If it Ain't one thing...its a seizure

So...I'm in the middle of my workday.
My workday is very weird.
I teach like 7:45 to 930. Then, normally I will monitor the next class which gets out 11 ish.
THEN I drive 40 miles, and teach two more classes, one remotely from like 12:45 till 2:30.

This morning, having the week all weirded up by snow and ice days....I am getting around, having slept crappy.
"MOMMMMMMMMM Xboy is doing that Fainting thing again".....
Xboy, gets up..shouts out ...I guess his dad heard him...I feel dizzy, I feel like I'm going to throw UP...AWHHHHHHHH and keels over. Seizure. Shit? What now. this happened about a year and a half ago. did tests...all can't find out what. In Typical Asperger's having seizures upon puberty is not that unusual, but so far the blown out shakin weird stuff we have managed to avoid.

So I HAVE GOT TO GO TO WORK. I just started this new gig, I can't call in..I mean seriously....So...it is almost too late for hub to legally call in, but he does. They are ticked as they are so short handed,,......Xboy is sleeping soundly. Exactly what typically occurs after someone has a seizure. Although..it wasn't "grand mal"..he wasn't twitchin all over the place, drooling or the other end either which I have seen a lot of in Seizures.

SO....Hub takes xboy to pediatriatian, (I had called, got the oncall doc, said it wasn't really emergency and to wait till the office opened...which means..."I'm off work in 15 minutes and I dont want to have to come in for something this lame".

DOC thinks it is Orthostatic hypotension (a large drop in blood pressure upon standing) -- may cause dizziness, dimming of vision, head or neck pain, yawning, temporary confusion, slurred speech, and if the hypotension is severe, the patient may "faint" upon arising from a recumbent position.

This is also part of the diagnosis for Parkinson's sydrome...

SSOOOO we'll have him sit on the edge of the bed before he gets up...stand up and WAIT before walking. ...
and...take him for a ekg or something on Monday

FREE give away

My Friend is giving away an authored signed book Feb 7th, so hop on over there, sign her post, and look around a while! Its a cool place to be!!

catch up

This and that since I feel like I don't have any time to really put down my thoughts.

Here's a pic of my middle I found online



The picture was titled "God and I time"...just what I think every mom wishes DEEP DOWN their kids could sit around and do all day...read the bible without being freaks. This picture just gives me some peace.

My job:
Started teaching last week, had just ONE class, with few students who are bright, shy and small town.
This week, added on two more classes, one done by tv at the same time as a 23 LIVE classroom. Students, new to this learning environment, it's WAYY too many to teach at one time, so very challenging...that is the one day this week both had school, and it wasn't canceled for weather reasons. I have to drive a LOT, and since I haven't been working...HELLO...gas money is near non existent. Pop cans have been returned (all $4.00 worth), change gathered...Yah..its tough.

JAKE: was taken into the hospital Sunday night, transferred down to U of M by ambulance. His good blood counts were VERY low, and his very high temp lowered.
He was able to return to home yesterday night. He goes BACK for treatment three on Friday.

Parenting classes:
I have 3 sessions coming up in the community. When I say 3 'sessions'...ONE session is 3 weeks long-2 nights each week, Next is the same, next is an 8 hour one dayer. I enjoy teaching LOVE AND LOGIC, it is a great way to raise kids, is non stressful, and doesn't rely on stupid points, tickets, markers or anything else. It trys to put the responsibility of poor choices back on the chooser (usually a kid). I've taught it many times to parent groups, and also to Teachers as "Love and Logic in the Classroom" as classroom management. ..and in a search for L &L I found this person's blog post about it: http://elliepickett.wordpress.com/2008/01/12/more-lessons-from-love-ang-logic/


AND...some old "group" members just IM'd me...he has a XBOX with about 50 games that he is giving my son for free. He was given a XBOX 360 for Christmas. God is really so amazing to us, that although we have made the choices WE have, to try and be physically around for our kids, which cuts down on the amount/kind of work I do, HE GIVES us stuff that money can buy...does that make sense?
WHOO HOO.

Teachers like snow days too

So my "full" work week started yesterday, teaching ASL to high schoolers. I have classes in one location with 23 students and in a remote location with 15 students. Its Crazy.
I was SOOO happy when there was a snow day today for 2 of my 3 classes! I only had ONE class of 15 students. I got to know them and so hopefully that will help carry on through the entire semester!

Teachers like snow days too!!

Jake, age 9 Pluera Pulmonary Blastoma

Jake was taken into the local emergency room last night for fever 102.6, and they transferred him down to the University of MIchigan by ambulance.
He is doing better there, his blood counts were VERY low, but now his fever is down. He was given antibiotics, and they are watching him.

Kid quotes

Picked up my guy and his buddy from Church snow camp. My guy insulted his buddy, and gave him a "free insult pass".
His buddy says..."you have tiny nipples". .....ain't adolescent boys silly?


check out the random insult generator link, "You rabbit-faced bucket of constipated Mersey trout" SAY WHAT???

Govt. Big Brother

When I was a kid, and my mom forced us to go to the Baptist church (not a bad thing) one memory I had was in fifth grade being taught the Book of Revelation.
This was WAYYY Before Tim LaHaye's "left behind" series. One book we read, was "666" that describe such WEIRD futuristic stuff, such as a cashless society, paying for things with PLASTIC cards, Embedded pieces of plastic, being able to be located anywhere, and limiting your movements if you don't have the right "Marks".
SO much of this...Paying at the pump with a credit card, DEBIT cards, Tracking in your Cell phone or ON STAR, We are here. and frankly...IT SCARES THE HELL OUT OF ME.

By TODD LEWAN, AP National Writer Sat Jan 26, 12:16 PM ET

Here's a vision of the not-so-distant future:


_Microchips with antennas will be embedded in virtually everything you buy, wear, drive and read, allowing retailers and law enforcement to track consumer items — and, by extension, consumers — wherever they go, from a distance.


