We got this weird letter in the mail today from someone we don't know who said they wanted to buy our house. Now we haven't even put it up on the market yet. So I called our realtor and asked him to call the number. I'm glad I did, because I guess it was some real estate company looking to buy out houses in our area for cheap cash and then resell them for their fair value.
I just want to know where they got our first names.....they must have access to some type of mortgage database. Our first names are not listed in the phone book. Weird....
The disappointing part is that it's not legit. It would have been GREAT to sell our house before we ever put it on the market! I'm still holding out for a quick sale though.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Friday, January 26, 2007
I Hope These Pictures Cheer Anne Up
So my conversation with my boss was lame. He didn't place any blame on me in the situation, thank god, but he is still annoying. I've documented what he said in the meeting and that's all that matters for now.
Ahhh, so vicious!
Let's all focus on something MUCH better....my cute dogs. Here they are in their sweaters!
And here's how Maggie really feels about hers....
Ahhh, so vicious!Thursday, January 25, 2007
Irritating Afternoon
So, we got this new girl from the other middle school in town. She was giving them holy hell and we have a unit in our building that is kind of a "last chance" for misbehavers. It's supposed to be a "service" that we provide to these kids.
I got the unfortunate luck of getting this kid for two periods back to back in the afternoon. This means that neither of the teachers that is supposed to provide assistance is able to be in my classroom. Which SUCKS, because that's their job. They're over-extended. I get that. But this girl is new to our building and has already built herself a reputation in another building. In addition to not having assistance, I also get the end of this girl's day, which means she's already tired of playing nice.
She's only been in my class for 4 days and I've already kicked her out. She was totally rude to me today for no reason. She refused to do the work I asked her to do. She lasted FIVE minutes before she started being a total bi-atch (sp?). And the best part? I think my boss is going to blame it on me tomorrow morning. He popped his head in my room at the end of the day to say he wanted to talk.
I may get suspended from my job tomorrow. If he tries to peg her rude behavior on me, I'm going to throw a total fit. AND I'm going to go to the union president about it. I don't think it's right that they stick her in my room totally unsupervised, when all of her morning teachers get help. This program is designed to monitor her, and she's NOT being monitored. I'm not trained to deal with her. I'm trained to educate the other 15 kids in the room who are there to learn and do what I ask them to do.
Whatever. Craptacular afternoon to me!
I got the unfortunate luck of getting this kid for two periods back to back in the afternoon. This means that neither of the teachers that is supposed to provide assistance is able to be in my classroom. Which SUCKS, because that's their job. They're over-extended. I get that. But this girl is new to our building and has already built herself a reputation in another building. In addition to not having assistance, I also get the end of this girl's day, which means she's already tired of playing nice.
She's only been in my class for 4 days and I've already kicked her out. She was totally rude to me today for no reason. She refused to do the work I asked her to do. She lasted FIVE minutes before she started being a total bi-atch (sp?). And the best part? I think my boss is going to blame it on me tomorrow morning. He popped his head in my room at the end of the day to say he wanted to talk.
I may get suspended from my job tomorrow. If he tries to peg her rude behavior on me, I'm going to throw a total fit. AND I'm going to go to the union president about it. I don't think it's right that they stick her in my room totally unsupervised, when all of her morning teachers get help. This program is designed to monitor her, and she's NOT being monitored. I'm not trained to deal with her. I'm trained to educate the other 15 kids in the room who are there to learn and do what I ask them to do.
Whatever. Craptacular afternoon to me!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Several Unrelated Items
First, and most importantly....
Missing Blogger Report: Anne!!! Write in your LiveJournal!
I know that none of you read Anne's journal, but she comments in my blog on occassion. You have to have an invite to read hers through LiveJournal or I'd post a link to it for anyone interested. She writes about her job sometimes, and she's a teacher too, and she's a little more cautious than I am about the possibility of an administrator or parent reading it. I've contemplated doing the same thing, but I like Blogger format better.
Anyways...
Second Unrelated Item...
I was emailing back and forth with Jessica during work today, and mentioned that I've been really tired and not sleeping well. She suggested that it was stress related. After taking a second to think about it, she's right. I have way too much on my mind lately. Last night I dreamed there was a giant rat running around our living room. Not only am I stressed about selling our house, I'm stressed that there are still mice living in it. We haven't seen one in ages, not even any new droppings, but I just know they're here.....I can't wait to move!!!!!!
