermatologist, and they worked me in. She agreed that most likely since that was the only thing that has changed, I am allergic to both acid blockers and acid reducers. Probably the only thing I can take is Tums or Rolaids or whatever. So I'm gonna have great teeth and bones, but may have reflux on ya!

And here's the worst part, in my book. I had to go back on the steroids to get rid of it. I could just cry. I probably will cry when I tell Chris. When I was telling people to pray about it this morning, I almost cried. This has just been such a miserable experience. I am NOT looking forward to the grouchiness and skin crawling that came with the steroids. Thankfully, I won't have to take it for as long, but I NEVER wanted to take the stuff again, and certainly not this soon! I could so pitch a fit and cry and kick and hit the floor!

So. There I am. You probably need to say prayers for my students over the next three weeks. They're probably gonna think I'm an evil witch!

Wordless Wednesday--Captains

Photo courtesy Rindi Perry. This is a former student and my nephew walking out on the field first to do the coin toss.

1st night of class!

It went well! Now that the first initial introduction to it is over, I feel much better. The professor that is teaching the class this semester is one who I had for several classes in undergrad (HA! Feels funny to say that!) so I know what he expects. And yes, Robin, we're having Reading Responses! I thought of you when I saw that!

I am traveling with 4 other teachers from my county this year. After that, I'll be on my own unless someone else in the county signs up. I'm enjoying this while it lasts and not worrying about that for a while! They were a hoot to listen to while driving up and back...makes the travel time pass quicker!

Thanks again for all your prayers and support as I went through the GED and application process!

Reading Specialist, here I come!!

Like the new look?

This one is a freebie too, but this time courtesy of Doesn't she do beautiful work?? I'm excited about it! I also changed my button style, so if you haven't added it to your site, please do! (Hint, hint!) I even created a button for my other site, so I can link myself up, maybe! I have had too much techie time and my Vols play in less than an hour, so I'll leave that for another day!

I hope ya'll have had a fantastic Labor Day weekend. We have! It has been mostly hanging out here at the house, but that is what we WANTED and NEEDED! We did go to one family reunion (there were 3 scheduled, but we skipped out on two!).

My first night of class is tomorrow! I'm anxious. Chris is wigging out about books, as I figured he would. I wish that he could put it into the perspective of...we're not paying for the classes, so if we have to shell out some cash for books, it is still cheaper than if we had to pay for everything! Oh well, this too will work out.

Have a nice short work week!

'Labor Day' Meme!

Found this over at Rocks in my Dryer and thought it looked like fun!

How long were your labors?

Isaac: about 10 hours
Adam: about 6 hours, from first twinges of pain

How did you know you were in labor?

Isaac: I was induced, and boy did I know I was in labor the moment that Pitocin kicked in! WOWZA!
Adam: I wasn't sure I WAS in labor for quite a while. It felt like menstrual cramps but wasn't unbearable. Finally called the doctor's office between 3 and 4, and Chris got home from work and took me to the hospital. I forgot several things in the craziness. (I was supposed to be induced two days later)


Where did you deliver?

Hospital for both!

Drugs?

Yes, drugs! Lots of 'em! With Isaac, as I said, it was induced, and I got an epidural pretty much as soon as I could. It didn't totally take on one side and the anesthesiologist and I disagreed some about that. I can't imagine what that L-O-N-G part of pushing would have been without drugs!

With Adam, it seems that several people came in to the hosp. in labor right after I did, and they were pulling nurses from everywhere to help. The nurse that checked me (who was usually in the nursery instead of L&D) while the anesthesiologist was waiting said I was at about an 8. Later, another nurse told me that she explained to her that they never say anyone is past 7 so we get the epis. Oops. So no epi for me! I think the nurses were wishing I HAD gotten one after a while cause I was LOUD!

C-section?
Nope. Had to use the vacuum with Isaac, and he had a bad headache!


Who delivered?

The doctor who had followed both pregnancies, thankfully! He scheduled the induction with Isaac and was still at the office when I started into labor with Adam.
http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
If you want to play along with this meme, just cut and paste the questions into your own blog. Go back to Rocks in my Dryer to leave your link!

Because I've nothing else to do....

I thought I'd start another business online! But this time it is BOOKS! Who can argue with books??

Anyway, this is an awesome company with high quality books. As far as selling them, there are NO startup fees, and they have been very understanding that I'm not in it to go 'gung ho', but to do when and if I can. I appreciate that!

