Oh the weather outside is delightful, but it soon will turn to frightful

Before the ride, we're getting ready for some wonderful weather and looking forward to our ride.




I think that's how the song goes... maybe not. I like this version better. Today was SO nice outside. Can I just say that again? Today was SOOOOO nice outside (I added extra O's because it was just that nice). High was in the upper 60's. Crazy, but wonderfully welcomed weather.

This afternoon I met a good friend, Kat, and a new friend, Rae, and we rode around Lake Hefner for about an hour. What a beautiful day to be outside!!!! The wind was calm, the sun was warm, the sky was clear, and I loved every minute of it. It couldn't be more perfect for December.
I enjoyed meeting a peppy new woman, Rae, and I also learned that Rae is secretly planning to do a major triathlon this year. How exciting!! Like Kat said, I'll live vicariously through Rae. I'll enjoy all her progress without having to do all the training (training that hard is icky and I've become far too lazy to do that again). I love when people are new to triathlon- makes me get excited about it all over again. Woo hoo for Rae!

Today I had my final check up for my hand with the Doc. All is well on the palm front. No more frankenpalm. Let the healing begin! I even rode without any numbness today in my right hand. That's NEVER happened before. Now, lefty complained a bit and I told him to "shut it", but righty was happy as a clam (how happy are clams anyway?).

Tomorrow I give blood for the first time in about 4 months. I wanted to conserve blood before the surgery (ok, I was just too lazy to go), and I had to wait a couple weeks after (ok, again I was just too lazy to go), so I'm very excited about bleeding for a good cause again. I love to donate, and since my weight isn't preventing me I go whenever I can. I've never been turned away for being underweight, although when I was really skinny they were kind enough to ask if I was at least 110 pounds. Ha! They don't ask anymore. :)

More to come later.

Love to all my family...

Merry Christmas

Today was a great day! The first two pictures are of our trip down to Meeker for our traditional Christmas Eve dinner with the whole family. The sunset was just beautiful (I'm really growing to appreciate all the beauty around me like I never have before in my life). The second picture is of Cookie looking anxiously out the window during the entire 45 minute drive. She hasn't had this much energy in years.

Christmas morning Rian and I woke up to do a short run (a measly 2 miles for me, 4 for Rian). It was brrrrrrr cold, and not super pleasant, but the sky was clear and the sun was shining. After we returned back to his mom's house, we had breakfast and opened presents. The third pic is of Brent's dog, Ranger, getting his nails trimmed with the new PediPaws contraption "as seen on TV." It worked OK, but getting a 130 lb dog to lay still and not fidget was quite the ordeal. Roger fed him crackers, while Brent trimmed and Rian played with back feet. I laughed a lot!

Christmas was good. I'm a blessed woman. The only thing that could make it better is a beach, some ocean and some warm weather.... oh the beach...

Merry Christmas everyone!

Happy Merry Christmas Eve

Wow- time sure has flown by lately! I can't believe it's Christmas Eve. I've been enjoying some time away from school, and doing lots of laying around in my pj's until noon. Life is good...
Tonight we're off to Grandma and Grandpa Brown's to have some family Christmas time. We'll spend the night at R's parents' house and then come home tomorrow afternoon. I think we'll take Cookie (our Cocker Spaniel- see huge picture above). She's about 13-14 yrs old and she's not doing great. She's going deaf, is losing her sight, and has trouble getting around some days. I think we'll take her to see her grandparents one more time. I dread the day when we have to make the decision to have her put to sleep. It'll be a tough one.

Wow- that was kind of "Debbie Downer" for a Christmas Eve post. I'm thankful for my family and friends for providing me with laughter, companionship, and support this past year. I've had a good year. Each day is a blessing, although I just lounge some away without really relishing them. I'm a lucky lady.

Merry Christmas to everyone!

