CHILLIN' WITH MY GIRL
October 20, 2011
08:36pm
As I type, I'm just sitting in my art studio/den chillin' with Qianna. We're listening to Justin Bieber Stuck in the Moment With You. It's a pretty cool song...Check it out!
Oh, yeah...we're also eating McDonald's Blizzards. She has rolo (as usual) and I have oreo. I actually finished my blizzard in 5 minutes (typical!). LOL!
NATURE'S DANCE
July 7, 2011
11:04pm
Today, I headed to Langford Lake to be close to nature. The wind was blowing, and that didn't stop me from heading out to visit Mother Nature. I had no idea what was in store for me...Mother Nature put on a spectacular performance for me!
First, I viewed the rippling waves glistening from the sun above. They were calm...gentle...and dazzling. Large gusts of wind blew from a tonne of different directions sending large sections of waves dancing in what seemed like an endless dominoe effect. A few times, the waves ran across the surface of the lake en masse, either steadily toward me or away from me. I was both scared and in awe at the same time as this happened so suddenly I didn't know what to make of it! I wanted to run for cover, but decided to stay to watch the nature's performance.
Another large gust of wind blew sending hundreds of leaves flying from out of the forest. The leaves blew out of the forest and high into the sky. I caught glimpses of yellow and gold as the sun's rays reflected off the leaves. They danced and twirled for seconds upon seconds before landing on the rippling waves. Some even made their way a foot away from me. I was tempted to catch the leaves in midair, but missed my chance as I was too scared to fall off the dock. I smiled...I giggled...I said, "Thank You..."
I knew I was given a present from Mother Nature.
Next, I found myself lying down on my beach blanket on the dock...looking up at the clouds. The wind quickly swept each cluster of cloud into the next. Never have I seen nature act in such unision...without thought...without planning...My mind drifted in and out...I felt like I was floating on clouds and drifting as they were drifting...I felt that I was moving in time to their dance...I said, "Thank You..."
I noticed sparrows gliding in the sky. They occassionally flapped their wings between each self-assured swoop. My eyes followed their silhouette as they swooped left and right. I caught myself in awe, for they manage to glide so perfectly as if they have practiced their 'dance' many times before. I also caught myself yelping as one glided so close to me that I thought I was going to be hit! I laughed. That was special! Yesterday, I saw some sparrows swooping down to feed their babies. Their nest were the corners of cement blocks used as reinforcement for a soccer field. I stood still on the sidewalk listening to the baby sparrows chirp. Occassionally, I caught two sparrows swooping down to the nest to briefly feed the babies before heading out again to search for food. I watched as the baby birds popped their heads out looking for more...
I said, "Thank You," yet again...
MY WEATHER VANE
June 30, 2011
10:47pm
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There is something about watching a weather vane silently move with the wind...It sends me into another world where my mind can be set free from thoughts or worries...my mind can just sway as the wind glides past the structures and sends it gently spinning in one self-assured direction...
With this, there is no thought...just Presence...
So, today I headed to Lighthouse Park with hopes of laying on rocks overlooking Burrard Inlet for the entire time. I did not really have an agenda, but to view the ocean and to marvel at the rocky 'beaches'.
I found a tattered map in a visitor's map box and navigated my way through the trails.
"Great," I thought to myself, "would anyone find me if I got lost?!" Of course! It's 11:30 am and there are tonnes of people going through the trails!
Ten minutes into my hike, I ran into this gorgeous tree stump (above) and put my hands on it. I felt its energy. It was burnt black in its interior and partially covered in light green moss. The exterior was dry and brittle. The stump towered over me with such presence that I had to capture it by sketching. I knew that sketching in the middle of the forest would be highly therapeutic. This act would be a first for me.
I enjoyed my time drawing, sketching, analyzing and listening to the birds chirp. Ocassionally, I would laugh and giggle at the sounds the birds were making. "What's that sound?" I asked myself aloud, "Is it even a bird?". I sketched some more. "I wonder if the black capped chickadee will chirp anytime soon..." I continued. "What are you birds saying?" I'd continue to ask aloud.
I had a brief picnic while sitting on the stones that outlined the trails. I had to throw my blanket over my shoulders as the trees casted cool shadows over the forest floor. I even ventured up higher into forest to make a pit stop, only to find later that my ankles and back side were nearly eated alive by some flies.
I really enjoyed greeting all the visitors that came and passed by 'my tree'. Some peered over my shoulder and continued to hike while others made brief comments on what I had on paper. They enjoyed how I captured the likeness of the tree's presence. One lady even sat on the stone next to me. We chatted about art and also of how one should not take this park for granted.
When I finished, I realized I had been drawing for a good 2 hours and had not even thought of reaching the rocky beaches! By days end, I had spent another 3 hours basking under the sun on warm rocks! I was happy that I left the park energized, revitalized and with a few more freckles from the sun. Much to my surprise, I also left without heat stroke!
There was a certain ease about today.
Today, I felt a sense of belonging.
Today, I lived the moment...
...in nature...
I HOPE THESE GROW...
June 6, 2011
9:48 pm
As I begin to go through a transformation process, I've decided to garden...and delight in watching nature grow...right before my eyes.
Through this I will begin to see nature in a different light...I will begin to nourish myself as I nourish the seeds...I will begin to grow as they grow...I will begin to bathe in the sunlight and rain as they do...I will begin to feed my soul with all things positive...
With this...I will begin to love myself...including the very fruits of my labour...
DANCING IT UP WITH MY CLASS OUTSIDE!
May 31, 2011
10:34pm
Today was such a random day! So, I brought my laptop to class today to hopefully burn a song on to CD last minute. I desperately needed Four Minutes to Save the World by Modonna because my class is pretty behind practicing their Hip Hop sequence for their school wide perforance late June....As usual, anything I plan last minute turns out to be near or utter disaster. Needless to say, my battery died on my laptop and I did not bring my electrical cord to plug it in.
