Nenni's World

Wacky Wednesday-Here's a few

2009-07-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

If figured today I would share a few things that have run across my laugh meter. First, don't think badly of me, my husband and I were listening to the radio on the way to work Monday mourning and heard this report:

"A woman was surprised when she was hit by a trolley downtown last night, she died at the scene."

We were both laughing! No, not at the topic of the story (that's just truly sad) but at how it was reported...she was surprised? Really? Ya think?
*********************************************************

Then there was this that I have seen before but made its way into my email again:

My son came home from school one day,
with a smirk upon his face.
He decided he was smart enough,
to put me in my place.

'Guess what I learned in Civics Two,
that's taught by Mr. Wright?
It's all about the laws today,
The 'Children's Bill of Rights.'

It says I need not clean my room,
don't have to cut my hair
No one can tell me what to think,
or speak, or what to wear.

I have freedom from religion,
and regardless what you say,
I don't have to bow my head,
and I sure don't have to pray.

I can wear earrings if I want,
and pierce my tongue & nose.
I can read & watch just what I like,
get tattoos from head to toe.!
And if you ever spank me,
I'll charge you with a crime.
I'll back up all my charges,
with the marks on my behind.

Don't you ever touch me,
my body's only for my use,
not for your hugs and kisses,
that's just more child abuse.

Don't preach about your morals,
like your Mama did to you.
That's nothing more than mind control,
And it's illegal too!

Mom, I have these children's rights,
so you can't influence me,
or I'll call Children's Services Division,
better known as C.S.D.'

Mom's Reply and Thoughts

Of course my first instinct was
to toss him out the door.
But the chance to teach him a lesson
made me think a little more.

I mulled it over carefully,
I couldn't let this go.
A smile crept upon my face,
he's messing with a pro.

Next day I took him shopping
at the local Goodwill Store..
I told him, 'Pick out all you want,
there's shirts & pants galore.

I've called and checked with C.S.D.
who said they didn't care
if I bought you K-Mart shoes
instead of those Nike Airs.

I've canceled that appointment
to take your driver's test.
The C.S.D. is unconcerned
so I'll decide what's best.'

I said 'No time to stop and eat,
or pick up stuff to munch.
And tomorrow you can start to learn
to make your own sack lunch.

Just save the raging appetite,
and wait till dinner time.
We're having liver and onions,
a favorite dish of mine.'

He asked 'Can I please rent a movie,
to watch on my VCR?'
'Sorry, but I sold your TV,
for new tires on my car.
I also rented out your room,
you'll take the couch instead.
The C.S.D. requires
just a roof over your head.

Your clothing won't be trendy now,
I'll choose what we eat.
That allowance that you used to get,
will buy me something neat.

I'm selling off your jet ski,
dirt-bike & roller blades.
Check out the 'Parents Bill of Rights',
It's in effect today!

Hey hot shot, are you crying,
Why are you on your knees?
Are you asking God to help you out,
instead of C.S.D.. ?'
*****************************************************

Then there is my favorite of all this week, Ida scored some extra points by sending me this email:

If you receive an email from the Department of Health
telling you not to eat tinned pork because of
swine flu..............

Ignore it.

It's just spam!

HA! I was rolling on that one!

What funny things have you run across this week?

It's Bribery or possibly even Blackmail!

2009-07-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

I thought that today I would be talking a bit about Church and children's behaviors as ignited by Lucy's post; however, something else sparked my fire today and I have to get it off my chest. Don't get me wrong, I will be visiting the other hot topic in the future, just not today.

Today, I am going to talk about settling cases outside of court. Now, remember, I am on a rant and, upon further thinking, I may swing back another way somewhere in the middle. I know that these thoughts are not 100% rational, but they are my thoughts.

I don't think that ANYONE should be able to settle outside of courts. There is no consequences at that point. Okay, the millions someone pays outside of courts could be considered a consequence, but then the "defendant" can always say, "No, I did no wrong."

The "complainant" wins a whole bunch of money! Now, I'm not going to go so far as to say that every complainant is right. I know that there are many cases that have been settled and it was only done because the defendant didn't want to incur the cost of going to court, even though they truly did nothing wrong. They get scared that they might not win and so they pay the person off to make them go away.

However, then there are people (like famous child molesters) who pay more than $20million to make a case go away. The time that they DO choose to go to court, they are acquitted leading me to believe that the particular case that was brought to court was probably a false accusation, but the ones that made money, well...you do the math!

Now, this person and their family can walk around saying, "oh, he never diddled little boys, he was acquitted." Really? Then why did he pay off the other ones?

Okay, I confess, this is the situation that began me on this trail; but as I have thought more about it, I think that ANY case settled outside of courts in this way should be criminal. It's bribery. It's, "oh, don't take me to court so that I don't have to admit that I diddled little boys/stole from you/frauded people/didn't follow the rules to the entire country. Here's some hush money! Now you can't talk about this to anyone else or you have to give all the money back!"

Seriously! I know that going to court costs money. But the way I see it there are only two scenarios here:

1. The complainant is full of it and is just trying to get some free money. In this case, the defendant is STUPID for just paying them off. Others will just look at that money they payed and say, "hm, he must have done it." AND he is now a target for more people to do the same.

2. The defendant is totally and utterly guilty. In this case, the complainant is doing nothing but hurting others. They are taking the cowards way out and not making the defendant really accountable for their actions. "Oh, I'm afraid that they're lawyers will be so much better than mine and then they will get away with it." Okay, maybe their lawyers ARE better, but at least it's in the courts and the NEXT time this comes up again, then there is a record of it. No, this scenario there should be no other choice but to take the person to court. I especially think that it should be criminal to not take a case like this to court.

Bribery isn't legal, is it? I really don't think that things should be able to be settled outside of court. Settled? Maybe. But there should always be a legal record so that we can say, "Yeah, they settled because they were guilty."

What do you think?

Monday Memories-Stolen Tapes

2009-07-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

When I was in college, I bought the most awesomest walkman ever! No, it was truly awesome! You could put a tape into it and when it reached the end, it would automatically switch to play the other direction. I didn't have to push any buttons to make this happen, it just did it!

It also got amazing reception for BOTH AM and FM, it had weather channels and tv stations (although really, who wants to just LISTEN to the tv program, I want to SEE it!). It had more features than were necessary.

The funnies part? I only bought it because it was the cheapest one that was a tape and radio player. I totally made out on that deal.

I had an Amy Grant tape in there. It was Amy Grant "The Collection". When I moved home I let my mom borrow it for her walks (I was not going walking at that time, she would consistently walk, and she wanted something to listen to).

She loved my walkman, too; although, I think she might have loved it more because of the Amy Grant Tape in it. When I moved out it came with me. Actually, I don't think it came with me right away, I think it came with me only after I started riding the bus to work and needed something to do on the hour long trip. My mom graciously gave me my walkman back (with the Amy Grant tape inside it).

If I recall correctly, I did kindly get her another walkman and either copied or got her another copy of the tape.

I rode the bus to work because it was cheaper and much more convenient than driving. I had my own transportation, a truck actually at the time. However, I was working at SDSU and they charged for parking (yes even employees, it comes right out of the paycheck if you so desire). It was cheaper to get a bus pass (we got a discount at the SDSU ticket counter) and much more convenient as I didn't have to search for parking every morning.

Sure, it had it's downfalls; but in reality they were worth it. Yes, I had to change buses about 3 times; but I didn't have to sit in traffic. Yes, it took a bit longer to get to work; but only about 30 minutes longer. I was also able to read, play my math games, listen to the news, listen to my Amy Grant tape... It was actually great!

One Friday night in December when I got home, I didn't really want to cook so I got off the bus, walked up my driveway, got in my truck, threw my backpack (with my walkman) and jacket onto the front seat, and drove to the Mexican Fast Food place to get dinner.