_A seamless, global network of electronic "sniffers" will scan radio tags in myriad public settings, identifying people and their tastes instantly so that customized ads, "live spam," may be beamed at them.
In truth, much of the radio frequency identification technology that enables objects and people to be tagged and tracked wirelessly already exists — and new and potentially intrusive uses of it are being patented, perfected and deployed.

Some of the world's largest corporations are vested in the success of RFID technology, which couples highly miniaturized computers with radio antennas to broadcast information about sales and buyers to company databases.

Already, microchips are turning up in some computer printers, car keys and tires, on shampoo bottles and department store clothing tags. They're also in library books and "contactless" payment cards (such as American Express' "Blue" and ExxonMobil's "Speedpass.")

Companies say the RFID tags improve supply-chain efficiency, cut theft, and guarantee that brand-name products are authentic, not counterfeit. At a store, RFID doorways could scan your purchases automatically as you leave, eliminating tedious checkouts.

Read the link....and your skin will crawl.

Jake, age 9 pleura pulmonary blastoma

Made it through Treatment # 2, back home now.
WHEW.
whats that....35 more to go.

Movies: The Bucket List, Merlot

SEE IT.

He DOES get to kiss the "most beautiful girl in the world"..in a most unusual way.

Oh..my heart is tearing up...it was great. Thought and life provoking.

I made the decision a couple months ago after reading this old book sort of the precursor to "the Secret" to really ask myself.."is THIS how I want to spend my life?"...it has helped guide me in many decisions.

Not the least of which was opening THIS bottle of Merlot to drink as I serfed tonight...Beringer Founder's Estate, Merlot, $11.99, 2004

Jake, age 9 Pluera Pulmonary Blastoma

Jake goes back for more chemotherapy tomorrow already.

WIRELESS BABY!!!

WOWOWWOWOWOW!!!!! A buddy gave me a wireless router yesterday!! WHOO HOOOO, Got it connected, had trouble with the laptop from work that I get to use. WHOO HOO! Took laptop back, it was a bad card, it got fixed.!! THEN tonight..Son was able to connect his Wii to the wireless network!! WHO HOOO. Nintendo just released versions so YOU CAN SERF THE WEB WITH THE Wii!!!! HOw Frekin cool is that!!!
This is amazing!!!

AND..I'm not happy for the reason WHY...but I picked up Five classes to teach tomorrow. The Other teacher is in hospital with baby complications, so BE GRATEFUL for me, and pray for her and baby.

WIRELESS BABY....WHOO HOOOOOOOOOO, INTERNET ON THE TV??? WHAT IS UP WITH THAT????

Globalization, The spoken version

It came up over on http://bbmpsecondjournal.blogspot.com
about WHAT job will OUR kids be able to have. I know I posted this back in December, But when seeking it again, I found this cool Spoken version. I do like the first version with it's music tho.
We HAVE GOT to get our kids safe, and able to use the internet. Mine, introduced to Webkins by http://happinessisabutterfly.blogspot.com kids, my oldest had over 2000 posts to the Nintendo Forums (used to do posts for English class when we homeschooled), and one has a blog. THIS is the way it is going to be. As Dr. Chou said, Our kids will be closer to someone in China than to their neighbor next door. Its all in the process of the earth "getting flat". MUST read Thomas Friedman's book, "The World is Flat"- a brief history of the 21st century.

Missouri must allow inmate abortions-news article

Court: Mo. must allow inmates to have abortions
Evening update

Jim Salter
Associated Press

ST. LOUIS - The state of Missouri must provide transportation to abortion clinics for inmates who want to undergo the procedure, a federal appeals panel ruled today.

In 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the state had to allow a specific inmate, listed as Jane Roe, to have an abortion after the state tried to end the practice of driving prisoners to clinics for elective abortions.

The American Civil Liberties Union then sought a federal ruling making the high court's decision a class-action on behalf of all imprisoned pregnant women in the state.

U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple ruled in 2006 that the state must allow pregnant inmates to have abortions and transport them to facilities that perform the procedure. Tuesday's decision by the three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the lower court ruling.

"The court recognized that the right to elect to have an abortion survives incarceration," said Tony Rothert, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union's St. Louis office. "This was about providing women with the opportunity to exercise their choice even though they were incarcerated."

It wasn't clear if the state would appeal. Attorney General Jay Nixon did not immediately respond to calls seeking comment.

Gov. Matt Blunt called the ruling disappointing and noted that Missouri law prohibits the use of state tax money to pay for abortions.

"Over the last three years, we have made positive changes in Missouri and enacted laws that reflect our profound respect for the inherent dignity of each and every life," Blunt said. "I am hopeful and prayerful that we can further protect life by enhancing our laws to defend the dignity of human life."

The ruling came on the 35th anniversary of the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision, which established a nationwide right to abortion.

At a hearing in September, attorneys for the state argued security concerns and the state's limited resources outweighed a female offender's right to an abortion. Inmates are denied certain freedoms, including "the right to procreate, vote and travel," Assistant Attorney General Michael Pritchett told the panel at the time.

But the ACLU said the state exaggerated its security concerns and has shown an ability to safely transport inmates to an abortion clinic in St. Louis despite the presence of protesters.

Emancipation Proclamation

SO I started a new job today, and brought the speech " I have a Dream" to discuss with students.
King speaks about the Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves, , "Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice."
I look out into my class of 10th graders and 12th graders......BLANK STARES


Um..."Do you KNOW what the Emancipation Proclamation is?" I asked. ......BLANK STARES

Um..."Its the document signed to free slaves"..... OH YEAH

and..."Who SIGNED the declaration?>?????.....one kid...DOH GEORGE WASHINGTON>>>DA!!! another kid speaks up NO WAY....He was the first president!!....Yeah,.....others chime in...

One kid....."It was that TALL GUY".....

me...Yah...that "tall guy...President LINCOLN".

This was NOT at the alternative school I sub at...it was a good ole' regular American High School.

