April Movers, bring May Apartmenters
Something like that, anyway. Today my parents are coming up from GB to help Chris and I move into the "new" apartment. I say "new" because I was just living in that apartment two months ago. My how the time flies when you're making major career moves.
I'm sure Chris would agree. He now has a full time job with benefits, starting next week...BUT just this Friday, he had a successful interview with ANOTHER company offering a few thousand more a year, that also relates more strongly to his career goals, and they want him to come in for a second interview (slight problem in that the hour of the interview would overlap his new job's hours). And this is all after quitting the part time job he just aquired two months ago that was also a step up from the bank customer service job (that he also just quit). Just a few months ago, he was wondering if he'd ever get a full time job, or any job that related to his field. Now he's swarmed with them. Lucky bastard. Love him, of course.
Alright, enough of the "mushy stuff." Today we're moving, and it isn't going to be pretty. I love my parents dearly, but involve them in any project more complicated than changing a toilet paper roll, and there will be a slew of curse words, raised voices, and plenty of impatience. I'm so happy to say that I have not inherited most of that impatience, although it does surface now and then when I can't find something, I hurt myself, or I'm not feeling well. But it's much more subdued in me...I think.
When we'll be finished today, I haven't a clue. They're supposed to be here around 11am, which means that they'll be here at least a half hour before that, cuz that's how they are. I'm hoping a couple of Chris's friends show up for the move, so that my parents aren't invovled in any of the heavy moving. The queen size bed is going to be a bitch to get up the spiraling stairs to the third floor. I'm just thankful my shite is almost all here on the second floor, or already up there, cutting the workload almost in half.
Hm, better get going. Gotta take a shower (I smell like shite thanks to having a shitty cold the past couple days), stop at the pharmacy, and pick up Chris and some minor items for moving. Fair thee well, until the morrow! Or a week from now, whenever I get off my lazy blogging ass.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Yesterday, PS2 was such an easy game to play
::sigh:: It's been so long since I've had a nice easy night of game playing. Not that there aren't a gazillion other things I could be doing with my time, and not that I haven't been having plenty of fun. I simply haven't had a lot of down time lately. I could count tonight from this time on as down time, but a few hours before bed just doesn't cut it. I think I need to ask a day off of work this week, just to get the time and ambition to do some major packing for the move this weekend.
Yep, this Saturday's the real deal--moving on back upstairs, this time with a ::gasp:: MALE roommate. This weekend Chris and I did some MAJOR shopping, so we now have some DVD/CD storage shelves, a nearly complete bathroom set, and numerous other little items that are necessary for keeping an apartment in shape.
Sad to say, there is one thing we're missing...Sometime in the last week or so, our landlord took away the massive loveseat that we thought would be forever enshrined in our living room. It was there when Tricia and Rachel moved in, still there when Tricia and I were there, and it was still there for over a month later. It just didn't seem that it would ever leave the apartment. Its inertia was just too great. Honestly, this thing was sturdy enough for two people to sit or lay down on the back of it, and not have the couch tip even slightly. I can't say it was ultra comfortable or anything, but it was just a given, a part of the move in deal. ::sigh::
Oh well, I guess it means we'll have room for more chairs and tables and things in there. Chris and I definitely don't lack for couches. I have my full-length futon, Chris has a full-sized couch, and there are two couches waiting for someone to claim them in my parents' basement. Not to mention, I have two nice sized recliners back in GB as well, plus an older swivel chair that's in great shape. No, Chris and I could fill a house with all of our purchased and hand-me-down furniture. Part of that is because Scott and Jennifer turned their noses up at it, and Chris and Beth don't have room for anything more.
And so, this is my last week in the "rose room" (soon it will most likely be the "sage" room when Jenny gets through with it). I will miss it (especially since it's the best room in the whole housing complex due to its two windows and skyline view), but I'm ready to move on to a place slightly more permanent. Bleah, my luck and I'll be moving again within a year. I hate to say it, but I can't wait to settle in ONE PLACE! This moving every few months thing is a bit more than I can take...now I've done it for two years :P "Always in motion, is the future." Apparently that applies to my furniture too.
::sigh:: It's been so long since I've had a nice easy night of game playing. Not that there aren't a gazillion other things I could be doing with my time, and not that I haven't been having plenty of fun. I simply haven't had a lot of down time lately. I could count tonight from this time on as down time, but a few hours before bed just doesn't cut it. I think I need to ask a day off of work this week, just to get the time and ambition to do some major packing for the move this weekend.
Yep, this Saturday's the real deal--moving on back upstairs, this time with a ::gasp:: MALE roommate. This weekend Chris and I did some MAJOR shopping, so we now have some DVD/CD storage shelves, a nearly complete bathroom set, and numerous other little items that are necessary for keeping an apartment in shape.
Sad to say, there is one thing we're missing...Sometime in the last week or so, our landlord took away the massive loveseat that we thought would be forever enshrined in our living room. It was there when Tricia and Rachel moved in, still there when Tricia and I were there, and it was still there for over a month later. It just didn't seem that it would ever leave the apartment. Its inertia was just too great. Honestly, this thing was sturdy enough for two people to sit or lay down on the back of it, and not have the couch tip even slightly. I can't say it was ultra comfortable or anything, but it was just a given, a part of the move in deal. ::sigh::
Oh well, I guess it means we'll have room for more chairs and tables and things in there. Chris and I definitely don't lack for couches. I have my full-length futon, Chris has a full-sized couch, and there are two couches waiting for someone to claim them in my parents' basement. Not to mention, I have two nice sized recliners back in GB as well, plus an older swivel chair that's in great shape. No, Chris and I could fill a house with all of our purchased and hand-me-down furniture. Part of that is because Scott and Jennifer turned their noses up at it, and Chris and Beth don't have room for anything more.