Third...
After reading about Lindsay's excitement about closing, it made me think of our first home purchase. It was a very exiciting moment closing on our house. And getting those keys in our hands was such a great feeling. I also remember how the realtor from the prvious owner kept making such a big deal about how much money we were "signing our lives away" towards. And I remember rolling my eyes and telling her to look at our credit report and the 160K we have in student loans. Ugh. It's almost time to start paying that back....
Fourth...
I am SO happy that my TV shows are back on! Is anyone else thrilled to have prime time TV back? Or am I the only addict out there?
Monday, January 22, 2007
Our Final Decision
So we're definitely going to put the house on the market.
After talking with multiple people, including those who were nice enought to comment in my blog, we've decided against doing some of the updates. Esp. the counters and carpet. We're going to steam clean it as best we can and make sure everything looks as clean and nice as possible. We're going to paint the molding, caulk the bathtub, and install new railings outside because we have to for FHA loans to pass inspection.
We're also going to advertise a $2000 allowance for updates.
We spent Sunday afternoon at open houses in the Troy area. Of the 4 we visited, I can't say we were really impressed by many of them. We saw two with basements, one was a really nice house on bad property, the other was real great property, horrible house. My biggest complaint was that its master bedroom was the same size as the one in our current home. There's no way a king size bed would fit at the same time as a dresser. Kendall said it smelled like ass. I suggested that they might have lit an ass scented candle...sorry, it was funnier in the moment... The other two were nice houses, the one had a HUGE master suite. Probably as big as our entire first floor! Unfortunately, both of them were on crawlspaces. We really want a basement. We're confident more houses will come on the market in the spring.
Tomorrow I want to write about the Basics of Selling a Home book that I read. It was funny. And after going to the open houses, it's obvious that many people do not follow the rules. The whole ass candle comment came straight from the booklet...Okay, enough.
After talking with multiple people, including those who were nice enought to comment in my blog, we've decided against doing some of the updates. Esp. the counters and carpet. We're going to steam clean it as best we can and make sure everything looks as clean and nice as possible. We're going to paint the molding, caulk the bathtub, and install new railings outside because we have to for FHA loans to pass inspection.
We're also going to advertise a $2000 allowance for updates.
We spent Sunday afternoon at open houses in the Troy area. Of the 4 we visited, I can't say we were really impressed by many of them. We saw two with basements, one was a really nice house on bad property, the other was real great property, horrible house. My biggest complaint was that its master bedroom was the same size as the one in our current home. There's no way a king size bed would fit at the same time as a dresser. Kendall said it smelled like ass. I suggested that they might have lit an ass scented candle...sorry, it was funnier in the moment... The other two were nice houses, the one had a HUGE master suite. Probably as big as our entire first floor! Unfortunately, both of them were on crawlspaces. We really want a basement. We're confident more houses will come on the market in the spring.
Tomorrow I want to write about the Basics of Selling a Home book that I read. It was funny. And after going to the open houses, it's obvious that many people do not follow the rules. The whole ass candle comment came straight from the booklet...Okay, enough.
Friday, January 19, 2007
By the Time He Left...I Was Crying...
I know that Karen is talking a lot about building a home, and I'm afraid that my blog is going to become one about selling one. I hope that doesn't bother people too much, and I'm sure we'll have interesting stories to tell...so just bear with me....
The realtor came over today. We really like this guy. We respect him. He knows what he's doing. We wanted him to come over today and tell us what needed to be done to the house before we put it on the market. We also wanted to talk about whether he even thought it was a good idea for us to sell right now.
After I told him about the deal the hospital was offering if we moved in the next 11 months, David (our realtor) told us we'd be crazy not to take the offer. He told us that even if we waited a year to sell, we wouldn't make more than and extra $1000 over what we'd make selling this year. We talked about the housing market right now, which SUCKS for sellers, and he told me it would take at least 6 months to probably sell this house. The market is just saturated with houses. And esp. in our neighborhood. That didn't suprise me too much. He told us to put it on the market March 1st. He also said that we have to look at the benefit of moving as a buyer as well. Because it's also a great time for us to buy a house in Troy, we could probably get a 300k house for 270k.