When I got home, I just left my backpack and jacket in the truck, went upstairs, and relaxed in front of the tv settling in for the night.

The next morning, when the-now-husband-then-boyfriend-not-even-fiance-yet came to take me out to breakfast, we hopped into his truck and then, when he dropped me off I saw it...the front passenger door of my truck open, things strewn about in the truck from my glove box, and my heart sank.

Someone had broken into my truck. The took my favorite jacket! The one I had been wearing since my freshman year in college. The most comfortable jacket ever. The most waterproof jacket I had ever had! It wasn't bulky, but it was warm and comfy. It totally kept the rain off me when standing at the bus stop on a rainy night. It was awesome! I loved it! I have never found another jacket like it!

They also took my backpack. In it were the Christmas cards I was writing to everyone while I was on the bus. No one got cards that year. They tossed out my book, math games, and some other things. They took my Weight Watchers black "clutch" (for lack of a better word) that had all my original books and stuff...they dropped that on the next corner over.

It was a few days before I realized the most important thing: THEY TOOK MY MOST AWESOMEST WALKMAN WITH MY AMY GRANT TAPE IN IT!

Seriously! That is just WRONG! I don't know who was more upset, me or my mom, but we were both a little bit ticked off at them for doing that. I had never replaced that tape. I did buy a walkman, but only one that plays radio stations. That was really the time when everything was switching over to CD players and I have just never liked the bulkiness or unreliability of CD player walkmans.

I can tell you, though, that I MISS MY AMY GRANT CD! I have other CDs of hers, but I have to say that one was my absolute favorite.

Needless to say, this story came to mind to tell you because this weekend, my dear husband, whom I love more than life itself, downloaded the Amy Grant The Collection album onto my iPod Shuffle this weekend! I spent my time cooking in the kitchen singing those songs at the top of my lungs...I'm sure he's wondering what he got himself into.

Eventually, I will sing those songs at the top of my lungs on my walks, but when it's 70 degrees at 6 in the morning? Well, it just gets hotter as the day goes on.

So, do you have a favorite album? Do you have a favorite album that has been lost or stolen and you never replaced it but always wished you had? Have you ever had your car broken into and they stole your things?

The one you've all been waiting for

2009-07-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s time for the long awaited scavenger hunt results! I got many varied and fun responses to each item on the list, which was my plan all along. So, let’s get to it, shall we?

1. A picture of your favorite place in your town. I have to say that while Wrighty’s was abundant in number (with this pink house being my favorite. I SO want to live there!)

Lucy’s was just as homey:

Ida’s probably impressed me the most…although that will probably never be ME on the side of that rock there. Yikes!

2. A picture of your favorite place in your town with you in it: Lucy managed to get many of these entries into her blog posts as well. So, if you follow her like I do (and I would expect all of my readers support each other…it’s about teamwork around here!) You have probably already seen her picture, but just incase:
Lucy http://lucyslifeinsuburbworld.blogspot.com/2009/06/hot-heavy.html

Wrighty, well combine Wrighty and Lucy and you might just have me in my dreams! Reading a book, in a hammock, out in the shade in the yard!

3. An interesting item on line that is GREEN. I have to say that while Wrighty’s was the most predictable:

Lucy’s was the most creative:

http://www.squidoo.com/naturalhealthwellness

Ida had to have my vote of my favorite this time around with this picture:

Come on, don't be jealous, you know this is your favorite, too!

4. A blog post about this contest and/or this blog. I must say Lucy wins this one with out a doubt. http://lucyslifeinsuburbworld.blogspot.com/2009/06/lucy-goes-back-in-time-to-win.html
Although, honorable mention goes to Wrighty for putting this contest on her sidebar: http://wrightysreads.blogspot.com/

5. A picture of exactly 5 balloons. Wrighty tried to suck up with combining Eeyore with the balloons (though he does have 6)and of course sent a picture of exactly 5 balloons.

Ida found a great picture with hot air balloons:

But Lucy really went all out and found a balloon clown to take a picture of. That’s dedication people!

6. A picture of Eeyore doing something fun. I can’t pick a favorite! Wrighty and Ida both sent in such great pictures…then again, I’m biased. Does Eeyore really ever take a bad picture?

7. A list of 3 examples that can be used as a weekly blunder. Did you really think that I was going to list these? NOT! I’m using these ones. You’ll have to check in with Discussing Semantics to see what was submitted here. Yes, I carefully planned out this scavenger hunt to give me some topics on other blogs…I’m a bit selfserving that way J I can say that everyone sent some great examples!

8. A minimum of 2 pictures for kids quips Friday photo. Another self-serving item. But you will all enjoy these so much, you’ll just have to tune in to Kids Quips every Friday (and everyday inbetween) to check out the results of this item. Again, Wrighty, Lucy, and Ida all submitted for this one.

9. A favorite healthy recipe. I will say that Lucy and Wrighty both submitted for this one. I didn’t intend this to be self serving, but as I discovered that these recipes are LONG. Too long to include in a post this length already, so I have decided to make them part of my Monday Method posts on my weight loss blog. You’ll have to check in there!

10. A picture with the name Jenni/Jen/Jennifer in it. Well, I guess it’s true…Jenni’s are a bit of a sex object, I'm talking the Playboy Mansion and Hoochie Mama comes to mind. I mean, that’s what I get from these two from Wrighty:

Ida, however, redeemed me a bit

11. A picture of a puppy that you think is worthy of the name “Sirius”
While Ida submitted this cute little guy:

I think Wrighty is in love with puppies as much as I am. She submitted THREE puppies:

This last one would be the best candidate:

BLACK, I was looking for an adorable BLACK puppy (gotta read Harry Potter to get that one)

12. A floor plan of the perfect 3 bedroom apartment. Yes, I am jealous of these apartments that Wrighty and Lucy sent in. I mean, do you SEE this size of these kitchens!?!?

And look how absolutely ROOMY these are! Lucy gets bonus for finding one in the San Diego area. Wish we could afford it, but I may just go drool over it anyway:

13. A picture of a unique Coca-Cola item. Wrighty gets the award for abundance again, and some pretty awesome items…I so want that table in my dream kitchen

Lucy gets the award for the common but the uncommon story:

"My picture is of two glasses. Not necessarily the most unusual. I do have background that makes it a little quirky. My daughter has an odd obsession with glasses and she especially loves the small Coca-cola glasses. We found them one year at the fair. I grabbed them thinking they would be nice for juice. Maddie fell in love with them and I couldn't keep them clean, so the next year I grabbed as many as I could because I could not find the little ones anywhere. Then, the following year they had the other size and Maddie just thought they were sooo cool, so we had to grab them, now, you can get that size at other places But Maddie just thinks these glasses are cool and she loves to drink out of them, especially the little ones. I'm telling you, kids are odd and we do odd things for our children." (me thinks that one day Maddie may just have her own dream Coca Cola Kitchen...they have all sorts of nice dishware as well...I'm just saying! We have two full sets!)

Ida wins this one hands down. Wouldn’t you love to have those checks? I mean, I would totally frame those and hang them in my dream kitchen!

14. A picture of you shopping at WalMart/Target. Well, I must say that Wrighty is the only one to submit for this one. And, I don’t know that anyone could have topped it because THIS is hilarious and creative!

(If you can't read it, the quote says, "We usually shop in the comfort of our own home but the bloody computer crashed!")
Then she added these just for fun:

No really, you just might need to get out of the house more! I thought I had a problem breaking away from the whole computer and blogging thing; but I am dropping my membership to bloggers anonymous now and offering it to Wrighty…if you want it. No, really, this is now an intervention!

15. A picture of your favorite “family time” event. So many happy families!

Now, those look like some fabulous times! Family reunions, slumber parties, sending kids off to college, and so many more stories! Thank you all for sharing!