Five minutes before the bell rang to summon the kids to noisily file into class, I ran to my Honda Element to see if I had the song on my USB memory stick. Yes! I had it! I quickly ran up three flights to my classroom to fish out my face plate from my purse. Yes! I had that too!
When the bell rang, I quickly took attendance and urged the students to file down the fire escape and under the black top. The rain didn't keep me from having them practice their sequence outside!
Moments later, I popped my trunk up and started the engine...Voila! Instant boom box with music! What made things a lot easier was that I was able to use my remote control to adjust the volume as needed (Yes! I cranked that baby until we could no longer hear the actual lyrics - only bass!).
"We're going to disturb the other classes!" One student shouted.
"Don't worry about it!" I screamed back.
"You're going to run out of gas since your engine is running!" Another chimed in.
"Who cares! This is fun!" I responded with excitement.
"Can't you still play the music without the engine running?!" One student asked.
"Oh, I forgot that was an option!" I replied with embarassment.
It was awesome watching all 20 students dance in unison all the while breaking into dance during the odd times when I directed my instruction to a smaller group. It was almost an unconventional dance party outside during school hours!
Would I do this again? YES - even if I had the option of playing the CD in doors!
Life is good! We just have to find the time to live it to the max...without hesitation!
HAUNTED GHOST STORIES...
April 12, 2011
10:35pm
So, the latest event in school is an event called Camp Read. This is a special day where we celebrate reading all day. The older kids from each class will be separated into activity groups with each teacher leading a literacy activity. Yes! I'm doing Haunted Ghost Stories...with dry ice!!!
After school, I got a colleague to help me pitch a ginormous tent in my classroom that spans 2/3 of my class. My students will spend all day reading and learning in this tent...how awesome! (*I'm still trying to figure out how I'm suppose to administer a Math test with little space for the students to sit!).
Anyway, as I type, I'm suppose to be flipping through pages of a real-world non-fiction book called Real Ghost Stories complete with black and white photographs...Needless to say, I'm too chicken to crack the book open to select some stories to read to the group. This means I will have to try to wake up earlier tomorrow to read the book in broad daylight- providing that I do not press snooze 9 times in 1.5 hours!
Wish me luck...and a dry pair of pants!!
MY NEW STUDIO!
Check out the images from my new studio I set up in my spare bedroom! I've been spending most days in this room and neglecting the icy cold living room! This is a room where I can be creative...spontaneous...and FREE! If you are thinking about me...chances are...I'll be in here!
I like the set up of my studio because there is spot that I set up where I can read or casually sketch near the window. Hard to tell, but the 'window seat' is made up of large plastic containers where I keep all my home decor! I've finally found a room where I can lay out my animal print pillows!
I snagged my sister's large desk and decided to use it as a table where I can work on my large scale pieces of art. There is a corner of the room where I reserved a spot for a large standing easle. I do have a smaller tabletop easle propped up on the desk with my daughter's art work painted on canvas board (painted 8 years ago!).
I decided to hang some art work up to keep me inspired. (*shut up! I know the pictures are hung crooked!)Eventually, I'll have them displayed in public venues....(*uncrooked!!).
I am blessed to have such a large space to work in! I even sprawl on the ground to do my pieces when I get really creative and free!
WHAT I WANT...
October 20, 2011
08:36pm
As I type, I'm just sitting in my art studio/den chillin' with Qianna. We're listening to Justin Bieber Stuck in the Moment With You. It's a pretty cool song...Check it out!
Oh, yeah...we're also eating McDonald's Blizzards. She has rolo (as usual) and I have oreo. I actually finished my blizzard in 5 minutes (typical!). LOL!
NATURE'S DANCE
July 7, 2011
11:04pm
Today, I headed to Langford Lake to be close to nature. The wind was blowing, and that didn't stop me from heading out to visit Mother Nature. I had no idea what was in store for me...Mother Nature put on a spectacular performance for me!
First, I viewed the rippling waves glistening from the sun above. They were calm...gentle...and dazzling. Large gusts of wind blew from a tonne of different directions sending large sections of waves dancing in what seemed like an endless dominoe effect. A few times, the waves ran across the surface of the lake en masse, either steadily toward me or away from me. I was both scared and in awe at the same time as this happened so suddenly I didn't know what to make of it! I wanted to run for cover, but decided to stay to watch the nature's performance.
Another large gust of wind blew sending hundreds of leaves flying from out of the forest. The leaves blew out of the forest and high into the sky. I caught glimpses of yellow and gold as the sun's rays reflected off the leaves. They danced and twirled for seconds upon seconds before landing on the rippling waves. Some even made their way a foot away from me. I was tempted to catch the leaves in midair, but missed my chance as I was too scared to fall off the dock. I smiled...I giggled...I said, "Thank You..."
I knew I was given a present from Mother Nature.
Next, I found myself lying down on my beach blanket on the dock...looking up at the clouds. The wind quickly swept each cluster of cloud into the next. Never have I seen nature act in such unision...without thought...without planning...My mind drifted in and out...I felt like I was floating on clouds and drifting as they were drifting...I felt that I was moving in time to their dance...I said, "Thank You..."
I noticed sparrows gliding in the sky. They occassionally flapped their wings between each self-assured swoop. My eyes followed their silhouette as they swooped left and right. I caught myself in awe, for they manage to glide so perfectly as if they have practiced their 'dance' many times before. I also caught myself yelping as one glided so close to me that I thought I was going to be hit! I laughed. That was special! Yesterday, I saw some sparrows swooping down to feed their babies. Their nest were the corners of cement blocks used as reinforcement for a soccer field. I stood still on the sidewalk listening to the baby sparrows chirp. Occassionally, I caught two sparrows swooping down to the nest to briefly feed the babies before heading out again to search for food. I watched as the baby birds popped their heads out looking for more...