And so, this is my last week in the "rose room" (soon it will most likely be the "sage" room when Jenny gets through with it). I will miss it (especially since it's the best room in the whole housing complex due to its two windows and skyline view), but I'm ready to move on to a place slightly more permanent. Bleah, my luck and I'll be moving again within a year. I hate to say it, but I can't wait to settle in ONE PLACE! This moving every few months thing is a bit more than I can take...now I've done it for two years :P "Always in motion, is the future." Apparently that applies to my furniture too.
Friday, April 08, 2005
Count down to detention
Okay, so that doesn't really make sense, but I was thinking of the Megadeath "Countdown to Extinction" thing mixed with me starting my full time teaching job on Monday. I've gotta say, I'm a bit nervous about it. I know I have plenty of time to prepare on Monday, but I don't have things quite worked out yet for the Speech and Drama class I'll be teaching. The 9th grade English I've got set, no problem, thanks to teaching Greek/Roman Mythology to the 8th graders last fall and keeping a nice unit full of copies of lesson plans and materials to use in the future. God, I'm thankful I took the time to do that.
The Speech and Drama class is another story--I've never taught it before, nor have I had A LOT of experience with it. I took the required Speech class for my liberal arts college, and I did read plenty of dramas in my literature classes. But many of those dramas aren't appropriate for the age and language proficiency level...plus they're in the anthologies I don't have with me here. I didn't think about it when I was home last time. I did print off a bunch of short plays, but what I think I'm going to have to do is find a play in the text book that they haven't covered yet. I want to do a lot of hands on work with them, including some storytelling, skits, mono/dialogues, speeches and presentations, but I'll need some materials to read and analyze with them too. AND we'll have to take some notes and quizzes on dramatic techniques, persuasive strategies, and such. ::sigh:: I have my work cut out for me. It's been a while since I've come up with an entire thematic unit.
So yeah, that's what's up this weekend, along with Party #2 for Chris. He's having a BBQ tomorrow so that more friends can stop by and just hang out for a while. Birthdays on weekdays just don't work out so well. Tricia and I have been doing some running, trying to reshape ourselves. Mostly, I just want to get back the endurance and trimness of last summer, and maybe get even better, since I'll have started already in Spring. This weather is friggen awesome, although my classroom is pretty toasty. I guess that's better than the frigid room I had during my student teaching way back when, where the AC was so high in the room I was wearing sweaters inside and tanktops outside. Nothing worse than nipping out in front of teenagers :P
Okay, so that doesn't really make sense, but I was thinking of the Megadeath "Countdown to Extinction" thing mixed with me starting my full time teaching job on Monday. I've gotta say, I'm a bit nervous about it. I know I have plenty of time to prepare on Monday, but I don't have things quite worked out yet for the Speech and Drama class I'll be teaching. The 9th grade English I've got set, no problem, thanks to teaching Greek/Roman Mythology to the 8th graders last fall and keeping a nice unit full of copies of lesson plans and materials to use in the future. God, I'm thankful I took the time to do that.
The Speech and Drama class is another story--I've never taught it before, nor have I had A LOT of experience with it. I took the required Speech class for my liberal arts college, and I did read plenty of dramas in my literature classes. But many of those dramas aren't appropriate for the age and language proficiency level...plus they're in the anthologies I don't have with me here. I didn't think about it when I was home last time. I did print off a bunch of short plays, but what I think I'm going to have to do is find a play in the text book that they haven't covered yet. I want to do a lot of hands on work with them, including some storytelling, skits, mono/dialogues, speeches and presentations, but I'll need some materials to read and analyze with them too. AND we'll have to take some notes and quizzes on dramatic techniques, persuasive strategies, and such. ::sigh:: I have my work cut out for me. It's been a while since I've come up with an entire thematic unit.
So yeah, that's what's up this weekend, along with Party #2 for Chris. He's having a BBQ tomorrow so that more friends can stop by and just hang out for a while. Birthdays on weekdays just don't work out so well. Tricia and I have been doing some running, trying to reshape ourselves. Mostly, I just want to get back the endurance and trimness of last summer, and maybe get even better, since I'll have started already in Spring. This weather is friggen awesome, although my classroom is pretty toasty. I guess that's better than the frigid room I had during my student teaching way back when, where the AC was so high in the room I was wearing sweaters inside and tanktops outside. Nothing worse than nipping out in front of teenagers :P
Thursday, April 07, 2005
Sunday, April 03, 2005
Here's the plan, man
The classroom is just about set up. There's a few posters left to put up, plus a calendar and such to get the classroom looking completely ready. I'll take a pic of the finished product and stick it up here for the masses to view. The masses being the 5 people who read this blog, plus the few random folks that stop by now and then when searching for "Interpretation on the line Bivouac of life on the poem Psalm of Life by Longfellow" or "kid giving middle finger, soccer" or the classic "Katie Fridge"....sounds like a Strong Bad email.
This week I don't work...or rather, I WON'T work. I could do some regular subbing this week, and I might later this week if I feel I am prepared enough for next week. But I really need to finish my take home test and get some lessons planned for next week's classes. That may or may not take a lot of time. We shall see. I could use the extra cashola, but then, I could also use the time. Bleah...responsibilities. Will I never escape them?