16. A story on your blog about your favorite childhood memory. What can I say? I love reading about your memories. These are great stories and you should all go check them ou!
Lucy's is here: http://lucyslifeinsuburbworld.blogspot.com/2009/06/lucy-goes-back-in-time-to-win.html
Wrighty shared here: http://wrightysreads.blogspot.com/2008/12/for-my-birthday-boy.html
http://wrightysreads.blogspot.com/2009/05/happy-birthday-to-my-littlest-boy.html

17. A list of 3 favorite sayings. Hm, which one is my favorite? I don’t know! There are some great ones here!
Lucy included hers on her blog posts: http://lucyslifeinsuburbworld.blogspot.com/2009/06/hot-heavy.html

"Its the Economy Stupid"

"This too shall pass"

"My Final Answer"

Wrighty:

Life is too short for drama and petty things, so kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly and forgive quickly.

Inside every older person is a younger person –
Wondering what the hell happened.

Life is not measured by the number of breathes we take but by the moments that take your breathe away.
- Maya Angelou

Be who you are and say what you feel,
Because those who mind don’t matter,
And those who matter don’t mind.
- Dr. Seuss

Sometimes we have to choose between what is right and what is easy.
- Albus Dumbledore

Powerful woman’s motto:
Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satan shudders and says…
“Oh shit… she’s awake!!”

Ida-Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.

Commitment is a line you must cross...it is the difference between dreaming and doing

Everyone is crazy except me and thee. Sometimes I wonder about thee, sometimes I wonder about me.

Be afraid, be very afraid.

We're going to have to get a bigger boat

18. A summary of your favorite book (bonus on your blog). Well, Everyone came through on this one, too. Books books everywhere. And now that I finished the one that was pulling me away, I have a few more to choose from!
Lucy-http://lucyslifeinsuburbworld.blogspot.com/2009/06/painted-house.html

Wrighty-http://wrightysreads.blogspot.com/2009/04/review-everyone-is-beautiful-by.html

Ida-Well, she put one of my favorites, I've read it several times, never straight through: THE BIBLE

19. A link to the strangest item you can buy on line Hm, I’m thinking that you all went out of your way. Lucy and Ida had the same resource, but different crazy items.

But I think Wrighty wins this one. Seriously! We might just want one of these around here…kidding! Totally kidding! But you know SOMEONE has said that. There’s a market somewhere for these, right?

Although, Lucy get’s honorable mention for thinking of me, oops I mean my BFF, on this one: http://www.uncommongoods.com/item/item.jsp?itemId=17865

Ida actually admitted that she owns one of these crazy chicken hats: http://www.disturbingauctions.com/view.php?item=96

I'm not sure what to think of that...I'll blame the grandkids for right now, though. Let's hope that a loving 4 year old bought it for their chicken loving grandparent...that just makes it totally sweet and not at all crazy!

20 A link to the strangest story you can find on line. Last, but certainly not least, are your weird stories. I gotta say, my favorite is the the cat. That’s just strange!
Wrighty-cat with 4 ears http://www.thatsweird.net/picture48.shtml
Lucy- http://www.thatsweird.net/picture46.shtml

Ida-Tree Man who grew 'roots' offered hope of new life by doctor http://www.thatsweird.net/news48.shtml

Okay, how was that for a super long post! I hope the three of you who participated enjoyed that because I sure did. Of course, I didn't have to do anything. Well, until all the items were sent in. Let me tell you, putting this post together was WAY more work than I had anticipated. But it was totally worth it!

You all did such an awesome job, worked so hard, got some major bonus point on the creativeness in your answers. Here's how I worked out the points you earned:

Ida, I gave you an even 100 because, heck, you may have been the last one to submit, but you weren't even planning to submit at all and managed to get some awesome things in there.

Lucy, I gave you 115. You put MAJOR work into this, HUGE thought, and I love that! You also seemed to really enjoy this! You were the first one to get a jump on things and I loved seeing your answers trickling in!

Wrighty, well, you were the only one to get all 20 items. That's worth something, right? You also went all out and gave me several options for many of the pictures items I asked for. Plus, the laughs! Oh how my sides hurt! I'm giving you 130 points!

The three of you are way ahead now, everyone else will have to be putting on their game faces now because, it is on! Scoreboard will be updated later to reflect everyone's scores!

I do hope you enjoyed yourselves; I know I did! Now, it's time for me to take a bit of a break. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Let's get started a bit, shall we?

2009-07-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

First, the long awaited answer to the close up picture:
That, my dear readers, is ME!!! NOT Michael Jackson, NOT some strange wig stand! I might just be slightly insulted...if I couldn't see the humor in things; which I CAN see the humor in things so I am completely NOT insulted. Don't ask why I chose that picture, it was all I had to work with at the time.

Next is the very tricky, very complicated Two Truths. I went back, I reviewed, and I decided it was a bit too tricky. Therefore, everyone who took a gander at answering, earned 10 points a piece.

Now, let me summarize. The dog DID once, and only once, catch a baby skunk. However, that was NOT the reason that my mom needed to throw cash at me and tell me to quickly leave the house. That was not the one (of many) occasions in which we were kicked out of school/work.

Yes, that really did happen. However, the cause of it was actually a skunk being chased under the house by a neighborhood cat. The spray quickly came in through the vents and I quickly made my way out the house...not quick enough.

Oh, and that one time that the dog was sprayed by that baby skunk she caught? Yeah, it was the beginning of the end for her health wise. Yes, every time after that whenever she got wet she did smell like wet skunk. It was really kind of sad. There was no getting rid of that.

So, Lucy, Wrighty, Ida, you all earned yourselves 10 points each for that.

Then there is my weekly blunder that, well, I blundered :) I forgot to hide the comments from all of you but I am going to give you all the benefit of the doubt and give you all the full 8 points a piece.

So, before my next post (which will summarize our awesome Scavenger Hunt) I have your points added for the week as follows:
Wrighty 26
Ida 21
Lucy 18
Tracy 8
Kim 8

Where I have been

2009-07-09T03:00:00.000-07:00

Around the block a few times, it feels like. I know, I know, I haven't put up the answers to the close up OR the two truths. I haven't even done a summary of the long awaited Scavenger Hunt results. All I can do is humbly bow my head and tell you I am sorry.

I can't even say that things have been crazy, they haven't. They've just been busy. I'm not over worked and stressed, just busy busy busy going here and there.

So this weekend there will be a break in contests and a full update in points, scavenger hunt, and fun. I figure we all need a mental break, right? No? Just me? Okay then, I need a mental break.

I may be back tonight, I'm not sure though. I will most definitely be back tomorrow, maybe with the answer to the close up or the two truths...maybe both. We'll see. I'm not making any promises because I'm just not sure.

Oh, and don't hate me that one of the reasons that I have been busy busy busy is that I can't put this book down:

No, really, I literally can't put it down. It's a sickness really. I actually choose to read this book rather than be updating my blog. The other day, I knew I was going to have some down time between work and weight watchers meeting, so I brought the book with me to read (normal, right?) What's NOT normal is that I was cursing every green light I passed on the way into work and on the way to the meeting. I actually WANTED red lights so I could just read two more sentences. That's all I want, just two more sentences!

I have read many (not all) of the books in this series. This one in particular has become my all time favorite book ever! And I'm not even done with it yet. I seriously can't put it down! I don't know why I haven't finished it yet. Maybe because I really only get to read for about 5 minutes at a time. Maybe it's because I am savoring every single word she has written on the pages. I don't know. But this story has me hooked! I would highly recommend it for any of you who like the whole murder mystery stuff...skip over the lovey dovey scenes if you don't like those (they are very rare) but Creation in Death by J.D.Robb (Nora Robert's pen name) it is on my must read list.