I said, "Thank You," yet again...
MY WEATHER VANE
June 30, 2011
10:47pm
With this, there is no thought...just Presence...
LIGHTHOUSE PARK (PART I)
June 8th, 2011
9:55pm
I found a tattered map in a visitor's map box and navigated my way through the trails.
"Great," I thought to myself, "would anyone find me if I got lost?!" Of course! It's 11:30 am and there are tonnes of people going through the trails!
Ten minutes into my hike, I ran into this gorgeous tree stump (above) and put my hands on it. I felt its energy. It was burnt black in its interior and partially covered in light green moss. The exterior was dry and brittle. The stump towered over me with such presence that I had to capture it by sketching. I knew that sketching in the middle of the forest would be highly therapeutic. This act would be a first for me.
I enjoyed my time drawing, sketching, analyzing and listening to the birds chirp. Ocassionally, I would laugh and giggle at the sounds the birds were making. "What's that sound?" I asked myself aloud, "Is it even a bird?". I sketched some more. "I wonder if the black capped chickadee will chirp anytime soon..." I continued. "What are you birds saying?" I'd continue to ask aloud.
I had a brief picnic while sitting on the stones that outlined the trails. I had to throw my blanket over my shoulders as the trees casted cool shadows over the forest floor. I even ventured up higher into forest to make a pit stop, only to find later that my ankles and back side were nearly eated alive by some flies.
I really enjoyed greeting all the visitors that came and passed by 'my tree'. Some peered over my shoulder and continued to hike while others made brief comments on what I had on paper. They enjoyed how I captured the likeness of the tree's presence. One lady even sat on the stone next to me. We chatted about art and also of how one should not take this park for granted.
When I finished, I realized I had been drawing for a good 2 hours and had not even thought of reaching the rocky beaches! By days end, I had spent another 3 hours basking under the sun on warm rocks! I was happy that I left the park energized, revitalized and with a few more freckles from the sun. Much to my surprise, I also left without heat stroke!
There was a certain ease about today.
Today, I felt a sense of belonging.
Today, I lived the moment...
...in nature...
I HOPE THESE GROW...
June 6, 2011
9:48 pm
Through this I will begin to see nature in a different light...I will begin to nourish myself as I nourish the seeds...I will begin to grow as they grow...I will begin to bathe in the sunlight and rain as they do...I will begin to feed my soul with all things positive...
With this...I will begin to love myself...including the very fruits of my labour...
DANCING IT UP WITH MY CLASS OUTSIDE!
May 31, 2011
10:34pm
Today was such a random day! So, I brought my laptop to class today to hopefully burn a song on to CD last minute. I desperately needed Four Minutes to Save the World by Modonna because my class is pretty behind practicing their Hip Hop sequence for their school wide perforance late June....As usual, anything I plan last minute turns out to be near or utter disaster. Needless to say, my battery died on my laptop and I did not bring my electrical cord to plug it in.
Five minutes before the bell rang to summon the kids to noisily file into class, I ran to my Honda Element to see if I had the song on my USB memory stick. Yes! I had it! I quickly ran up three flights to my classroom to fish out my face plate from my purse. Yes! I had that too!
When the bell rang, I quickly took attendance and urged the students to file down the fire escape and under the black top. The rain didn't keep me from having them practice their sequence outside!
Moments later, I popped my trunk up and started the engine...Voila! Instant boom box with music! What made things a lot easier was that I was able to use my remote control to adjust the volume as needed (Yes! I cranked that baby until we could no longer hear the actual lyrics - only bass!).
"We're going to disturb the other classes!" One student shouted.
"Don't worry about it!" I screamed back.
"You're going to run out of gas since your engine is running!" Another chimed in.
"Who cares! This is fun!" I responded with excitement.
"Can't you still play the music without the engine running?!" One student asked.
"Oh, I forgot that was an option!" I replied with embarassment.
It was awesome watching all 20 students dance in unison all the while breaking into dance during the odd times when I directed my instruction to a smaller group. It was almost an unconventional dance party outside during school hours!
Would I do this again? YES - even if I had the option of playing the CD in doors!
Life is good! We just have to find the time to live it to the max...without hesitation!
HAUNTED GHOST STORIES...
April 12, 2011
10:35pm
So, the latest event in school is an event called Camp Read. This is a special day where we celebrate reading all day. The older kids from each class will be separated into activity groups with each teacher leading a literacy activity. Yes! I'm doing Haunted Ghost Stories...with dry ice!!!
After school, I got a colleague to help me pitch a ginormous tent in my classroom that spans 2/3 of my class. My students will spend all day reading and learning in this tent...how awesome! (*I'm still trying to figure out how I'm suppose to administer a Math test with little space for the students to sit!).
Anyway, as I type, I'm suppose to be flipping through pages of a real-world non-fiction book called Real Ghost Stories complete with black and white photographs...Needless to say, I'm too chicken to crack the book open to select some stories to read to the group. This means I will have to try to wake up earlier tomorrow to read the book in broad daylight- providing that I do not press snooze 9 times in 1.5 hours!
Wish me luck...and a dry pair of pants!!
MY NEW STUDIO!
Check out the images from my new studio I set up in my spare bedroom! I've been spending most days in this room and neglecting the icy cold living room! This is a room where I can be creative...spontaneous...and FREE! If you are thinking about me...chances are...I'll be in here!
I snagged my sister's large desk and decided to use it as a table where I can work on my large scale pieces of art. There is a corner of the room where I reserved a spot for a large standing easle. I do have a smaller tabletop easle propped up on the desk with my daughter's art work painted on canvas board (painted 8 years ago!).