The crazy Christmas house

So today we were in Edmond visiting some friends, and on the way home we decide to drive by the "Crazy Christmas house." Note: that is not the official name of this house, but one that we've given it. These people spend a ridiculous amount of money to decorate their house for Christmas. Rumor has it they spend something like $50,000 to have it decorated (and that rumor is probably right since the source is reliable). Is that insane or what? Some people have WAY too much money. Then again, I know thousands of people drive by each year, and I'm sure it brings happiness to many. Happiness and joy doesn't have a price tag.

Each tree and bush is decorated fully. EVERY INDIVIDUAL BRANCH IS WRAPPED IN LIGHTS. Yeah, you read that right. It's insane to look at. Sunglasses are almost required.

Anywho- that's the extent of my holiday cheer this year. That is all for now.

See ya. :)

I think I might have been abducted

I guess I should post more often, eh? I don't know where I've been for the last 3 weeks, but I think I've been hiding. Really, I've been just trying to make it to Christmas break without killing any kids (and some days that's been harder than others). :)

Nothing new to report. My hand is healing nicely. It's still very sensitive, but hey- some guy cut it open and slit my tendon. It's supposed to be a little tender.

One more week of school. We're supposed to have ice on M-Th, so we might be out for a day or two. I could always use a break before a break. :)

Happy Thanksgiving, and Happy Birthday Mom

Today is a double shot. It's Thanksgiving and Mom's birthday. I won't disclose how young she is (you know, Mom), but she's younger than I'll be at that age. I think she might be younger than I am at my age...
Today was a great day. We went down to Meeker to the family farm for a Thanksgiving feast. Good food and good conversation was had by all. I took a 30 min. walk down the country road after lunch to try to settle the food. Too bad my asthma decided to come for a walk with me. Oh well- breathing is for the wimpy. The picture of the sky was taken on my walk. The clouds were so pretty today.
My wrist is healing up nicely. I get the stitches out on Tuesday. I'm SO excited. I can't wait to shower that hand (I've been cleaning it gently, but I can't get it wet). I can use both hands now, although I probably use the hurt hand more than I should. I may be getting a scolding from the surgeon on Tuesday. Bad, me.

I guess that's all. It was a wonderful day. Wish I could have spent it with some of my family, but that's just not an option. I'll think of them and know they are with me even if not in person.

Love to all.
Happy Birthday, Mom!

I'm off to see the wizard, the wonderful wizard of the Farmer's Market

I think that's how the song goes, huh?????

Today I went to the local farmer's market for the first time. I know it's winter, and there's not much of a selection, but I wanted to go check it out. It's pretty nice, albeit a little small (but it's winter- what do you expec?). I picked up some green beans, broccoli, tomatoes, fresh eggs, and a gigantic cucumber. I'll definitely go back in the spring/summer when fruits will be out and the selection is much larger. I enjoyed the atmosphere, and really felt like I was helping out my local community, rather than just shopping at the store where my groceries come from thousands of miles away. I rather enjoyed myself!!

The picture if from our front yard. As I was pulling out, I noticed how beautiful the red bush was against the green pine tree. So stunning- even in the winter when most everything is dying. Beauty is all around.

I'm feeling pretty good since the surgery. I've taken a few pain killers (the heavy narcotic kind), and they've worked well. Then again, so has the Aleve. My wrist is swollen, black and blue, and breaking out in hives. It's lovely. My poor body is trying to figure out what it did to deserve this.