I shouldn't complain though. I COULD be complaining my ass off about having to search for jobs and fill out bullshit applications for the next 4 months. But no, I actually have a job, and not a bad one either. Poor Lee is just starting down that road...I wish him better luck than I had the first time around. Of course, Math teachers tend to be more in demand, so he'll do fine I'm sure.
OOOOH, on a totally different note, Chris and I actually went on a "date" last night, and it was totally sweet. We went to Little Tiajuana's for some Mexican food, and then headed to the Acadia Cafe to see Jeremy Messersmith and Seventy-two Others, two electric/acoustic sets that really put on a great live show. It's good to see some more "local" talent (72 Others is from Chicago...god I need to get there again sometime). I was a little disappointed that the EP for Seventy-two Others doesn't have the intensity they put into their live peformance, but I've seen that before. Even DNA's Vena Cava tends to drag quite a bit compared to their newest awesome release, Anodyne. But a live show seems to bring out the best in a band, so I'm sure if either or both of them are around, I'll see them again sometime. Anyway, $13 for seeing 2 bands, getting two EP's, a bumper sticker, and an Irish Cream capuccino isn't a bad deal. And for a random pick from the City Pages, I think the night was a success. Perhaps next weekend I'll try another spontaneous place...eenee, meenee, minee, mo...
The classroom is just about set up. There's a few posters left to put up, plus a calendar and such to get the classroom looking completely ready. I'll take a pic of the finished product and stick it up here for the masses to view. The masses being the 5 people who read this blog, plus the few random folks that stop by now and then when searching for "Interpretation on the line Bivouac of life on the poem Psalm of Life by Longfellow" or "kid giving middle finger, soccer" or the classic "Katie Fridge"....sounds like a Strong Bad email.
This week I don't work...or rather, I WON'T work. I could do some regular subbing this week, and I might later this week if I feel I am prepared enough for next week. But I really need to finish my take home test and get some lessons planned for next week's classes. That may or may not take a lot of time. We shall see. I could use the extra cashola, but then, I could also use the time. Bleah...responsibilities. Will I never escape them?
I shouldn't complain though. I COULD be complaining my ass off about having to search for jobs and fill out bullshit applications for the next 4 months. But no, I actually have a job, and not a bad one either. Poor Lee is just starting down that road...I wish him better luck than I had the first time around. Of course, Math teachers tend to be more in demand, so he'll do fine I'm sure.
OOOOH, on a totally different note, Chris and I actually went on a "date" last night, and it was totally sweet. We went to Little Tiajuana's for some Mexican food, and then headed to the Acadia Cafe to see Jeremy Messersmith and Seventy-two Others, two electric/acoustic sets that really put on a great live show. It's good to see some more "local" talent (72 Others is from Chicago...god I need to get there again sometime). I was a little disappointed that the EP for Seventy-two Others doesn't have the intensity they put into their live peformance, but I've seen that before. Even DNA's Vena Cava tends to drag quite a bit compared to their newest awesome release, Anodyne. But a live show seems to bring out the best in a band, so I'm sure if either or both of them are around, I'll see them again sometime. Anyway, $13 for seeing 2 bands, getting two EP's, a bumper sticker, and an Irish Cream capuccino isn't a bad deal. And for a random pick from the City Pages, I think the night was a success. Perhaps next weekend I'll try another spontaneous place...eenee, meenee, minee, mo...
Thursday, March 24, 2005
We have established contract
At least, I have, for the next school year that is :) Today I signed the contract that officially seals my fate as a full time, permanent basis teacher here in MN. I mentioned the job in one of my last posts, but I'll give a brief description update anyway.
1. Working hours 8:30am-5pm (how often do you find THAT at a high school)
2. Teaching 9th graders of various abilities
3. Starts already this April
4. School is scheduled to grow in the next few years, adding 11, 12, middle, and elementary
5. Staff development workshops and classes will be paid for
6. Possible summer school teacher position
7. Location is about 20 min away (with no gridlock or highway driving!)
8. Full dental and health insurance for about $30-40/mo.
9. First year teacher pay--comporable to metro area public schools (not shabby at all)
10. DEPENDABLE EMPLOYMENT FOR THE FORSEEABLE FUTURE!
All that adds up to one happy Katie :) Let's hope the happiness spreads.
At least, I have, for the next school year that is :) Today I signed the contract that officially seals my fate as a full time, permanent basis teacher here in MN. I mentioned the job in one of my last posts, but I'll give a brief description update anyway.
1. Working hours 8:30am-5pm (how often do you find THAT at a high school)
2. Teaching 9th graders of various abilities
3. Starts already this April
4. School is scheduled to grow in the next few years, adding 11, 12, middle, and elementary
5. Staff development workshops and classes will be paid for
6. Possible summer school teacher position
7. Location is about 20 min away (with no gridlock or highway driving!)
8. Full dental and health insurance for about $30-40/mo.
9. First year teacher pay--comporable to metro area public schools (not shabby at all)
10. DEPENDABLE EMPLOYMENT FOR THE FORSEEABLE FUTURE!
All that adds up to one happy Katie :) Let's hope the happiness spreads.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Sad news today
In Red Lake, MN, several kids and adults were killed in a school shooting. Apparently one student had some issues, and went around randomly shooting around the school, and then he shot himself. It's tragic, horrifying, and ultimately pointless.
Considering all that, it makes me wonder why I just accepted the offer for a full time teaching job that I received over the phone today.