I decided to hang some art work up to keep me inspired. (*shut up! I know the pictures are hung crooked!)Eventually, I'll have them displayed in public venues....(*uncrooked!!).
I am blessed to have such a large space to work in! I even sprawl on the ground to do my pieces when I get really creative and free!
WHAT I WANT...
I want to picnic under a canopy of cherry blossoms; I want to lie on an endless blanket of petals and waste the day away...day dreaming...
I want to lay on the fresh green grass and have it tickle my shoulders as I stare up...up...up into the sky; I want to gaze at the fluffy clouds and make up stories and adventures...
I want to sing softly under the sunlight, and watch the shimmering ocean rock me to sleep...
I want to bury my nose in a bunch of tulips, and dance with them as I twirl endlessly in a field of long blades of grass...
I want to tie a rope to a magnolia tree and swing high up into the sky...reaching for the birds...for the sun....for the heavens...
All I want...is to share in my experiences...
DESPITE ALL THE DOGGY DRAMA...HOW COULD I NOT LOVE THIS FACE!
March 27, 2011
1:27pm
(*Take note, she's 5 months younger in these pictures! I'm not a wimp at all...she's really HUGE!)
1:03 pm
Today I ran around Langford Lake (*Yes! I finally had the guts to see what was on the other side of the lake)...There was not much of a view as many residential houses lined the lake's edge...I had to run on the road behind these houses...I ran for a total of 5 km or so...it took me 37 minutes. Maybe tomorrow I will be able to run faster because I won't be spending half my time getting lost among side streets to try to stay near the water...
I also just figured out how to add links to this blog! Click on the red font and it'll take you somewhere magical! (*never mind the other underlined fonts you see on this site...those are default advertisement fonts...how annoying...I don't know how to get rid of them!)
I just finished posting one more art piece up in my blog...It's a nice incentive to create art and then be able to post them for all to see!
Next, I have to spend a couple of hours creating my aunt's blog...stay tuned for a link to this blog...
Tonight....perhaps drive to the village for a couple of cupcakes (*for dinner!) and then do more art!
SURVIVING LONELINESS IS AN ART ITSELF!
March 27, 2011
1:49 am
It's funny, yesterday, while I was visiting with my cousins and their three children, I noticed how much I was laughing, giggling and hugging...We had dinner at the table and chatted about anything and everything...I watched as the kids fought over mundane things like which Wii game to play next, and how many Cheeto Puffs they were aloud to eat...We had an intense puzzle session where the three kids each had a different puzzle going...Me, I gravitated toward the 100 piece Barbie puzzle and taught Meaghan how to find all the corner puzzle pieces first and then to find/build with all the side pieces next...(*I know, I'm a genius!)...
I remember, at one point, I mentioned that I was having so much fun because it was the first time I had human interaction in a week! I felt like an alien!
If I can survive being alone for two weeks...I am sure I can survive anything!
NEW ART IMAGES FOR MY BLOG!
March 27, 2011
1:36 am
So, I spent a great deal of time with my aunt on Saturday. I took many pictures of her paintings, including some of mine! Yes! I have been creating much art over the past week, and am happy to share a couple of pieces! It was quite an experience taking images all the while trying to avoid glare from the sunlight reflecting off the glass frames (*we were too full and tired from our Brunch at Macaroni Grill to take time to remove the images from frames). At many points of the day, the sun was moving here and there casting crazy amounts of glare everywhere! My aunt had to walk around the room closing blinds and even lift her jacket behind and over my head, and to the left...and right...to eliminate glare! I joked about whether the neighbours were thinking anything different of us! We must have looked like lunatics! We had a good laugh, but that didn't stop us!
It's great to have such a great connection with my Aunt...It's funny because we both are starting to reconnect with our passion to paint/draw and are enjoying the idea of chatting it up with full interest! We definately got a lot closer through this!
I can't wait to set up my studio at home...outfitted with more than one easel to reflect on going work in progress! But first, I need to get rid of all the boxes of school materials! My vision for my studio...to have easels, a table with a puzzle in progress (*just in case I might need a break from doing art), my camera stationed on a tripod, including a sofabed with lots of pillows!
STARTING TO GET THE HANG OF THIS DOG THING..
March 26, 2011
9:25 am
I am slowly starting to figure out some of Summer's mannerisms. I know I can relax and sleep in a little more when she is lying on the floor next to the bed, and not standing and staring at me inches from my face as I sleep. Standing and staring at me while occassionally whining means she needs to go out to pee. I don't necessarily have to walk her exactly at 8:00 a.m. However, I am my worst enemy that prevents myself from sleeping peacefully. My neurotic internal alarm wakes me up at any random hour thinking it's 8:00 a.m! Last night I slept at 12:00 a.m, and I woke up in the midde of the night because she happened to move to the foot of the bed. I thought it was her 'sign' saying she had to go pee. So, I woke up...let her out the backyard and came back upstairs. I checked the time and it was 12:16 a.m! I had only slept for 16 minutes and my paranoid self was already waking me up! Also, this moring I got up at 6 a.m and then again at 7 a.m wondering when I would have to get up at 8 a.m to let her out!!! You know, I don't think it's Summer driving me crazy...I think I'm driving myself off the deep end...
So, I spent part of this morning anticipating a peaceful sleep after walking Summer at 8:15 a.m. I jumped into bed and snuggled up under the covers. Not even 5 minutes had passed and I was already being interupted by Summer's whining. I finally figured out that if she whines and is staring at the floor in one direction she wants me to fish her favorite ball out from under the bed...then again from under the couch...then from under the bed again...Oh, hold on...she's whining again...I'll have the go down on all fours to check under each piece of furniture to figure out where she had rolled it this time...Just as I guessed...under the dresser...I tried some enginuity at 8:30 this morning by lining part of the underside of the bed and couch with a comforter, but she still manages to find some nook and cranny to accidently roll the ball into. Needless to say, I did not get a chance to sleep a bit more after this...so here I am...blogging about my experience!
