Speak to the Beak

yes, yes, yes

2010-07-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

Well, another day of basically getting nothing done. Had lunch with C and K, always enjoyable, went by the new campus to see how things are progressing on the new building. I don't think anythings even been started on it as it looked the same as it did two months ago.

had a talk with the girls last night, actually I talked and then they talked to each other (finally), so here's hoping there will be a little more open communication in my house. getting them to talk to each other is the hard part, but with a little push it works.

trying to get ready mentally to go to Kansas, I have to prepare myself for my mother sometimes, i already hear she's angry at my brother because he won't be there when I am. chris goes to scout camp this time every year, i know that and he knows that, it's no big deal i'll catch up with him later, but this year's mom is upset over it. then there's the subject of my girls not wanting to spend time with her when they are there. she's always been somewhat envious of my in-laws and their relationship with my girls, and finally my weight and my health. Yes, mom i kow you are concerned, yes i know i have diabetes, yes, yes, yes.....

need to start working on school, haven't done anything on it yet. i have seven days of PD before going back to school, need to hop on it.

well Ozians have a great day

H&K
Leann

Tuesday

2010-07-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hello Ozians -

Went to Covey training today, not quite what I expected, I guess we just haven't reached that part yet (the organization). Nothing much else is happening, had a great lunch yesterday with Carol, she always inspires me to work in my craft room. Was able to vent about it, let's just say I'm at the point I want to haul in a dumpster and toss it all, I'm so overwhelmed by it all. I could open my own store, of course you'd only have two sheets of each paper to chose from. I have to remember I'm not going to get it done in two hours. I feel like I'm reshuffling things and just spinning my wheels. Oh well, have promisedmy self I'd spend an hour or so a day on it. I guess that needs to go into the organizational part of Covey.

Well, just wanted to say "hejo" (as Beth would say)

H&K
Peace out and have an Ozian sort of day
Leann

WICKED

2010-07-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

If you ever have the chance to see this amazing musical, DO IT!!!!Rachel and I went last night (July 4th) which in itself is crazy to go to downtown Houston on that day to see this. This is the third time for her and I can see why. It's really an amazing show. Of course, being big OZ fans it's understandable that we both were really into it. The whole thing is awesome from the costumes (loved those)to the music, dancing and sets. It was fun to have a night out with her.

Well, have three days of PD this week, Covey training. People I talked to who have taken it said yeah, it was okay, but takes a lot of time. Oh well, always wanted to take it but it never worked out, so here goes.

well I'm off to do whatever. Have a Ozian day!

H&K
Peace Out
Leann

Summertime

2010-06-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Well, not sure if anyone reads me anymore. School's out and I have left Holub to pursue High School. Not just any High School, but the Early College High School. Way different that the regular one. Not only are the kids taught at an AP level, they also follow AVID, which is a group of strategies which make them to becoe self directed and focused. It's been around for 30 years and seems to really work. This is for those kids who have the potential, not necessarily the drive, who may never go to college or be the first in their family to do so, who need direction or in many cases will drop out. It's a very cool program, but top that with teaching a new content area and AP as the cherry on it I'll be working bery hard for the next few months. Our school is not finished yet, so the incoming freshman will still be housed in the T-shacks, and the majority of the sophomores will be housed on the second floor of one of the HCC campuses. Hopefully, by December we will be able to move into a brand spanking new building. Just returned from Dallas where we had a week of intense training for AVID, but got to know a few of the teachers from last year there and some of the new ones for this year.

Bath and Rachel are co-existing at best. Beth does have a job working for a bariatric surgeon in Dickinson, but has no medical insurance. It was her call on that. She tells me today that Armando's sister and she are going to look at engagement ring so that Armando knows what she likes. For heavens, sake why don't they both go, she shows him what she likes and then he decides. Why put a third party into it. Oh well, not my call.

Summer is going by quickly, have a bunch of in-services yet to do. Rachel and I go see Wicked next weekend, can hardly wait, and she and I are going to Kansas and the end of July to see mom and my girls grandfather.

Well, gotta go. Thanks to anyone who still pops in from time to time.

H & K
Peace Out
Leann

Decision time

2010-03-27T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time to decide what I am going to do next year. I send my paperwork over to the head honcho at the Early College High School. I was given to absolutely awesome letters of recommendation from my AP and Specialist. I've truly never had anyone speak about me in the manner in which they did and least not to where I could actaully witness it. It was truly humbling. I'm leaning towards staying where I am though because of what will be happening with the school next year and that fact that I've been accepted as one of the AVID teachers (this is a strategy of working with kids who have potential but don't have a clue how to get to where they want to go, we work with them through content classes on strategies and other things to help prepare them for high school and college). However, I'm going to still see if I get invited for an interview, my AP says at least leave the door open to say "no", so that's what I'm doing. ECHS would mean learning a whole new content area, AVID, and teaching AP courses not to mention the extra emotional and mental work that goes into these particular kids and this school. Since there has only been one year there really is no "dept." to work with. I have a former colleague who works there and she says being an "island unto yourself" while it sounds great isn't all it's cracked up to be, but she says the kids are amazing, so we shall see. I tend to jump in before I look and this is one time I really need to stand at the end of the cliff and look to see what's down there before taking the first step.
Beth is home and so far so go, but Rachel has had a really nasty virus (which I hope I don't get)so things have been calm so far. Beth now can put R.D. after her name and start looking for a job, her ultimate goal is to teach at a college level, but right now she would like to try to work with WIC. Of all of us in this family she has the most drive and discipline, not sure where she gets that from.
Going to try my hand at applique today with a class, we shall see. Have a great one everyone who has logged on just to see if I'm still writing.

H&K
Peace Out
Leann

01-01-10

2010-01-01T06:02:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEARS to anyone reading.

Well, as expected the New Year came in right on time. I can't remember the last time I was up for it. I figured one of two things will happen: midnight still comes and I'm asleep or if something happens to the world I'm not awake and won't know any difference. However, Harley and Annie wanted to celebrate with everyone else. It was any abnormally noise new year around my house, including my dogs adding their own noise makers.

Interesting to see the things which are occurring around here. First the fight at Fuddruckers and then the shooting at 1st Colony Mall. Hmmm.

Only three days left of vacation. I guess I need to get fired up to go back, which I kind of am. Ready to get the school year over with. Beth comes home in March, which will be interesting having both she and Rachel under the same roof again. The roof might lift off a couple of times with the two of them.

Anyway, I hope for my friends that the new year is prosperous and that your gratitude for what it brings is real and heartfelt. Remember, He doesn't give us more than we can handle. Have a great new beginning and remember to look at it as that.

H&K
Peace Out
Leann

2010

2009-12-31T06:58:00.000-08:00

Last blog for 2009. I know that's not saying a whole lot since I haven't done it much this year. To all of you who occasionally check to see if I do still blog. I hope you had a comfortable 2009 and that the new years brings joy, luck and happiness to each and everyone of you.

As they say in Pirates of the Carribean, this isn't as much a rulebook as a guide to go by. I'm sure things will be modified and changed or ignored completely, but here it is.

GOALS 2010
LEARN HOW TO SAY NO!

1. Health
a. Lose 10 pounds
b. Weigh in on Saturday and record
c. Walk three times a week

2. Medical
a. Eyes
b. New blood work (AIC)

3. Scrapping
a. 15 minutes a day to purge
b. Organize pictures
c. Organize scrap room
d. Set up shelves in scrap room
e. Organize stamps and specialty items
f. Use what I have

4. House Clean Up and Organization
a. Stop holding onto things that have no meaning any longer
b. Purge clothing, shoes, drawers, closets, etc…
c. Clean out kitchen, including drawers and cabinets
d. Clean out bathroom cabinets, closets and drawers
e. Paint bathrooms
f. Have downstairs carpet cleaned
g. Fix front window, install plexi- glass
h. Start using what I have instead of buying new

5. Finances
a. $50 to savings on the 1st and 15th before paying bills
b. Pay down credit cards
c. Stop buying unnecessary items

6. Social/Friends
a. Meet with friends at least once a month
b. Keep in better contact with friends in KC

7. Career
a. Decide what to do for next school year
b. Go to transfer fair
c. Read more educational/content based materials
d. Be better prepared for classes

H&K
Peace Out until next year
Leann

Christmas at moms and the trip home

2009-12-30T06:34:00.000-08:00

Happy happy and Merry merry to everyone. I am the only person I know who can go home to their mothers and not gain weight and in fact lost a couple of pounds.Just got back from KCK last night where we had snow on Christmas Eve, and day and the next day and the next day. Mom had 12-14 inches at her house and the drifts were double that in some places, but my girls went out and played in it and had a good time and I got some once in a lifetime pictures of them. Rachel had never made a snow angel before. It was so cold though and the wind didn't help. Girls went and saw theire grandfather a couple of times and their father was there. I stopped by Christmas Eve for a few minutes, got there in time to see Dean open up his quilt Rachel had made him. The girls going to his house of course prompted my mother once again to tell me how they prefer to spend time out there rather than with her. Sorry mom, thought the every other day thing would work. Always has in the past. You have to understand my mother thinks she's very flexible where sharing the girls with the other family is concerned. It would be different if we did something but we don't. My mom is content to watch TV all day. Anyway, Beth flew out of KC on Monday and Rachel and I left on Monday. Saw an sign on the way to Wichita for a scrapbook store so we took a detour we hadn't planned on (thank you Jack, the GPS0. There was a quilt store next to it so we were both happy. It was an awesome store. Stopped for the night in Pauls Valley, OK. Had probably the worst Mexican food I've ever tasted, (I know you're saying Ok. and Mexican food, come on Leann you've got to be kidding)but the place was packed which is why we decided to eat there. Don't let appearances fool you. Went to Braums afterwards for desert, big mistake as my sugar went to 199. Learned my lesson there. About 2:00 in the morning Rachel's phone goes off and it's Beth. Of course, alarms go off in my head as how can I get to Ca. quickly. Unfortunately, Verizon doesn't work where we are, and neither did the hotels phone. Rachel had to go down to the main desk so they could turn it on. Long story short, Annie (Rachel's dog) had found and eaten a 1/2 box of chocolate covered cherries and Suzanna (who was watching the dogs) freaked. So she ends up at the emergency vet with her where they give her something to induce vomiting. She's fine now. Got up Tuesday to head on home, stopped in Gainesville at a quilt shop and then on to Waxahachie. Rachel heads to the quilt shop and I walk into the Crafty Scrapper where the young lady tells me that everything in the store (yes, I said everything) is 40% off. I've died and gone to heaven. And anything that is in the clearance which is 50% of has another 40 off of that. I actually behaved myself, got some stamps, flowers, a few pieces of paper. Ended up spending 70 but saved 50. Missed the snow in Dallas and got home about 6:30, but it's cold and rainy here. Had to move things from my bedroom and bath as they are coming to put in the new tub and enclosure today. Well, hopefully they will be here soon.