In Red Lake, MN, several kids and adults were killed in a school shooting. Apparently one student had some issues, and went around randomly shooting around the school, and then he shot himself. It's tragic, horrifying, and ultimately pointless.
Considering all that, it makes me wonder why I just accepted the offer for a full time teaching job that I received over the phone today.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
When it rains it pours...or snows
Supposedly sometime in the next 24 hours we're supposed to get about 5-10 in. of snow in the area. Judging by the beautiful blue skies and 35+ degree weather, I highly doubt the snow will be that thick; at least, let's hope not.
Speaking of precipitation, there is that old adage "When it rains it pours" so apparently I'm experiencing one of those post-El Nino effects cuz it's become very rainy the last few days of my week. It appears that not only have I been offered the long term sub job that I applied for a couple weeks ago, but that I also will be going back for a second interview tomorrow for a full time, permanent job elsewhere.
It was such a fluke. I was looking at charter schools online, saw a school that had an opening posted a while back, so I emailed and inquired as to weather the position was still open. They emailed back and said, "Yes, it's open. We're in the interview process right now, can you interview today?" Naturally, I emailed back and said "Hell yes!" in so many words. So, without ever applying for the job, I showed up for an interview that afternoon with my resume and letters of recommendation in hand.
I guess the interview went pretty well because I'm going back tomorrow for a 2nd interview. I've never gotten to that point thus far in my search for a job, so I'm pretty nervous and pretty excited. My interview involves not just presenting myself to the administration, but teaching a class for about 30 min while the administrators observe. No pressure, eh? But then, I have been subbing for the last year, so I do know what it's like to enter a strange classroom, present myself with an air of being "with-it" and confident in my abilities, so I'm really not THAT nervous.
It's more the idea of trying to get a job I really want that scares me. Imagine, if you will, a teaching job at a small school that is expanding and thriving, that would start almost immediately, with hours between 9-4:30. How rare is that? Do you know how completely awesome those hours would be for me? I would get so much more sleep than I currently do, and I wouldn't even mind coming in early. Plus, I usually stay late anyway, so getting out later really doesn't bother me at all. AND, it's only a 20 min drive through the city to get there, without really entering any bad traffic zones.
::sigh:: Now all I have to do is make sure my lesson plan is stellar. I have it pretty much planned out, but I have to type up a lesson plan for the administrators to use as a guide to my presentation. And I'm sure I should include the learning goals and all that. Needless to say, I'll be a basketcase tomorrow while teaching during the day, so I hope my students are prepared for a flighty teacher tomorrow. My mind will be completely on what happens AFTER school, at the interview. Ah well, they'll deal. Besides, I'll just have to design the day to be student led or something.
Whatever, preparing for an interview is just a bit more important at this point in the game. I just wish I wasn't here alone tonight so I couldn't get stressed out, but Tricia's dogsitting and Chris has to work super early tomorrow. I'll just have to make up by celebrating tomorrow no matter what happens :)
Supposedly sometime in the next 24 hours we're supposed to get about 5-10 in. of snow in the area. Judging by the beautiful blue skies and 35+ degree weather, I highly doubt the snow will be that thick; at least, let's hope not.
Speaking of precipitation, there is that old adage "When it rains it pours" so apparently I'm experiencing one of those post-El Nino effects cuz it's become very rainy the last few days of my week. It appears that not only have I been offered the long term sub job that I applied for a couple weeks ago, but that I also will be going back for a second interview tomorrow for a full time, permanent job elsewhere.
It was such a fluke. I was looking at charter schools online, saw a school that had an opening posted a while back, so I emailed and inquired as to weather the position was still open. They emailed back and said, "Yes, it's open. We're in the interview process right now, can you interview today?" Naturally, I emailed back and said "Hell yes!" in so many words. So, without ever applying for the job, I showed up for an interview that afternoon with my resume and letters of recommendation in hand.
I guess the interview went pretty well because I'm going back tomorrow for a 2nd interview. I've never gotten to that point thus far in my search for a job, so I'm pretty nervous and pretty excited. My interview involves not just presenting myself to the administration, but teaching a class for about 30 min while the administrators observe. No pressure, eh? But then, I have been subbing for the last year, so I do know what it's like to enter a strange classroom, present myself with an air of being "with-it" and confident in my abilities, so I'm really not THAT nervous.
It's more the idea of trying to get a job I really want that scares me. Imagine, if you will, a teaching job at a small school that is expanding and thriving, that would start almost immediately, with hours between 9-4:30. How rare is that? Do you know how completely awesome those hours would be for me? I would get so much more sleep than I currently do, and I wouldn't even mind coming in early. Plus, I usually stay late anyway, so getting out later really doesn't bother me at all. AND, it's only a 20 min drive through the city to get there, without really entering any bad traffic zones.
::sigh:: Now all I have to do is make sure my lesson plan is stellar. I have it pretty much planned out, but I have to type up a lesson plan for the administrators to use as a guide to my presentation. And I'm sure I should include the learning goals and all that. Needless to say, I'll be a basketcase tomorrow while teaching during the day, so I hope my students are prepared for a flighty teacher tomorrow. My mind will be completely on what happens AFTER school, at the interview. Ah well, they'll deal. Besides, I'll just have to design the day to be student led or something.
Whatever, preparing for an interview is just a bit more important at this point in the game. I just wish I wasn't here alone tonight so I couldn't get stressed out, but Tricia's dogsitting and Chris has to work super early tomorrow. I'll just have to make up by celebrating tomorrow no matter what happens :)
Monday, March 14, 2005
The TRI-force of power!