I'm still trying to figure out what it means when she keeps staring blankly into the washroom. It kind of creeps me out because I think there's someone there amidst the dark shadows!
SPRING BREAK HALF OVER!
March 25, 2011
10:50 pm
You would think based on all the drama below that I am dying to get out of the island...No, that is not true...I am having a great time! I love that I can set my own schedule for two weeks (aside from the scheduled doggy walks three times a day...and the feeding). When I'm at school my schedule is dictated...every 40-80 minutes there is a transition to the next subject or a meeeting to attend...there is no down time at all. There is still so much to experience and accomplish on my own here that I don't think one week is enough to do it all. Here is a list of what I would still love to do before leaving...
1. picnic at the lake and read (DONE!)
2. jog entirely around the lake (I don't have the guts to because I'm scared I might get lost...I'll do this in the day time) (DONE!)
3. watch a matinee on an overcast/rainy day
4. grab a cupcake (or two!) from Langford Village (they have a specialty shop there!)
5. spend time with my aunt and create art (DONE! Just took pictures of our art work)
6. go ice skating
7. spend an entire day reading on the couch with Summer by my side
8. have lunch at Macaroni Grill with my aunt (DONE!)
9. eat at a Greek Restaurant at Langford Village
10. watch a soccer game in the grand stands right next door (it's only a 2 min. walk away!)
11. watch movies all morning, afternoon and into the evening
12. have lunch at Langford Village (DONE!)
13. start my workout routine (DONE!)
14. read at Langford Lake (DONE!)
15. go to the public library and take out some books (DONE!)
16. shop (DONE!)
17. visit my cousin and his 3 kids and have dinner (DONE!)
IT'S HARD HOUSE SITTING ALONE
March 25, 2011
10:12 am
What's the hardest thing about living alone?
Having no one to talk to...
I didn't realize I spoke so much in my head...
It helps having Summer...that's when I can laugh out loud...
I find that, instead of always having someone to talk to, I can sing instead...
I'm waiting for the neighbours to complain any minute!
Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Taking Chances - Celine Dion
DOGGY DRAMA II
March 23, 2011
11:08 pm
Dogs are soooo unpredictable! At 8 pm I took Summer for a walk, and she did her business...This means that I picked up after her twice today and also let her out in the backyard to frolick and pee...You would think she would be done for the day...NO! Just as I was about to get ready for bed, I noticed that she peed on her ginormous doggy pillow! Okay, this would not be a problem if the pillow was small - this means that I could easily throw it into the washer...This also wouldn't be a problem if she peed on the hardwood floor...the swifer wetjet could have easily handled that mess...
Sorry, I know life is too precious to get angry, but...I'm suppose to be on vacation!! (*how the heck do you spell 'suppose' anyway?!! Is it with one 'p' or two?! Can I go home now? When is it Friday, April 1st?
DOGGY DRAMA!
March 22, 2011
9:35pm
A couple of days ago, Summer dug a HUGE hole in the backyard with bits of dirt flying everywhere! I noticed, from the corner of my eye, that she was rolling a chunk of dirt around with her nose... I got up from the living room couch and peered outside and saw a gaping hole in the grass!
"Jesse's gonna kill me!" I thought.
Her paws were a brown mess with pieces of dried dirt stuck to her fur...not only was there dirt...there was mud all over her fur too! It's not easy trying to pick up a 100+ pound Golden Retreiver and wadling along the entire length of the living room floor! It's also not easy trying to pick her up by her arm pits only to have her weight slipping from my grip every single step I took up the stairs...I was terrified that she would track dirt onto the carpet stairs and have her dirty claws accidently scrape the walls! She didn't even flinch when I did this!
When i finally got her into the shower stall she just sat in the corner...looking up at me in guilt...waiting to get in trouble...
I had no choice but to laugh out loud...it was so ridiculous that i had absolutely no choice but to love her and to laugh....
Sometimes life is too precious to get angry...
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FOURTEEN DAY CHALLENGE!
March 17, 2011
3:37pm
So, I'm out of shape...I have only exercised 3 times in the last 6 months! I have self-proposed a 14 day challenge where I am physically active for 30 minutes each day.
I figure if I hold myself publically accountable by blogging about my experiences I would be more inclined to stick with my routine. I had survived a 30 day challenge in 2009 and was in the best shape of my life! Wish me luck...and a firmer butt!
March 27 - Ran around the Lake for 37 minutes (5 km!)...
March 26 - Sorry, no work out today. I was busy with my aunt, but still managed to get tugged, pulled and jolted left, right and center by Summer (*does this count?). Instead, I took a half hour nap when I got home and then went to KFC for dinner (*how classy! LOL!)...
March 25 - Today, I walked Summer uphill doing lunges for 5-10 minutes. I also did some Kenpo martial arts in the backyard...It helped that the sun came out...it didn't help that my shoulders, arms, and chest still hurt from two days ago! I ended up doing 16 minutes of front, back and side kicks. (*It also doesn't help when I don't stretch each day!). Tonight, I'm off to visit my cousin and his three kids! (*I hope I don't have anymore Doggy Drama when I get home at 8:30 pm! Wish me luck!).
March 24 - Today, I ran partially around Langford Lake for 25 minutes. Besides feeling tightness of the chest when I run uphill...I feel GREAT! My back and shoulders are killing me from yesterday's workout! I LOVE IT!! I may take my book to read at the Lake later on today...I was going to watch a matinee, but decided against it...I'd rather be out in nature...Why voluntarily coop myself up indoors?