That leaves us 40 days to fix or change the following items:
1. New carpet- We knew this was coming
2. New kitchen counter top- not expected
3. Recaulking, slight replumbing of our shower
4. Glass block for the basement
5. Front porch painted
6. All of our molding needs painted
7. Decrapping of the house- we have to basically clear out our entire basement and half of our office. He says it's way too crapped up. (My words, not his)
8. Mulch all beds- even though it's freaking cold out and there probably isn't any mulch to be sold, we have to find some....
There are other things I'm sure I've forgetting, but needless to say, I was pretty overwhelmed when we were finished. The carpet and countertops alone will cost us several thousand dollars that we'll probably never get back in the sale. I was in tears as I said goodbye to David. He felt bad, but he reassured me that our house isn't that bad. He's just looking at the fine details that would help it sell faster. His direct quote was, "Your house isn't a 10, but it's also not a 5. It just needs a little work to make it look its best." I know our house is old. It's never going to be a 10 unless you gut it. It made me feel a little better.
The worst part was that he told us for an asking price, we should go no higher than what we paid for it three years ago. Now that sucks, because there is a lot of new money in this house. A roof, gutters, central air, landscaping, and a patio. By only asking that price, we'll barely break even after paying the realtors! *sigh*
Saturday Reflection: Having had time to read my draft from yesterday and having had time to actually price things and talk with Kendall, we probably won't do all of the things on the list. We're actually contemplating only doing the carpet and painting and cleaning. I just don't think it's worth putting that much money into the house on top of what has already been done. If someone bites and wants something extra, maybe we'll fork over some cash at closing. And I think we're going to ask a few thousand higher than what we paid for it. I don't know....honestly, it's not a huge deal if it sits on the market once July rolls around because we'll have triple the money and will be able to afford both mortgages. We'll still be able to move. And we don't know how long it will take to sell. We could sell in the first 30 days! It's anyones guess. We live on a nice block with great neighbors. We think our house is cute. Our friends all say they think it's cute. Who wouldn't think it's cute?
Please spread the word about our little "gem". We'd love to just sell it by word of mouth instead of waiting on someone else to find us.....ah, dreams!
The realtor came over today. We really like this guy. We respect him. He knows what he's doing. We wanted him to come over today and tell us what needed to be done to the house before we put it on the market. We also wanted to talk about whether he even thought it was a good idea for us to sell right now.
After I told him about the deal the hospital was offering if we moved in the next 11 months, David (our realtor) told us we'd be crazy not to take the offer. He told us that even if we waited a year to sell, we wouldn't make more than and extra $1000 over what we'd make selling this year. We talked about the housing market right now, which SUCKS for sellers, and he told me it would take at least 6 months to probably sell this house. The market is just saturated with houses. And esp. in our neighborhood. That didn't suprise me too much. He told us to put it on the market March 1st. He also said that we have to look at the benefit of moving as a buyer as well. Because it's also a great time for us to buy a house in Troy, we could probably get a 300k house for 270k.
That leaves us 40 days to fix or change the following items:
1. New carpet- We knew this was coming
2. New kitchen counter top- not expected
3. Recaulking, slight replumbing of our shower
4. Glass block for the basement
5. Front porch painted
6. All of our molding needs painted
7. Decrapping of the house- we have to basically clear out our entire basement and half of our office. He says it's way too crapped up. (My words, not his)
8. Mulch all beds- even though it's freaking cold out and there probably isn't any mulch to be sold, we have to find some....
There are other things I'm sure I've forgetting, but needless to say, I was pretty overwhelmed when we were finished. The carpet and countertops alone will cost us several thousand dollars that we'll probably never get back in the sale. I was in tears as I said goodbye to David. He felt bad, but he reassured me that our house isn't that bad. He's just looking at the fine details that would help it sell faster. His direct quote was, "Your house isn't a 10, but it's also not a 5. It just needs a little work to make it look its best." I know our house is old. It's never going to be a 10 unless you gut it. It made me feel a little better.
The worst part was that he told us for an asking price, we should go no higher than what we paid for it three years ago. Now that sucks, because there is a lot of new money in this house. A roof, gutters, central air, landscaping, and a patio. By only asking that price, we'll barely break even after paying the realtors! *sigh*
Saturday Reflection: Having had time to read my draft from yesterday and having had time to actually price things and talk with Kendall, we probably won't do all of the things on the list. We're actually contemplating only doing the carpet and painting and cleaning. I just don't think it's worth putting that much money into the house on top of what has already been done. If someone bites and wants something extra, maybe we'll fork over some cash at closing. And I think we're going to ask a few thousand higher than what we paid for it. I don't know....honestly, it's not a huge deal if it sits on the market once July rolls around because we'll have triple the money and will be able to afford both mortgages. We'll still be able to move. And we don't know how long it will take to sell. We could sell in the first 30 days! It's anyones guess. We live on a nice block with great neighbors. We think our house is cute. Our friends all say they think it's cute. Who wouldn't think it's cute?