Enter contest if you wish

A Cowboy’s Wife is having a contest on her food blog! You can win a Hamilton Beach® Stand Mixer and she’ll ship anywhere so everyone is eligible!
****Stop Copy****

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Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow

The winner will receive a brand new
Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow!!

About the mixer:

From Hamilton Beach’s “Eclectrics” line, this all-metal stand mixer comes with a host of accessories - a Flat Beater for cakes and cookies, a Dough Hook for bread and a Wire Whisk for whipped cream or pudding. The 4.5-qt. stainless steel bowl comes with a Pouring Shield that helps prevent splattering while in operation. The pouring shield has a built-in chute for adding ingredients. Powered by 400 watts, the stand mixer has a two-way mixing action to ensure all ingredients are incorporated into the mix. The quick-release, tilt-up head assists when removing the bowl. 9 x 14 x 14-in. When you’re ready for a kitchen re-do, don’t call in the carpenters! Instead, “counterscape” your kitchen with Hamilton Beach’s retro-designed, affordably priced electrics in happy, sun-saturated colors. Their “Eclectrics” line includes updates to those classic appliances from the 1950s. All of their “Eclectrics” are available in six colors: Apple Green, Moroccan Red, Pineapple Yellow, Intrigue Blue, Sugar White and Licorice Black.

Graititude, Say Thanks

This was especially timely as I just opened it, and watched it..and I start my new job as ASL I instructor tomorrow. How very nice.

IT'S COLD

Jake, age 9 Pluera Pulmonary Blastoma

Please continue to pray for our little friend Jake. He went to U of M cancer center Friday, got his "Med port" for the chemicals to be poured into his system.
This makes it easier so he doesn't have to keep getting IV sites, is deeper, and less trauma overall.
He also started his first round of Chemotherapy. He got a three hour dose of one med, a three hour dose of another and a six hour dose of another.
He was quite sick through the night, throwing up etc.
His little stomach started spasming this morning, they were able to give him some medicine that worked quickly.

We are watching their dog Brody. We are not really dog people. He is winning us over. He ..um..well...um...slept in our bed last night!! He is not nearly as hyper as he used to be, however with 3 cats in the house..its been a circus keeping them separated.

I sent Jake's mom this verse this morning, (we text each other a lot) "For I the Lord Your God will hold thy right hand saying unto thee, be not afraid". Jake's mom and dad are believing that Jake will be the Miracle docs are looking for, that he will be able to survive fully, and help many other children who get this.


Pluera Pulmonary Blastoma This rare tumor of the lung primarily occurs in childhood. It usually appears as a pulmonary and or pleural-based mass and is characterized histologically by a primitive, variably mixed blastematous and sarcomatous appearance. It generally has a poor prognosis but a combination of surgical removal and chemotherapy may lead to cures in select cases.Further research of this new family cancer syndrome may provide insight into the genetic basis of these diseases.
This was just found in 1988.
Jeremiah 33:6
" 'Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.

Joke

Subject: Old people's humor.

Working people frequently ask retired people what they do to make their days
interesting. We really have no trouble in finding interesting things to do.


For example, the other day I went downtown to go to the newsstand for
the Wall Street Journal so I could track my investments. I was only in there for
about 5 minutes. When I came out, there was a cop writing out a parking ticket.


I said to him, 'Come on, man, how about giving a retired person a break'?

He ignored me and continued writing the ticket. I called him a 'Nazi.'

He glared at me and wrote another ticket for having worn tires.


So I called him a 'doughnut eating Gestapo.'

He finished the second ticket and put it on the windshield with the first.

Then he wrote a third ticket. This went on for about 20 minutes. The
more I abused him, the more tickets he wrote.


Personally, I didn't care..... I came downtown on the bus.

The car that he was putting the tickets on had a bumper sticker that said 'Hillary in '08.'

I try to have a little fun each day now that I'm retired. It's important to my health.

Autism: Fever may unlock the brain

from autism today newsletter

Fever 'can unlock grip of autism'

Fever 'can unlock grip of autism'Fever can temporarily unlock autism's grip on children, a finding that could shed light on the roots of the condition and perhaps provide clues for treatment, researchers said.

It appears that fever restores nerve cell communications in regions of the autistic brain, restoring a child's ability to interact and socialize during the fever, the study found.

"The results of this study are important because they show us that the autistic brain is capable of altering current connections and forming new ones in response to different experiences or conditions," study author Dr Andrew Zimmerman said.

The study, published in the journal Pediatrics, was based on 30 children with autism aged two to 18 who were observed during and after a fever of at least 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C).

More than 80 per cent of those with fever showed some improvements in behavior during it and 30 per cent had dramatic improvements, the researchers said.

The change involved things like longer concentration spans, more talking, improved eye contact and better overall relations with adults and other children.

Zimmerman, a pediatric neurologist at Baltimore's Kennedy Krieger Institute, and his team said the fever effect had been noted anecdotally in the past by parents and doctors.

Lee Grossman, president and chief executive officer of the Autism Society of America, said he had noticed it in his own son, who is now 20.

But he noted in an interview that the study's authors said expanded research was needed on the fever effect and its implications. "It's good that they've noticed this and are bringing it forward," he said.

People with autism spectrum disorders suffer in varying degrees from limited social interactions, lack of verbal and non-verbal communication and other abilities.

As many as 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism, according to ASA. It is not known what causes the condition.

Zimmerman said that while there currently is no definitive medical treatment, speech and language therapy started as soon as possible after diagnosis "can make a significant difference."

He called the fever research, headed by colleague Laura Curran, "an exciting lead" that could help point the way to a treatment that would reconnect the autistic brain. He said the fever effect was believed found only in children, whose brains are more "plastic" than those of adults.

1989 Chateauneuf du Pape ...Don't hate me

I'm drinking a bottle of wine that I bought before I had children...
1989 Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine Du Pegau, Cuvee Reserve

Don't hate me...I drank it over 3 days....and the hub doesn't drink...and I had no one to share it with.