I'd love it if you'd click on the banner above and check out the products! By shopping through that banner, I'll get credit for what you buy. I plan on getting several books for Christmas presents!

Check it out, will ya?

Snackie Sunday

The rules are simple…you copy and paste the following words into the comment box. Then you answer each word that I have typed below with the FIRST word that comes into your mind.

1. bush-Cheney
2. home-work
3. smelly-socks
4. money-change
5. poker-chips
6. lip-lipstick
7. feel-touch
8. very-merry
9. be-do
10. dork-me
11. sexy-lingerie
12. love-Isaac and Adam
13. my-sons
14. soft-cotton
15. hard-table
16. sock-shoe
17. lick-sucker
18. heart-valentine
19. hand-clap
20. drama-certain people who always have to have some!
21. temporary-tattoo!
22. barn-hay
23. song-all I can think of is "Baby Got Back" cause Chris is irritating the boys by singing it in the other room!
24. gamma-phi
25. blue-one of my favorite colors
26. Hilly-reminds me of hillbilly

If ya wanna join in, here is the site to see!

Flashback Friday #3!

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

I just this second decided what my flashback would be! I'm not sure why it popped in my head, but I'll go with it! I'm choosing Centerfold by the J. Geils Band for today! I go back in memory to third grade when MTV was brand spankin' new. I think this is one of the first videos I remember seeing! We didn't have cable at the time, but I remember watching MTV for hours at my friend Julie's house while we drank Pepsi Free! (now who remembers that?!)

I THINK my memory serves me right on this next part. My third grade teacher would let us bring records to listen to while we worked on Fridays. If I remember correctly, my friend Robin's husband Billy brought "Centerfold" for us to listen to, but Mrs. Bacon wouldn't play it. Of course, we had not clue what a centerfold was, we just liked the song!

I also remember that the spring after the song came out, a church youth choir came to our church while on tour. They stayed with various church members that night. I remember Julie telling me about how one of the boys who stayed at her house played the drums. While he was watching "Centerfold" on MTV, he was pantomiming playing his drums, up until the part in the video that the drums splash up with liquid! He then looked up and said, "My drums don't do that!"

So without further ado, I give you Centerfold!



Are you ready to share your flashback?! Don't forget to link here so we can come learn about your memories!



Have a great Labor Day weekend!

Flashback Friday will be up this afternoon!

Bus duty has me and my schedule all wonky. I'll have it up this afternoon!! Cause I KNOW that 500 internets are out there just waiting with baited breath for it! LOL

A little sad here...

Tonight was preschool open house. Adam is attending 3 mornings a week. Since it is at our church, where he also attends daycare, he just has to go next door, and then go back after preschool is over. It is a true blessing to have him there, as I had all sorts of troubles trying to get Isaac back and forth from the babysitter to preschool!

It hit me today that this will be my last preschool open house. This is my last year of preschool...the last parties, the last Preschool Sundays, the last graduation. And not only is it the last for me, it is the last for my entire family...my mom helped found the preschool, and all of my sisters' kids (and a stepdaughter!) attended there as well. So this is the last of 10 children associated with the Copeland family to go through preschool there.

I know that it is just the beginning of many things, but I'm just a tad nostalgic and sad thinking about my baby growing up. I'm excited about it too, but just a little sad.

Mamas are allowed that, right??

Wordless Wednesday--Look at that kick!

Ked broke the school record with a 46 foot kick on Friday night! I was (and still am) one proud auntie!!

Edited to add: I didn't give proper credit to the photographer.....Vikki Roberts from Tricitiessports.com!

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Things You Didn't Like About School

I'm not feeling too creative today, so I thought I'd do a meme.

1. I didn't like having to move in Kindergarten.
2. I didn't like having to move between eighth and ninth grade.
3. I didn't like going to Kindergarten in the basement of our church. Or rather, I didn't like not being able to hang out in my dad's office! LOL
4. I didn't like homework. Ever.
5. I didn't like when my high school merged with another to make a new school. I liked the smaller school before we consolidated.
6. I certainly didn't like the English teacher in eighth grade who tried to talk me out of attempting to take Honor's English in 9th grade. Now who has a degree in Interdisciplinary English and am starting a Master's as a Reading Specialist?! BOOOOOYA!!
7. After I smashed my toe in the steel door on the way to the cafeteria in the basement at Cedar Grove, I didn't like the cafeteria anymore.
8. Nor did I like the note that my teacher sent home that evening, cause I thought it was pretty insensitive of her to say,"You'll have to be more careful." Yeah, sure, cause as a 48 pound 9 year old vs. steel door, I'm sure being more careful would have prevented THAT accident!
9. I was always one of several 'Christi's in my grade, and often my class. So I was always Christy C., not just Christy.
10. This was hard, cause I really did like school....or else I wouldn't be teaching now! So I think I'll say I don't like things that have to be done in 10s! LOL

If you want to join in on the Ten on Tuesday fun, check it out here!