Do you have a favorite book? Have you read this book? Have you read any of the "in Death" books by J.D. Robb? What do you think of them?

Nope, Not talking about him

2009-07-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

Today, I am not talking anything about Micheal Jackson. Sure that's going to be the big news, but I think he has had his "death time fame". Way too much for a child molester should have had by now. Yes, I know I did mention his passing on that first day (along with Ed McMahon and Farrah Faucet) and I mentioned him as a great entertainer. I do still think he was a great entertainer; but I also do believe that he was a child molester and this whole hundreds-of-thousands-of-people-gathering-to-honor-him-circus is WAY TOO MUCH. So, moving on, let's get to my soap box (and no that wasn't it).

The other day I read a blog post in which the writer wrote this sentence:

"My sister was also totally smashed and I wondered if she shouldn't have been driving but she assured me and my husband that she was fine to do so. Which she was because I got home in one piece"

I'm sorry, WHAT? You rode, in a car, with a drunk driver, and because she was entirely lucky that she didn't kill you or anyone else on the street she must have been okay to drive?

IN ADDITION, you were SOBER and didn't take the keys from her? Didn't drive the both of you home? Didn't make her sleep it off on your couch?

The most irresponsible thing I think ANYONE can do is to let a person (friend/family/stranger) drive while they are "totally smashed". I don't care if you think you're going to piss them off. I don't care if they will never talk to you again. I don't care if they won't give you the keys.

Sit on the hood of the car, take the punches, and be responsible. If not for yourself, but for the rest of us on the street driving around responsibly. Why should my life be in danger because you took the word of someone who was drunk? That just pisses ME off!

What blows my mind is that this was just thrown in as part of the story, like it was nothing. Like hee-hee I got home safe so everything must be fine! What about the next time she is "fine to drive" and she runs into that couple sitting at the park bench enjoying a romantic evening out while their babysitter is home with their two babies? What about the next time when she is "fine to drive" and she smashes head on with that teenager who is on the way home from his graduation party who was more responsible than her to not drink and drive? What about next time?

No, she got LUCKY this time. She wasn't "fine to drive"; she was lucky to not kill anyone this time. If she HAD got into an accident and killed you, not getting you home safely, what would you be saying now? Oh, yeah...NOTHING! Your husband would be crying his eyes out, mourning is beloved, your family would never get over it, and you sister? Yeah, she'd be in prison for murder!

Do us all a favor next time your sister tells you she's "fine to drive"...TAKE HER KEYS AND DRIVE BOTH OF YOU TO YOUR HOUSE, let her sleep it off, and only give the keys back after you serve her a nice breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and bacon. m'kay? You may not care about your life, but I care about mine!

Two Truths 7.4.2009

2009-07-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

You would think that I would give you three statements that have to do with this great countries birthday celebrations. You know, being 4th of July and me a very proud American and all...but they aren't all about that. Couldn't think of them, actually. I'm sure sometime during the week something will come to me; but until then let's look at this week's three statements and your job will be to tell me which one is false.

1. One time in my high school years (I think I was a Junior or Senior; I KNOW I was driving) my mom let the dog out in the morning without looking (note: ALWAYS LOOK!) and missed the baby skunk walking right past the back door. Well, our dog who caught NOTHING her entire life (no really, used to run the OPPOSITE way to let the cats get out of the yard before running towards them) ran out, saw the skunk and caught it (probably before she knew what to do having never in her 10+ years of life thus far). Well, that baby skunk let loose with all that stink, that now very smelly dog dropped said skunk and came running INSIDE THE HOUSE (quick thinking mom couldn't stop her fast enough). However, quick thinking mom DID think fast enough to run to me, tossing money at me, and told me get your keys, go get breakfast at McDonald's or something, and GET OUT OF HERE before it gets on you!

2. Needless to say, after the money was thrown at me, I raced to get my book bag, sprinted to the door, and peeled away from that stinky house as fast as I could! However, if was unfortunately too late. When I got to school I stank bad! My friends all made it very clear to me. So, I went to the office and called my mom to excuse me from school; but when I called her work, they told me that she wasn't there. Why? SHE had been sent home from work because she stank! No, really! Her boss told her to go home because she was making the office stink (okay, I don't know the exact words because I wasn't there, but that was the gist).

3. This dog, whom we all loved and adored, was never the same after that spraying. Nope. She got sick and that's really when she began to slow WAY down. Worst of all? EVERY time that she took a bath or got wet from that day on she would smell like skunk. That stuff just steeped into her. It was kind of sad. However, she did live for many years after that incident and it never really stopped her from chasing any more skunks...she was just better at getting away from them.

Okay, which of these statements (1, 2, or 3) is false? I made it very tricky this time as it is one full story. Hee hee...I'm a bit evil that way :)

5 points for the correct answer
3 points for participating
and don't forget the scavenger hunt is due Monday night! See you all then!

Friday Close Up #24

2009-07-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

This weeks picture...don't know how easy it's going to be. But, it will be fun trying it out! So, what does this look like to you?
5 point for a correct answer
3 points for participating
And some of you really need to work on the humor parts or get going on your Scavenger hunt! There are a couple people who are done or close to being done. I'm just saying!

Three Day Weekend and Updates!

2009-07-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's a three day weekend after today's work day. I can't wait! For you playing along, it's also the countdown to the Savenger Hunt. I've gotten some great entries so far, want to see?

Favorite Saying:

Sometimes we have to choose between what is right and what is easy.- Albus Dumbledore

Now this is an apartment I wouldn't mind having...there's even a STORAGE CLOSET on the BALCONY!!! Sign me up!

Doing your favorite thing:

Baloons!

Oh wait, bonus! Eeyore AND balloons!

I am LOVING these entries, stories, links, and all these things. I can't wait to share everything with you next week! Only a few more days...

Wacky Wednesday-How about a joke?

2009-07-01T06:24:00.000-07:00

I got this in my email the other day and I couldn't pass it up. Going by the name Jenni, growing up at a time when the movie Forrest Gump came out and was VERY popular, do you know how many time's I have heard, "Me and Jenny is like peas and carrots."? VERY often. I don't hate it; it's only said out of love and it's kind of funny when someone gets the perfect intonation. Anyway, onto the joke:

FORREST GUMP GOES TO HEAVEN
The day finally arrived. Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven.
He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.

St. Peter said, 'Well, Forrest, it is certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have to pass it before you can get into Heaven.'

Forrest responds, 'It sure is good to be here, St. Peter, sir. But nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. I sure hope that the test ain't too hard. Life was a big enough test as it was.'

St. Peter continued, 'Yes, I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions.

First:
What two days of the week begin with the letter T?

Second:
How many seconds are there in a year?

Third:
What is God's first name?'

Forrest leaves to think the questions over. He returns the next day and sees St. Peter, who waves him up, and says, 'Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers.'

Forrest replied, 'Well, the first one -- which two days in the week begins with the letter 'T'? Shucks, that one is easy. That would be Today and Tomorrow.'

The Saint's eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, 'Forrest, that is not what I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I did not specify, so I will give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?' asked St. Peter.

'How many seconds in a year? Now that one is harder,' replied Forrest, 'but I thunk and thunk about that, and I guess the only answer can be twelve.'

Astounded, St. Peter said, 'Twelve? Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?'

Forrest replied, 'Shucks, there's got to be twelve: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd... '

'Hold it,' interrupts St. Peter. 'I see where you are going with this, and I see your point, though that was not quite what I had in mind....but I will have to give you credit for that one, too. Let us go on with the third and final question. Can you tell me God's first name'?

'Sure,' Forrest replied, 'it's Andy.'

'Andy?' exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St Peter.
'Ok, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?'

'Shucks, that was the easiest one of all,' Forrest replied. 'I learnt it from the song,
ANDY WALKS WITH ME,
ANDY TALKS WITH ME,
ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN.'