Domaine du Pégau Chateauneuf du Pape 1989: Rubbery note on the nose mars the overall impression of this wine, but it is still superb. Loads of fruit on the palate, with a soft, silky textured that is so appealing. Less aggressive alcohol than the other wines, impeccable balance, finishes just beautifully. 18/20

besides, the glass of wine is hiding 3 huge zits..

My big news

So do you ever get afraid of speaking of something because you are afraid you will jinx yourself, and lose what you so desperately desire?

I've been substitute teaching. I don't have a "TEACHERS" degree, although I taught at local Davenport University for 7 years. I taught Criminal Justice courses, then morphed into Interpersonal Communications, Speech, and Psychology.

I AM a teacher, mentor, counselor, life coach in addition to doing Massages, being a School Board Member, Foster Home advisor etc. Some I get paid for, some not.

I filled in for a Sign Language class for a week in October. I loved it.
I was offered a chance to teach an entire semester, which starts on Monday. I said yes. It wasn't great money, but I'd earn in 2 hours what I do when I substitute all day. Then I was asked if I wanted to be a classroom aide for the Sign Language II instructor for like 30 more a day. I said yes. That would work as I could still "learn as I go".
THEN...by the grace of GOD, There were too many classes for Sign Language One, and I got offered TWO more classes. This will be through the Local Regional School District, and on TV. This allows you to be in one location, while teaching in another.
They Pay PER CLASS. yes. a very. Big. Deal.
THEN....
The SL II instructor, again PURE GRACE, offered up all of her files for me to copy, so that I can utilize her handouts, worksheets etc. THIS IS A GOLD MINE. Instead of spending HOURS and HOURS seaching for stuff to use, I can start with what She has, and add to it. Do you understand how amazing this is? A foundation to start with ?
I am very grateful.
I'm trying to be more cognizant of my blessings, and frankly, I'm a little overwhelmed. SO for THIS semester at least, we'll have food, and groceries.
Bless God.

YES.

Parole / Probation story

The FALLACY of the tether as I see it, is it relies on Convicted Felons, to be honest in where they are going, what they are going to do etc. Yes, you spot check to see if they went where they said they were, ask for verifications etc...but it doesn't STOP them from leaving. Is the Felons mouth moving? --They are lying. Who WOULDN'T try to get away with some extra time? Even if it is just a normal stop at a fast food place--but that is not supposed to happen. TO and FROM destination only! Yah Right. The need for coffee, cigs, and a grease bomb is too much.
One offender I had on "the teller", was forced to serve the gang as a drug dealer because THEY KNEW HE WOULD BE HOME!!


Sheriff: Big drug dealer, already wearing tether, busted in sting
Advertisement

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (AP) -- The Oakland County sheriff says a major drug dealer who was wearing an electronic tether from an earlier criminal case was arrested for trying to buy 2.2 pounds of cocaine in a police sting.

Michael Bouchard says the 26-year-old convicted felon was arrested about noon Tuesday in Auburn Hills. Bouchard says the man was trying to buy the cocaine for $23,500.

Bouchard says the suspect was armed with a .45-caliber semiautomatic handgun. The sheriff says officers later seized other drugs, several weapons and drug scales and paraphernalia from the suspect's home in Flint.

One other thing I'm doing

COMING TO CHILD ADVOCACY 4-C

PRESENTER: MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE Donna!!!!!!
Independent Facilitator of the Becoming a Love and Logic Parent® Program
BECOMING A LOVE AND LOGIC PARENT®
This parent training program introduces Love and Logic®
Would you like to feel more confident as a parent?
Would you like to have more fun parenting?
Would you like to feel more relaxed at the end of the day?

Love & Logic provides answers to…

 “How do I get them out of bed in time to catch the school bus?”
 “How can I stop my children from bickering and fighting?”
 “How do I get my children to do their chores and homework without arguments or reminders ?”

 “Is there a way to discipline my kids in public without creating a scene?”
 “How can I get my kids to come home at the agreed-upon time?”
 “How can I consequence my kids without being the bad guy?”
…and many other day-to-day frustrations.
This course in parenting is designed to give you practical skills
that can be used immediately.
Date: Feb 6, 7, 13, 14, 21, 27th
Time: 6-8
Location: Child Advocacy 150 W. Center Street, Alma Michigan 48801 1-800-552-4489
Cost: FREE Contact NAME EMAIL info@linkforfamilies.org

Please register me for your upcoming Becoming a Love and Logic Parent® seminar!

Name(s):

Phone: E-mail:

Number and ages of children:

Parenting issues I am wrestling with today:
How did you first hear about Love and Logic?

Please give registration: Or Email with the above info:

CHILD ADVOCACY 4C OF CENTRAL MICHIGAN
1-800-552-4489

WHOO HOO this is one thing I'm doing

http://stlouisschools.net/1580101026211852973/cwp/view.asp?A=3&Q=275523&C=54381

Love and Logic Parenting Classes

Dates:

Tuesdays: March 4, 11, 18
Thursdays: March 6, 13

Times:

6:00-8:15 p.m.

Site:

Horizon's High School
(formerly Westgate)

Cost:

$25 per participant

Instructor:

MEEEEEE!!!!

Welcome to Saint Louis Community Education ...

Saint Louis Public Schools Community Education is a program designed for children, youth, and adults to develop or enhance life, personal, or business skills in a friendly, local setting. Because this program services the needs of the community, Kathy Shepard, Program Director, is always looking for classes that will be of interest and benefit to the community.

We are currently seeking instructors for youth and adult enrichment courses during the winter months. This is a wonderful way to share a talent, hobby, or skill that you have plus earn income. If you have expertise in any of the following areas, please call the Community Education office at 989 681-6805:

This is another thing

I was going to be a nurse...or how did I end up here

I had a full ride scholarship to Butterworth Hospital Nursing School in Grand Rapids. I was 17 when I graduated. TOOO young to do what was right. I was NOT ready to move away from small town.
I took 17 credits, lived at home and worked at Burger King. Worked HARD too. With the OLD burger king guy...the cartoon one.
I'm afraid if I go looking for his picture I'll end up on the zit site again.
Jobs I've had...
Nurses Aide, Fast food, Cashier, House cleaner, pop bottle collector, Waitress at a Marine Corps Base, Kmart Technology person (stereos), Test observer, Camp Counselor, Life Guard, Hotel manager, Maid, Different hotel manager, Mental Health Worker, Tutor, Blind Child worker, Parole Agent, Foster Home Recruiter, ...to.......