Ah yes, I now have something in common with Link. Come to think of it, I remember having a dream with him in it...How is it that a young girl comes to fantasize about the anime-esque cartooned figure of a video game character? ::sigh:: If only he had really come to rescue me from my Ganon-induced sleep, awakening me with the power of the Triforce (and a kiss, naturally).
Anyway, today was the beginning of the third trimester, and I can say it actually went fairly smoothly. Granted, tomorrow I'm not 100% certain about what I am going to do for my classes, but at least I now know that my students aren't complete bastards for the last 1.5 weeks of my long term sub job. Besides, those 10 episodes of Inuyasha I watched tonight were a very important part of my professional development. Mmhmm, yep. ::sigh:: Perhaps Inuyasha will rescue me tonight ;)
Ah yes, I now have something in common with Link. Come to think of it, I remember having a dream with him in it...How is it that a young girl comes to fantasize about the anime-esque cartooned figure of a video game character? ::sigh:: If only he had really come to rescue me from my Ganon-induced sleep, awakening me with the power of the Triforce (and a kiss, naturally).
Anyway, today was the beginning of the third trimester, and I can say it actually went fairly smoothly. Granted, tomorrow I'm not 100% certain about what I am going to do for my classes, but at least I now know that my students aren't complete bastards for the last 1.5 weeks of my long term sub job. Besides, those 10 episodes of Inuyasha I watched tonight were a very important part of my professional development. Mmhmm, yep. ::sigh:: Perhaps Inuyasha will rescue me tonight ;)
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
When reality rears its ugly head
Today, congratulations is owed to a good friend who just earned her FIRST JOB! Way to go Jenny :) I know you've been searching and waiting and beefing up that resume for quite a while now, so congrats on finally getting the job you deserve.
Naturally, I'm insanely jealous, having not yet procured a full time job yet myself. Chris, too, found a new job a couple weeks ago, and although it is part time, it IS finally something relating to his field, so that's a major bonus. Things are looking up around here...I just hope I'm up there too by the end of this summer.
Yesterday afternoon I had an interview in a nicely inconveniently located southern suburb for a long term sub job that would last from April until the end of the school year. The concept of steady employment is tempting, but that 35-40 min commute certainly isn't. Still, I interviewed (the first on the list this week I guess), and I'll be finding out the status of that application sometime next week. I'm all ashivers with anticipation....Not really.
Actually, my mind is so distant from my current job, it's sort of sad. I keep thinking about all the things I should be doing while I'm mindlessly correcting papers the kids don't give a rip about anyway. Oh, I make sure my questions encourage critical thinking and that our discussions and activities get them motivated or at least interested in the subjects I'm teaching; I just have "more important" things on my mind.
It's almost mid-March, and soon the full time applications will be roaring through the mail system from me to a gazillion school districts in the area. First I must prepare by purchasing a new stack of manilla envelopes, a book or two of stamps, and a whole lot of patience because those fucking applications take a friggen boatload of time with their stupid "essay" questions that they ask you again anyway during the interviewing process. (Example: My interview yesterday involved 20 fucking questions that all went like, "What would you do if....," "Describe how you design lessons that...." and "If you had a really bitchy parent call...", etc.)
The next thing on the agenda is to finish my state taxes so I get more money (my federal refund is already in--yay for me!) And then there's the class I'm taking...My group has been slacking off most weeks, so in the next 4 weeks we need to compile our near-nonexistant research into a 40 minute presentation for the last day of class. Oh, and I suppose I should read the book I'm supposed to use for the take home test due that day too. ::sigh::
Like all good procrastinators would say, "Why do now what I can put off for tomorrow...or maybe the day after that." God I hope my students learn better.
Today, congratulations is owed to a good friend who just earned her FIRST JOB! Way to go Jenny :) I know you've been searching and waiting and beefing up that resume for quite a while now, so congrats on finally getting the job you deserve.
Naturally, I'm insanely jealous, having not yet procured a full time job yet myself. Chris, too, found a new job a couple weeks ago, and although it is part time, it IS finally something relating to his field, so that's a major bonus. Things are looking up around here...I just hope I'm up there too by the end of this summer.
Yesterday afternoon I had an interview in a nicely inconveniently located southern suburb for a long term sub job that would last from April until the end of the school year. The concept of steady employment is tempting, but that 35-40 min commute certainly isn't. Still, I interviewed (the first on the list this week I guess), and I'll be finding out the status of that application sometime next week. I'm all ashivers with anticipation....Not really.
Actually, my mind is so distant from my current job, it's sort of sad. I keep thinking about all the things I should be doing while I'm mindlessly correcting papers the kids don't give a rip about anyway. Oh, I make sure my questions encourage critical thinking and that our discussions and activities get them motivated or at least interested in the subjects I'm teaching; I just have "more important" things on my mind.
It's almost mid-March, and soon the full time applications will be roaring through the mail system from me to a gazillion school districts in the area. First I must prepare by purchasing a new stack of manilla envelopes, a book or two of stamps, and a whole lot of patience because those fucking applications take a friggen boatload of time with their stupid "essay" questions that they ask you again anyway during the interviewing process. (Example: My interview yesterday involved 20 fucking questions that all went like, "What would you do if....," "Describe how you design lessons that...." and "If you had a really bitchy parent call...", etc.)