I'm getting very droopy eyed right now. Time for rest. Take care!

ewwwwwwww... I'm a Frankenstein

I had my carpal tunnel surgery done today. It went well. I was told not to take the wrap off, but I did anyway. I had to see it. I'm a curious monkey. It's like Frankenpalm- pretty cool!!! I made the eeewwwwww face when I saw it. I'm typing one handed so this will be short & sweet. Now I just have to see how long I can milk this before hubby tires of my one handed helplessness. hee hee

Off to pain med land now... ta ta

A weekend getaway

I went away for four lovely days. Where did I go? To the mental hospital? Probably should have, but no. To the Carribean? Wish I could've, but no. I went to Quartz Mountain resort in Altus, OK for a 4 day workshop on integrating the arts in the classroom. It was a lovely weekend away from it all. All the pictures are taken at the park (the wind generators were on the way down- I just find them so pretty to look at). It's beautiful there, even in the winter. My room was very nice, the resort staff was wonderful, and I enjoyed the hot tub almost every night I was there. I did some biking, some running, and even a little hiking. It was a great getaway. I even learned a few things to take back into my classroom and use with my kiddos. I don't have much to say, except it was lovely down there. We'll have to go back sometime in the warmer months to enjoy the scenery much more.

It was relaxing and refreshing. Although I missed Rian, I sure didn't miss being away from here...

I love the morning sky. Everything about it is just so beautiful. Some mornings the sun is shining brightly, some mornings it's cloudy and gloomy, and some mornings it's just peaceful and calm.

Today was a good day. School wasn't great, but it was OK. Just one more day and then I'm off for 2 days. Then only 2 days of work next week and I'm off for 6 days. Woo hoo. So what if I have to have surgery- if it means a few days away from my classroom then I'm all in...

Today was very uneventful. Go to work, work, come home and relax. We took all 3 dogs for a walk tonight. Yikes! That's too much of an adventure for me. They are some serious pulling machines. I need to take them out more often so they don't get too excited when we do go out. I guess that's why I have an acre of land- so they can walk themselves. :)

All in all a good day. Two down, one to go this week- then it's 4 days at Quartz Mountain Resort for a little retreat from life...

Today was a lot of fun, and kind of a momentus day for us. We woke up at 3 AM to head to El Reno, OK for a race. We weren't doing the race, but we were volunteering at the finish line. It was a 100 mile running race across Western Oklahoma. Talk about an amazing event. I'm inspired by all those runners. I could never fathom running that far, nor would I ever even want to try it. I get worn out by 26.2. Forget the other 73.8. Sheesh!

On our way to El Reno our car hit a big milestone. It rolled over 100,000 miles. I've never had a car do that before- especially never when it was ME that put all those miles on there. It was pretty exciting!!! I pulled over on the highway to get a picture. I had to commemorate the event because it's a pretty big deal.

The picture of the 3 men is Rian, Rich, and Mike. We were all in the basement of the chapel on the military fort (where the finish line was). They are just playing around (as always). The next picture is of my friend, Bret, finishing his 100 mile race. He's hiding in the middle of all the people surrounding him. The next picture is of the homecoming corsage he found on the side of the road. It's a buffalo head with a garter belt and all kinds of ribbons. He put it on and ran with it until the finish (he found it about 30 miles away from the finish). He's a funny guy.

It was a lot of fun out there today. I can't believe anyone would run 100 miles on purpose. It's just too crazy far for me. I don't much like riding my bike 100 miles.

It was a great day for the race, the weather was perfect, and I had a lot of fun hanging out with friends. A great way to spend a Sunday.

Crazy fall weather

Today was a strange day. I knew it would rain and thunderstorm, but it was kinda crazy! I got off work, took one look at the crazy sky (see first picture), then hightailed it home. I had to run by Lowe's, so I ran inside while dodging raindrops. Next thing I know, the sky opens up and all heck breaks loose outside. Hail, lightning, rain- the works. I safely wander around inside the dry building to kill some time then head outside. The most beautiful rainbow was waiting for me. It went from horizon to horizon. I rarely see a full rainbow, so it was a great treat!!!! Minutes later it disappeared behind more rain clouds and it was gone. I came outside just in time.

One more week down, 24 to go. Next week is a 3 day work week (I'm attending a 2 day conference on Thursday and Friday), and the week after that is a 2 day work week (I have surgery on Wed. and will be out for 2 weeks). After that it's almost Christmas break and some much needed time off before all the hellish testing begins in the spring.