I want to lay on the fresh green grass and have it tickle my shoulders as I stare up...up...up into the sky; I want to gaze at the fluffy clouds and make up stories and adventures...
I want to sing softly under the sunlight, and watch the shimmering ocean rock me to sleep...
I want to bury my nose in a bunch of tulips, and dance with them as I twirl endlessly in a field of long blades of grass...
I want to tie a rope to a magnolia tree and swing high up into the sky...reaching for the birds...for the sun....for the heavens...
All I want...is to share in my experiences...
DESPITE ALL THE DOGGY DRAMA...HOW COULD I NOT LOVE THIS FACE!
March 27, 2011
1:27pm
A PRODUCTIVE DAY!
March 27, 20111:03 pm
Today I ran around Langford Lake (*Yes! I finally had the guts to see what was on the other side of the lake)...There was not much of a view as many residential houses lined the lake's edge...I had to run on the road behind these houses...I ran for a total of 5 km or so...it took me 37 minutes. Maybe tomorrow I will be able to run faster because I won't be spending half my time getting lost among side streets to try to stay near the water...
I also just figured out how to add links to this blog! Click on the red font and it'll take you somewhere magical! (*never mind the other underlined fonts you see on this site...those are default advertisement fonts...how annoying...I don't know how to get rid of them!)
I just finished posting one more art piece up in my blog...It's a nice incentive to create art and then be able to post them for all to see!
Next, I have to spend a couple of hours creating my aunt's blog...stay tuned for a link to this blog...
Tonight....perhaps drive to the village for a couple of cupcakes (*for dinner!) and then do more art!
SURVIVING LONELINESS IS AN ART ITSELF!
March 27, 2011
1:49 am
It's funny, yesterday, while I was visiting with my cousins and their three children, I noticed how much I was laughing, giggling and hugging...We had dinner at the table and chatted about anything and everything...I watched as the kids fought over mundane things like which Wii game to play next, and how many Cheeto Puffs they were aloud to eat...We had an intense puzzle session where the three kids each had a different puzzle going...Me, I gravitated toward the 100 piece Barbie puzzle and taught Meaghan how to find all the corner puzzle pieces first and then to find/build with all the side pieces next...(*I know, I'm a genius!)...
I remember, at one point, I mentioned that I was having so much fun because it was the first time I had human interaction in a week! I felt like an alien!
If I can survive being alone for two weeks...I am sure I can survive anything!
NEW ART IMAGES FOR MY BLOG!
March 27, 2011
1:36 am
So, I spent a great deal of time with my aunt on Saturday. I took many pictures of her paintings, including some of mine! Yes! I have been creating much art over the past week, and am happy to share a couple of pieces! It was quite an experience taking images all the while trying to avoid glare from the sunlight reflecting off the glass frames (*we were too full and tired from our Brunch at Macaroni Grill to take time to remove the images from frames). At many points of the day, the sun was moving here and there casting crazy amounts of glare everywhere! My aunt had to walk around the room closing blinds and even lift her jacket behind and over my head, and to the left...and right...to eliminate glare! I joked about whether the neighbours were thinking anything different of us! We must have looked like lunatics! We had a good laugh, but that didn't stop us!
It's great to have such a great connection with my Aunt...It's funny because we both are starting to reconnect with our passion to paint/draw and are enjoying the idea of chatting it up with full interest! We definately got a lot closer through this!
I can't wait to set up my studio at home...outfitted with more than one easel to reflect on going work in progress! But first, I need to get rid of all the boxes of school materials! My vision for my studio...to have easels, a table with a puzzle in progress (*just in case I might need a break from doing art), my camera stationed on a tripod, including a sofabed with lots of pillows!
STARTING TO GET THE HANG OF THIS DOG THING..
March 26, 2011
9:25 am
I am slowly starting to figure out some of Summer's mannerisms. I know I can relax and sleep in a little more when she is lying on the floor next to the bed, and not standing and staring at me inches from my face as I sleep. Standing and staring at me while occassionally whining means she needs to go out to pee. I don't necessarily have to walk her exactly at 8:00 a.m. However, I am my worst enemy that prevents myself from sleeping peacefully. My neurotic internal alarm wakes me up at any random hour thinking it's 8:00 a.m! Last night I slept at 12:00 a.m, and I woke up in the midde of the night because she happened to move to the foot of the bed. I thought it was her 'sign' saying she had to go pee. So, I woke up...let her out the backyard and came back upstairs. I checked the time and it was 12:16 a.m! I had only slept for 16 minutes and my paranoid self was already waking me up! Also, this moring I got up at 6 a.m and then again at 7 a.m wondering when I would have to get up at 8 a.m to let her out!!! You know, I don't think it's Summer driving me crazy...I think I'm driving myself off the deep end...
So, I spent part of this morning anticipating a peaceful sleep after walking Summer at 8:15 a.m. I jumped into bed and snuggled up under the covers. Not even 5 minutes had passed and I was already being interupted by Summer's whining. I finally figured out that if she whines and is staring at the floor in one direction she wants me to fish her favorite ball out from under the bed...then again from under the couch...then from under the bed again...Oh, hold on...she's whining again...I'll have the go down on all fours to check under each piece of furniture to figure out where she had rolled it this time...Just as I guessed...under the dresser...I tried some enginuity at 8:30 this morning by lining part of the underside of the bed and couch with a comforter, but she still manages to find some nook and cranny to accidently roll the ball into. Needless to say, I did not get a chance to sleep a bit more after this...so here I am...blogging about my experience!
I'm still trying to figure out what it means when she keeps staring blankly into the washroom. It kind of creeps me out because I think there's someone there amidst the dark shadows!