H&K
Peace Out
Leann

The Dog Days of Summer are ending

2009-08-17T06:07:00.000-07:00

Well, it's back to school time. Don't 'cha just love it? New pencils, crayons, cell phones, fighting over what color their socks are, the little urchins. Oops, sorry got carried away. Already know that instead of the 8:45 we used to start with, Fat Pat has us in the class room at 8:15. Yes, that is our contractual beginning, but that 30 minutes allowed teachers to get ready for the day. Oh well, will learn to deal with it I'm sure. I agreed to do a scrapbooking club again this year, I figure it will be mini albums (paper bag books and cheap chip board) and such, more papercraft rather than the cherubs just sticking stickers on a page.

Beth's love of her life (that would be Armando) was here on a short leave and went to lunch with Rachel and I and BJ's. Talking marriage and how to surprise her with an engagement ring. Hasn't asked for approval yet but somehow I doubt that that will matter. He's finished with the Marines and will be out in March then going to school. He's already talking to Pixar Films, at least that's what he says he's doing. Wants to come back to Texas for school. Hopefully, that will get Beth back here too. Sure would like to have both my kids within driving distance.

Rachel begins another year at Hightower, both excited and apprehensive. She's afraid that what she accomplished last year was just a fluke and she got lucky. Tried to tell her that most of the really good teachers think that same thought at sometime in their career.

Well I've put off getting moving long enough. Everyone have a great one!

H&K
{Peace Out}

Leann

I passed

2009-07-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

June 27th I sat for another certification exam which would allow me to teach any social study course from 8-12th grade, not just history. I took this same exam about two years ago and failed. However, what stopped me from getting a position in the new Early College High School was this certification. The new high school is through a grant so therefore you can't teacher with a years waiver, otherwise I'm pretty sure I'd be going there this year. However, I digress. Last time I didn't study and missed passing by like 2, this time I passed with flying colors (about an 84). There is so much stuff on the exam that if I ever had it I certainly don't remember it, but I guess I managed to figure some of it out this time. Now as my district coordinator says: "now they can stick you anywhere".

H&K
Peace Out
Leann

Can you speel D-i-a-b-e-t-e-s?

2009-06-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hello, my names Leann and I am a diabetic. What does that mean, not real sure yet. However I do know that I got the brush off from my doctor's office yesterday. I left a messge for my PA (Tracy) to call me today. Instead, I get a call from one of the nurses who said that Tracy had passed the call back to her. I told her I wanted to talk to Tracy. She says that Tracy wants me to come in for a follow up visit so she can discuss everything with me. I ask "why wasn't I told this yesterday?". First she asked me who I spoke with as she was the normal person to handle these type of calls, I said I don't know, then the young lady asked how long I had been on the meds for glucose control, I said for a while. She then asked me to hold for a moment to look at my file more in depth. Seems as if the first person assumed by looking at my file that since I was already on meds for glucose control that I had been diagnosed previously. Obviously someone's not looking very closely at their files. I aksed why I had to wait a week for the results and that I had to call when I was told the results would be back last Thursday afternoon. She danced around it and said we always tell our patients it may take up to a week to get back to them. Guess what, no one told me that.

But it is what it is. I'm going to talk to Tracy a week from Monday and taking Rachel and Beth with me so I make sure I'm hearing everything. I did ask the girl whether WW was a good plan to be on, and she said it was but while they let you have sweets that I have to watch both my sugars and my carbs.

So I'll keep all informed or at least those who are interested in the continuing saga that has resulted from my stupid decisions that have gotten me here.

Peace Out
H&K
Leann

HMMMM

2009-06-21T18:08:00.001-07:00

Well, weighed in yesterday and lost 4.4 lbs, Rachel lost 4. So I'm okay with that and I think she is too. Found out that Mark and his "live in" made up, but I'm betting on it not lasting. He'll try to make it work but it won't last, or who knows maybe it will, whatever. Haven't heard from the doctors office yet about my blood work which it took them forever to find a vein. Not the girls fault, she tried to make it the least painful as possible. However when I asked her when the results would be back she said that same day. Well, that was Thursday and still haven't heard from them. I hoping against hope that I'm pre-diabetic, but I've been on the metroformin for that so I have a feeling this time will be the real thing, bummer..., no one to blame but myself.

Well, gotta go.
Peace Out
H&K
Leann

2009-06-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

I guess I haven't blogged in such a long time no one looks anymore. Oh well, no big deal, I'm writing for me anyway. Was looking back on my past musings and came across a year ago. Today is the one year anniversary of Able's passing. Now to many they either think "what's the big deal, he was just a dog", or "get over it already". Well to us he was more than an animal, he held a part of our hearts. It's really funny, Harley found a part of Able's old toy today and was tossing it around like Able use to. Able J. McGuire Looney - rest in peace, we miss you terribly and love you.

Moving on - Rachel talked to Beth this morning. Interesting conversation. It seems he and his
"significant other" are splitting. Everybody say "aaahhh". Yeah, whatever. Seems they've been fighting for two years and he finds more time to spend at work (hmmm, deja vu here). I don't know what goes around comes around but it is what it is. Since his mom's passing and he just lost her sister as well he must be looking at his own mortality or something. He helping Rachel pay her bills, continuing to pay Beth's living expenses until she finds a job, a convinced her to at least get a part time job rather than sitting around the house. Is going to offer his sister and her brood (8-9 altogether) (husbands been out of work 2+ years) to come move in with him, evidently he has a large house. Well, I hope for his sake he finds whatever peace he's looking for. I'm glad he has some kind of relationship with his two daughters, although with Rachel it will never be a normal one. I asked her if she had any good memories of him from growing up and she said a few. She said he was nicer at waking her up than I was, that he would say her name which never worked then would pull her over to give her a hug and pull her the rest of the way out of the bed.

Weight Watchers is on-going. I have a feeling I'm doing much better than Rachel, but then I'm working the plan so it will work a lot harder than she is. My scales say's I've lost about 6 lbs without clothers on. Hope it looks that way on Saturdays weight in.

Well, need to go run errands.

Peace Out
H and K
Leann

2009-06-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

Rachel and I started weight watchers last Saturday. I've done it before so I know it works, a lot of its mental though just like everything in life. My hope is that Rachel loses something her first week other wise she'll probably give up. We met a really good friend at the meeting and sat throught the initial process together.

My doctors office called and told me they wanted to run another blood test to see if I'm glucose intolerate or diabetic. As much as I don't want it to be I will probably be diagnosed with diabetes which really scare me. My dad had it and so does my brother. Of course Chris and I have never really watched our diet or exercised, so I have no one to blame but myself. If I decide to tell my mom if that is what they tell me, then I'll have to listen to her, "I told you to watch your weight". One thing I won't do is blame my father like Chris did, I did this to myself, if it's genetic that's an added factor but no one is to blame but me.

Well off to run errands. Need to start studying for a certification test so I can possibly get into the Early College High School next year and teach there. I've taken the test once before but failed it by two and that was without studying. However, I took the on-line practice test and failed it miserably.

Peace Out
Hugs and Kisses
Leann

2009-06-09T21:51:00.000-07:00

Well, let's see if anyone is reading this. It's been a while (marchish). School is finally out, thank you God. Finished packing the room up such as it is yesterday. Beth's really good friend Susanna (whose been shadowing some of my teachers and me for hours) came up to help finish it up. Love you Susie. Now if Pat (principal) could only decide what she wants me to teach next year. Last Thursday, May (my specialist) says she doesn't want me to be blind sided and tells me that I probably won't be teaching Pre AP next year, okay, I'm not happy but will deal with it. Spoke to my AP about it,she said tht's not the conversation she had about it. Oh, yeah, it gets better. Monday, I'm at school and Pat wants me to think over teaching 7th grade again because we have a new male teacher whose never taught (what is it with me a these guys) and a teacher whose been our health/coach who needs to get out of coaching, but hey he's taught a little history, but I may have to feed him the lesson plans. She says she's doing this for leadership, no reflection on my teaching or TAKS scores. Once again, my AP says that not the conversation she had with Pat Today (Tuesday) I get a call from her secretary telling me that Mrs. Brown wanted her to let me know that I will be teaching 8th grade again this year. Talked to my AP, once again not the conversation she was involved in. I'll probably be teaching 8th again, but not sure if I'll have only on-level classes or both types, possibility of another 8th grade teacher getting a section of Pre AP (please note this teacher has the sccond lowest scores in the school and signed her PDAS with reservations,which I'm not suppose to know). All I want to know is do I plan for 8th grade this summer or 7th grade and not walk into a wall when I get back to school. Anyway.... it is what it is.

Summer is already full. I go tomorrow to see what can be done about this heel spur. Rachel and I start Weight Watchers this week. Helping out with Kids Kamp at the Village. Planning on going home for a week. Seven days of professional development. Trying to get some scrapping in. Have repairs that have to be done around the house, then before I can turn around and say "kiss my ....", school will be back in session.

Gotta go,
Peace Out
Hugs and Kisses,
Leann

Eliziabeth Anne (AAAARRRGGHH)

2009-04-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

Well, got informed yesterday that Beth has decided to take a semester academic leave. Says she hates the program and thinks she should pursue finding a job to see which direction she wants to go (including moving closer to Armando) and then possibly second semester go back part time. So I guess she's trying to find herself. What she is going to find is that her father won't be paying her living expenses if she's not in school, and I certainly can't. But you can't tell this one anything, so we'll see what happens a pray a lot.

Rachel is having a cyst removed next Friday morning so I'll be with her part of the day and then see how things are at the house with her. Currently scheduled to go to Sorority for the afternoon, but right now have to play it by ear.

Math TAKS Tuesday. Getting close to Social Studies. Right now, based on the information I have only 80% of 8th graders in all classes would pass it. While that doesn't sound bad, last year we had 98% passing.

I hope everyone has a great week.

Hugs and Kisses
Peace Out
Leann

Daily up date

2009-04-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's come and gone (almost). Alief is starting a new program at the high school level for "certain" eligible kids who over the next four years (9-12) will work on their high school credits and complete two years of community college at the same time. Sounds very cool, small classes, stand alone building. I digress, my counselor rode up with me in the elevator this am and said" oh, I threw out your name the other day". Oh for what? Talking to the counselor who's in charge of this new program I told her if she was looking for a great history teacher who was committed to the kids and would be perfect for a position that I had one for her. Now I know it's a long shot, but it's nice to hear when someone recognizes what you are doing and passes it on. There's a lot other teachers in Alief better qualified than I am, but it was super sweet of Doris to mention me.