The next thing on the agenda is to finish my state taxes so I get more money (my federal refund is already in--yay for me!) And then there's the class I'm taking...My group has been slacking off most weeks, so in the next 4 weeks we need to compile our near-nonexistant research into a 40 minute presentation for the last day of class. Oh, and I suppose I should read the book I'm supposed to use for the take home test due that day too. ::sigh::
Like all good procrastinators would say, "Why do now what I can put off for tomorrow...or maybe the day after that." God I hope my students learn better.
Friday, March 04, 2005
And I just can't stop this moving anymore
I've forgotten what I started moving for...
That's pretty much the case for me right now. Like Tricia said, the K&T B&B is now in business. Problem is, it won't be the K&T for more than a couple months. Then it'll have to have a new name, something like...the J&T B&B or the T&J Extended Stay. They'll figure something out.
It's not that I'm not enjoying 2nd floor--far from it. It feels so much bigger than the upstairs since the rooms are more separeted and the ceilings aren't slanted. Certainly the bathroom is much larger, and the dining room is a nice addition. And having rooms that are the colors of our choice--that was a sweet bonus. I just hope Jenny will grow accustommed to the "Rose room" in time.
However, my stay in the Rose room will be shorter than expected due to a push from our landlord to fill the 3rd floor apartment. It has always been a possibility that I would move back up there, but that idea seemed a long way off. But today I talked to the landlord and reserved it for May 1. So, not two months from now, I will be moving yet again. The good news is, it wasn't that hard to move down, and I only have to move my own belongings upstairs. The pain in the ass is going to be separating out my stuff and getting resettled. The extra twist? I get to share the upstairs with a NEW "roomie" :)
Every time I tell someone (particularly people older than me) that I'm getting an apartment with my boyfriend, they give me that look like "Do you know what you're getting into?" It's funny, because I never really have thought of it as being a big deal. When other people tell me things like that, I bet I gave them the same look. But now that the prospect looms before me, I can't see what the big deal is. Not even my parents gave me that look when I mentioned the possibility. They were just like, oh, well that will be nice. I suppose if I were the first born, they'd make more of a fuss. You'd think since I was the baby girl, they still would. I'm guessing that my brothers have put them through enough trouble that they're really not concerned with me.
Besides, they've met Chris, interacted with him, and think he's a great guy. They ask about the whole marriage bit, and I tell them for now, we need to save up for a while, and then we'll think about it another year or two from now. Heck, I lived with Chris for two months last summer when I needed a place to stay after moving up here for the summer teaching job. They didn't make a fuss then either. Even my brothers were alright with it, and they're usually (Scott especially) pretty protective and big-brotherly about stuff like that.
Naturally I have worries and concerns that there will be unknown stresses and factors involved, but then, it'd be fairly strange if it was all peachy and wonderful ALL the time. I know Chris is going to miss the friends he currently lives with, especially his longtime roomie from freshman year of college. But there's no way I'm going to bogart all his time. For certain I'll be kicking his ass outdoors now and then so that I can chill with Jenny, Tricia, Amber, and any other friends who may be in the vicinity. They're only a 10 min drive away anyway. At least I won't have to haul a backpack of clothes and toiletries over to his place 2-3 times a week anymore. Not that I didn't enjoy that, but the convenience alone of having him over without having to share a twin sized bed will be quite worth it.
Geez I babbled a lot this time. I suppose that's what happens when I don't blog often enough. Plus there's just been a lot of big events going on to actually talk about. For instance, my long term sub job at the high school will be over in a few weeks; I have an interview for another long term sub job next week; my class is getting towards the end, which means I have to get my ass in gear for some of the projects; and I've had a bad head cold all week. Not exactly a thrill a minute, but combine all that with moving last weekend and the prospect of moving again at the end of April, and there's a boatload of shite to do.
Oh yeah, and now that it's March, it means beginning the LONG and totally SHITTY process of applying for full time teaching positions for next fall. Long term subbing is great for the resume, but in reality I do the same work as a full time teacher for less pay and no benefits. God I hope I get a job. If I don't, screw teaching, hello grad school.
I've forgotten what I started moving for...
That's pretty much the case for me right now. Like Tricia said, the K&T B&B is now in business. Problem is, it won't be the K&T for more than a couple months. Then it'll have to have a new name, something like...the J&T B&B or the T&J Extended Stay. They'll figure something out.
It's not that I'm not enjoying 2nd floor--far from it. It feels so much bigger than the upstairs since the rooms are more separeted and the ceilings aren't slanted. Certainly the bathroom is much larger, and the dining room is a nice addition. And having rooms that are the colors of our choice--that was a sweet bonus. I just hope Jenny will grow accustommed to the "Rose room" in time.
However, my stay in the Rose room will be shorter than expected due to a push from our landlord to fill the 3rd floor apartment. It has always been a possibility that I would move back up there, but that idea seemed a long way off. But today I talked to the landlord and reserved it for May 1. So, not two months from now, I will be moving yet again. The good news is, it wasn't that hard to move down, and I only have to move my own belongings upstairs. The pain in the ass is going to be separating out my stuff and getting resettled. The extra twist? I get to share the upstairs with a NEW "roomie" :)
Every time I tell someone (particularly people older than me) that I'm getting an apartment with my boyfriend, they give me that look like "Do you know what you're getting into?" It's funny, because I never really have thought of it as being a big deal. When other people tell me things like that, I bet I gave them the same look. But now that the prospect looms before me, I can't see what the big deal is. Not even my parents gave me that look when I mentioned the possibility. They were just like, oh, well that will be nice. I suppose if I were the first born, they'd make more of a fuss. You'd think since I was the baby girl, they still would. I'm guessing that my brothers have put them through enough trouble that they're really not concerned with me.