Please spread the word about our little "gem". We'd love to just sell it by word of mouth instead of waiting on someone else to find us.....ah, dreams!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
My Life is Crazy
No, seriously.
Newest development on the job front....
Kendall got a call last night from the recruiter at the hospital. She tells him that if we are willing to move before the end of 2007 they'll offer us $20 K more in signing bonus and moving expenses than if we wait to move after that. We were on the phone last night with a bunch of different family members talking about whether it was feasible and what people thought we should do.
We're about 90% sure that we're going to do it. Hey, we're young and stupid and have nothing stopping us, so we figure we might as well go for it. It does put some of our other long term financial plans on hold, but we're going to take the chance.
So, anyone in the market to buy house? =)
Newest development on the job front....
Kendall got a call last night from the recruiter at the hospital. She tells him that if we are willing to move before the end of 2007 they'll offer us $20 K more in signing bonus and moving expenses than if we wait to move after that. We were on the phone last night with a bunch of different family members talking about whether it was feasible and what people thought we should do.
We're about 90% sure that we're going to do it. Hey, we're young and stupid and have nothing stopping us, so we figure we might as well go for it. It does put some of our other long term financial plans on hold, but we're going to take the chance.
So, anyone in the market to buy house? =)
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Go check out this video if you're bored.
http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/uncensored.shtml
There's another really good video clip with Donald Trump vs. Rosie on the SNL site too.
http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/uncensored.shtml
There's another really good video clip with Donald Trump vs. Rosie on the SNL site too.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Kendall's Job
So I got a bowl of cereal in my this morning, and I'm feeling a lot better. Still not 100%, but staying home today was definitely a good idea. I'm sure by tomorrow I'll be ready for my big 2 day work week with the kids...hahaha.
So on to Kendall's job....
We've been meeting and talking with several offices in the Troy/Piqua area for over a month now. I know that I mentioned his interview up there in mid December and the dinner I attended. Kendall was impressed with two separate groups and wasn't sure what he was going to do. Each office is different and has its pros and cons. One is smaller but seemed to be offering slightly better benefits. The other has the benefit of being larger which would mean less weeks on call throughout the year.
This past Saturday I had the opportunity to meet the doctor and wife from the smaller office. Kendall wanted me to get a feel for them so that I could weigh in on the decision. While I was flattered, I also made it clear to him that the final decision should be his, since he was going to have to work with these people all the time. Upon meeting "Bob" (I'm leery of posting anything more...) and his wife I was immediately cautious. Bob's wife runs the office. And it's obvious. He defers to her on many decisions. Even when we were talking "turkey", which seemed to take Bob aback a little bit when I asked him some serious questions, Bob would defer to his wife on many answers. That made me nervous. You don't want to work with family. Furthermore, every time Bob talked about the future, it was about what he and his wife wanted to do with the practice. The problem with that, is there is an expectation for Kendall to buy in to the practice after two years. At what point does the decision making become "Bob and his partners"? On top of all of that, I didn't feel that Bob and his wife were "our people". They didn't have the same sense of humor or wit that Kendall and I appreciate. They seemed very conservative. Bob barely cracked a smile. That's not like Kendall at all. After leaving dinner, we both had a better idea of what working with him would be like.
Now recall the dinner from December. That's where we met the guys from "Jim's" office. I was thoroughly impressed with these guys almost from the moment we shook hands. They were relaxed, funny, and you could tell they genuinely enjoyed working together. Their wives were funny too. They seemed interested in what I had to say and what I did. One of them was also a teacher. To give you an example of their relationships, at dinner that evening we all passed our desserts around so that everyone could try them. It's something that the doctors do any time they go out together. While at first it seemed strange because they were men, I realized it was something I wouldn't hesitate to do with my girlfriends, so why should it be strange for them to do as well? You could also tell that they had the same sense of humor we had. One of the docs even collects beer t-shirts of the world.