Well, I'm like Carol tonight, off to bed early.

Hugs and Kisses
Peace Out
Leann

This and that

2009-03-31T18:55:00.000-07:00

This time last year I had a student teacher doing the work. I'm kind of creating lesson plans as I go, oh well, the kids don't know any different.

Had dinner with Carol tonight then went to SV for NYOBC. Kristen was there, need I say more....

Did the taxes last night, I owe, the girls get money.

Scrapping Friday night at the Village

Rachel's going to have a cyst removed from her back on Good Friday. She has had this thing for ever in the middle of her bacck, but recently it's been hurting and growing so out it comes.

Only 40 somedays til schools out, can hardly wait.

Hugs and Kisses
Peace Out
Leann

Yeah, it's over

2009-03-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Well Thursdays over with. Spoke with my cherubs mom, very nice lady. Of course her child had told her a whole different version of what went on. Luckily I had my AP in the roon when I talked to her. So for now everything is calm, tomorrow may be another day. Found out before I left school one of my pains in the keisters is leaving. Which is good, because she's the leader of the group that my other cherubs hangs with and follows around. Can hardly wait for tomorrow to be over with.

Hugs and kisses
Peace out
Leann

Katrina

2009-03-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

Well, get to meet with a mom tomorrow about her cherub of a daughter. Cayli is bright and there is no doubt about it. But boy is she and her attitude to big for her tight britches. Needless to say I had an interaction with this child today, trust me it's been building. In talking to her AP, Paula tells me that she is a Katrina child, mom has come to the land of opportunity, and thinks Cayli is her gift from God to the land of opportunity and that she is trying to find herself. Well, et me tell you she knows just fine who she is. Has the New Orleans arrogance and has not and has no plans to lose it. Get over the issue, that storm blew threw a while back. So tomorrow should be interesting. I'll have to watch myself around this one, she's devious enough to fabricate something and get her friends to back her up.

Week is moving by which is great. Weekend will be spent with scrapping and friends. Look forward to that. Until later,

Hugs and Kisses
Peace Out
Leann

It's Monday

2009-03-23T15:50:00.002-07:00

Well, back to the grind stone. Actually as a Monday after a break it wasn't too bad. Got our last district assessment scores which really sucked. Not sure what else I can do but take the test for them(lol), gotta keep my humor about this, in two + months these little darlings will be gone, oh darn.....

Rachel has a consultation tomorrow with a surgeon. She's had a spot on her back for a very long time and it has started to change and grow, so she's going to talk to him about surgery.

Love the new washer and dryer, they are so quiet. Must go wash more clothes.

Hugs and Kisses
Peace Out
Leann

It

2009-03-23T15:50:00.001-07:00

Let's give this a shot again

2009-03-22T12:17:00.001-07:00

Ignore the last posting, hit something I shouldn't have.

Spring Break, come and gone already. Here's a run down though...

* Spent a couple of days at Matagorda Bay
* Went shopping
* Got a new LG front loading washer and dryer - finally got them installed after three days of trying. Had to replace faucet handles on water source before they could hook them up. $200 to have that done.
* Rachel had a fender bender in new card, mucho depressed
* Went shopping
* Tried to get nails done today, but shop closed for a wedding in the family, have to wait til Wednesday, what's another three days since the last time I had this done was a month ago.
* Worked on lesson plans (pooh)
* Had dinner with Kim and Carol, good times, always something wierd happens at dinner, it must be the combination of the three of us
* Went and saw Race to Witch Mountain, love Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson, cute movie.
* Went shopping
* Went to Michaels, Archivers, Novel Approach, Amore Memories and Hobby Lobby

Going to try to be more like Carol and others who post more often than every three months. Hope someone's reading this.

Carol - thanks for telling me how to change the background. You were right, very simple. Lots to choose from so I'll be changin with my moof.

Hugs and kisses
Peace Out
Leann

:et

2009-03-22T12:16:00.000-07:00

Goodbye/Hello

2008-12-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

Well, thank goodness this week is over. My principal had a problem with me writing an e-mail to Sam's corporate about the unprofessionalism with regards to the Teacher of the Year Award. I have supposedly jeapordized our schools portion of future funds. What it comes down to is the money that this particular Sam's was suppose to be "spreading" among area schools wasn't happening and it was all going to Holub. When they say the "sh**" rolls down hill, in this case it snowballed and took victims. Corporate called region, region called district and so on. People got into trouble over as Pat said "probably a $50.00 gift card", which she was suppose to pick up Thursday, which she didn't. She probably thinks that not having it for the holidays is part of my punishment, BFD. So I now have the perverbial "target" on my back. This target moves around lot in my schoo. One of the few white teachers in my school who has worn it was asked to leave voluntarily at break of be fired. I'm not sure what the details were. Pat has had it in for Suz as well as Kathy Elliott, and tried everything within her power to get them out of our school. Well, she managed to do it with Suz and Kathy is moving back north at the end of school. So if we all return to Holub next year that will leave 13 non-black faculty members. My problem is I really love my school, the teachers and the kids for the most part. I just have no respect for the principal and her secretary. And my luck, I'd change schools and she'll end up there too.

Well, now that's over. I hope everyone has a fantastic holiday. Both my girls will be here. This will be a first for Rachel as she has always had to work the holidays. She likes teaching if for nothing more that there are no holidays or weekends. She has opened up a whole new group of friends to hang with. She turns 28 today, what can I say time does fly.

Let us put the past year past, and open the doors and windows for a new year. I hope all of you have a wonderful and prosperous new year and I'll see you then.

H&K
Leann

It's almost here.

2008-11-12T18:56:00.000-08:00

I'm looking forward to this weekend even though it is filled to the hilt. Day off from school Friday to attend a national conference to hear major "playa's" in the history world, to learn something new and yes to shop. First meeting of the "sorority" and seeing my peeps. Now if I can just figure out how to get 80 essays graded, a week of lesson plans and paper filing done.

H and K
Leann

Grateful

2008-11-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful I have a job, no matter how it sucks sometimes, and the fact that the pay while it pays the bills, there never seems to be anything left over. On top of that I've been informed I have to split my "Chair" stipend with another teacher and still haven't heard anything from Sam's Club about the stipend for being their teacher of the year. I'm grateful I have the ability to teach and that I have kids who need a good teacher even when it's like pulling teeth. I'm grateful that I have an undertanding specialist who when I take my anger out on her tells me it's okay and that she still respects me. I'm thankful I received a scholarship to the national conference here in Houston this weekend, only two of us got it in the district. I'm grateful I have a computer to type my "gratefuls" on. I'm grateful that someone takes the time to read this.

H and K
Leann

2008-11-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

Wellll, I'm back.... for now at least. Let's see grateful:

G - great friends
R- real friends
A - awesome friends
T - tenacious friends
E - everlasting friends
F - funny friends
U - undescribable friends
L - lucky for me, I've got you for friends.

The weather

2008-09-16T07:36:00.001-07:00

For anyone who still reads my blog. We survived Ike. No damage but some limbs down and a piece of siding that can be replaced. We were lucky, others on my street weren't so lucky, including the mayors house. Charlie set a good example and boarded up his windows, but Ike had other plans and tore the siding off pretty much his entire house and left a hole in the side of it as well. We lost power about 2 Saturday morning, and got it back about 7:45 on Monday. Thank the good Lord for the cool front that came through. We had plenty of water and food, and grilled out when we could. Both Fort Bend and Alief are closed thru Wednesday. Hope everyone else came through realitively okay.

hugs,
Leann

Summers gone...

2008-08-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone -

First week of school over. Already had one fight in the hallways and a walk through. Except for about 5 Pre AP students who are pain's in the rear my kids seem to be pretty okay. No major bahavior problems yet. My team doesn't have to deal with Sped kids this year. We just got our secretary on Wednesday, but are still missing a couple of teachers and a whole lot of para's and support staff. My one AP left over from last year is wearing so many hats I don't think he knows which on is on at any given time. My room is way down the hall from the rest of my team and I miss not seeing them daily but I've got some very nice teachers around me and we're having a good time. Went to the Village Friday night and got a project done, so that's good. Rachel and I are just hanging at the house this weekend, both of us need the rest. She seems to really like her job so let's hope it continues. For all my teacher "peeps" I hope you start of school was okay, and for all my other "peeps" I hope that the end of summer and the beginning of fall is wonderful.

Hugs to all
Leann

I'm back

2008-08-16T16:32:00.001-07:00

Just got back from my mom's in KC. As always I seem to spend one day too long, but all in all it was a nice visit. Ended up going to four scrap stores, a quilt shop and a stamp shop, not bad... For those of you who haven't read Kim's blog (thanks Kimmy since you know how I blog), Rachel does indeed have a "real job" teaching. She'll be a Hightower in Fort Bend, teaching 9th grade Biology. She's scared and excited all at once. This came totally out of nowhere and I thought she wouldn't get something because school starts in a little over a week. The HR person called Wednesday AM, they interviewed Wednesday PM, and after checking one more referenced offered her the job Thursday and she went to in-service on Friday. Hit the road running as I always say. She won't have time to think about it and worry or over-analyze too much. Well, Beth is settled more or less in California. All that ended up missing in the move was her pillows and her shams which matched her bedspread. They were in a big trash bag and evidently got tossed, so not too bad.

Well, gotta go. Hey to everyone.

Peace out,
Leann

Update on my life.

2008-07-17T06:51:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since Able left us and still the tears come. Rachel and I are both having a very tough time with this and can't really figure out why since we've lost dogs before. He was such a part of us and who we are.

Taught at the Village Saturday and it was one long class. But really a pretty fantastic class. There were five of us and I must say I learned a few things myself, even from Suzanne. If you haven't met Catherine Smith once you get use to her quirkiness she's really sweet. She is a very talented artist and works outside the box alot. One of her projects was making a card using Perfect Pearls and a dress pattern, yep you heard right a dress pattern, who'd a thunk it... Already working out ideas for a couple of classes. One will be a black and white layout using a Technique Tuesday stamps, an acrylic album class and an acrylic card class (with Catherine). By the way if you've never looked at the Technique Tuesday Idea Book/Catalog it's really got some fabulous ideas in it. I've ordered one so when it gets here I'll share. Phyllis and I talked yesterday about doing an accucut class which is now in the works, just finding a schedule.

Trying to get things organized between school and the house. Beth is working at B&N at Pearland thanks to Rachel. Rachels actually there too for a couple of days to help out. Beth has a promise ring on her finger. Got it for her one year anniversay. Yeah, she's head over heels. What can I say....

Meeting Carol and Kim for lunch, seems like I haven't seen them forever. I'll try to do better about blogging, but there's a reason I don't make New Years resolutions.