Please forgive me

Please, Please forgive me....


Ok. I can't do it.

I. Just. Can't. Do . it. ...WHY am I so facinated by that site???? Horse Cysts, drainage, one huge one on a bull...>STOP ME>>>>>>>>

Sunday

*Go to church? Where to Go? Damn I hate not having a place to feel at home.
* Wake up kids
* Drink Coffee, Internet, oops forgot to pee
*get dressed, its foggy,
*van is broke down,
*its cold
*go to local church, no gas, no groceries
*pretend to worship, then DO worship
*Sing
*Rejoice
*Grocery store with last dollars
*cook
*Frozen pizza for lunch
*Roast, BIG salad, peel carrots, potatoes, apples for PW pie, garlics,
*Toast almonds, sesame seeds, more sesame for dressing
*clean
*eggs for deviled
*peel eggs
*enlist help again
*laundry forever
*movie with Son
*Dinner ready
*dad home
*pie in oven
*salads, soda (big treat)
*Roast, tatos, done, made gravy
*Evan Almighty with all of family, not ONE phone interruption!
*showers around
*3rd load of dishwasher
*mother well Check call
*dessert during movie
*start new job tomorrow
*Trying hard not to freak out
*love around
*Yelling around
*Little one finger nails painted
*kisses
*Feel fat with big zits on face (and for you dear reader...I just spent a horrifying 45 minutes at "popthatzit.com" looking for a zit picture.) If you are brave, and bored, that is your place. See how I show my love by NOT posting anything. Don't do it right before bed. I. Can't. Stop. Looking. at. The. Videos.

*is there every any down time as a mom?

Movies: ARK: Evan Almighty, Maya Lin Chapel Haley Farm

I got a call to Substitute at the Alternative High School. I LOVE going there. It's my favorite place to Sub. The kids, work mostly independently, doing computer modules or whatever. I think there is a lot of lost opportunity as to the potential that is being lost, but hey, I'm not the Principal-yet. LOL.

So every Friday kids are released at 2. I don't know why. Lunch is at 11:30 (I had a really nice SUB sandwich from Central Kitchen), then they watch a movie. The Homeschooling part of me despises this. In Public School there is simply SO MUCH WASTED TIME!! AWWCCCKKK. Makes me crazy. Maybe what it does is create a space for "community"...yah--maybe.
Anyway, somehow it fell on me to do the CHOOSING. Wow. That is huge. I had a list of 8 different movies, and when I got to Chart Hits EVERY one of my choices was not available. (Maybe a GOD thing?).
I had a student with me, and asked for suggestion from Movie Place Person. We ended up with EVAN ALMIGHTY.
My friend Char had gone to the theatre to watch this, and LOVED it. I am not much into movies until recently.
SO...the High School kids LOVED it.
Has great themes, Home, Family, Personal Responsibility, Political involvement, Community awareness, YES all that.
Can be a definite recommend. Today, my 11 yr old watched it, we watched all the "EXTRAS" in the DVD. HIGHLY entertaining--the lost scenes, how the ARK was built etc. I found this especially interesting as I am a Children's Defense Fund Emerging Leader (Fellow)Class of 2004, -- A quick side trip: Maya Lin, the builder of the Vietnam Veteran's Wall in Washington DC also created an "ARK" in Clinton Tennessee. Her design, with a budget of $3 million, was inspired by the Children's Defense Fund logo, a child's drawing with the text: ''Dear Lord, be good to me. The sea is so wide and my boat is so small.''
I sang in that chapel area, and was moved to tears. The Alex Haley Farm is a retreat operated by the national nonprofit, the Children’s Defense Fund, and is the only place in the world to have two buildings by Lin on the same site.

The picture doesn't even begin to do it justice. It is..HUGE, Inspiring, awesome.

No other way about it...ARKS are COOL. In the movie, ARK= "Acts Random Kindness" ie: pay it forward.

Steve Carell -I love him from Office Space, and he is great in this.
GOD is Good, LOL

Change the World-- Great theme. Go forth...And ARK. ....


(just to show you, THIS cool pic of the BIG back of my head was at B SMITH's, in Washington D.C. in April 2007. WOW...isn't my hair perfectly streaked?? And my sparkly top!!! OH MY!!!)

WOW! I'm being GIVEN ONE MILLION DOLLARS!!!

From my Email Box....ahh...I think I'm too lazy to respond....

Dear Friend


How are you today? Hope all is well with you and your family? I hope
this
mail Meets you in a perfect condition. I am using this opportunity to
thank you for
Your great effort to our unfinished transfer of fund your account due
to
one Reason or the other best known to you. But I want to inform you
that I
have Successfully transferred the Cheque out of the company to someone
else who was Capable of assisting me in this great venture.


Due to your effort, sincerity, courage and trust worthiness you showed
at
the Course of the transaction I want to compensate you and show my
gratitude to you
With the sum of $1,000,000.00 (One Million United States Dollars)

I
have
Authorized the finance house where I deposited my money to issue you
International certified bank draft cashable at your bank.


My dear friend I will like you to contact the finance house for the
collection Of this international certificated bank draft. The name and
contact address of
The Person with your Cheque Mr.Chris Ray is as follows.


COMPENSATION HEAD OFFICE AND FINACIAL
CONTACT AGENT: Mr.Chris Ray
EMAIL: (chrisraypaymentdpertment@yahoo.dk)



At the moment, I am very busy here because of the investment projects
which I And my new partner is having at hand in the United Kingdom.