The deal breakers? Bob and his wife don't watch TV. They must be communists. One of Jim's colleagues went to UD. Need I say more about their excellent taste? Bob's office expected Kendall to use his signing bonus as his first two months salary. Jim's office treated it as just what is was, a BONUS. It left a significant gap in salaries. Not to mention the fact that when it came down to it, Jim and his colleagues truly are, our kind of people.
Kendall is extremely excited, as am I. He is in negotiations right now with the hospital over the amount of his signing bonus and the time we have to move to the Troy area. If all goes well, we will have a 15% down payment on our home up there from the signing bonus and at least a year to move. He will probably sign the official contracts with both the office and the hospital by the end of February. It's almost surreal to think that in 5 months time, Kendall will be finished with his training and we'll actually get to start living normal lives!
So on to Kendall's job....
We've been meeting and talking with several offices in the Troy/Piqua area for over a month now. I know that I mentioned his interview up there in mid December and the dinner I attended. Kendall was impressed with two separate groups and wasn't sure what he was going to do. Each office is different and has its pros and cons. One is smaller but seemed to be offering slightly better benefits. The other has the benefit of being larger which would mean less weeks on call throughout the year.
This past Saturday I had the opportunity to meet the doctor and wife from the smaller office. Kendall wanted me to get a feel for them so that I could weigh in on the decision. While I was flattered, I also made it clear to him that the final decision should be his, since he was going to have to work with these people all the time. Upon meeting "Bob" (I'm leery of posting anything more...) and his wife I was immediately cautious. Bob's wife runs the office. And it's obvious. He defers to her on many decisions. Even when we were talking "turkey", which seemed to take Bob aback a little bit when I asked him some serious questions, Bob would defer to his wife on many answers. That made me nervous. You don't want to work with family. Furthermore, every time Bob talked about the future, it was about what he and his wife wanted to do with the practice. The problem with that, is there is an expectation for Kendall to buy in to the practice after two years. At what point does the decision making become "Bob and his partners"? On top of all of that, I didn't feel that Bob and his wife were "our people". They didn't have the same sense of humor or wit that Kendall and I appreciate. They seemed very conservative. Bob barely cracked a smile. That's not like Kendall at all. After leaving dinner, we both had a better idea of what working with him would be like.
Now recall the dinner from December. That's where we met the guys from "Jim's" office. I was thoroughly impressed with these guys almost from the moment we shook hands. They were relaxed, funny, and you could tell they genuinely enjoyed working together. Their wives were funny too. They seemed interested in what I had to say and what I did. One of them was also a teacher. To give you an example of their relationships, at dinner that evening we all passed our desserts around so that everyone could try them. It's something that the doctors do any time they go out together. While at first it seemed strange because they were men, I realized it was something I wouldn't hesitate to do with my girlfriends, so why should it be strange for them to do as well? You could also tell that they had the same sense of humor we had. One of the docs even collects beer t-shirts of the world.
The deal breakers? Bob and his wife don't watch TV. They must be communists. One of Jim's colleagues went to UD. Need I say more about their excellent taste? Bob's office expected Kendall to use his signing bonus as his first two months salary. Jim's office treated it as just what is was, a BONUS. It left a significant gap in salaries. Not to mention the fact that when it came down to it, Jim and his colleagues truly are, our kind of people.
Kendall is extremely excited, as am I. He is in negotiations right now with the hospital over the amount of his signing bonus and the time we have to move to the Troy area. If all goes well, we will have a 15% down payment on our home up there from the signing bonus and at least a year to move. He will probably sign the official contracts with both the office and the hospital by the end of February. It's almost surreal to think that in 5 months time, Kendall will be finished with his training and we'll actually get to start living normal lives!
Monday, January 15, 2007
It gets worse...
So Kendall came home about a half an hour ago to find me with a fever of 101 and stomach spasms. Thank god I haven't puked. He also was nice enough to bring me some medicine that makes your nausea go away. It hasn't worked yet, but at least I'm sipping some gingerale.
The dogs were whining to go out at about 5 and I had to crawl back up the stairs to the bedroom. Needless to say, I may still have to write sub plans for tomorrow. Ugggggggggghhhhhhh. Sorry to keep whining, but it's better than thinking about my quivering stomach....Thanks for the words of comfort. Kendall has officially diagnosed me with "The Flu". Very doctorly of him....