I feel the love!

My sweet new bloggy friend Maricris over at Zen Ventures shared not one but TWO blog awards with me! I am very touched and honored!!



The first award has the following rules: 1. The winner can put the logo on his/her blog. 2. Link the person you received your award from. 3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs. 4. Put links of those blogs on yours. 5. Leave a message on the blogs of the people you’ve nominated.

So here are the 7 that I to whom I have chosen to pass on this award:

Robin at The Dixon Chicks....

CBB at WRB

Jamie at Final Score: 3 boys, 1 girl

Heather at Outnumbered by the Brood

Judy at Where Run Day Runs into Another

Amy at Georumination


and Robyn at Confessions of a Stay at Home Mommy

Each of these women are my friends, either in real life or through message boards or blogging. I may not know them all in person, but each of them have been supportive of me and lifted me up in ways they might not even know. So for this, I say thank you, and I love you!

I think I'll save the other award for a few days!

I didn't have to work today, as I attended a school-wide discipline information session with the rest of our discipline committee from school. We had a nice time getting to bounce ideas off each other. I had to stop back by school to get Isaac, and it looks like my sub kept my kids busy, which is FANTASTIC, cause then they didn't have time to get too wild! Apparently it rained just enough to keep 'em out of recess, though, so that wasn't so good. I'm hoping that they settle in better soon!

Guess what is great about today?!

I took my last dose of steroids today!!!!













Can you tell I'm excited??!

Flashback Contest Winner!

Here we go!

List Randomizer

There were 2 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

1. 2. Pamela Kramer
2. 1. Judy!!!

Timestamp: 2008-08-23 15:30:37 UTC

So Pamela is our winner, but Judy, please send me your address as well....I want to send you a little something as well for participating! Thank you so much gals!! I'll always remember you two as my first meme'ers!!

It's Friday! What is your flashback??

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

I'm still flashing back to middle school....I guess that was about the time I 'discovered' music and dancing. This week I'm remembering You're a Friend of Mine by Clarence Clemons and Jackson Browne. I remember hearing this song for the first time at the Valentine's Day dance when I was in 7th grade. The dance had originally been scheduled for the actual Valentine's Day, and I wasn't going to be able to attend since my sister's wedding rehearsal and dinner was that night. But 13 inches of snow cancelled school and the dance that night, so it was rescheduled for the following week!

I don't remember the boys I danced with that night, but I remember this song coming on and dancing with one of my dearest friends, Amy. We danced and sang, and felt like the song was meant just for us. Even today, 22 years later, Amy is a very special and dear friend to me! And hearing this song warms my heart and reminds me that
Years may come and go
Here's one thing I know
All my life
You're a friend of mine

Amy, this one's for you, my forever friend, and friend forever!!



What are YOU remembering today? Do share!

Wordless Wednesday--Soccer starts!

The boys' first games are Saturday! I'm officially a soccer mom to TWO now! Adam gets to play this year since he will turn 5 during the season. We'll definitely try to get some good action pics this weekend!

It's official! I R a Master's Student!

I got the official letter today! Everyone may commence doing the happy dance!! I'll wait right here while you dance.









OK, that was great! School is going well. I tell ya, every year I vow to not forget how hard it is at the beginning, and somehow every year I do anyway. I feel like a shepherd herding sheep sometimes, and other times like a cat chasing its own tail. I did actually accomplish something today, though, so I'm getting somewhere! I had planned on staying after school to try to sort through the mess on my desk this afternoon, but that didn't work out as planned. So maybe I can do that tomorrow!

One big change is that we've moved from a 1:40 planning time to a 10:35 planning time. My head has not adjusted around that! I'm sure I'll adjust over time.

My right eye has taken to twitching yesterday and this afternoon. Hoping that is going to pass soon, too!