Life is still good!

Barack the vote!

I went to vote today, and I've never felt more proud to be an American! The line was sooooo long, and I didn't mind waiting at all. I've never waited more than about 1 min. to vote here, so it was truly welcome to see so many people getting out there and exercising their right to vote. I watched the coverage all night long, and cried when Barack was announced as our new President. I'd been hoping all along that he'd win, and he did. I respect McCain tremendously, we just differ on our viewpoints a bit. Barack's got a huge weight on his shoulders (both of them would have the same heavy weight).

I'm just glad it's all over...

What a day!

The weather was incredible today. Is this November or April??? It was such a nice day to be out and about. I got up sorta early and rode my bike to the library to check out a few books, then to the store to pick up a few things for the election on Tuesday (I'm hosting the school-wide election in my classroom). It was just dreamy outside. The wind was calm, the sun was shining, and it was indeed heaven on Earth.

Later in the afternoon I went out to the courtyard and swung in the hammock for a couple hours reading my newly borrowed books from the library. Rian came home from work and joined me. It was really nice. About 6:30 we met some friends for dinner (and stayed at the restaurant for 3.5 hours!).

Would you believe that on the way to dinner I passed a gas station that had gas for $1.88????? WHAAAAAAAT???? I didn't think I'd see it get below $2, but this is ridiculous. Makes me want to drive around town in my car just for fun. Maybe buy a gallon of gas and pour it on the ground because it's not liquid gold anymore. Ah, but this too shall pass. I'll enjoy it now for it won't last forever...

All in all it was a wonderful day. No kids, so stress, no driving. Just the way I like it on the weekend.

Have you noticed I can't do an update without pictures? It seems plain wrong to not have photos.

One day closer to Friday

Each day of the week that goes by brings me one day closer to the weekend. I live for the weekend.

Today I got home from work at a decent time and decided to hit the trails with Rian for a little mountain bike ride. I haven't ridden my mountain bike since early July, and I'm sure rusty on the trails. The trails we rode are laden with lots of roots and rocks. It's hard to stay upright on parts of the trail. Sure enough, I got bucked from my steed with force. I hit the ground HARD. Ouch. I hurt my foot, and have a giant bruise on my butt. The trails beat me up. It was fun, but painful. The pictures are from my ride. My bike likes to be in a lot of pictures. It gets neglected a lot, so when I stopped to take a picture or two, it demanded to be front and center. Can't say I blame it- it's a pretty bike. Towards the end of the ride, I stopped at a picnic table to rest for a minute. The weather was just perfect today and I was enjoying soaking up the sun and warmth for a bit.

Every day on the planet is a good day. I just keep reminding myself of that. :)

Another day in paradise

This week went by fast- like the speed of light. I don't know where it all went. Last thing I remember I was having dinner on Thursday night. Next thing I know it's Wednesday evening and I'm just now catching up. So much to tell (well, not really, but I feel better about my existence when I think things happen).

This entry is really about Tuesday. The day started off really clear. The first picture is of the Oklahoma River that I cross each morning. The sun is always peeking over the horizon (and blinding me something fierce) as I cross the bridge. I find it to be a sight I look forward to seeing. Work was... well, it was work. After work I had to kill some time before our triathlon club meeting, so I went to a local park near downtown to work on some school work and enjoy the outside. I sat on a bench and worked for a half hour. When I was done, I got up and walked around the park taking pictures. There was a teeny little waterfall that made the most beautiful noise, and a bridge that was just so strong against the fragility of the park. Then, I ambitiously went for a short run/walk. It was a beautiful afternoon. I reveled in the sunshine and really enjoyed the cool afternoon. I did some yoga on the grass and then headed to the meeting. The last picture is of the new highway retaining walls that they put along the highway heading downtown. They are quite pretty. Buffalo and birds (don't ask what kind). I love seeing the walls in the afternoon as I drive home (I take a different way to and from work to avoid the same scenery for my long drives).