Toodles,
Leann

Ables passing

2008-06-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

We were called this morning at 4:30 that he was beginning to have seizures but they had them controlled. About 7:45 they called to say they had resumed and were trying to alleviate them. About 9:00 they called to tell us that they were performing cpr but were not hopeful even if he did recover the chance of more seizures and his quality of life would not be good. Rachel had to make the decision to have them stop life saving procedures. We have come from seeing him. He looked peaceful and asleep. They are going to do a necroprosy (sp) on him to see is they can get any insight into what was the cause of all this and his rapid decline over 48 hours. I'm very proud of my kid. Beth is on her way home and does not know yet. I wish she had gotten some last time with him but it was not to be. Annie is missing him and doesn't understand why he is not here. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.

Leann

Abel

2008-06-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

Rachel took Abel to the Gulf Coast Veterinary Hospital this morning. Last night he had a plasma transfusion at the emergency cliunic. GCVH says he has a lot going on and he is in guarded condition. He now has some neurological problems, his kidney and liver are not functioning correctly, he has fluid build up and other things wrong with him. I really don't know what is going to happen. He was in a lot of pain on the way over this morning even though they had given him something for it and they are concerned about that which also might be giving him his neurological problems. This was extremely hard on Rachel and she is in pain with him also. She walked into their office without an appointment and basically said you will see my dog. We're not telling Beth anything at this point as she is packing up and coming home tomorrow and we don't want her to drive any faster than she already does. Will keep everyone posted.

Leann

Sick Puppy

2008-06-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

If any of you know me really well you know what a big part of my life my dogs are. Able has not been well since before the first of the year and we've treated him for numerous symptoms with numerous meds. We took him to the emergency vet clinic this morning and have left him there hooked up to an IV, on morphine and other drugs. The emergency vet there is thinking myo.... gratis (can't pronounce it or spell it) or a form of distemper. Rachel is taking him to the internist tomorrow down in the Galleria without any appointment. The emergency vet is sending a fax to them that this is an emergency and needs to be seen asap. Rachel won't take no for an answer, she'll campout in the lobby if necessary. I'd bee the one going but have this institute that I'm in. However, if it wasn't Rachel's day off I'd screw the institute. Needless to say many would think I'm either stupid or crazy or both for the amount of money I have put into him. Let's just say Sunday was over 1400 and who knew what the internist will be and that doesn't count the months of vet bills before today. He is Beth's dog, but my buddy and is as much a part of this family as any of us is. I'm praying and hoping for the best, because if not then I have failed him and I have failed to keep her dog safe. So if you're into praying, lift him up please.

Leann

2008-06-09T04:49:00.000-07:00

Well, quick catch up on the room situation. Before I left last Monday (actually Tuesday because I had to completely pack up the room) my AP's and principal met. Between my specialist and the AP's they either convinced Pat that 1) she didn't know what she was doing putting me on the back hallway, 2) it would be stupid to put me there 3) read 1 and 2. Either way I'm back on the front in a large room again. Friends in low/high/perfect places, what can I say. The mouse who roars the loudest gets heard sometime.

Spent yesterday with Tim Holtz and Mario. They are both so cute. Just want to put Tim in a box to keep when I lose my "muse" and Mario, who is Mr. Clean-Up needs to come follow behind me. The first two classes were outstanding. Learning how to use alcohol inks and paint on trasnparencies and other things with them. How to make your own glimmer mist. Working with grungeboard. It's cool, but I'll use it very limitedly (?) on projects. Third class was different, it was canvas and beeswax and paint and ink and sand that we made ourselves)cool,huh). Learned new ways to distress, etc. etc. etc... Spent way to much on the cool stuff. By Design is "da bomb". Tracy is so very sweet and helpful. They have a lot of really cool stuff in right now. I suggest a road trip for any of you.

Beth is coming home in two weeks and will stay until August 8th. Rachel managed to get her a job helping set up the new Barnes and Noble in Pearland. What are big sisters for? Thanks Rachel. Beth hates New Mexico and can't wait to get out, plus it's so dry out there she's having trouble with her eyes. Need to replan my summer somewhat with her being home.

Able has been very sick since about February when my old vet gave him a new flea medicine which his body didn't respond well to and it's been a fight with his immune system every since. Now he has edema in a leg cause by leaking of platelettes (I think, Rachel understands better than I do). We did an ultrasound last Friday and have him on Zantac and antibiotics. Taking him back today for more blood work and hope there has been an improvement. They may have to do a platelette (sp) transfusion. I don't remember my dog growing up costing my parents this much. However he is a part of the family and I can't just do what some people think I should do I should do with him.

Well, it's the first day of in-services for the summer. Gotta go, would hate to be late.

Toodles,

Leann

2008-06-06T07:20:00.001-07:00

4Jobs I Have Held
Mother
Teacher
Bookkeeper
Office Manager

4 Movies I Could Watch Over and Over
Master and Commander
You've Got Mail
Camelot
Gladiator

4 Places I Have Lived
Kansas City, Kansas
Emporia, Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas (do you see a pattern?)
Houston, Texas (Mo. City, Meadows Place)

Four TV Shows I Watch Regularly
Brothers and Sisters
Hell's Kitchen
Grey's Anatomy
Toss up between Medium and Law and Order: SVU

4 People Who Email Me Regularly
Kim
Carol
Faith (my sister)
Merry

4 Things I Do Everyday
Get out of bed
Eat
Read
Pray

4 Favorite Foods
Anything chocolate (especially if it's cold)
Steak
Chicken
Pasta

4 Places I Would Rather Be
Anywhere with my girls
Walking on the Great Wall of China
Stonehenge
Washington D.C.

4 People I Am Tagging (so if your name is here you have to do what I have done here)that didn't work.
Unfortunately, I think everyone is taken. Hope y'all had fun

Toodles,
Leann

Thanks

2008-06-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who made it through my last two rantings you're pretty brave souls and probably better people than I am. What can I say I was off my meds. Doesn't mean I'm not still pissed, but life goes on.

Geesh Leann, you don't blog forever, now two in one day, and both now leaving warm and fuzzy all down under feelings. Thanks guys.

Toodles

Leann

Life's a bitch and then they move your classroom

2008-05-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

Ignore my first post of the day. Went to school, which by the way I wan't suppose to be at today, but what the heck I've got tons to box up so I thought I'd get a few hours in. When there my Science Specialist/GT person comes in (she never comes to my room) and says" I've got goood news, and I've got bad news. The bad news is that putting you into another room which happens to be right next door, the good news is that I'm here to help you pack". Mother Fucker. Yes, let me repeat that MOTHER FUCKER!!!!!!

At approximately 10:30 Friday morning I spoke with FAT PAT, my princpal to make sure that my request to NOT be moved was happening. She said I was staying where I was. This morning at approximately 11:30 the designated messenger/put their neck out, because we know FAT PAT doesn't have the balls to do it herself comes to my room to drop the bombshell.

While I really don't have a problem with moving, well yes I really do since I've moved every year but one in this building I would have liked the courtesy of having move than a days notice. Now for those of you who don't understand I have been in a science room this year. My administration knew from the beginning of last year that we would have to add another team in 8th grade which means they need another science teacher. Once again I have no problem with that, except one would think they would remember this small detail when it came to master schedules and planning. I just would have liked more notice. My poor housekeeping man asked me if I was moving (cause I know he didn't want to have to do it), and at that point in time I told him no, I wasn't. However, I digress. After I rant and rave in front of this woman and ask her kindly to leave my room, just get out, I get a phone call from FAT PAT to come see her saying she's serving margaritas, yeah right. She is soooooo verrrrrry sorrrrry that this has happened and that Ms.Hinton feels terrible but wants all of her science teachers together and she has a new one yadda, yadda, yadda. Well guess what Pat, oh that's right Social Studies doesn't need to be together since we had the highest scores in Alief History, I've got a KINDERGARTEN TEACHER you hired for the fourth team in 8th grade to teach in a TAKS field who if you left me where I was would have been across from me and I could have helped. Well you know Ms. Looney if there was anyway I could make this work I would. However, we have this room on the back hall that should work for you. Why I didn't get the hell out of there this year I'm still asking myself and kicking my ass. However, I do have a specialist that I love. Back to my rantings. So I guess when I walk in on Monday I'll look at the infamous map and find out where I'm to move. Why a change of room is making me a bigger bitch than normal and angry and crazy and my blood pressure to shoot up I haven't a clue. I guess it's just the principle or should I say principal? Well fuck it, I'll just have to live with disappointment.

Thanks for bearing with me if you did.
Leann

well, well, well

2008-05-31T06:59:00.000-07:00

Schools finally over. Who knew 8th grade girls would cry so much over leaving middle school. Such drama. Have to go up to finish packing my room for the summer and that's about it. Got good news from our district co-ordinator yesterday. For years Greg has been saying if Alief beat the state percentage in TAKS he'd have a fish fry for the social study departments. Well we got our results yesterday. State was 90, Alief was 91! Actually Greg I like mine broiled with butter and lemon... Holub had a 97 point gain from last year which was a -6 loss. Don't ask, I don't undestand it all. All I know is Greg's contributing Holubs gain to the fact that I joined 8th grade and that makes me feel warm and fuzzy all under. But I worked my extremely fat behind off this year to prove I could do it. When you have kids telling you to move to high school with them and that you were the best teacher and they finally learned history it was worth it. I congratulated all my classes on their success telling them I was nothing but the fuel and they were the fire that burned very, very brihtly.

Summer will unfortunately be over before I know it with every I've got planned to do. I've got 100 hours of professinal development (Rice Institute - 40 hrs., and Texas Bar Association Instituted - 40 hours). Don't know that I can afford to go home to see my mom which she says is okay. What I really want her to say is that here's a plane ticket, come home, but that's my mother.

Had plumbing problems which was an expense I hadn't planned on, so I'm actually thinking about getting a weekend job at Starbucks or someplace. Please note the word "thinking".

Well I'm off. Hope everyone has a great summer!!!

Toodles.
Leann

Nothing New

2008-05-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

Four days to go but who's counting. This year has literally flown by. However I am proud of my kiids. Out of 110 who took the regular TAKS test on 2 failed (no surprise on either of them), 80 recevied commendable and 4 had perfect scores. As I told them I'm just the fuel and they're the fire and they burned TAKS to the ground. So I guess I can say my first year teaching 8th grade has been successful. Losing my favoriet AP, so she's getting the hell out of Hellub, but going to another place that has major problems. Unfortunately she's a "fixer" so she'll probably never get her own school which is a real shame.