**If you haven't already, it isn't too late to get a Flashback Friday post up and link it to enter my contest! Scroll down to check it out!!**

Country Bob's Sauce Review

My husband is the cook around here. I can heat up and bake things that are frozen, but he's the one who can make up a recipe and whip something up in a heartbeat. So I asked him to help out on this review! He was very happy to oblige!

Here is what he has to say about Country Bob's Sauce:

Country Bob’s All Purpose Sauce is a sauce made by Country Bob Inc. of Centralia, IL. It is a brown tomato based sauce similar to brown steak sauces such as A1 steak sauce. Country Bob’s is available in most major grocery retail chains as well as online at http://www.countrybobs.com/.

Packaging
Country Bob’s, like most similar products, is packaged in a brown bottle. The bottle is plastic but designed to mimic brown glass. The company logo is embossed in the plastic. The bottle has a traditional pour top. The label is on a white background and features the logo and product name as well as suggesting foods to try the sauce with. A short “Country Bob’s Story” is located on the back.

Appearance
Country Bob’s is a brown sauce, fairly opaque, which is very uniform in consistency. Small bits of spices can be seen when the sauce is spread thin. The sauce is viscous enough to adhere to foods, yet thin enough to pour easily.

Flavor
Country Bob’s is a great deal sweeter than many other “steak sauces”. Underlying the sweetness is a vinegar taste and a hint of pepper. The sauce has a slight peppery aftertaste but is not hot or spicy. I tried the sauce with grilled pork chop, grilled hamburger, and grilled chicken. Country Bob’s goes excellent with grilled meat. Its sweet peppery flavor compliments the smoky flavor of grilled meat perfectly. As you might expect, Country Bob’s went great with the hamburger. It also was very good with pork. I was less impressed with it with chicken, as its flavor was a little heavy for chicken breast. The bottle suggests barbeque and, given Country Bob’s combination of flavors, it could compliment barbeque well. Overall, Country Bob’s is an excellent alternative to steak sauces produced by big companies. It has a unique flavor that is easy to love. Its sweetness makes it more versatile than comparative sauces. Whether you are grilling steaks or just fixing burgers, Country Bob’s All Purpose Sauce is a wonderful addition to your shopping cart and will certainly please at the dinner table.

For more information on Country Bob’s All Purpose Sauce go to www.countrybobs.com.

Thanks for this opportunity to review your product, Country Bob's!

An Award! Someone loves me!

My friend Robin at Dixon Chicks Plus Bill... awarded this to me!
It's the Arte Y Pico award. This award was created to be given to bloggers who inspire others with their creativity, and for contributing to the blogging world in whatever medium.
The rules state:
1. You have to pick 5 blogs that you consider deserve this award through creativity, design, interesting material, and also contributes to the blogger community, no matter of language.
2. Each award should have the name of the author with a link to their blog.
3. Award winners have to post the award with the name and link to the blog of the person who gave them the award.
4. Please include a link to the Arte Y Pico blog so that everyone will know where the award came from.
You have to name 5 little known facts about yourself for the meme part of this award.

So for the 5 people I want to bestow this award upon:
1. Kristen at The Frugal Girl. Kristen has been an online friend for years, and has taken the food blog world by storm! I'm inspired by her in more ways than I can list!
2. Mary at The Incorrigible Night Owl. Again, Mary's been an online friend for years, and has been a blogger for quite some time too! It would be safe to say that she introduced me to blogging! And it also has to be noted that she has actually BEEN to Scott County, VA (and lived to tell about it!)
3. Melissa at Mel's World. I love reading Mel's posts, especially her Speak to Me Sundays!
4. Lisa at The Preacher's Wife. Lisa and I have discovered that we went to high school together! What a small world the internet has made!
5.Misty at Rainy Day in May. Misty is awesome!! She is very honest and funny!

Now, on to the 5 little known facts about myself. I'm one to tell everything, so there isn't much left to know!

1. I bite my fingernails. I try to stop, and do okay every once in a while, but honestly, that's my one vice and it could be much worse, ya know?
2. When on a tour in New York City, I saw Tom Brokaw walking down the hall at the NBC Studios. He acknowledged me with a nod.
3. I'm a freebie fiend!! I've found all sorts of good stuff out there for free!
4. My 7 year old's feet are as big as mine now. So I may just start borrowing his shoes.
5. We went and saw Clone Wars yesterday! It was pretty good!

OK, now for others to play along and pass on the award!