SPRING BREAK HALF OVER!
March 25, 2011
10:50 pm
You would think based on all the drama below that I am dying to get out of the island...No, that is not true...I am having a great time! I love that I can set my own schedule for two weeks (aside from the scheduled doggy walks three times a day...and the feeding). When I'm at school my schedule is dictated...every 40-80 minutes there is a transition to the next subject or a meeeting to attend...there is no down time at all. There is still so much to experience and accomplish on my own here that I don't think one week is enough to do it all. Here is a list of what I would still love to do before leaving...
1. picnic at the lake and read (DONE!)
2. jog entirely around the lake (I don't have the guts to because I'm scared I might get lost...I'll do this in the day time) (DONE!)
3. watch a matinee on an overcast/rainy day
4. grab a cupcake (or two!) from Langford Village (they have a specialty shop there!)
5. spend time with my aunt and create art (DONE! Just took pictures of our art work)
6. go ice skating
7. spend an entire day reading on the couch with Summer by my side
8. have lunch at Macaroni Grill with my aunt (DONE!)
9. eat at a Greek Restaurant at Langford Village
10. watch a soccer game in the grand stands right next door (it's only a 2 min. walk away!)
11. watch movies all morning, afternoon and into the evening
12. have lunch at Langford Village (DONE!)
13. start my workout routine (DONE!)
14. read at Langford Lake (DONE!)
15. go to the public library and take out some books (DONE!)
16. shop (DONE!)
17. visit my cousin and his 3 kids and have dinner (DONE!)
IT'S HARD HOUSE SITTING ALONE
March 25, 2011
10:12 am
What's the hardest thing about living alone?
Having no one to talk to...
I didn't realize I spoke so much in my head...
It helps having Summer...that's when I can laugh out loud...
I find that, instead of always having someone to talk to, I can sing instead...
I'm waiting for the neighbours to complain any minute!
Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Taking Chances - Celine Dion
DOGGY DRAMA II
March 23, 2011
11:08 pm
Dogs are soooo unpredictable! At 8 pm I took Summer for a walk, and she did her business...This means that I picked up after her twice today and also let her out in the backyard to frolick and pee...You would think she would be done for the day...NO! Just as I was about to get ready for bed, I noticed that she peed on her ginormous doggy pillow! Okay, this would not be a problem if the pillow was small - this means that I could easily throw it into the washer...This also wouldn't be a problem if she peed on the hardwood floor...the swifer wetjet could have easily handled that mess...
Sorry, I know life is too precious to get angry, but...I'm suppose to be on vacation!! (*how the heck do you spell 'suppose' anyway?!! Is it with one 'p' or two?! Can I go home now? When is it Friday, April 1st?
DOGGY DRAMA!
March 22, 2011
9:35pm
A couple of days ago, Summer dug a HUGE hole in the backyard with bits of dirt flying everywhere! I noticed, from the corner of my eye, that she was rolling a chunk of dirt around with her nose... I got up from the living room couch and peered outside and saw a gaping hole in the grass!
"Jesse's gonna kill me!" I thought.
Her paws were a brown mess with pieces of dried dirt stuck to her fur...not only was there dirt...there was mud all over her fur too! It's not easy trying to pick up a 100+ pound Golden Retreiver and wadling along the entire length of the living room floor! It's also not easy trying to pick her up by her arm pits only to have her weight slipping from my grip every single step I took up the stairs...I was terrified that she would track dirt onto the carpet stairs and have her dirty claws accidently scrape the walls! She didn't even flinch when I did this!
When i finally got her into the shower stall she just sat in the corner...looking up at me in guilt...waiting to get in trouble...
I had no choice but to laugh out loud...it was so ridiculous that i had absolutely no choice but to love her and to laugh....
Sometimes life is too precious to get angry...
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FOURTEEN DAY CHALLENGE!
March 17, 2011
3:37pm
So, I'm out of shape...I have only exercised 3 times in the last 6 months! I have self-proposed a 14 day challenge where I am physically active for 30 minutes each day.
I figure if I hold myself publically accountable by blogging about my experiences I would be more inclined to stick with my routine. I had survived a 30 day challenge in 2009 and was in the best shape of my life! Wish me luck...and a firmer butt!
March 27 - Ran around the Lake for 37 minutes (5 km!)...
March 26 - Sorry, no work out today. I was busy with my aunt, but still managed to get tugged, pulled and jolted left, right and center by Summer (*does this count?). Instead, I took a half hour nap when I got home and then went to KFC for dinner (*how classy! LOL!)...
March 25 - Today, I walked Summer uphill doing lunges for 5-10 minutes. I also did some Kenpo martial arts in the backyard...It helped that the sun came out...it didn't help that my shoulders, arms, and chest still hurt from two days ago! I ended up doing 16 minutes of front, back and side kicks. (*It also doesn't help when I don't stretch each day!). Tonight, I'm off to visit my cousin and his three kids! (*I hope I don't have anymore Doggy Drama when I get home at 8:30 pm! Wish me luck!).
March 24 - Today, I ran partially around Langford Lake for 25 minutes. Besides feeling tightness of the chest when I run uphill...I feel GREAT! My back and shoulders are killing me from yesterday's workout! I LOVE IT!! I may take my book to read at the Lake later on today...I was going to watch a matinee, but decided against it...I'd rather be out in nature...Why voluntarily coop myself up indoors?
March 23 - Today, I worked on my back and shoulders with weights for 25 minutes (I hate Military Push-ups!) I didn't get a chance to go skating yet..the centre has an unpredicatable schedule, so I'll go Friday!...I'm off to the lake to read!