Below is my contact information in the United Kingdom in case you want
to
verify or get any confirmation from me but i want you to be rest
assured
that
Your bank draft will be cashed at you nominated Bank.


Name: Mr. Jesse Williams
Address: 207 Monston Lane Park 407 MJ Leyland United Kingdom.
Telephone number: +447045746023



Finally, remember that I have forwarded instruction to the finance
house
on Your behalf to send the bank draft to you as soon as you contact
them
without Delay. Please I will like you to accept this token with good
faith
as this is From the bottom of my heart. Thanks and God bless you and
your family.


Hope to hear from you soon.


Yours Faithfully,
Mr. Jesse Williams

Parole/ Probation Stories

One of my first and favorite cases was a Probation Violation hearing. The perp was a black female on "the tether", and had was given like 10-1 on a Sunday to go to Church. Perp's would have to verify they were they by having a bullitin signed by the Pastor with the time they were there. She used her "church time" to go a shoplifting! What a blessing. How convienent that the local Shopping mall was nearby! This perp could remove the big security tags with HER TEETH, and stole about 5 sequin dresses, which wad up nicely to steal. Makes it SOOO much easier to get out of the store!!
Her boyfriend, got the dresses out of the car, then took the dresses out to the middle of the street to sell them, out of the distance of her tether machine (in which clients are only supposed to be INSIDE). This was the "leave" which caused the probation violation. (after Midnight for about 45 minutes). HER story is she was "TRYING TO GET MY DRESSES BACK!!))
When Questioning the perp, Prosecutor asked who's dresses they were?..
SHE in STRAIGHT face....answered, "WEll I Stole them from Belk's, THEY ARE MINE".

Yep...perspective is everything. Her boyfriend was selling HER stolen dresses, and she wouldn't get the money for them!!
OH VEY!!
Offenders sentenced to a term of probation or delayed sentence, and who have a residence with phone service, are eligible for Probations Electronic Monitoring. This program is funded by the Michigan Department of Corrections. Offenders under electronic monitoring supervision must wear an ankle bracelet sending unit ("tether") and are confined to their home except for specific times when they are permitted in the community to work, participate in rehabilitation programs, or care for necessary needs as approved by the probation agent.



Reminded of this from a post over at http://mujermaravilla.blogspot.com/

On line "aspergers test"

http://www.okcupid.com/tests/1982215450153908026/Asperger's-Syndrome

NOT for diagnosis purposes, but wow...it nails a BUNCH of stuff right on the head. (which for aspergers people the phrase "nailing someone on the head" would not make any sense-it would LITERALLY be taking a NAIL and putting it in someone's head).


Psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues at Cambridge's Autism Research Centre have created the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, or AQ, as a measure of the extent of autistic traits in adults. In the first major trial using the test, the average score in the control group was 16.4. Eighty percent of those diagnosed with autism or a related disorder scored 32 or higher. The test is not a means for making a diagnosis, however, and many who score above 32 and even meet the diagnostic criteria for mild autism or Asperger's report no difficulty functioning in their everyday lives.

Zombie's and Asperger's, Guns and Boobs=Grindhouse

The Fake movie trailers were 'da bomb'. I couldn't figure out if this movie was GROSS or crazy funny. SO, why did I sit through a gory, "grindhouse" movie? My 14 yr. old Asperger kid picked it out as Dad time, but Mom sat through it.

I freak out sometimes when he is so engrossed with ZOMBIES. What mom wants their kid to LOVE gore and guts, (guns YEAH! but gore and guts?). I try and remember what Dr. Luke Tzai said in a lecture I went to, and also what Temple Grandin mentioned when I saw her. Asperger kids LIKE the dark side. Not just that they LIKE it. It is what they think about. It is HOW they think about it-in their head with pictures.
Punk rock, Heavy Metal Music, Zombies, Monsters, Anime, Chaos, disorder, Bombs. Civil Unrest. Yep. I struggle with this.

The Christian part screams for angels, holy spirit, the Word, and Goodness. What about the verses that talk about "if there be any virtue, if there be any praise think on THESE things". I don't think zombies fit in there.

My Aspy kid does STUPID things. Sometimes, he recovers quickly, realizes "oh shit this wasn't a good idea" and gets out of the situation. Sometimes, he gets sucked in and just DOESN'T GET IT.

So,
Sometimes,
I can enter HIS world
View the world as HE sees it
Zombies, boobs, bombs, guns
Gore, Guts, Gratuitous Violence

and...
its a pretty good view.

Where have I been?

create your own personalized map of the USA

Lightening, Tornados, OH MY

Tuesday Post 15 min to midnight, am posting now as we have Tornado warnings and don't know if we'll have electricity tomorrow!
1" hail in Mt. Pleasant!! 58 degrees in Mid Michigan On JANUARY 6th!! How bizarre is that!! Craig at Puntabulous may not have to shovel my driveway after all--its all melting!!

Seeds Of Life . . .

Two seeds lay side by side in the fertile spring soil……
The first seed said; I want to grow! I want to send my roots in the soil beneath me, and thrust my sprouts through the earth’s crust above me….I want to unfurl my tender buds like banners to announce the arrival of spring…I want to feel the warmth of the sun on my face and the blessing of the morning dew on my petals.
And so she grew……


The second seed said; I am afraid if I send my roots into the ground below..I don't know what I will encounter in the dark. If I push my way through the hard soil above me I may damage my delicate sprouts…what if I let my buds open and a snail tries to eat them? And if I were to open my blossoms, a small child may pull me from the ground. No, it is much better for me to wait until it is safe.
And so she waited….
A yard hen scratching around in the early spring ground for food found the waiting seed and promptly ate it.
~ Unknown

MORAL OF THE STORY… Those of us who refuse to risk and grow get swallowed up by life.