It was a peaceful day. I've been trying to have more of those lately. I've been doing yoga, because I'm experiencing a ridiculous amount of stress at work. I will have to struggle through each day to make it to June. I hate to feel that way, because there are some good kids- but the trouble ones make it miserable for all of us. It's like nothing I've experienced before. You'd think that with all the years I've taught I'd be able to set the tone well. I've tried for 10 weeks and will try for another 26 weeks. I just hope my good kids will get the education that they deserve despite it all.

Hopefully it won't be so long until I write again. Ta ta.

Get me alcohol- STAT!

Today was a day from hell. One too many irritating situations at school, and dealing with the world's most frustrating children. I'm supposed to love them all, but I don't. In fact, I find it hard to even communicate with some of them. Yes, I can dislike a child. If you spent one day in my room, you'd understand that it's not all that hard. It's already been a long year, and it's going to get a lot longer.

We went out to dinner and I ordered a really yummy enchilada dinner with a really yummy mudslide- heavy on the alcohol (see picture). Apparently they left the alcohol out. It didn't do the trick. I'm still on edge.

On the way home we drove by the lake on the way to get gas. There was the most beautiful sunset. I had to take a picture even tho it doesn't do the beauty justice.

THEN, we got to the gas station. Would you believe gas was $2.09????? WHAAAAAAAAT???? I almost passed out in sheer disbelief. I know it won't last long, but it sure was nice filling the car up for less than $35 dollars. Yippeee skippy!!!! I'm livin' large.

Going to go read now to escape from my life. I keep wanting to leave this place and move somewhere nicer and get a job doing something outdoorsy. I'd love to have my own campground somewhere. What a dream!!!!!

It's October: bring on the spooky fog

Ooooo spooky fog. I love spooky October fog... booooooooo

Today was a good day. Had a good day of learning with the kids, had a good drive to and from work, and I'm enjoying the last day of nice fall weather for a while. Tomorrow it's supposed to be really cold and rainy. December cold (that's what the forecaster said this morning: "look out for December-like weather). Yike-a-moondies! I think he's just trying to frighten me because it's October.

Nothing else new to write about. Today was one of those boring days of my life. But hey- any day is a good day here on this big blue planet.

Did you think I was abducted?

I haven't posted in a few days. That's either good because we went to Palo Duro and had a great weekend, or because Rian was sick and threw up all weekend. Judging from my furrowed brow- you can bet it's the latter. Twas not a fun few days in the Brown house. Rian was sick and subsequently Tanya was sick. I tried my best to not get sick. I even treated Rian like he had cooties. I Lysol'ed after every move he made and antibacterial wiped everything he touched. I still got it. Thankfully I didn't get it as bad, but STILL. That'll teach me to disenfect everything in the house. I suppose some germs can't be killed...

On a happier note, I got an ipod shuffle this weekend. You might be thinking "Welcome to this century, grandma." I've had MP3 players for a while, just not a handy dandy teeny tiny little clip on ipod. I have a 1st generation shuffle, but it's just not the same. I like my new toy. I couldn't find it for a day and was wondering where I'd misplaced it. Turns out Cookie had taken it and was jamming to my tunes (see picture where I caught her). Silly dog. OK, that's probably a little pathetic that I set my dog up like that. When you're sick, you'll find anything to entertain yourself. And yes, putting earphones on my deaf (yeah, she's deaf) and elderly dog is entertainment when you're sick.

The other picture has a somewhat funny story (funny being a relative term). We are always suspicious that stray neighborhood cats are getting into our courtyard because we often find things that are very felinesque. Today when I got home from work I saw the culprit hanging out on the pergola in the courtyard. Sneaky little kitty. It's a really good spot for catching birds, tho, as there are lots that hang out in that area. As long as she keeps the raccoons out, she can stay (we had a couple raccoons build a den in our courtyard last year). Just take your dead birds with you, little one...