I've got plumbing problems, my toilet tank won't stop running and the valve is to tight for me to turn off the water and see if I can fix it myself. Only problem is: very little cash right now and trying to get the time off to get it fixed. Principal has already told us if we're not there Tuesday we get docked, so in the mean time my water is flowing in the stool and the money is literally going down the drain. My water bill will be outrageous.

Well, hope all of you have a great week.

Love to all. xoxo
Leann

2008-05-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

Wow has it been that long since I wrote. Time gets away. 15 days for the kids left, that means 11 days for me. Rachel and I leave next Thursday to fly to Albuquerque to watch Beth graduate. She has been accepted at California State University for grad school and her internship. She'll be moving there in July-August. Her father of course is being the everlasting jerk. Instead of telling her how proud he is, he on her about going into debt. Okay, dad if you don't want her to then pay for it or offer her a low interest loan payable when she gets out of school. But does he think of something like that? Of course not. Haven't seen my baby since Christmas and looking forward to seeing her. Rachel is working on line on her teaching certification. I think it's much more detailed than she thought it was going to be. However, one reason she did it on line was so she would be able to go to the graduation. I'm so proud of both of my girls.

Merry keep us informed. Miss and love all of you.

Leann

Thank God it's almost over

2008-02-28T17:53:00.000-08:00

Update on my TOY letter from the principal. Got it back, and when I opened the folder thought it looked okay, hooooowwwwwever, a little closer look she took the "e" off the end of my name alright, but my last name, so now the letter reads Leanne Loony. I give up. I let it go as was because I don't have time to deal with it right now. Took my packet over to ad building this morning at 7.

Have a sweet student teacher. She observed me last 9 weeks. Has already been a big help. It's amazing how soft spoken she is, but the kids seem to respond to her. We'll see.

Having dinner tomorrow night at U of H, one of my AP's is the president of some sorority and they are honoring the Alief TOY's. I've got nothing else going on and I might as well get a free meal.

Got my grades in, but it's amazing how many I've got failing because they are to lazy to do the work, or do it well.

Gotta go,
Love to all of you,
Leann

Update on my life

2008-02-23T09:47:00.000-08:00

How do you tell your principal that the letter of recommendation that she has written for you has major errors in it, first starting with the incorrect spelling of my name, and using the word his instead of her. Which really led me to believe she had just altered the letter she had written for the Teacher of the Year last year who happened to be a man. Can we feel the love here. I've asked numerous people what I should do, ask her to correct it or let it go. I feel if I let it go as is a committee member might ask me why I didn't have it correct (hello, principal, suppose to know what she's doing). Others tell me to let it go so the people in the know she how inept she is, except that truly they already know it. It will go into a portfolio, so I set down yesterday and tried in the nicest way possible and with out sounding like a bitch typed up a note asking her to correct it. Whether she will or not I have no idea. I have no visions of getting the districts toy, but I do have my own standards and I couldn't let something go that possibly could embarass not only me, but Pat and the school. On the up side my other four letters are short but truly outstanding and these people know who I really am and what I try to put into my teaching and classroom. Especially my former student who is planning on majoring in history because of me. Way to go Andrew. I have to have all my paperwork to the district by friday, guess what haven't even started on it. Yes, I'm a procrastinator, plus I don't look that great on paper, but I am "f.......g" awesome in the class and person. But I will get it done.

Roped Rachel into going to party today that I really don't want to go to but going anyway. Really wanted to go to Robin's party and sb stores.

Tomorrow is pedi/mani and grading and lesson plans, then it's back to school on Monday. I'm suppose to be getting a student teacher (which makes my AP's laugh since they say there's no way I will let go of my kids, they're probably right) which I haven't heard from. Back to my principal, when I agreed to take the s.t. she told me she would be split between myself and a 7th grade tacher. I'm not sure how my principals nose doesn't grow, as once again she lied. I now have this s.t. full time and trying to get by kids prepared for TAKS as well. I seel major TAKS tutorials coming up in April for them. I'm so blessed to have the kids I have, even the ones I really don't like (2), they are funny and are pretty much open to anything I throw at them. You don't often get a set of students you don't want to let go of, but this group this year is one of them.

Well, I've been verbose (vocab word for classes) long enough.

Love to all,
Leann

TOY & Resolutions

2008-01-30T15:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess faith and bribery paid off. It was announced yesterday that I am Holub's 08-09 Teacher of the Year. There had to be a run-off and then another vote as the first one was subious. Pat Brown (principal) actually used the words "ballot box was stuffed". Especially since my good friend and team mate whom I was running against the same color as Pat is. If it had been up to her and she could have gotten away with out the second vote she would have done it. Oh well, got my up front parking spot for a whole year. Of course, I almost when out the other way today to my usual parking spot.

Well tomorrow is the 31st and I have not revealed my resolutions. I hate resolutions, "be it resolved", isn't that a cleaning product? Well here goes, and actually I've already touched on each of them in some manner:

Start working out
Clean up crop room
Keep house organized
Work at school not at home
Get finances back in order

Only 11 months to go....

Love to all,
Leann

TOY

2008-01-23T16:23:00.000-08:00

Up for teacher of the year at school, AGAIN. Always the bridesmaid, kind of like 27 dresses, which if you haven't seen is cute. All women nominated this year. I was really surprised at the people who said they nominated me. Four out of five of my team has been nominated (must say something about the team), and the 5th person would have been nominated but he was Teacher of the Year this last year. I look at what everyone has written about themselves and see thesis' and then there's mine. I may not be impressive on paper but I'm fucking awesome in person. I would be lying if I said I didn't want this, and I don't know why it's so important to me this year, but it is. Pieces of me may have to be picked up on Friday after the news or I'll be feeling no pain because I won. It's really a popularity/color contest in my school and I've never been in the "popoular" crowd and I'm not sure if I'm the right color of tea. But Flossie shows up everyonce in a while, for those of you who don't know Flossie she's might alter ego who just happens to also be an angry black woman, at least that's what I was told. My kids and I are having fun with it though, they wanted to make posters for me which of course they can't. However, my campaign slogan is "Vote Looney, keep the crazies in control!"

Love you all,
Leann
Keep your fingers and toes crossed.

Not

2008-01-20T19:20:00.001-08:00

I do not blog, so therefore I am not....

2007-11-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

Thankful that today is November 30th. I guess I didn't realize how long November really was. But thanks to everyone who hung in there for the challenge. Hope you got something out of it.

Love to you all,
Leann

Almost over

2007-11-26T18:19:00.000-08:00

Thankful that my blood work came back showing my glucose had dropped from 134 to 101, three more points to get it on the high side of normal. thankful that I saw my specialist and her little one, Gabriel today. Thankful the I have people who need me at school even though it is a pain at times, thankful for the coach who stepped in a knock a kid down a peg or two after he decided he wasn't going to listen to me. Thankful I have wonderful AP's. Thankful my baby got back to Albuquerque okay, thankful that Rachel found the Wii's for her a Beth for Christmas and now I don't have to sweat over that. Thankful for all of you.

Love to all of you,
Leann

Just thanks

2007-11-24T16:32:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that the weather makes it seem like winter(ish) even if it is raining. I glad I've had Beth here and that she has had time to spend with her sister, myself and her friends and dogs. That she will be back in less than a month. Thankful that the gal who took my blood the other day was good and the bruise isn't to big. Thankful that I have all of you. Thankful that Kim is getting her next round of plastics done, she'll be fabulous by New Years. Thankful that another day was here for us to enjoy.

Love to all of you,
Leann

Friends and fuzzies

2007-11-24T04:11:00.001-08:00

I am thankful that I have great friends that I can spend the with and who have the same addiction as as I do and share with me when they win.Thankful I have a dog who loves me even when I'm not feeling warm and fuzzy towards him when he wakes me up at 6 in the morning because he is frightened of storms but is telling me that he needs me to comfort him and heck I can sleep later. I am thankful for the guy who fixed my electrical outlets the other day and showed me that my kitchen light wasn't out but I am lightbulb illiterate since I obviously kept putting them in wrong. Now I have great light in the kitchen. Thankful that the ground is getting a drink, but not that it's Friday and vacation is almost over and my baby has to go back on Sunday. Thankful that I can go back to sleep since I have no where I need to go. Thankful for all of you.

Love to you all,
Leann

2007-11-22T13:51:00.001-08:00

I am thankful that my two girls are enjoying each other and that I broke the news to my mother about Armando (Beth's love) and his being hispanic. However, she appears to be okay with it, and if not it not her life. I am thankful that while my girls expect me to go all out and cook the traditional with them, that I don't have to serve it at a table, which is covered with school papers that need to be attended to. Thankful that Kim could join us last night for dinner even though she's not with us today. Thankful that she and all my really close "sista's" are genuinly interested in my children and speak to them in such a way that they feel special. After all they are extensions of me which may be good or bad. It was interesting to hear Rachel speak to Kim about her father and not using the term "sperm donor". I am happy the weather feels like Thanksgiving. I am grateful and thankful and extremely fortunate that I have friends like all of you. Hope you day has been sweet, genuine and complete.

Love to you all,
Leann

Bubba's home

2007-11-20T20:44:00.000-08:00

My baby girl came home and for this I'm amy grateful. I miss her when she's not here. So I'll be cooking for the three of us and giving thanks for my two really good things I did in my life. I am fortunate to have to great kids and strong women.

To all of you, I wish you a Happy Turkey Day.

Love to all,
Leann

Ineptitude

2007-11-13T16:14:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful that I am not inept like my principal and her mini-me appear to be. It takes so little to communicate with people, but when there isn't any communication things get really screwed up. Trust me when I say that statement.

I'm grateful that it is Tuesday and I have one more day at school before I get to start my Thanksgiving break early. No, I didn't get fired, just get to go to a conference, but it entails (sp?) a lot a prep time to get stuff ready for a sub only to have them either not do it or have them half ass do it. My sub last week spent quite a bi of time on his lap top palying solitare and using his bluetooth to talk on his phone.

Well, to all of my friends, enjoy hump day and the rest of the week.

Love to all,
Leann

Small things

2007-11-11T05:42:00.001-08:00

I'm grateful that y'all aren't reminding me I'm the one who started this when I don't blog daily. Today I'm grateful that it is Sunday, even though I have a ton of things to do before tomorrow. I came away from the conference with great ideas, met some fantastic people, became rejuvenated and overwhelmed all at the same time, have so many new ideas I want to try with my kids. Listened to a man by the name of Mark McLeod, he's like the Joel Olsteen for teachers, dynamic, motivating and funny. Rachel disagrees with me, she says people who follow Joel O. are sheep and can't think for themselves. All I know there is a rather large "herd" following that man (JO), but not me. However, back to Mark. If I could bring to my class and even my own life a 10th of what this man seems to have I'd be way ahead of the learning curve. This is the speaker that any school district needs to have, well him and John Antonetti, oh and maybe Tim H., just because I love him.