THe Cookie Blues

Well, BOSSY was talking about cookies at her blog today, then Robyn sent me this by email...I thought it was sooooo sad!! "Chocolate on my fingers, Icing on my lips"

Brian McClaren, looking over 2007, a GREAT read

http://www.brianmclaren.net/archives/news/reflections-on-2007.html

Just a little taste:
"I want my arms and hands to be open toward liberals and conservatives, mainliners and Evangelicals, Catholics and Protestants and Orthodox, gay-affirming and gay-accepting-but-not-affirming, Republicans and Democrats. I want to look for common ground and focus on Jesus, the center point who holds all things together for us. I want to see difference as diversity rather than division, and as opportunity rather than threat. I want to show the same respect to people who hold different opinions as I would want them to show to me. Of course I’ll fail at this at times, but I hope I never abandon this commitment as my ideal and goal."

Bossy's Road Trip

flying chickens

I think That I shall never see
a thing as funny
as a flying chicken
to a tree


These silly chickens, I am starting to feel sorry for them. It is SOOO cold out...Yet they continue to roost on the side of the deck instead of in the barn. They don't have a light, they quit laying eggs. They Huddle and look miserable. They are SOOO stupid.
This is where the Christian part of me comes out, and reminds me of that story of Jesus--"oh if only I could speak their language, and tell them to go into the barn" then segue that into how God sent his son down to "talk our language to us"....but I fear that would make me barf.


Then, to watch them FLY cracks me up every time. They are SO awkward! I think I'd be used to it by now...but I'm not. I like things that always make me laugh.
Find your laughter...and enjoy it.

Funky Frankfort Friday

My Gal Pal Cathy bought a house in Frankfort and we made a screaming road trip up there today.
She has a ton of rentals, but this one is JUST for her...and for her pals to crash at!!
Delivered some funky furniture, then ate at THE FUSHION (Fusion Restaurant 411 Main St, Frankfort, MI - (231) 352-4114) HIGHLY RECOMMEND!Contemporary Asian Cuisine “Best New Restaurant & Best Chinese Restaurant”—People’s Choice, Northern Express “The Fusion is the hottest ticket up north”—Traverse City Record Eagle ...


My hot and sour soup was superb, my hot Colonel chicken Fab!
My Pal and I had an appetizer, and 2 lunches for under 24 dollars.



Then we loaded up with goodies from the local bakery-The Crescent Bakery (http://www.crescent-bakery.com), Cathy LOVES their fritters, I got some locally roasted Coffee--Leelanau Coffee Christmas blend. The coffee comes with it's own heavy duty brass closure! The bag is a full 16 ounces, and was 12.00.

I should have gotten a Coffee THERE but I wasn't thinking. I met a Great lady in the Fusion, and we traded homeschooling stories, and they adopted a baby from China. We were three women with NO kids!! WHOO HOO!!!


On the way back home, because one can NEVER have enough good food, beer or wine (although Cathy doesn't drink AND she doesn't drive at night so I could not get REAL wild!)I had to introduce her to Lakeside Charlies in Cadillac.The "LAKE" is Lake Mitchell where die hards had their Ice Fishing shanties up. (This casual American-cuisine eatery is located across from beautiful Lake Mitchell and was once owned by Ernest Hemingway. Its bar, the perfect meeting place for friends, a before- or after-dinner cocktail, or to enjoy live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights, is authentic and dates back to 1903. The menu features favorites such as house-smoked ribs, whitefish, and the award-winning chili.)
We shared Chicken wraps and I had some chili-had to send my Chili back as it was NOT hot, Cathy had Clam chowder and she said it was really good..with lots to chew. I think I threw up a little in my mouth when she said that...BLEK
Well This computer...My old OLD one, is real slow..so I'm signing off for tonight.

Please pray my baby gets fixed soon and I can type without waiting for the cursor to catch up!!

Things you'd like to say at work

I've been an "Independent Contractor" for a couple years. I have consulted with Congressman, City politicians, parents etc. But..Somehow I always end up in a CUBICLE. How I miss the days with the Dept. OF Corrections when I had a REAL door!!
We would watch construction men like the guy below working outside our office.


So..from my buddy Herb heres.....
THINGS YOU'D LOVE TO SAY OUT LOUD AT WORK....

1. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of shit.

2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to
pronounce.

3. How about never? Is never good for you?

4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in
public.

5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to see it my
way.

6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.

7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message.

8. I don't work here. I'm a consultant.

9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a damn word you're
saying.

10. Ahhh... I see the screw-up fairy has visited us again...

11. I like you. You remind me of myself when I was young and stupid.

12. You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.

13. I have plenty of talent and vision; I just don't give a damn.

14. I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.

15. I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.

16. Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point
of view.

17. The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.

18. Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.

19. What am I? Flypaper for freaks!

20. I'm not being rude. You're just insignificant.

21. It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.

22. No, I am not an agent of Satan, my duties are largely ceremonial.

23. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?

24. Do I look like a people person?

25. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.

26. I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.

27. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.

28. If I throw a stick, will you leave?

29. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.

30. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.

31. I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.

32. A cubicle is just a padded cell without a door.

33. Can I trade this job for what's behind door #1?

34. Too many freaks, not enough circuses.

35. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?

36. Chaos, panic, & disorder - my work here is done.

37. How do I set a laser printer to stun?

38. I thought I wanted a career; turns out I just wanted a salary.

39. Oh I get it... like humor... but different.

Hospitals, Boobs and Gunk

My mom Helen got out of the hospital today. She was very worried about her boob. SHe had cancer, had a breast removed and just got 4 new bras. The New bras may not seem like a big deal, but they are for holding Prothesis. Her Fake boob.
When in ER, they had her get into a robe. She wanted to know if the Tech guy wanted to hold her boob.
HEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING MOVING MY BOOB?...All in good fun. She has been known...under the influence of wine, to ask (repeatedly) party guests if they want to see her boob. She then TAKES it OUT of its little bra carrier, and hands it to the unsuspecing dope.
THERE..now you can tell all your buddies you held someones BOOB in your hand !!