St. Peter opened the Pearly Gates, and said: 'Run, Forrest, run.'

We Share EVERYTHING!!!

2009-06-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

There is a children's author who is my all time favorite. There isn't a book he's written that I don't like. What I love about many of his books is that there is a hidden message to adults; I sometimes wonder if the hidden message just goes over their heads. Robert Munsch has a way with telling a story that is engaging, fun, and spot on to children's experiences.

How does an author as great as this get put onto my Soapbox post? Oh, nothing he has done and EVERYTHING that educated preschool teachers have done. I know, you aren't all preschool teachers, but I am, it's my blog, and this is my rant today.

Let me first give you a summary of this book pictured here today: We Share Everything by Robert Munsch is hilarious! Okay, so it's a Kindergarten teacher, but it fits preschool classrooms just as well, maybe even better. These two little ones are constantly fighting over things: blocks, markers, etc... The overly cheerful, lovely, teacher comes dancing around them and sings, "In kindergarten we share everything!" Eventually, the children grasp this concept...by sharing their shoes...then their socks...then their shirts, pants, underwear, you get the idea.

Funny right? But to a child's mind, "Well, of course they shared their clothes, we share everything!" To a preschool teacher's mind like mine, "I would expect nothing less from children who are forced to share everything and not be allowed to take ownership of anything in their own classroom."

Oh let me explain before you get all mad. First, what many teachers forget is that this isn't the teacher's classroom; this is the children's classroom. Sure, the teacher decorates it, arranged the items, provides the learning opportunities for the children; however she should be doing so in such a manner that is most beneficial to the children in her classroom environment, not what is most beneficial to her.

Now, let's move on to what really "tans my hide": teachers who tell the children to share but don't use it correctly or fairly. I have a rule, a child gets to use something "until he's done". Want me to explain? Of course you do, that's why you're still reading this.

Okay, two scenarios:

scenario one: I have seen, too many times to count, a child riding a tricycle around the yard, building a tower in the blocks, are rocking a baby in housekeeping get up to go to the bathroom. Another child comes over and takes the bike, knocks the tower over and begins building, or wakes that babydoll up and changes her clothes while the teacher watches (knowing that the first child went to the bathroom). When the child gets back from the bathroom and wants his bike/blocks/baby back, he is told, "Well, you got off/walked away so now it's his turn."

WHAT?!?! Because I had to go to the toilet I lost what I was working on and exploring with? Well, next time, I just won't leave that item!

Let me tell you right now, it is completely UNFAIR for a child to take care of a necessary task (like going to the bathroom) and not be able to come back to the same thing they were doing. That child wasn't done! What makes a scenario like this worse is when it's not because he was going to the bathroom but because the TEACHER asked him to come help her with something and then doesn't defend him at all!

The only thing that teaches the children is to be possessive and controlling over the items they are using.

scenario two a child is playing quietly in the blocks and has built a huge tower. He is currently trying to figure out a way to make it taller and only has 5 blocks left. A second child comes up and wants to now play with the blocks. Instead of having the second child ask if he can help figure this out, instead of asking the first child to let the other child know when he was done so he could have a turn, the teacher tells him, "You need to share the blocks and give him some. You have all of them and you need to give him some."

Totally not respecting the fact that this child is in the middle of a very important process (yes, to an adult, it doesn't seem important in the scheme of things; however there is a very important process going on in the brain here and you have just interrupted it). Besides that interrupting the process thing, if that child hadn't come up and wanted the blocks, the first child would have been allowed to complete his task. How unfair is that? Because someone else wanted blocks, I can't complete what I was doing. Know what I would think if I were that first child? "That stupid kid, he ruined it for me...he's always interrupting me."

Sharing doesn't mean that I have to give up something to you right now. Sharing means we figure out a way to either 1. complete a task together or 2. allow each child to get what they need out of an object before passing it on.

Sometimes, sharing isn't possible. Sometimes, sharing is necessary. Sometimes, sharing only ends up in one child being slighted. All the time, sharing is used WAY TOO MUCH in the preschool classrooms when it shouldn't be used. Do we need to teach children to take turns? Yes. But we also need to teach children to wait for their turn, be respectful of others, and that their ideas/needs/process is just as important as the others.

This may seem like a stretch to some of you. I know someone out there is going to say, "But Jenni, they need to learn to share things." To which I am going to reply, "But blog reader, I want you to share your wedding ring with me, your car, oh, and that money you are making, some of that needs to go to me as well."

Blocks, babydolls, and bikes are children's money, cars, and wedding rings. They need to have the power to choose when to share. When we trust them and give them the language used in sharing, they are much better at putting it into practice, much better than when we force it.
he would get to play with it until he were done except the other child wanted it

Count down to the Scavenger Hunt

2009-06-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

Are you all ready? I have answers from a few people, but I am expecting to have a few more rolling in this week...right? right? Don't tell me that only less than a handful of you will be participating? What good will that do? Then you'll never catch up with them! Unless I come up with another clever little game. Oh, I'm sure it's there. I just have to find it.

Anyway, on to this weeks close up. I have two words for everyone but Lucy, ummmm, no! (that's two words if you count ummmm as a word, and since it's my blog, I do):
Yes folks, that is my bathroom sink as sparkly and shiny as I can make a sink as old and worn as mine is. If you'll recall I had Thursday off from work and I spent part of that day scrubbing the bathroom. Just be glad that I didn't make the close up picture of my toilet, that's all I'm saying. So, congratulations to Lucy who pegged it right on the head.

We had a bit of a debacle over at this weeks blunder as Lucy, Wrighty, Ida, and Kim found out. I guess this weeks games could be labeled, "The Week of One Winner Each."

I can say that because, for the last of this week's games, Two Truths, there was, again, only one with the correct answer. That person would be Wrighty.

Here's how it breaks down:
1. TRUE- I must start this by apologizing to Lucy for the headache I caused. I really didn't mean to hurt your brain, take an extra point to take the edge off. I don't call myself a preschool teacher except when discussing work specifically. I am a teacher of people. I love to teach people. I love sharing my knowledge. I especially love helping others find the answers to things (even when I know the answers). It's much more exciting to take someone step by step through a process and watch them catch on than to just do it for them. Don't you think? I guess you could say that my favorite saying is, "Give a man a fish and he eats for a day; teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime." I truly believe that. That year that I spent with every age group was one of my favorite years yet.

3. TRUE- Yes, I am giving these out of order. It's always fun to hear the false last, isn't it? Okay, when I left Mindy she did complain that she wouldn't have me around to get brain wrinkles on a daily basis. Although, I practically talk to her everyday now, but it's rarely about brain wrinkles and usually about her kids and step kids (which is another post to come very soon).

2. FALSE- I knew I would trick many of you with this one. No, I was actually a HORRIBLE high school student. So bad that I actually started college on probation, believe it or not. My grades leaving high school were so bad that they were probably a major reason that I didn't get into some of the colleges I applied for. I think the one thing that saved me were my SAT scores. When I sat down with my college advisor (one assigned to those students who were on probation) the first thing she looked at was my SAT scores and said, "Well, that's not the reason you're on probation at all. It must be your grades."

So, Wrighty, I'm sorry to disappoint you and tell you that I did not graduate Magna Cum Laude, but I didn't slack off in college. I came pretty close to doing so, but that wasn't what was most important to me. Oh, going to classes and NOT slacking off like I did in high school was very important to me. My major courses I didn't slack off on at all. The electives I had to take did get my minimal effort, but that was mainly because I was working a part time job for me, working a part time work study job, going to classes, and getting my homework done all at once. I don't begrudge my efforts and I did work hard for that diploma.