Love to all,
Leann

Conferences

2007-11-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

Thankful that no one pointed out that I didn't blog on Wednesday.

Thankful that my witch of a principal let me go to this conference, and that she (keeping my fingers crossed) has figured out that I'm going to another one next week. I went to 2 out of 3 good presentations, got a bunch of goodies and saw some friends I no longer get to see because they've either retired or moved on.

Love to all,
Leann

Catch Up

2007-11-06T16:12:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning and felt awful that I had forgotten to blog yesterday. Monday-grateful for Starbucks. Love it, love it, love it and am addicted to it. Gives me something to look forward to and to start off my day.

Tuesday - grateful that I only have one more day of school this week, that my tutorial kids who came to class afterschool to finish up a grade actually came and had a good time. That my Sped person left me almond roca in my mail box with a thank you for all I had been doing. Trust me we don't get that often at my school. Thankful for Able and Annie, my doodlebug dogs who love me unconditionally.

grateful/not so grateful

2007-11-04T17:03:00.000-08:00

I am grateful that I found out that my baby is coming home in two weeks for Thanksgiving, it will be short but I haven't seen her since this summer and miss her terribly. Spend a fab night with the "pinkettes' Friday and got three design team layouts done. That is major for me right now since I can't get in sync with my muse to create. I think Carol was right though, I'm trying to work with bright, cheerful colors and it's not that I don't like bright and cheerful but I prefer muted, brocades, vintage, antique, vulnerable colors. Still have to do a layout with BG school stuff. Thinking of finding pictures of me in elementary, that should be fun. Not so grateful have to go back to school tomorrow, having trouble with lesson plans, in uncharted waters for me right now. Double edgesdsword - I only have three days at school this week, but missing two days with my kids put them behind. Oh well , I guess we'll play catch up.

Good job to all those who are keeping up.

Love to all,
Leann

Thankful!

2007-11-03T16:23:00.000-07:00

I'm thankful it's Saturday and I got to sleep in, same number of hours of sleep but the clock had a different time on it when I woke up. Thankful that my stint for techniques at the Village are over. I really don't do it for "them" anymore, it's more for me because when I have people who come to take instruction just from me or walk away and say that was amazing and I learned something from it, or how do I do this or can I do this, or what about this it just gives me the pat on the back that I always seem to need and am still afraid I'll never get or that's it's being said just because they feel they have to, but I still like it. OBTW, Pammie "thanked me for helping out" as I was leaving today. Thankful, thankful, thankful....

Love to all,
Leann

TGIFFFFFF!!!!!!

2007-11-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

I'm am extremely thankful that it is Friday and that I can go do something I truly love to do. Spend time with my pinkettes and scrapbook. I am thankful that I can sleep in in the morning. I am thankful I didn't kill my mentee after what I heard she said about me behind my back. I am thankful for three great AP's. I am very thankful that no one seems to have figured out that I'm going to two conferences within a two week span. Probably just jinxed myself.

Love to all,
Leann

Greatful

2007-11-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

It's my challenge and I almost forgot to do it. I'm working on the Common Assessment for the 7th grade for next week.

I am grateful that I have a specialist who hopefully will be coming back at the first of the year and I won't have to wear her hat anymore. Now I know why I didn't apply for the position, and for that I'm grateful also.

Thanks to all who picked up the challenge. Remember only 29 days to go.(LOL)

Love to all,
Leann

Butt Tattoo

2007-10-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

No, I didn't get one there, but it sure seems that way. It's like I'm the only person in the building the new and some old people come to when they have a question to ask or a problem to be solved (hellooo, have they heard of team leaders?). One of my team mates tells me it's because I "exude that type of personality", whatever that means. Oh well, I don't want to hurt them by telling them to get the hell out of my face or not help them out. Hopefully they will pass whatever kindness it was on, you know "pay it forward".

Thrilled all but four of my kiddos passed our DCA, for you old folks we used to call it the nine weeks test. It's not official by the district yet, but my grading it shows they passed. I'm competitive enough that I can hardly wait to see the other two 8th grade teachers grade, but of who have taught this content before. I'm really proud of my students.

Get to go to the National Middle School Conference next Thur.- Sat. here in H-town. Hopefully the following week will be at the GT Conference here. Beth will be home soon. Mom's coming in Dec. Everythings coming on so quickly.

Don't forget to blog your "gratefuls" starting Thursday.

Love to all,
Leann

The Butterfly

2007-10-27T05:39:00.001-07:00

Found this on Scrapscene and really liked it.

Life Muses by Ro: Hope From a Cell Phone
Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly. – Anonymous
Julianne held her cell phone in her lap as she drove and instinctively, I reached over and took it from her.
“No cell phone.”
She rolled her eyes.
As I held it in my hands, I was surprised that her welcome screen, which usually held photos of her friends, held this lovely quote.
“Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly,” I read to her. “That’s nice.”
“I love it,” she smiled. “It means a lot to me.”
I looked at her and realized that my little girl is growing up. I have seen signs for months that the butterfly was emerging from her cocoon. She has discovered that she is intelligent. School is easy for her, now that she is attending every class. She is eager to go to school activities and squeeze every available memory from this very important senior year. She is making new, better friends, smiling in a genuine way and sharing the small details of her life with me.
My little girl is becoming a young woman. A year ago, she thought the world was over, but now – just like the caterpillar - she is beginning to fly.
She will find, as she continues through her life, that each stage brings new opportunities to grow, change and find herself. There will be many times when she will think her life is over. But, as she pushes through those times, she will re-emerge stronger, more beautiful, her wings brilliant and glistening in the sun. I will watch her journey and simply say, “I truly do understand how you are feeling. I’ve been there. You’ll get through this. I know that because I know you and I believe that you can do it. I love you.”
When we think of motherhood, we normally think of being the mother of an infant or small child. But, we will spend the majority of our time with our child as a loving bystander and cheerleader. All we can do is watch them struggle out of their cocoons over and over again and pray that they remember who they are.
“Don’t forget that you are a butterfly,” mothers of adults need to call. “Remember you are loved.”
This is the best gift that we can offer them. The joy comes as they unexpectedly share their newfound wisdom with us.
When I had to remind Julianne today that it isn’t wise to drive with a cell phone in her lap, I didn’t realize that the flow of giving would travel upwards. She didn’t know that I have been struggling in a hard place, trying to get back out of the cocoon pressures of life that have wrapped around me. She didn’t know that I have been lost and am looking for myself again. She didn’t know that I would find hope on the front of her cell phone.The world is not over. Watch me fly.
- Ro

Monday In-Service

2007-10-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah,, I know it's been a while. today at another Sped meeting we were told that it's not on their IEP (for those of you who don't know, Individual Education Program) we can't grade it, we can teach it, but not grade it even if its prior knowledge that they should have learned in order for them to do something else. Give the legislatures and George and Laura Bush a week with my kids especially my Sped kids and let them re-visit no child left behind. My principal is so worried about being drawn into court that is all she is focusing on, and quote" If I go, you're going with me" unquote. It just makes you really want to be in a class room. Took Friday off thanks to my A.P. Funny I had no headache or should stress pain until I walked back into the building today. Once again our fearless leaeders weren't ready for their presentations, then my district person e-mails me asking for DCA data for 7th grade, no one told me that I had to do this since my specialist is out, and oh yes, we were suppose to plan two major assessments and lesson plans for the next six weeks as well as look at the last 8th grade DCA data. Oh did I mention it's only Monday.....

No title

2007-09-25T18:10:00.001-07:00

My life is being consumed by school. I find I really don't have time to do anything else. I cancelled a class for SV I was planning, I haven't done design team, haven't done anything that deals with paper except 8 1/2 x 11 paper. I'm either creating lesson plans, grading (really far behind on that), mentoring, WINGS committee, dept chair, etc. etc. etc.... Got to find me time. I walk into school on the run and walk out on the run. Days fly by though. Can't get straight answers from our Sped dept, they keep passing the buck and telling us to deal with it. I love my school this year though, except for passing periods. I think we should learn how to beam them from class to class. I know I sound like a broken record, but considering everything this school year is going well. Gave my first major test today. All my class averages were above 76, even Sped average was 68 so I'm thankful that I'm not blowing instructions completely. To all my friends, love you for listening.

Leann

Hello

2007-09-02T21:53:00.001-07:00

Hello all. Well it was a busy week, but went much smoother than any first week I can remember. I love telling those who left my school for other venues how wonderful it is there. I like watching their faces as they try to absorb what I'm telling them. I like how people think they can put their spin on something and then forget (LOL) to tell you about things like three hour lunches at their place. My muse has appeared to have left me. I have these cool ideas but am so much in chaos still just can't make myself do it. Kim, Carol and Raygun, thanks for the eening. Kim, probably by the time I see you again you will be missing some of your physical being, but never your true self. Hang in there, it's almost time for the butterfly to emerge. Remember float like a butterfly, but always remember to sting like a bee. Basically, be beautiful and gracious but get your point cross. Carol, you're the bomb. I'm glad to have you guys. House isn't coming like I want it to, but like me it's a work in progress. When it is done I'm having everybody over for dinner. Well, it's midnight. Gotta go.

Love to all,
Leann

I'm back!

2007-08-28T17:19:00.001-07:00

Well, here I am again. I am exhausted, however everyone loved my first day of school outfit. Whoever created heels was insane. It's been an interesting two days. However, I must say the I've never had a smoother first day of school. My three new AP's are awesome. I just came from a training session at the gym where I haven't been since the first of June, but I feel really good coming out of it. Rachel and I are staying home this weekend to try to finish the house and get it put back together, then there are those ever present lesson plans I have to do. I'll try to be more diligent in blogging. Kim I'm excited for you and your plans for next week. Please let me know if I can help. Love to all of you. Miss you when I don't see you regularly. Dinner this week? FYI: I have a 7:30 training on Thursday.

Me.

Memememememe

2007-08-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's a response to Carol's challenge

August 1: A - authentic
August 2: B - Basic
August 3: C - Caring
August 4: D - Diva
August 5: E - Excited
August 6: F - Familiar
August 7: G - Grateful
August 8: H - Happy
August 9: I - Ilustrating
August 10: J - Juggling

Well, that brings me up to a week from Friday

See ya!

Oh my goodness, oh my goodness....

2007-07-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it's hard to believe that summers almost over for me. I've basically got nothing done a did anything I said I would do... And it's been forever since I've blogged. Went to CHA, had a great time with Dana and Jane before it started. Awesome stuff coming out quickly, P & K did really well in ordering. However, brought back major allergies with me so I'm being tested on Friday, yuck. Also had bloodwork done and my glucose is elevated so I'm going on some RX to try to help bring it down. Really need to work on this as my brother became either borderline or is type II when he was 51. Need to eat better and to get back to the gym to exercise.