My Friend that works with the elderly had a different take on mom's "do more things screw more guys" comment. She said that sometimes people in early dementia revert back to saying things that they did when they were much younger. WHo knows.
For now, I'm glad she is home.
Her house...is disater. She can't keep it up. I tried to clean for a couple hours, barely made a dent. I threw out ANY food on the counters and kitchen that was there, just tried to make paths so she doesn't trip. Its' frightning, I don't like going there and neiter do the kids. Hub is AFRAID to go there as she immediatly starts asking him to "Do" things...fix things, move things...its very difficult to relax in SO MUCH FILTH and clutter.
We've gone the route with cleaners. They stole her blind. (in simply cleaning up the kitchen she had cash in several places). My sister and I gutted GUTTED out her basement a few years ago....within a few weeks..you counldn't even tell. We had a builder come in and Add a wall so she couldn't fall down the basement stairs. She was PISSED.
Her basement has Bats. WHen I was a kid, Bats would fly all over the house, swooping and squeeking with their sonar all over. One time, there were THREE of them in my bedroom.
My brother, thinking my hamper was the Pisser...PEED all over my clothes and my cool Diamond cut out swade boots. THEN he went to get my mom, and they Caught them in a garbage bag, stomped on two, and we kept one for show and tell for a few days.
"Nothing says White trash more then bringing a bat to school for Show and Tell".
The Hospital, GRATIOT MEDICAL CENTER in Alma sucked. The nurses were good. However, like with the food trays. Patients have to Call in for their own food. MY MOM always "forgot" Three times I had to order her food--I spoke to the nurses about it...
One gave me the Telephone number so I could call the kitchen from home!!! HELLO isn't THAT patient care????

Freekin Fab Forty Clove Chicken, TBO, Apple pie

Yes This is one of our TBO recipes. Whats a TBO? ...well its a TASTE BUD ORGASM.
Yes. Your mouth..just can't STAND it...and you have to give it up.

Twenty years ago Hub and his sister made a chicken stuffed with 40 garlic cloves. I recreated it last night. I Cleaned the chicken well. I wish I would have had the time to kosher it (cover it with salt and let stand for a couple hours then rinse off) but I didn't.
SO
We recently got a JUG o' Garlic from Gordon foods. This is THE WAY TO GO BABY!--they are cleaned, not in oil or anything. Beauties!! I stuck a small onion in the neck of the chicken, coated the garlics with Olive Oil and added a bunch of Rosemary. I stuffed the scrawny birds FULL of Garlic cloves. I even tucked a couple cloves under their little Chicken wings so they have Garlic armpits!! There are a lot of recipes floating around out there, James Beard doesn't use whole chickens, he uses thighs and legs, but most use Thyme, Or Rosemary. ("[This is] a Provençal recipe that I taught for years in my classes," Beard said, "and one that never failed to astonish the students because the garlic becomes so mild and buttery when it's cooked through!")


I put both birds in a TALL oversized pan.
Do yourself a favor...INVEST in Restaurant grade pots and pans. You will never go back!
I sealed the pan with saran wrap (we buy the large commercial type at Gordons-its cheaper, is thicker and WONDERFUL-and lasts about a year).

Then, I put the Pan lid on. I sealed THAT lid with foil.
One other option that was done way back in the day before foil-is to Seal the pan lid with biscuit dough. You want the pan SEALED so the steam is pushed back into the meat, and infuses its wonderfulness throughout. (ITS OK TO USE SARAN WRAP IN THE OVEN AT LOW TEMPS...REALLY TRUST ME ON THIS!!)
I baked it at 275 for about 4 hours, but then it needed another hour at a higher temp....it got Golden deliciously brown, and the garlics When its done right...are mushy.Make a PRODUCTION out of the unveiling of the Meat. ITS A SHOW!!! Have everyone leaning in to SMELL the wonderousness that you created!!
Be sure and have a loaf of french bread to MASH the mushy garlics on. The juice makes wonderful gravy for those mashed tatos you made, or the thick homemade noodles. Live life on the edge--throw a couple of those bad boy garlic cloves in with your sauce.

THEN for dessert, I made "Ree's apple pie". I cheated and just used store bought crust, made my middle girl do the topping. I have so got the girls trained, I just told her what to start to do and she did it without knowing what we were making. I"m a Mean mom like that!! She cut in the flour and butter like a pro, was confused when I added the brown sugar and oats! TRY THIS PIE. It is VERY good. And don't skimp out on the nuts (I used walnuts instead of pecans because that is what I had) and DON'T miss out on the Caramel dressing!!! My family is NOT big on desserts, we usually have such great main meals we don't' eat dessert. BUT THIS!! Plus we added that kind of Ice Cream with the brown Nilla bean flakes it it!! YUM . This EVERY member of my family said needs to go into our family cookbook. That..and the Garlic chicken.

http://thepioneerwomancooks.com/2007/12/scrumptous---and_i_do_mean_scrumptous---apple_pie.html

OLD PHOTOS..MORE

This should be posted as on Jan 2nd 2008, 2:15 am.
I'm trying to do the "blog every day" thing. I know It was 2 in the morning!! However..There is more to post today!


18 months old



Jack Hanna put a HUGE hissing Cockroach on a girls Back!! March 2002




At the time, I kept thinking, I'm ONLY a mom..how can I homeschool? But..Even tho "ORDINARY"...it wasn't up to me.

THE GIRLS 2002

Sisters are the BEST _ Jan 2003


Helena New Haircut Jan 2003






This one meant a lot to me--God Holding a miscarried baby--











and...my Cousin

Old Photos

My computer has died. WARNING WARNING! Your IP address has FATAL ERRORS due to spyware activity. BLACK SCREEN OF DEATH.
I can't even Sign in. SO...I dug out the OLD OLD SLOW AMD HP ...and am pulling off random old photos, as I'm sure I'll lose all my photos on the new computer. IF it can be fixed.
SO..Join me in a trip down memory lane...

Science Fair Winners

Homeschool Science Fair


Sunglass queen Jan 2003, 2 years old

Jack Hannah and William March 2003


HOmeschool 2001

Halloween 2002 family pic








and of course, My Boyfriend,