I'll have to write about his NEW JOB when I feel better. He's calling the doctor tonight to give him a firm yes on wanting the job! At least something good for the day! *****quivering stomach***** Doesn't that just sound gross??
The dogs were whining to go out at about 5 and I had to crawl back up the stairs to the bedroom. Needless to say, I may still have to write sub plans for tomorrow. Ugggggggggghhhhhhh. Sorry to keep whining, but it's better than thinking about my quivering stomach....Thanks for the words of comfort. Kendall has officially diagnosed me with "The Flu". Very doctorly of him....
I'll have to write about his NEW JOB when I feel better. He's calling the doctor tonight to give him a firm yes on wanting the job! At least something good for the day! *****quivering stomach***** Doesn't that just sound gross??
Two Totally Random Paragraphs
Sorry to put these together, but I have to get them down and they go lay down again.
1. I have not had phone or Internet access for 4 days! I called AT&T and they said they'd be out by Monday. Now, I will say, there were out by Monday, but did they really have to wait til the last possible moment? We were getting static on the line, no dial tone, do DSL, and random half rings all day long. SO annoying. PLUS, our desktop somehow managed to get a virus in the 2 minutes between switching from Norton 2006 to 2007. Grrr....it's a good thing we have a laptop too!
2. I feel like I'm dying. I felt fine when I got up this morning and took my shower. I took my 8 million medications and ate a choclate chip muffin. And then it was like all hell broke loose! MY stomach started to hurt, then feel nauseous. It has progress throughout the day to diahrrea and stomach spasms. I got about a half an hour nap and reprieve from the pain, but then I was suddenly awakened by new stabs of pain. I'm just terrified of puking, although at this point, it might make me feel better. The worst part? I have my period on top of this! How gross and miserable is that?!?!!
Okay, I have to go lay down now, as my stomach is feeling violently ill......
1. I have not had phone or Internet access for 4 days! I called AT&T and they said they'd be out by Monday. Now, I will say, there were out by Monday, but did they really have to wait til the last possible moment? We were getting static on the line, no dial tone, do DSL, and random half rings all day long. SO annoying. PLUS, our desktop somehow managed to get a virus in the 2 minutes between switching from Norton 2006 to 2007. Grrr....it's a good thing we have a laptop too!
2. I feel like I'm dying. I felt fine when I got up this morning and took my shower. I took my 8 million medications and ate a choclate chip muffin. And then it was like all hell broke loose! MY stomach started to hurt, then feel nauseous. It has progress throughout the day to diahrrea and stomach spasms. I got about a half an hour nap and reprieve from the pain, but then I was suddenly awakened by new stabs of pain. I'm just terrified of puking, although at this point, it might make me feel better. The worst part? I have my period on top of this! How gross and miserable is that?!?!!
Okay, I have to go lay down now, as my stomach is feeling violently ill......
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Blogger Templates
Sarah asked if I would share where I got my templates. Here's the address:
http://www.pannasmontata-templates.net/templates/blogger-templates-01-10/
Two things though....
1. You have to read the instructions about reverting to the old template
2. You have to be able to read some of the html code to edit the links column and in some cases edit the code so that your blog looks right. It took me a good 2 hours to get one of the templates to work on my page. So just beware.
Otherwise, they're pretty freaking cool and this guy seems to put new templates on pretty frequently.
http://www.pannasmontata-templates.net/templates/blogger-templates-01-10/
Two things though....
1. You have to read the instructions about reverting to the old template
2. You have to be able to read some of the html code to edit the links column and in some cases edit the code so that your blog looks right. It took me a good 2 hours to get one of the templates to work on my page. So just beware.
Otherwise, they're pretty freaking cool and this guy seems to put new templates on pretty frequently.
Monday, January 08, 2007
PS
Sarah Ford has two days to post before I find a funny picture of her to put in my blog....hehehehe....
Good As New
Good news on the Morrie front. His gums have pretty much healed up. He's eatting his solid food again and yesterday we took out the hedgehog that started all the damage in the first place. He went nuts over it. As I speak, the "kids" are wrestling on the floor like maniacs. I think Morrie has actually put Maggie in a headlock several times, all the while munching away on his grunting hog. I'm so glad he feels better! I need to Kendall to be home to help take pictures of his mouth, as I'm sure you're all so eager to see!