Sleep is my friend

And I'm feeling much better after getting some. Sleep that is! The only thing I want to say about the aforementioned situation is that this is something I've watched for 3 plus years thinking, "Surely not. It is gonna be found out. Surely they'll see." And 'they' haven't. But it is not my worry. I have done what I can, and she's far away from me now. God has watched over me and kept me from harm with this so far, and I know He will continue to do so. THANK YOU for your support and understanding.

NOW! To today! I don't really want to be awake at 5:57, but that is okay, there are worse things. We are taking the boys to see Clone Wars today! They are thrilled! Chris has read the reviews and thinks it isn't gonna be any good, but heck, I probably won't know if it is good or not! I'll be happy if I follow the story line and don't have to ask my 4 year old what is going on!

I need to work on laundry big time, and otherwise I am going to enjoy the heck out of being home and spending time with my boys.

Oh! I got an email from one of the professors in the Reading Specialist cohort, and I'm in!! Doing the happy dance with with some scared thrown in! We start on September 2nd, and hopefully will be in class each Tuesday. (Last year it was Wed., which wouldn't work as well for me, but if so, I'll definitely deal!) Robin, it was an email from 'ol Herb himself!

The professor who is teaching this semester's course is one I had many classes under in undergrad, so I feel a little better knowing how he works, somewhat. It will be lots of work, though!

Don't forget about Flashback Friday (scroll down to see it)! There's a contest in it for ya this week, too!

Mad. Mad. Mad. Mad. Mad.

And I can't even go into detail, because sure as if I did, someone would find this and I'd either lose my job, get in a big ol girl fight, or would put my husband's job in danger. Let's just say that some idiots have decided that another idiot (and I don't use these terms lightly, folks, I'm really questioning their sanity and thought processes here!) deserved a job. Even though she's done some stupid and dangerous things. And I'm furious. I'm furious that she got her way. I'm furious that no one took the time to ask those of us who KNOW what went on for the truth. I furious that she gets to call herself a member of my profession. I'm furious for the people that she hurt.

I'm so mad that I asked for a drink. And I don't do that. Not that I don't ever drink, but I don't ask for one. Ever. I'm sitting on my front porch crying cause I'm so mad. And I can't even tell you why.

I am a people person. And unless you really give me a reason not to, I trust you. I am nice to this person, but I don't trust her. I am pretty sure she knows it, too. I'm not one to be able to hide my feelings so well.

I'm having a hard time being Christian about this. And I'm so mad right now that I don't really care. So if you wanna pray that I can turn this over and get on with enjoying my weekend, then I probably need it. While you're at it, pray for the people who are gonna be in her path, cause I fear they may need it worse than me.

Introducing Flashback Friday!

If you're like me, songs can take you back to the past in a heartbeat. Do you ever remember certain times with a smile (or grimace) when you hear THAT song? Here is your chance to share the song and the story with your readers!

My friend Amy over at Georumination created the awesome graphic for this meme. Thank you so much Amy! You contained EXACTLY the 'flavor' this needed. Stop by and give Amy a visit and tell her Christi sent ya!

I've even used the coding prowess that my friends over at MomDot shared with us to make this a button!

<img alt="http://christis-blahblahblog.blogspot.com" src="http://tinyurl.com/5zzwl8"/>

For this week's Flashback Friday, I am remembering the summer when I was 14 with Head to Toe by Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam. I was getting ready to move from Big Stone Gap, Virginia to Rossville, Georgia. I was NOT happy about it! I had lots of friends and was getting ready to start high school, and was moving from a small town in the mountains to a small town bordering a big city, and was nervous about it. My friend Derek threw a going away pool party for me and a mutual friend who was moving to Florida about the same time. I remember this song coming on the radio, and jumping out of the pool with Missy and Amanda to dance. A routine that we knew from our recent recital fit perfectly to the song, and I can still remember the feeling of the pool deck under my feet as we danced. We were sopping wet, and the sky was so blue. As I looked around, I could see the side of Powell Mountain reaching up beside Derek's house. And anytime I hear that song, I'm 14 again (and skinny!), and surrounded by people I love.

Here is the video of the song in case it pre-dates you! Take note of the BIG hair, cause we all wanted ours just like hers!



So what about you? What song takes you back? Write us up a post and link it here. I will even have a contest to encourage you to join in on the fun...I have some goodies to share, including a Disney Vacation Club DVD and a Precious Moments figurine! C'mon, confess....don't you wish you could go back for just the length of a song?? I'll leave this open for a week and draw a winner on Saturday, August 23.