If you are ever out shopping with me and I look at another piece of paper or magazine, call the men in the little white coats. I'm in need of a serious intervention, not to mention the money being spent . I've come to the realization that I'm more of a collector right now than a scrapbook diva. I'm trying to get the house ready for the guy to measure for my carpet and tile and am in what use to be the dining room, yes we did eat at home at one time. There is so much shit still in there it is unbelievable, not to mention all the plastic containers that I've got to figure out what to do with ( guess I was a collector of them too). I could never buy another piece of paper, flower , rub on or embellishment and have enough to last a life time and enough left over for my girls to sell on e-bay.

Going to the Village tomorrow afternoon to prep and to make calls for my class on Saturday. I think I'm going to put my teaching gig there on hold after the two last classes I've already told them I would do. Just not feeling warm and fuzzy there anymore. I'll scrap there occasionally and do bookclub but I think my days will be limited there.

Carol, have a great time on your trip, don't fall overboard and have a drink for me. Kim, congrats on your surgery date, you're going to look "faaabulous, darling". Everyone else, hang in there and we'll get together sometime and catch up.

Love to all,
Leann

What's the buzz

2007-07-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it appears I'm the only one up to blogging these days. Went to the new store in Clear Lake that everyone is "Buzzing" about. It's very nice, lots of pink. They carry complete lines of designers and have the major ones, can't really remember if I saw Basic Grey there or not. Very nice people, owner and help are from Just 4 fun. Lots of Maya Road, got a very cool scalloped edge 3x5 bare album. Should be an interesting place to check out now and again. Off to Chicago on Monday to see all the new goodies, know more what I'm doing this year and what to take. Got Tinker back home again yesterday, Annie and Able checked his box out and were satisfied he was well. Those of you who have been making fun of me scrapbooking him, just watch out I may do it. Tim Holtz finally came into the Village, yeah. I'm hosting NYOBC this Sunday, so if you're out and about come on down, you know it will be a fun time with me doing it. Flower Power is the new book and we're masking. Really some cook stuff in the pack and the paper is very nice.

See ya,
Leann

Losses

2007-07-06T10:18:00.001-07:00

We lose many things in our lives, sometimes by accident, often by choice. I had to lose something near and dear by choice to me this morning. We had to put my oldest dog, Tinker to sleep this morning. His quality of life was progressively getting worse and I no longer wanted him to suffer. I am thankful for Rachel as she does things for me that would break my heart. She took him to the vets for me. I know it was hard on her but she didn't want to see me upset any more than I already was. I am thankful Beth was here so she could say her goodbye as well. I know he is better off, but that makes it hurt no less. I know in my heart he is with my Dad who will watch over him.

2007-07-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

To 10 things in my life

2007-06-21T08:14:00.001-07:00

Hopefully I have more than ten, but here goes with the first ones.
1. My girls, having them is an immense joy, privledge and pleasure.
2. My family in KC. My mom who accepts me as I am, unconditionally. My sister (in-law), Faith, who also has never been an in-law, my brother, nieces and nephews, aunt, former in-laws and dearest friends Larry and Athena (a little long-winded there).
3. My relationship with God. Who is always there also even though I tend to forget. And who always never gives me more than I can handle even though I don't always agree with it. This probably should be nearer the top, but he understands.
4. My true friends, who let me be, who agree to disagree and don't hold it against me when we do, those who listen to me vent, bitch, complain and whine and those who love me in spite of everything and everyone else around me.
5. My angels who constantly surround me and envelope me in their wings when I need it.
6. My three faithful companions who give me joy and frustration (Annie, Able and Tinker).
7. A roof over my families head and a car that runs well and a job which helps me to keeps them.
8. Time off this summer to do things I haven't done in a long time.
9. Taking time to look inside of myself to see what I need to let go of and finding the strength to do it.
10. Having fun and enjoying the life.

Well I guess that's it for now. These will probably change, evolve and revolve. But as a friend of mine says "it is, what it is".

Love and peace to all
Leann

It's about time

2007-06-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since i did my thing here. Surprised I didn't kid more comments. I love to read your guy's blogs and feel disappointed if there isn't something new for me to read. However, this doesn't apply to me of course. Up to dateness: Went to Austis a coupld of weeks ago for an in-service and was really impressed by the Yankees who did it, hopefully I can apply it in my new 8th grade classes. Cancelled my three day in-service this week because I was on a roll with working on my house.. I can see the floors in the down stairs (well except the dining room), and boy are they dirty. I've got a long ways to go but it's a start. Leaving Friday with my two baby girls to go home to see my mom and others. Part of me is apprehensive, because I have to keep everybody happy and try to do everything everyone wants to do, keep my oldest from having issues with my mom (and thinking her house is haunted (just my dad)) and seeing everyone that I must see. My kids don't really understand family duties and how important they are to older people. Will be back at the end of next week, and then Beth will stay for another week, yeah... Already know what I'm doing for bookclub, my Two Days with Tim paperbag album, can hardly wait to start on it. Working on reasearch on my dads service in China, Burma and India during WWII, but need some information from my mom. Unfortunately, or not, they didn't know each other then so I've got no letters or anything to work with. Working on research of the 40 and 8, which is a military "thing" for my grandfather. Got to figure out where I start teaching. I've never taught to the TAKs, and I'm bound and determined to have high scores in not only my Pre AP kids but on level as well. However, maybe if I screw up she'll move me back to 7th grade next year (lol). Then comes more in-services and off to Chicago to CHA with the Village People. To all of you that I love and adore have a great week and remember to take deep breaths and smell the lavender.

Outside the box

2007-06-03T20:40:00.001-07:00

Oh my gosh. We were so far outside the box with Timmie (for those of you who don't know, that would be the Tim Holtz.)(LOL) that we couldn't even see what it was made of. This was an all time high for me, up close and personal with him, he answered questions, gave positive feedback, answered more questions, made jokes, laughed, talked, answered more questions, challenged, feathers, beeswax, skeletons, crowns, etc... Can not say enough. The three classes I took were incredible, can I say it again INCREDIBLE. I learned so much and worked with mediums I have never before worked with, and spent lots of money on top of it all.

Now the best part of the whole weeked, was spending time with Mechiel and June-bug. It was awesome. Got to teach them a class Saturday night. Bought back lots of ideas to work with. Everything is signed by him and do we have pictures. We scrapped Friday night at Scrapbook Heaven, I actually got two layouts done, my challenge from last week and my bookclub, haven't done that in a long time. Saturday before my class we went to Stamp Antonio. Wait 'til you see my new stamps (hint: Time Holtz). Well, I'm sleepy, time to go nite-nite. Missed you all. Mechiel and June great times with great friends.

Leann

Memorial Day

2007-05-28T16:27:00.000-07:00

To those who have served without question, we thank you for without you we would not survive. To those who serve and question we thank you for helping those who are "in", remember they still have to answer to someone, and that is the citizens. Being an American and having freedom doesn't come without a price, and I don't think we should hand it to those who want to enter our nation and enjoy our liberties tied with a silver bow on a platter. We have paid the price more than many, and continue to do so in a country that now tells us either to get out or don't give them timetables, that we have no right to do so. My father was a patriot and he raised me with a sense of dignity and what is right for our country. Do I always agree with our leaders? Certainly not, however they have been placed in a position by people who feel they can lead the best, and until the time comes to change that we must live with it. I remember as a child getting red poppies from the men and women of the VFW. The poppies were to remind us of the blood that was shed so others can enjoy what many do not share but we have and many take for granted. I ask each of my friends to take a moment and remember and thank those who have stood for us when others have failed to do so.

Summer's here, and the living is good

2007-05-26T06:07:00.000-07:00

Finally the end of the year. It was tough. End of year was harder than I thought it would be. I shed a bunch of tears on Thursday. I've got people leaving who have been there since the day I walked through the doors, people who have mentored me, listened to me, befriended me and taught me so much. I can never repay these people. They are good, kind and honest human beings. Going to our un-official end of year party tonight, our old principal always threw it, now it has passed on. Have to award the B.o.t.Y. (Bitch of the Year) award tonight. Always did that at school also, so I'm officially retiring it.

I'm so excited about summer. NO SUMMER SCHOOL for me. The first time in 5 years I won't do it. Even my District Content Co-ordinator swore he saw me at the prep meeting for it. I'd have to kill the children if I saw them again. Mrs. Brown has moved me up to 8th grade next year. It will be a challenge as I have never really taught American History in depth and I will have to basically be teaching to the TAKS test. But what's life without a challenge, right? I'll be teaching three on-level and three AP classes, and I have a new team for the most part, my Literature teacher is moving with me so we'll both have someone from the old team to commiserate (sp?) with.

I can hardly wait for this week to begin. LoneStar on Monday and then Mechiel and I head for San Antonio. Mechiel, I can hardly wait and am soooooo verrrrrry excited about it. I have about 40 hours of in-services for the summer, wait before you say anything, I truly love being in a class room. I'm going to Austin on the 10th for a seminar on DBQ's which hopefully will help me in my Pre AP classes. Going home the end of June with both my girls. Chicago and CHA is in July. Don't know if the other person is going or not, but who cares? Phyllis called me the other night to tell me she had signed up for classes and had chosen three with me in mind, but the T. Got there to look at them and all three were at the same time. Told her which one I wanted to do for sure, and she said she'd like to take that one also (hint: memory glass). Looked through the other choices and she and I came up with some alternate items. Told her I was looking for things we could take and bring back to the store to utilize or teach, I'm looking for items from a business aspect, because not everyone going will be teaching when they come back. Going to try to take a couple of day trips to places I've never been before and going to work on the house, read and scrap and before I know it the summer will be gone. But that's okay because I'm going to enjoy it this time. Well, summer is here and the living is good. Love to you all.

This fat thing...

2007-05-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

i'm already confused as to country and calculating fat and protein and fiber and the wiz and his munchkins. Am I crazy. Poor Kim she only though I was annal. Things to do with math and food don't calculate well with me. That's why I teach History not Math. It's already sunday night and I'm freaking out over having to write goals. There's a reason AI don't make New Year's resolutions, I don't keep them. They're not for the weak of heart like I am. Chocolate talks to me you know. We have rather nice conversations, but it's usually it's death notice. See I'm so hungry already I'm rambling and making no sense. So, I guess I'll go to bed and dream of sugarplums, and try to visualize my goals to write down.

Priceless

2007-05-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

12 days left. Thank you lord!