I actually can say that, had I put a bit more effort into my high school years, I may have actually gotten that honor in graduating with honors. Those history and world civ classes did me in bad; I'm sure if I paid attention in high school and made an effort to remember those silly dates and stuff I would have been much better. Oh, remind me to tell you how I actually passed World Civ in college one day...it's a classic story!

Oh, and now that I've given most of the points out, let's go to that Facebook quiz that Lucy and Ida went over and took. I'm awarding them 1 point for every answer they got correct. Good job stalkers!

Maybe I'll review the answers with you at a later date...just not today. This post is already long enough, don't you think? Oh, and let me add that Ida, that comment on yesterdays post about the news catching the story of my grandmother jumping up and down? Bravo! That got you some 3 extra points!

So, points this week go like this:
Lucy 20
Wrighty 19
Ida 19
Kim 3

Monday Memories-Wedding Rings

2009-06-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

After seeing everyone's answers on the "how well do you know me" quiz on facebook, I realized there is a story that many of you don't know. I guess I have neglected to tell it for some reason.

Monday Memories is the perfect place to tell it. See, when my husband had asked me to marry him, he had my engagement ring and wedding band already to go. No, we didn't do what couples today do and "shop" for a ring together. He knows me. He knows my taste. He picked the perfect ring for me. Plain, simple, solitary diamond for the engagement ring; and the wedding band is a simple gold band.

Well, our engagement period was around the time of the popularity of the Lord of the Rings movies. He kept half joking about getting the Lord of the Rings ring as his wedding band. I knew that it was more than half joking, but he would also accept any ring I would buy him.

I secretly set out to buy him this ring. There were a few wrenched in the plan. His finger was literally one size bigger than the rings he had seen online. The other wrench was that no matter where I went, I couldn't find a store that carried them.

I went to specialty stores, regular stores, hole-in-the-wall stores. I couldn't find the ring anywhere, no less in his size.

I was very hesitant to purchase the ring on line because you never really know what you are going to get...if you're going to get it at all. Especially in this line of purchase (movie replicas) there are so many sites that seem legitimate and aren't; and many times, these hobby sites are actually run out of persons bedroom office and you give them your credit card number and they give that same number to so many other sites to purchase their own things (if you know what I mean).

I searched for hours to find sites that had the ring IN HIS SIZE! That was the most important, right? That's also where I began getting a bit suspicious. Why did the reputable sites NOT have the ring in his size, but the not-so-reputable places did?

I found three sites that had the ring in his size. One was way more in price than the reputable sites...um NO! I was already paying more than I was planning on paying for a man's wedding band. Oh, he's worth every dime; but come on, I work in preschools!

One site was WAY lower than everyone. I mean, while most sites were selling this ring around the $500 range, this particular site was selling it for $75. Um, a little fishy? Yeah, I quickly got off that site for fear of getting a few viruses as well as being scammed.

The final site was in the same price range as the reputable sites (a bit more, but well within the range). I figured the larger size was what accounted it for being a bit more expensive; but it was still reasonable.

I held my breath, put in my credit card number, put in my shipping address, and pressed checkout.

It came in the mail a week later. I had it delivered to my work. It came in an awesome collectors box. I was so excited, I took it to show my MIL on the way home from work that night (before he got there).

Because of the price of the ring, in addition to the wedding coming up, I decided that this ring would have to be a combination of wedding ring and Christmas present. But I couldn't just give him the ring, could I? I had to come up with a clever little plan!

I found a bookmark that had a fake, cheap, junky ring on the tassel. I swapped out the wedding ring on the bookmark and put the bookmark ring in the ring box. I made sure he opened up the ring box first.

The look on his face was priceless. As he opened it, I told him that I was unable to get it in the size for his finger, but I figured it would be fun to have anyway. He tried not to look disappointed (I thank him for that) and he jokingly put the ring on the tip of his finger. He was excited to at least have an official replica.

Hm, you mean I could have bought him that $75 knock off and he probably would never have known the difference? Eh, I'm not that mean!

So then he opened up the bookmark. It took him a bit to realize that the ring on the bookmark was the actual ring. As a matter of fact, I think he even made a comment that this ring would fit him better than the "real one". Then I had to let him in on the secret.

He was so happy!

Many people tried to warn me away from getting him this ring. You know, the evil powers and all. But I figured, even if I wanted to believe that an object could hold evil powers, it was going to be BLESSED in a CHURCH at our WEDDING, no evil power could hold on through all that.

I'm glad that I was able to get that for him. And no, there is no evilness that has been brought into our marriage from it. It was a perfect ring for him.

Although, I could see why so many of you thought that I would have a greek engraved ring for him...after all, we are Greek Orthodox.

How to make an old lady jump up and down

2009-06-28T08:42:00.001-07:00

If you follow me on facebook you may already know this answer. I'm going to tell you even if you already know the answer because I can't believe how excited she is.

Yesterday I took my grandmother to the movies. We went to see Proposal with Sandra Bullock. Well, not having a television in my house has it's disadvantages. Number one up there is that I don't get to see movie previews. Then again, I don't see movie previews so there is no desire to have to go see any particular movie. So, it really is a plus.

Well, last Tuesday when I was there I mentioned that I had nothing to do on Saturday and would she like to go see a movie with me. She practically jumped out of her seat and said, "Ooh, yes! I've wanted to see the Proposal!" I could tell then that she was very excited.

So, yesterday I went and picked her up and we enjoyed a very funny movie. No, seriously HILARIOUS! It was a laugh out loud kind of movie. I enjoyed it! My prudish ways also enjoyed the fact that, although there was a scene of naked bodies touching, it was totally hilarious circumstances and not two people having sex. No sex in this movie! A major bonus for me!

When we were back at her place enjoying ham and cheese sandwiches, she said, "Oh, that was the best movie I have seen in a very long time. I REALLY enjoyed that."

Then we sat around and talked for a couple hours. Later, I mentioned that my husband and I have this coming Friday off and we were thinking about going to Sea World. I then asked her if she would like to join us.

Well, I thought she was excited about the movie. Oh no! Kid in a candy store is the impression that first came to my mind. She was literally bouncing up and down in her seat. I don't think she could have smiled any more than she was at that point. She was so very very excited!

How excited? Well, she called my mother to tell her. My aunt made a comment about it to me. And I am guessing at this point the entire universe knows about it. She is so very excited.

I seriously thought that she would enjoy it; but pee-in-your-pants-excited like she is? It feels good to make her that happy. We go to Sea World often and I enjoy every visit. A few years ago we went and my goddaughter was picked to be the one to meet Shamu. That was so exciting it literally brought tears to my eyes (and still does every time I go to the show and see a child meeting Shamu from the memories of it...and I'm NOT a crier).

I think this trip is going to be just as memorable; maybe even more so.

Now if I can just convince her to bring her wheelchair. She thinks she can walk the whole thing. Oh, I don't doubt she can, she's that strong of a person. But it will be much more enjoyable for her if she would take the wheelchair.

Two Truths Saturday 6.27.09

2009-06-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are again on another Saturday looking forward to hear more wacky stories that I can come up with to try and trick you, otherwise known as Two Truths Saturday. For those of you who are new here, let me explain:

Below I will list 3 different statements (long or short, depending on my mood really). You're challenge is to determine which of these statements is false (there will be one and only one). Leave a comment with your guess and I will award points at the rate of 5 points for a correct answer, 3 points for participating, and as many other points as I see fit (humor tends to get my soft spot here).

So, ready?

1. I have a strong desire to teach. I love imparting information on others and, even more importantly, guiding people in a way in which they learn the information without me necessarily forcing it down their throats (a true sign of a teacher). Anyway, in my college years, I actually had a year in which I was involved in teaching children from 0 all the way through high school. How? Well, I worked at a child development center with infants and toddlers. On Sundays I ran a Church nursery with preschoolers. I also was tutoring two boys in elementary school. I ran camps for Junior High and High School kids. AND I was also part of a group of people who ran a Church Youth Group.