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Change
Change is good. I like changing things up. And as I'm sure you've already noticed, I've changed both my blog template and my blog title. I'm sure you can expect even more change in the future. =)
Friday, January 05, 2007
Nothing Exciting to Write About
My week went by quickly and nothing eventful happened. I have nothing thought provoking to write about. Maggie is laying next to me in bed, alternating between resting her head on my arm as I type, and getting up to stand on my chest so that I will pay attention to her. That's about it. And the best part, is that no one can harrass me for not posting for a long period of time. Because I just did! HA!
Monday, January 01, 2007
My New Year's Reflection
I think the best way to describe 2006 would be the word "rollercoaster". Between my job and Kendall's, and babies, and no babies, and family, it's just been crazy. I'm sure others could say the same, but here's my "rollercoaster" of a year and how I feel about it now.
1. Job- One of the things that I love about my job is the turnover every 9 months. What's really bizarre about this year is that I went from having the worst kids I'd ever taught in the first half of the year, to the best kids I've ever taught in the last half. It makes me feel better about my job because of the turnover rate in kids, and that I really am a good teacher, it just takes kids that are willing to do what you ask to find that out. The second half of 2006 has been a real ego boost for me. I am finally confident in my abilites and the fact that I AM a good teacher.
2. Kendall's job- With his schedule changing every month, sometimes it gets hard to adapt. Some months he was never home, some he was home very late, and others he was home too much! Like my job, Kendall's changed drastically from beginning to end. He went from being a 2nd year grunt worker, to a 3rd year senior. That made his job a lot easier. He went from sleeping in the hospital every 4th night to sleeping in our bed every night. I'm glad that in 6 months much of this will be over and our lives will take another drastic turn for the good. I'm definitely ready to loose our medical school debt, and start to live like some of our friends do who are finished with school.
3. Babies- It was a sad and happy year for us. My sister-in-law gave us the most beautiful niece in the world. I love her so much. And she's such a fun baby. Several other friends also brought little bundles into the world who have also brought joy into my life. It's fun to watch these little babies grow and to see their parents overcome the difficulties of their first few months. It gives me hope that we'll survive them too.
Unfortunately we did not have the same luck as our friends. We went through the struggle of not getting pregnant for 8 months, only to lose our one and only pregnancy of 2006 to my third miscarriage. I am greatful that we have found a new doctor who we have a lot of confidence in and who I truely hope will give us a baby in 2007. I know that over the last year I've lost and gained friends because of this situation. I think it was in part due to the fact that these friends thought that they knew what was best for me and they've never even experienced the heartache I've been through. The hardest part of this whole process is the grief of three miscarriages. The extreme joy and hope that is produced by that postive test, only to be dashed weeks later with a loss is so difficult.
I truely appreciate all of those people who have supported me over the last year and have tolerated my rants and raves and sometimes extreme lows. The best thing a person can do is just listen without judging. Kendall has been the ultimate example of this support over the year. He obviously feels the same frustration and grief that I do over the situation, but there are just some things a man can't understand. Jessica has also been a great support to me. It helps that she lives 3 blocks away and can bring my chocolate ice cream when things get really low, but I feel like the last year has brought us even closer, and she truely feels like my sister and not just my friend. Kendall and those friends who stuck by me through all of this mess are the people I am most greatful for this year.
4. Family- Families in themselves are rollercoasters. There are always highs and lows. I am greatful that my brother and I seem to have at least found a happy medium this year. While I don't think we'll be friend any time soon, I am glad that he has found a way to stay away from drugs and has started putting his life back together. I have had the usual frustration with my parents. In our 20's it is difficult to get along with parents at times, because they still think they know what is best for us. And as liberal as my parents can be, they still feel that need to tell me what they think I should be doing. While advice is appreciated, it must be solicited first. And sometimes parents cross that boundary. I am very greatful to have reconnected with cousins in Florida. I hope that 2007 also brings a closer relationship for us and that we can possibly heal part of the rift that has been created in our small family.
5. Hopes and Goals for 2007- I will have a baby. Whether it is my own biological baby or one we adopt, we will have a child by 2008. I also want to try to stress less about it. While I know it's probably not a very relatistic goal, maybe I'll at least keep more of it out of my blog. I also want to be better about staying in touch with my friends who don't live in town. I don't know why it's easier for me to pick up the phone to call Jessica than it is to call my friends who live farther away. Maybe it's because I can see her whenever I want. I don't know, but my goal is to be a better friend in 2007. And finally, I also need to make a decision about my job. Do I want to continue to work full time or do I want to try and job share? It's a scarey decision to make. Or maybe I just want to be Karen's nanny....*grin*
I know that 2007 will bring another set of great changes to our lives, and I look forward to many of them. I also hope that maybe 2007 will be less of a rollercoaster, and more of a small amusement park ride...hehe.