Besides, they've met Chris, interacted with him, and think he's a great guy. They ask about the whole marriage bit, and I tell them for now, we need to save up for a while, and then we'll think about it another year or two from now. Heck, I lived with Chris for two months last summer when I needed a place to stay after moving up here for the summer teaching job. They didn't make a fuss then either. Even my brothers were alright with it, and they're usually (Scott especially) pretty protective and big-brotherly about stuff like that.
Naturally I have worries and concerns that there will be unknown stresses and factors involved, but then, it'd be fairly strange if it was all peachy and wonderful ALL the time. I know Chris is going to miss the friends he currently lives with, especially his longtime roomie from freshman year of college. But there's no way I'm going to bogart all his time. For certain I'll be kicking his ass outdoors now and then so that I can chill with Jenny, Tricia, Amber, and any other friends who may be in the vicinity. They're only a 10 min drive away anyway. At least I won't have to haul a backpack of clothes and toiletries over to his place 2-3 times a week anymore. Not that I didn't enjoy that, but the convenience alone of having him over without having to share a twin sized bed will be quite worth it.
Geez I babbled a lot this time. I suppose that's what happens when I don't blog often enough. Plus there's just been a lot of big events going on to actually talk about. For instance, my long term sub job at the high school will be over in a few weeks; I have an interview for another long term sub job next week; my class is getting towards the end, which means I have to get my ass in gear for some of the projects; and I've had a bad head cold all week. Not exactly a thrill a minute, but combine all that with moving last weekend and the prospect of moving again at the end of April, and there's a boatload of shite to do.
Oh yeah, and now that it's March, it means beginning the LONG and totally SHITTY process of applying for full time teaching positions for next fall. Long term subbing is great for the resume, but in reality I do the same work as a full time teacher for less pay and no benefits. God I hope I get a job. If I don't, screw teaching, hello grad school.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Get a move on
Starting tonight, Tricia and I have begun the highly taxing process of moving all our belongings to our new apartment. It's oh so difficult too, I mean, having to bring alllll of that stuff allllll the way down one flight of stairs, gee, I have no idea how we're going to manage it. Thank goodness we have the stereo down there and cranked up while we're moving, or we might never get through this difficult endeavor. ;)
So far, the kitchen is pretty much transferred, as is the bathroom. The big furniture we're moving on Saturday (with some help from some manly men :) The hardest part will be our rooms. It's not that we have that much stuff, it's more that we have that shit spread all over in an unorganized mess all over our rooms. It'll be so nice having the extra storage space in the pantry, linen closet, and our own REAL closets. Finally my room won't look like a college dorm room. At least, that's the theory. I even plan on getting frames for a couple of my Japanese prints so I can actually hang up real pictures on the wall. One day, not while I'm at this apartment, but ONE DAY, I will hang up my Walden Pond picture as well. Then I'll know I'm truly home.
Until then, I'm just a transient. Perhaps when Chris and I get a place this summer it will feel a bit more like home. Hard to think I haven't really had a HOME since I left for college 5.5 years ago. Jesus. It's been that long? God I'm old.
Starting tonight, Tricia and I have begun the highly taxing process of moving all our belongings to our new apartment. It's oh so difficult too, I mean, having to bring alllll of that stuff allllll the way down one flight of stairs, gee, I have no idea how we're going to manage it. Thank goodness we have the stereo down there and cranked up while we're moving, or we might never get through this difficult endeavor. ;)
So far, the kitchen is pretty much transferred, as is the bathroom. The big furniture we're moving on Saturday (with some help from some manly men :) The hardest part will be our rooms. It's not that we have that much stuff, it's more that we have that shit spread all over in an unorganized mess all over our rooms. It'll be so nice having the extra storage space in the pantry, linen closet, and our own REAL closets. Finally my room won't look like a college dorm room. At least, that's the theory. I even plan on getting frames for a couple of my Japanese prints so I can actually hang up real pictures on the wall. One day, not while I'm at this apartment, but ONE DAY, I will hang up my Walden Pond picture as well. Then I'll know I'm truly home.
Until then, I'm just a transient. Perhaps when Chris and I get a place this summer it will feel a bit more like home. Hard to think I haven't really had a HOME since I left for college 5.5 years ago. Jesus. It's been that long? God I'm old.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Monday, February 07, 2005
Movin' on up
Or down. But classy. Yep, Tricia and I are moving to the 2nd floor. The landlord called and told us the 2nd floor apartment has had some offers, and it was our last chance to grab the opportunity. So, we did.
Starting sometime in March, our new residence will be about 10 feet south. The decision was sudden, though as you know it's been an issue for over a month now. But finally, there is resolution. ::sigh:: Now all we have to do is move :P
Or down. But classy. Yep, Tricia and I are moving to the 2nd floor. The landlord called and told us the 2nd floor apartment has had some offers, and it was our last chance to grab the opportunity. So, we did.
Starting sometime in March, our new residence will be about 10 feet south. The decision was sudden, though as you know it's been an issue for over a month now. But finally, there is resolution. ::sigh:: Now all we have to do is move :P
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Welcome to the latest addition of Katie's Random Advice Post...
KRAP: On Turning Twenty-four
First of all, a prospective 24-er needs to be aware of these important party facts.