2. Let's stay in college years, shall we? I was always an A/B student all through high school. I was actually placed on the honor role at enrollment in the college. When I went away to college, I did the typical oh-no-college-is-so-hard-and-my-GPA-has-now-dropped and was close to being kicked out of the honors program. Although it is typical for that to happen to new college students, I had been "to smart" to allow that to happen. I got cocky and slacked off a bit. I learned my lesson the hard way and still managed to graduate Magnum Cum Laud

3. My friend Mindy somehow moved into my apartment when I was in college (that's a story in itself). I used to come home at night and give her some odd fact like polar bears' skin is actually black; she would say, "Ooh, I just learned something new, you gave me another brain wrinkle." She loved that so much that when I told her I was moving back to San Diego her first comment to me was "But where will I get brain wrinkles from?"

Okay, there you go, let's have your guesses. Also don't forget to go over here for the close up picture and the scavenger hunt is over here!

Friday Close Up #23

2009-06-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

How are all of you doing this week? Just want to take a second to say that I, like all of you, are in somewhat of a state of semi-shock. There are people who you expect, or at least aren't surprised, when you hear that they have passed. Ed McMahon passing, while he will be missed, he was very old and it was definitely his time.

A few years ago my husband and I saw him at a one-man show. Even then he looked good, but he definitely looked frail.

Farrah Fawcet, while not very old, had been battling cancer. She, too, will be missed and we comfort ourselves knowing that she is now in a place where she knows no pain. Sad? Yes.

But then you hear about Michael Jackson passing away suddenly. No matter what you think of the man, he has a significant impact on everyone in the world. No one expected to turn on the radio in for your trip home from work and hear the words, "Michael Jackson has died this afternoon."

I was shocked when I heard the news. Yes, he had some very significant struggles in this life, especially the last many years. However, none of those struggles really pointed to an early death. No, we all will be mourning for him. It will be the topic of conversation for at least the weekend, if not the next week. A true shocker!

Now, onto the close up:

This weeks picture may seem easy at first glance, but be more specific, will ya?
5 points for a correct answer
3 points for participating
And don't forget we've added a week, but don't wait for the last minute, on the scavenger hunt. There's a possible more than 100 points available! Let me tell you, someone is already up to at least half! I know others are waiting to turn them in all at once. Hope you are enjoying it!

Thursday to catch up!

2009-06-25T13:55:00.001-07:00

Yep, I stayed in bed until about 10 today. Oh, I wasn't sleeping all that time, just relaxing, playing games, reading a book, NOT thinking about work things.

Then I got up and decided what to make myself for breakfast and looked at my list of recipes that I have yet to try. German Spatzel popped out at me.

Let me tell you...YUM!

My initial plan was to begin it and make it for dinner tonight. Well, I had to try it out and make sure that it was something my husband would enjoy. Oh, I think he will.

I honestly don't know if it turned out how it is supposed to. I've never had this before. But it looked really simple: flour, eggs, water, salt, toss in boiling water, brown in a pan with melted butter.

The picture that I saw with this recipe was kind of difficult to make out what it is supposed to look like, but I am thinking it can't have any specific shape. Have any of you made spatzel before? Anyone know what it's "supposed" to look like?

What? You want to know how I managed to have today off? Well, I turned to my supervisor about three-quarters of the way through our meeting yesterday after being way too frustrated and annoyed (more than I should have been) and made an impromptu decision in my mind. I turned to her and said, "Can I have tomorrow off?"

She quickly and sarcastically said, "No!" Then looked at me and said, "Are you serious? Yeah, no problem."

Earlier in the day during a break she asked me how I was doing, she thought I looked tired and worn out; that's why I think she was quick to agree to give me a day off when asked. Besides that she is great and really does her best to make sure all of us workaholics don't hit our breaking points.

I was ready to hit breaking point. I think I might have had I not taken today off. Case in point, I mean did you all read that horribly boring post yesterday? No link because I want to just pretend that I didn't write that. yeah, that was a ghost writer, that's it!

Anyway, I am back on track today. Loving life right now! Relishing the thought that I had all of today off and will most likely leave work about 12 tomorrow to come home. Oh, I will have to bring work home with me again; but this will be a bit of fun work after a rest like this.

What do you do to decompress when the stress level gets to you?

I don't even know what day it is anymore

2009-06-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's been so crazy around these parts that I have lost all track of time. So point are going up and it's what day? Wednesday? Oh, another wacky wednesday, or a wacky week that's for sure!

Yes, you were all correct (those that answered) in guessing that this was fireworks. I KNEW I made it too easy. That's okay. These are from Sea World's Summer Nights fireworks. I was trying out a feature on my camera that is called "Fireworks". No seriously! There is an exciting feature on my camera that is specifically to be used for fireworks. It makes sure to leave the shutter open longer to get the full effect. That's just awesome!

Now onto the Two Truth's:

1. FALSE-I have never, as Wrighty appropriately discerned, sold MaryKay. Really? Does that sound like me at all? If so, go check out my facebook page where there is a quiz I took that said I am 0% girly! So Lucy, you also got a lucky flip of the coin.

I DID however, sell PartyLight candles. I am a horrible salesperson, but I love candles. I pretty much sold candles for the free candles. I also got some great deals on their clearance items and I love them! They dropped me because I wasn't having enough parties. Oh well!

2. TRUE-I did cashier at Target for about a year at one point. I would leave the center, go to Target and cashier, and pretty much had no life between work and, well, work. I worked weekends. Did it help? Heck yeah! It helped me spend lots of money at Target. Although, I did learn very many secrets about shopping at Target. My favorite one? I ALWAYS walk the outside isles rather than the main isle. They keep all the good clearance things on the outside isles. I also never buy anything at regular price (other than household cleaning products, but even those you can find on clearance). See a picture frame I like? Eventually it will go on clearance. I get computer games for $2 when they are normally $10 with this same practice. There is nothing I need so much that I can't wait for it to go on clearance.

3. TRUE-Yes, I did used to take pictures at the portrait studios in WalMart. Did you know that those studios are actually NOT run by WalMart? So, when you go there and get mad at them, don't tell the WalMart manager, nothing will get done. Ask the photographer to give you the number to her supervisor. They are never there and are only reachable by voicemail. They will call you back, you will have to leave a message, and they will probably just call the photographer and say, "Don't do that again" and they will still do that again.

Oh, I enjoyed my time working there. Mostly because it was only for 2 hours after my center hours (I worked 5-7 there). The studios closed at 7. I never go out of there after 7:30, except for holiday hours which were until 8 week nights. Weekends were very easy as well.

I was awesome at my job. There were only two of us; the other girl was full time, I was part time. They closed us down because the company went through some bankruptcy deals and had to close their lowest producing studios. Well, the one I worked at was it! Get this, I only worked about 10% of the time there, but I made more money than she did in sales (So much for not being a good salesperson). Actually, it's easy if you take good pictures and are friendly. I had people who would wait until I was there. They would make sure to get there and schedule appointments only with me because they didn't like her. Oh, she took good pictures, she just sucked at personal skills. Plus, I think my experience with young children allowed me to have a bit more respect for the little ones and they parents loved how patient I was with the children. I had one client that had a special needs daughter and would only come to me. I very much enjoyed that job...however it cost me more than I made.

So, when they decided to close that studio and let the poor performing person go (not me), they did offer to transfer me to another location because I was so successful. I declined because of the cost to me (they didn't take enough out in taxes and I ended up owing over $1000 at the end of the year because of it; the first time we filed taxes jointly) plus I wanted to spend more time with my husband, plus the place they were going to send me to was not convenient. This studio was literally on my way home from work. I'd drive home, halfway there, I'd stop for 2 hours to take pictures, then head the rest of the way home. It was great!