1. Job- One of the things that I love about my job is the turnover every 9 months. What's really bizarre about this year is that I went from having the worst kids I'd ever taught in the first half of the year, to the best kids I've ever taught in the last half. It makes me feel better about my job because of the turnover rate in kids, and that I really am a good teacher, it just takes kids that are willing to do what you ask to find that out. The second half of 2006 has been a real ego boost for me. I am finally confident in my abilites and the fact that I AM a good teacher.
2. Kendall's job- With his schedule changing every month, sometimes it gets hard to adapt. Some months he was never home, some he was home very late, and others he was home too much! Like my job, Kendall's changed drastically from beginning to end. He went from being a 2nd year grunt worker, to a 3rd year senior. That made his job a lot easier. He went from sleeping in the hospital every 4th night to sleeping in our bed every night. I'm glad that in 6 months much of this will be over and our lives will take another drastic turn for the good. I'm definitely ready to loose our medical school debt, and start to live like some of our friends do who are finished with school.
3. Babies- It was a sad and happy year for us. My sister-in-law gave us the most beautiful niece in the world. I love her so much. And she's such a fun baby. Several other friends also brought little bundles into the world who have also brought joy into my life. It's fun to watch these little babies grow and to see their parents overcome the difficulties of their first few months. It gives me hope that we'll survive them too.
Unfortunately we did not have the same luck as our friends. We went through the struggle of not getting pregnant for 8 months, only to lose our one and only pregnancy of 2006 to my third miscarriage. I am greatful that we have found a new doctor who we have a lot of confidence in and who I truely hope will give us a baby in 2007. I know that over the last year I've lost and gained friends because of this situation. I think it was in part due to the fact that these friends thought that they knew what was best for me and they've never even experienced the heartache I've been through. The hardest part of this whole process is the grief of three miscarriages. The extreme joy and hope that is produced by that postive test, only to be dashed weeks later with a loss is so difficult.
I truely appreciate all of those people who have supported me over the last year and have tolerated my rants and raves and sometimes extreme lows. The best thing a person can do is just listen without judging. Kendall has been the ultimate example of this support over the year. He obviously feels the same frustration and grief that I do over the situation, but there are just some things a man can't understand. Jessica has also been a great support to me. It helps that she lives 3 blocks away and can bring my chocolate ice cream when things get really low, but I feel like the last year has brought us even closer, and she truely feels like my sister and not just my friend. Kendall and those friends who stuck by me through all of this mess are the people I am most greatful for this year.
4. Family- Families in themselves are rollercoasters. There are always highs and lows. I am greatful that my brother and I seem to have at least found a happy medium this year. While I don't think we'll be friend any time soon, I am glad that he has found a way to stay away from drugs and has started putting his life back together. I have had the usual frustration with my parents. In our 20's it is difficult to get along with parents at times, because they still think they know what is best for us. And as liberal as my parents can be, they still feel that need to tell me what they think I should be doing. While advice is appreciated, it must be solicited first. And sometimes parents cross that boundary. I am very greatful to have reconnected with cousins in Florida. I hope that 2007 also brings a closer relationship for us and that we can possibly heal part of the rift that has been created in our small family.
5. Hopes and Goals for 2007- I will have a baby. Whether it is my own biological baby or one we adopt, we will have a child by 2008. I also want to try to stress less about it. While I know it's probably not a very relatistic goal, maybe I'll at least keep more of it out of my blog. I also want to be better about staying in touch with my friends who don't live in town. I don't know why it's easier for me to pick up the phone to call Jessica than it is to call my friends who live farther away. Maybe it's because I can see her whenever I want. I don't know, but my goal is to be a better friend in 2007. And finally, I also need to make a decision about my job. Do I want to continue to work full time or do I want to try and job share? It's a scarey decision to make. Or maybe I just want to be Karen's nanny....*grin*
I know that 2007 will bring another set of great changes to our lives, and I look forward to many of them. I also hope that maybe 2007 will be less of a rollercoaster, and more of a small amusement park ride...hehe.
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