Summer Plans:
Classes with Tim Holtz,
spending time with friends,
scrapbooking,
spending time with friends,
reading unfinshed books,
spending time with firends,
visiting my mom,
spending time with my girls
the perfect summer-
priceless

Onward and Upward

2007-03-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally took a stand on certain things in my life this weekend. Took a lot of soul searching, overcoming some personal fears and deciding that I needed to stop wasting perfectly good energy going over things in my mind, what I did or didn't do. The Leann door mat went to the garbage. Hopefully I won't be all talk. I've still got a ways to go. My biggest test will be the next time I walk through certain doors.

We should all learn to celebrate the "goddess" within us and realize that all limitations don't need to limit us.

Oh well, I've waxed poetically enough for the night. To all my friends, have a great week, and start your day off with a smile and a deep breath.

47 days to go

2007-03-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

but who's counting. great thing is that the principal is away. kids are certainly running the school, but at least the teachers i hang with are relatively happy, if we stay out of her spies radar we're fine. guess i'd better get my objectives up on the board before someone tattles. hate kids who don't give a shit about education. not sure why they even show up if they don't want to do anything and know they will get into trouble and plan on doing it so they don't have to be in class. good news for the teachers though whose classes they are in, they get more of a chance to teach. well, trying to get the hell out of dodge next year. pissed off a fellow teacher because i snapped at her. well, stop telling me how to do my job and what the little darlings need to be able to do then turn around and ask me for lesson plans. can we tell i'm a little out of sorts????? just trying to remember to breathe and keep my blood pressure down. probably should have gone home to see my mom over break, really missing her now for some reason. just need the time to "be" and have her tell me it's okay.

I can see the light

2007-03-17T06:54:00.001-07:00

Ben Franklin once said: "I choose my friends as I choose my books, few but choice". well, my elves came in yesterday and started working a miracle. I've either got the best friends in the entire universe to do this for me or the dumbest ones (carol says both), but whatever i'm thankful to the power that is that he has blessed me with them. I consider about five people in the immediate houston area to be close friends (you know who you are). You help give me sanity and stability, thank you all.

The elves are returning today. It's amazing what we got rid of yesterday. Lots of crap and more crap. They were really very good when I wanted to keep some little tidbit, but as the day got longer even those got trashed. Thanks to these to I can see a room actually developing. It actually has a floor and walls. I'm sure they never thought one person could accumulate so much fabric and yarn. Lots of stuff going to Goodwill today. I hope someone can get as much use and joy out of it as I did. Time to move on. Scrapping is now the "word".

By the way, Mechiel if I had known you needed somewhere to be Friday night you could have entered the world of getting Leann organized. Trust me there's plenty more to do, we're at my house today so feel free to stop by. (LOL)

I can see the light

2007-03-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Bubba

2007-03-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Well, my kid who drove in early to surprise me has to leave tomorrow. It seems like we didn't have any time together. I am glad to learn she may be considering moving back here to do her masters. Since the attack in January she has been less than in love with Albuquerque. If she didn't have a year to go, she'd probably transfer back now. Well, spring breaks almost over, got absolutely nothing, and I do mean nothing accomplished. However, elves are coming in tomorrow night and Saturday to help me get organized. Boy are they in for a huge surprise. Well, it will be interesting. Hope everyone had a good break.

It's been a while

2007-03-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I blogged. Thank goodness Spring Break is finally here, unfortunately we lost a day at Easter because of the "ice" day. Beth is in town and surprised me by coming a day early. I think she does this because she doesn't want me to worry about her driving by herself. Haven't spent a lot a time with her yet, the weekend was already filled with basically good friends and scrapbooking, although they would have understood if I have had to cancel to be with my kid. However, she and Rachel have been spending a lot of time together so that is good. Working on the house today, scrapping tomorrow, hair cut and lunch on Wednesday. Who knows after that. I hope everyone who has the chance to be off is. Michiel, be careful coming back to us.

My Happy Place

2007-03-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

Well, we had a faculty meeting today and Ms. Brown told us that everyone would be receiving a transfer form in our boxes, if she can find them, if not go on line and look for it. That there would be no hard feelings if anyone wanted to go to the fair on May 2nd, and that she would help us in whatever way possible. She wanted no one to be at Holub who didn't find it their "happy place". Because if we weren't happy there, then we weren't doing the best for the kids. Whatever... Hate to tell her, but they threw me out of my happy place a loooooonng time ago. Something about naked men with drinks that had umbrellas in them.

Priceless

2007-03-01T05:31:00.000-08:00

Meant to get this on the other day, but things got really crazy at school, besides the kids I mean. History Fair, what a joke, I've never seen such crap on exhibit boards as I saw yesterday with the exemption of about 5 kids who I had last year. There just wasn't enough time to prepare them, which is a large part my fault since we started very late this year, and these kids are just unmotivated. Trying to judge every category, then the damn pa system butting in, as I said what a joke. Then the AP who was goingto Fort Worth decided that she was much to sick to go. People who were riding with others decided not to ride with them, somehow I got in charge of the hotel check which I know isn't right. We decided to come back on Saturday after the conference rather than Sunday which is going to screw things up, but this is what the majority of us wanted to do anyway. Well, the real reason I wanted to write this is:

Birthday balloons - 1.5 million
Gift card - 3.0 million
Dinner - 4.5 million
Spending time with the "pink bunnies" - priceless

Carol and Ali

2007-02-23T15:10:00.000-08:00

Just read my good friend, Carol's blog. Talking about reading Ali Edwards blog ,(here a blog, there a blog, everywhere a blog, blog-lol) so I thought I 'd give it a shot. Okay, so here's my list of things I am grateful for right now:
1. It's Friday
2. It's afterschool
3. My two girls
4. My close,personal hommies (yes, you know who you are)
5. my printer
6. did i mention, it's friday?
7. my mom
8. only 3 days of school for me next week
9. going somewhere i'm not around 13 and 14 year olds
10. endless possibities

Taks,Kast,Kats,etc...

2007-02-20T16:53:00.000-08:00

I screamed at my students today. I'm not sure why we even attempt to have class in my school as school wide testing. They're already wired, and they literally came out of the class rooms screaming and yelling at the top of the voices, no words, just guttural sounds. My pod partner had a food fight in her room. Got no lunch, got 10 minutes off period, have thugs and assholes for students who can't tell a gift when handed to them. Millions of kids in the world who would literally kill to get the education that is offered to our brats who just throw it away. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know this isn't alll kids, but the clientele I'm working with appears to fall in to the groups of you owe it to me anyway, so what the fuck....Is my frustration and anger showing just a little bit?

Guilt

2007-02-17T07:27:00.000-08:00

Now this is the problem with something like a blog. I vascilate from guilt, because I haven't written in a few days, to what's the big idea no one reads them anyway (no comments Kim or Carol). Catch up for the week: I've decided that my principle surrounds herself with incompetents so she herself doesn't look incompetent, my school is the joke at the ad. building (sucks to be us), I've got issues with certain people not having any balls. I don't understand kids coming to school knowing they are going to get in trouble especially when it's with me. I don't understand the theory of let's mainstream these sped kids, we're doing a disservice to the kids the "normal" kids and the teachers (love talking in acronyms, though). I was putting together my Civil War and Reconstruction note book (4 inches of paper inside of sheet protectors, slick little things they are), had it all laid out, was handing it to one of my students to carry for me and guess what they went everywhere, kind of how I feel, and did they land back in the order they were in? Of course not, nothing could be that wonderful and simple. Well, at least I got my ATC's done last night and a wedding gift card holder for my niece on my ex's side. Have circle journal tonight, think it's going to be pretty chilly there, not among people who are giving me that warm, fuzzy feeling. Well enough for the poor me time, hope everyone else has a great weekend.

Boy did I screw up.

2007-02-11T20:11:00.000-08:00

Good thing I kept things light, since I posted to Scrapbook Village Blog and not this one originially, now you"ll see what I'm talking about.

The Weekend
I'm finding my weekends to be exhausting. Sunday is here before I know it, I've gotten nothing done and spent loads of money. (Well, okay, maybe it's all not so bad.) I've got to figure out how to get my life in order, that in itself has always been a problem, while lines are our friends, I'm to lazy to lay them out and follow them through. However, stress from work,everyday life, Beth and Rachel and scrapbooking are beginning to take its toll. It might be time for me to stp back and take a breather. I'm angry about a lot of things, and unsure about what to do about a lot of things. Please I don't need any comments or concerns, as my mom says "this to shall pass".
posted by leann at 8:05 PM 0 comments

Such Friends I have

2007-02-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

You guys make me feel warm all under. I know what you said is true, but it's nice to know someone else makes me aware of it. I love my girls so much and never want to see anything happen to them. I want to be able to kiss it and put a bandaid on it when it hurts. Kind of hard to do that when she's 800 miles away. I am probably the most fortunate woman in the world I have great kids and the best, and I do mean the best friends in the world. Those who stand not only behind you to give you a kick in the ass to make sure you take off, those who stand in front of you and watch out for you but most importantly those who stand next to me and just let me be. Thank you each and every one.

Hallelujah, I figured it out

2007-02-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Another reason I don't do things like this. It took forever to figure out how to post to the damn thing. Spolke to Beth twice tonight. First call she was very excited about the new "guy" in her life. I know him as "nutrition guy"(cute, huh.). She wanted to catch me up on him and how they met etc.... said they stayed up until 3:00 the other morning talking (right) and watching Boon Docks Saints (ech). That call ended on a happy note, then twenty minutes later she calls back in tears. Jerry the asshole old boyfriend who didn't want to be in a committed relationship but doesn't want her in one either literally cornered her at the pool in order to tell her his side of the story. Said he would never tell anyone to harm her, and that he didn't think that she was hurt that much, and wanted to make sure they were still friends. Anybody know somebody, whos knows somebody who knows somebody who can do a job? Well, she got through it, told him she wouldn't believe what he had to say and that a friendship was out of the quesiton. Very proud of herself, said she didn't cry in front of him and got away as soon as she could and headed towards her office. She only has about a week and a half left to be at the pool, and plans on quitting water polo so she won't have to be around him as his "friends". I've got a tough little girl, whose still very fragile.

Tried to do Reagans Group Therapy tonight, more like Group Nightmare for me. My layout is Supermom - I'm not, because if I was I'd be with my kid right now.

Welcome to blog world

2007-02-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, welcome to the bloggers world. My friend(s), at least I call them that have convinced me that I should have my own blog. I'm not sure why when I'm so reluctant to keep a diary/journal for fear that I'll put something into it I might not want my kids to ever see or know about me. (Yes, Carol and Kim there are things even you don't know.) So I'll give this a shot, it will probably end up like everything else I start, best intentions but no follow through