Okay, today's post seems kind of blah, doesn't it? I'm sorry. I am thinking that tomorrow I may be back with a humdinger of a post! Right now, I am just trying to play catch up with my life.

Oh, don't forget about the scavenger hunt! I know this is a busy time for everyone and, although answers are rolling in, I am going to take a bit of pressure off you all and let you know that I am going to close the scavenger hunt on July 5th rather than July 28th. So, you have an extra week! It's a busy time for my business and, from reading all your blogs, it seems that it's a busy time for everyone. Hope that extra week helps you all out!

Also remember, you don't have to turn everything in all at once, you can turn in 1 at a time if you like, or 5 at a time, or any number really!

Points as they scored this week:
Ida 16
Lucy 16
Cairo Typ0 11
Wrighty 16

2009-06-21T21:06:00.001-07:00

What's that? You want more points? Okay! Friend me on facebook then take the "how well do you know Jennifer Ryan" quiz! I'm just saying!

http://www.faceboook.com/mynenni

Who else, but Fathers?

2009-06-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, for all those fathers out there (but especially mine) here are some funny messages:

No, I'm not really gay, but I think it's funny! No? Okay, how about this one:

Funny enough yet? Okay, okay, how about this:

Yeah, that's more like it! That's just FUNNY! One more:

Now THAT is funny!

Okay, now for my personal father's day message:
On a very serious note, there is one thing, if you haven't gathered yet, about me that I think everyone should know: My dad is my hero. There is no man like him in the world.

He's a man who has always put his wife and children before anything and would do absolutely anything for us. I know I've mentioned before that some of my best memories from my childhood involve my day.

I am who I am today because of my dad. The math, logical, love to fix and build things, parts of me are 100% from him. I spent hours in the garage with him as a child. Why? Because I loved to be with him. I still do (except for the fact that he lives too far away now).

He is a man who has worked hard to put us all through private school all the way through college. He is a hard worker and does amazing things at his job. He worked on ships his entire adult life until about 4 or 5 years ago when they decided that it was time for my mom to retire and for them both to be closer to their granddaughters. Yep, that great man moved to Colorado and found a job out there to give my mom more years of being home able to do what she loves to do best: PLAY!

No, there are no shipyards in Colorado...there are airplanes, though! That's something, isn't it?

Oh, my mom didn't drag him out there, but I think it's an amazing thing that my father will still do anything to make my mom happy. I think it's a sweet love story that so many people don't get. (I can't say I don't have it because my husband would do the same for me if it's what I wanted).

He's a fabulous father and an amazing grandfather, too. He loves to play, play, play! He never missed a recital. And I can't begin to say enough. So, daddy, even though I can't be there to celebrate this day with you, I am thinking of you!

Let's talk about another great father that I know and love...my husband! Yes, he's a father (if you didn't know). No, I'm not a mother, but I still get a "happy mother's day" from my stepson who is an amazing man. I give great credit to my husband for the fabulous man he has raised.

See, I had an advantage while dating him: I got to find out how great a father he would be before we ever had kids...and I had full proof in front of me.

When my stepson calls or comes over my husband's eyes light up like a kid at Christmas. Seriously! He loves his son, would do anything for his son, and I am lucky to have both of them in my life.

So, I hope you all have fabulous Father's Days and, even if you don't have a dad, I'm sure there is a dad you know that you can celebrate this day for...right?

Two Truth's 6.20.09

2009-06-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for this week's tales? Two of them are true, one is false. Only I know the truth...until Monday that is.

1. In my times of I-don't-make-enough-money, which working in preschool is ALL the time, but there were times when it was much worse than it is today, I decided to sell MaryKay, which I left because, well let's face it, I am no salesman and I SUCKED at selling things.

2. In those same times of I-don't-make-enough-money, but not simultaneous as the MaryKay days, I was a cashier at Target, I left there to become a weekend nanny.

3. Again, let's look at those days of I-don't-make-enough-money, (hey, it was a very LONG period of time...I'm a preschool teacher), I was a photographer at the portrait studios in WalMart. The only reason I left there was because they closed the store studio I was working in.

So, which is the false statement? Answer in the comments and I'll let you know Monday evening.

5 points for a correct answer
3 points for participating
yadda, yadda, yadda...

Oh, and don't forget about yesterday's close up (only 2 of you have gandered a guess), and the scavenger hunt (there's only one week left). Well, back to work.

Close Up #22

2009-06-19T03:00:00.001-07:00

I hope I didn't make this too easy, but here's your picture this week:

Points given out as follows:

5 points for a correct answer

3 points for participating

and more as I see fit

Oh, don't forget to check out our scavenger hunt!

2009-06-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Found this new website that keeps you up to date of news/emergencies/information of areas of people you want to keep in touch with. I read it described as "facebook multiplied" and it really seems like it is! They are only allowing a limited number of people right now to download it, but you should try it out! here's the link: http://www.vine.net

Scavenger Hunt

2009-06-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

While driving to work the other day, I was thinking of a fun task that could get oh-so-many-points to all of you. A task that would basically put it all into your hands into how many points you earn. A task that would be fun! A task that could possibly, if you so choose, involve your family and friends.

What do you think?

Of course, a task like this will have to be available for at least a week. It will also have to be very much worth your while. And MOST important of all, it MUST be fun and creative, right?

Are you ready? I figured (as you can ascertain by the title of this post) a scavenger hunt would be perfect!

For every item on the list you will earn 5 points. The first person to get the entire list completed will earn bonus points. The second person completed will get bonus points as well...just not as many as the first place person. I'm sure there will be bonus points for AT LEAST the first 5 people to complete the entries, but it will depend on the number of participants. Of course, there will also be participation points.

Other points will be awarded for creativity, humor, and what I think deserves some bonus points. There may also, I haven't completely figured that part out yet, be an opportunity for you all to distribute some points to each other as well.

What do you think? Sound like fun? Okay, here's how it works (other than the points):
You can email me each item individually OR you can email me the entire list as a whole OR anything in between (5 things in one email, 1 thing in the next email, 2 things in the next email, etc...). Get it?

Submissions MUST be through email, not comments. Email address is linked on the sidebar, but it's also: thepreschooltest at gmail dot com

Okay, the list:

A picture of your favorite place in your town
A picture of your favorite place in your town with you in it
An interesting item on line that is GREEN
A blog post about this contest and/or this blog (just send the link, not the entire post-if you don't blog, an email to others will be just fine)
A picture of exactly 5 balloons
A picture of Eeyore doing something fun
A list of 3 examples that can be used as a weekly blunder
A minimum of 2 pictures for kids quips Friday photos
A favorite healthy recipe
A picture with the name Jenni/Jen/Jennifer in it
A picture of a puppy that you think is worthy of the name "Sirius"
A floor plan of the perfect 3 bedroom apartment
A picture of a unique Coca-Cola item (examples but NOT LIMITED TO: cup, dishes, blanket, sign, ornament, etc...)
A picture of you shopping at WalMart/Target
A picture of your favorite "family time" event
A story on your blog about your favorite childhood memory (again, if you don't blog an email to others will suffice and I only need the link of the blog and a copy of the email)
A list of 3 favorite sayings
A summary of your favorite book (bonus if it's on your blog)
A link to the strangest item you can buy on line
A link to the strangest story you can find on line

Okay, that's 20 items. I think that's enough, don't you?

Let's say the contest will end on June 28th at 6 pm Pacific Standard Time.

Any questions you can leave in the comments below, others may have the same questions. I'll answer them in the comments as well!

Now go have fun!
Oh, and if you're new to this scoreboard game you are welcome to join in. After all, you can earn more than 100 points! That would put you well up in the running! Join in the fun!