#1. A party is not only suggested, but necessary. It is one thing to throw a bash when you're 22 or 23, but it is another thing entirely to have a 24th year bday party. Aside from being the obvious one year away from the quarter-century landmark, there is absolutely nothing special about turning 24. One could venture to say that I am now in my mid-twenties and therefore am at a "special age," but then, who are they kidding...no one takes you seriously at 24 anymore than they did at 23. That is why it is completely imperative to celebrate the non-occassion with as many well-intentioned friends as possible. This way, the unimportance of 24 is masked behind a veil of fiesta-induced haze of consequence.
#2. Party guests must be much younger and older than the 24-er. With guests ranging in a decade span from 20-30, the birthday boy or girl will be much more apt to accept their new-found status of "older than dirt." Knowing that there are age-challenged younger folk that must still go through the god-forsaken trials of college and the dissollusionment of entering the "real world" does wonders for a person's adjustment to the year 24. As an added bonus, having older guests, especially those who have already hit the 30-something marker, puts the year into perspective as simply...not that old...yet.
#3. There must be as many non-healthy snacks as possible. No where in the smorgasbord of hors d'oeuvres can there be a smidgeon of vitamin/mineral-containing or fat-free/cholesterol-free or not-going-to-rot-your-teeth food. For instance, buy the taco dipping sauce, but forget about the olives, lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Include a tray of cheese, summer sausage, and crackers, but leave out the veggie and fruit trays so popular at potluck dinners. And by all means, do NOT forget to forgo the angelfood cake and fruit toppings, and DO make some double fudge brownies, top them with thick fudge frosting, and have your awesome roommate decorate them with those pure sugar/corn syrup cake decorator letters.
#4. Never greet your guests at the door. Counter to what the Martha Stewart's of the world might say, it is in your best interest and of the highest regard to Not answer the door when your guests arrive. Instead, do your best to be unavailable at the time--perhaps try using the restroom. If avoiding the situation isn't possible, then be sure to remain at the party scene (after all it is your party), by shouting out the window, "The door's open, come on up!" They'll figure out where your apartment is soon enough, won't they?
And last but not least...
#5. Always end the night with 2 shots of tequila and a rousing game of Truth or Dare. I'm sorry, but a night with out shots or the time-honored game of Truth or Dare can hardly be called a "party." It's one thing to have your favorite wine, some beer, and a pleasant mixed drink, but it's another thing entirely to have the official Birthday Tequila Shot. It may not taste like honey, but then, who would do a shot of honey....aside from Chris ;) Besides, how else are we going to get through that 2-year-old bottle of Jose Cuervo? As for the Truth or Dare, I can thank Jenny for reminding me just how important that ridiculous game really is. Honestly, who hasn't pantomimed a shower or laid a gold egg on their birthday?
KRAP: On Turning Twenty-four
First of all, a prospective 24-er needs to be aware of these important party facts.
#1. A party is not only suggested, but necessary. It is one thing to throw a bash when you're 22 or 23, but it is another thing entirely to have a 24th year bday party. Aside from being the obvious one year away from the quarter-century landmark, there is absolutely nothing special about turning 24. One could venture to say that I am now in my mid-twenties and therefore am at a "special age," but then, who are they kidding...no one takes you seriously at 24 anymore than they did at 23. That is why it is completely imperative to celebrate the non-occassion with as many well-intentioned friends as possible. This way, the unimportance of 24 is masked behind a veil of fiesta-induced haze of consequence.
#2. Party guests must be much younger and older than the 24-er. With guests ranging in a decade span from 20-30, the birthday boy or girl will be much more apt to accept their new-found status of "older than dirt." Knowing that there are age-challenged younger folk that must still go through the god-forsaken trials of college and the dissollusionment of entering the "real world" does wonders for a person's adjustment to the year 24. As an added bonus, having older guests, especially those who have already hit the 30-something marker, puts the year into perspective as simply...not that old...yet.
#3. There must be as many non-healthy snacks as possible. No where in the smorgasbord of hors d'oeuvres can there be a smidgeon of vitamin/mineral-containing or fat-free/cholesterol-free or not-going-to-rot-your-teeth food. For instance, buy the taco dipping sauce, but forget about the olives, lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Include a tray of cheese, summer sausage, and crackers, but leave out the veggie and fruit trays so popular at potluck dinners. And by all means, do NOT forget to forgo the angelfood cake and fruit toppings, and DO make some double fudge brownies, top them with thick fudge frosting, and have your awesome roommate decorate them with those pure sugar/corn syrup cake decorator letters.
#4. Never greet your guests at the door. Counter to what the Martha Stewart's of the world might say, it is in your best interest and of the highest regard to Not answer the door when your guests arrive. Instead, do your best to be unavailable at the time--perhaps try using the restroom. If avoiding the situation isn't possible, then be sure to remain at the party scene (after all it is your party), by shouting out the window, "The door's open, come on up!" They'll figure out where your apartment is soon enough, won't they?
And last but not least...
#5. Always end the night with 2 shots of tequila and a rousing game of Truth or Dare. I'm sorry, but a night with out shots or the time-honored game of Truth or Dare can hardly be called a "party." It's one thing to have your favorite wine, some beer, and a pleasant mixed drink, but it's another thing entirely to have the official Birthday Tequila Shot. It may not taste like honey, but then, who would do a shot of honey....aside from Chris ;) Besides, how else are we going to get through that 2-year-old bottle of Jose Cuervo? As for the Truth or Dare, I can thank Jenny for reminding me just how important that ridiculous game really is. Honestly, who hasn't pantomimed a shower or laid a gold egg on their birthday?