Can't wait to see what you all remember!

I. am. so. tired.

I just now got finished getting things ready for tomorrow, and truly could have done more, but I have to quit sometime. I don't know what I'd do if we had to go more than one day this week. Just lay down and let 'em crawl all over me for the day, I guess! LOL That or add to my reputation as being 'hard nosed' (yeah, that was supposed to hurt my feelings. I ain't there to be their best friend, I'm there to teach 'em to read and do math!).

The boys and I went to the Big Blue Bash tonight. It is a 'meet the players' type thing where you pay for dinner and such. I can't believe that my first group of first graders are seniors this year. How time has flown! I don't feel like it has been that long. Before I know it, some of them will have kids and I'll be teaching my students' children! Oh, forbid the thought...I'm not ready to be THAT level of adult!

Off to get two books ready to mail via PaperBackSwap, and then this monkey is hittin' the hay!

Hate to be awake now, but...

thought I'd at least write something since I am! Sleep deprivation due to steroids is not doing much for my foggy brain during the day. However, I'm keeping my coworkers entertained, so that counts for something! I've still got lots to do to be ready for students on Monday, but it is doable. Now if I can actually stop talking to people and DO it tomorrow, I'll be in good shape!

I was extremely thankful and pleased that a specific prayer that I had been praying was answered yesterday! It was concerning scheduling of our day. Our P.E. time was changed and that affected the length of our Language Arts block. We were looking at having it split, and if you have ever worked with 6-7 year olds, this was NOT gonna be the ideal situation. It was going to be hard to get them focused back on reading. But thankfully, an upper grade was concerned about their timing, too. It would behoove both grades for us to switch, and viola! Prayers answered! Poor Chris' ears have gotten tired from me saying how much this change was needed, and God took care of it!

Here's where the sleep deprivation came in: I was so grateful (and punchy!) by the time this was worked out, I danced around the room singing the Doxology! Apparently, my song and dance overshadowed the praise I was trying to give! (Sorry, Lord, but I know you have to understand!)

Honestly, this makes everything else that might be frustrating pale in comparison. If we can have an uninterrupted block of time for Language Arts, the rest will fall into place. It is still not the ideal schedule, but it is definitely workable.

So, wanna know exactly why I'm up at this hour? I actually fell asleep around 10 and was doing well til 12:30, when Adam decided to come get in bed with me. There went the sleep! So stay tuned, I might have other interesting stories on myself again tomorrow!
Check back in tomorrow for sure for the introduction of Flashback Friday!

I forgot to tell you!

Lab results came back for the creepy crud that it was an allergic reaction to a medication. The only medication I had changed was that I started to take a generic form of Prilosec in early June! So I'm NEVER going there again!! The dermatologist suggested I start on the lowest dose of Prevacid and see if it helps my hiatal hernia issues, and go from there with my GP.

You wanna know what is really strange though? One of my principal's daughters has had a rash that is strangely similar! On her booty and everything! Strange, huh, for that to happen at the same time??

OK, the sleeping pill I had to take to override the prednizone has kicked in and I gotta go let it do its thing!

Have a great Wednesday, ya'll!

Wordless Wednesday--My Namesakes

This is a pic that someone took on our cruise! This is my niece Maria, whose middle name is the same as my given name, Christine. And of course, there is Adam, whose middle name is my maiden name, Copeland! Maria is going to be a freshman in high school this year! I can't believe it! Adam will be going through his second year of preschool. He will turn 5 in October! My baby is growing up waaaay too quickly!

The One in Which I Go Back to School (and somethin's coming up!)

Today was the day! We had a school-scheduled day today, and tomorrow start the Official county scheduled days. We had a meeting on inclusion and co-teaching, and I got some collaboration things done but not much in my classroom. But that was okay--I thought I was going to be in meetings all day, so I didn't expect to get to my room at all!

I'm tired, but not as anxious about things starting as I was yesterday. Getting there and seeing that we'll work out the kinks and that we're in this together helps out tremendously! I am so blessed to work with people I genuinely care for and get along with. They are all Christian women, and people I'd love to call my friends even if I didn't work with them. I thank the Lord for that!!

You'll definitely need to come back this week, especially on Friday! I've got a couple of super-de-duper surprises coming up! So stay tuned!