March 22 - Today, I did 5-10 minutes of lunges uphill with Summer. She was very patient...no tugging at all! I admit...I slacked off and just went for a walk to Langford Lake...my legs and butt feel strained from days one through four...I forgot to factor in some needed rest days for my fourteen day challenge...So, here I am changing my rules as I go along! I took my book "Siddhartha"...sat on the rails of the boardwalk overlooking the lake and read for half an hour. It was nice to see a whole bunch of people casting their lines hoping to catch some fish. The lake was calm, peaceful and inviting...
March 21 - Today, I ran partially around Langford Lake for 25 minutes. The scenery was beautiful! I am feeling more fit each day, and I wonder why it took me so long to begin this challenge! It is amazing how a few minutes of exercise each day can make a big difference both physically and mentally! Can't wait until tomorrow...I'm going skating!
March 20 - Today, Summer woke me up early and I let her out in the backyard. She refused to do her business, so I went back to bed...Moments later, I smelled a foul smell. I sniffed some more and tried to convince myself that it was just my imagination. Seconds later, I jumped out of bed...sniffed some more as if I was a bloodhound and jumped back in bed. Just as I had thought...no feces in my bedroom...it was just a dream. Moments later, I smelled the foul smell again! I ran downstairs to the living room and sniffed around - I still didn't see anything...until...I took one step...yes...I found it...No, I did not step on it, but it was at the bottom of the landing...That's when I walked her at 6:30 am for 10 minutes.
On a lighter note, the sun was just rising...the air was crisp and cool...it was still a beautiful morning...So, besides my 10 minute walk/'workout' this morning, I squatted, lunged and worked on my arms this afternoon for 25 minutes! I feel great!
March 19 - Today I did 5-10 minute lunges uphill while walking Summer. She was patient...she waited for me every step I took. I also ran for 20 minutes partly around Langford Lake. The scenery is soo beautiful there! The sun glistening off each wave was mesmerizing. Each ripple of the waves reflected blue skies and white clouds...it was a clear sunny day...I got lost in the moment. It was as if I was looking into an optical illusion. Nothing mattered at that moment...
March 18 - Today I tried to power walk the dog for 20 minutes only to find that she was power walking me! When we hit the pavement, she dragged me left and right, and I almost tripped over her a couple of times! There is nothing classy about walking a 100+ pound Golden Retriever for the first time - especially when I was being jerked and thrusted around every half second...I had to tug at her leash constantly as she is easily distracted and more than ocassionally refused to follow my pace and stride.
I also managed to do 25 minutes of non-stop jump training from what I can remember from the P90 program. I found it refreshing that I chose to exercise outside in the backyard. At one point I let Summer, my brother's dog, outside to lay on the grass as I 'trained' on the pavement. She refused to stay on the grass...when I jumped...she jumped...when I kicked...she pounced!....on me! Lol! Needless to say, I had to have her sit inside until I finished.
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IT'S FREEZING AT MY PLACE!!...
March 8, 2011
9:15pm
So, I went to a thrift store and purchased a nice looking heater for 5 bucks..."SCORE! What a deal!!"
Well, it was worth it for the first 20 minutes until it blew! Did it over heat?? The red indicator light still stays on when I plug it, but no heat...Man, that lady at the counter was so eager to sell it to me! Did she rip me off or did I manage to break it (no surprise)! Is it worth getting fixed...or should I get a brand new one?
ACCIDENT PRONE (II)...
February 30, 2011
7:00pm
Cut my finger deep with a bread knife!!! The wound is gaping and nowhere near close to healing...
ACCIDENT PRONE...
February 28, 2011
6:13pm
As I type, I just finished peeling off the band-aid from my forehead...I winced as I peeled the hair off the adhesive and wondered how in the world did I manage to injure myself at school again - only this time...right in front of 22 students!
Today, I was busy gathering materials for Science class. There is a reason why I do not like teaching Chemistry...waaay too many materials to search and hunt for! I had 15 minutes to run to my car to search for the deflated balloon stashed somewhere deep in my glove compartment, rummage in my dark cupboard for the balloon pump and animal balloons, fly down the hall to stash the rootbeer flavored freezies in the freezer, pray for a miracle that the freezies would freeze in ten minutes time for my lesson, steal a single cream puff from the freezer to add last minute pizzaz to my lesson on solids and, lastly, call Praxair only to find out that it would cost $20 too much to purchase dry ice to teach the concept of sublimation.
My lesson ran smoothly up to a point. Amidst all the chaos moments before, I thought I managed to pull a Science lesson last minute and be able to brag about it. Of course, I would not be able to brag about it without having first experienced a successful lesson before hand.
I had 22 students sitting on the carpet before me. I rambled and spoke intensly as I usually do when I'm either super excited about the suject or totally unsure of what the heck I was talking about. We opened our text books to page 117, and I jumped up realizing that I forgot to put the kettle on to deliver the lesson on condensation. I scurried to the corner of the room behind my large chart stand and plugged in the kettle with excitement...All of a sudden, before I could run back to the carpet to teach, I stood up and ran my head into the corner of the chalkboard ledge!
"OOW!" My yelp cut through the silence in the room. I was still hidden behind the large chart stand with my hand on my forehead. I paused and wondered how I was suppose to explain myself to my students! The room remained silent. I was sure my students were confused, but not at all surprised that I managed to hurt myselft yet again - only a month before I was standing before my class - on my Birthday - explaining why I had a bloody chin. I managed to have my toaster fall from the cupboard and bash my chin...
"I ran my forehead into the ledge of the chalkboard!" I whined. My eyes welled up in pain, and I could see my students half giggling all the while asking me if I was okay.
I dragged my feet and headed to the cupboard. Seconds later, I returned to the front of the room and handed the band-aid to one of my students.
"Can you help me put a band-aid on my forehead, please?" I pleaded.
I continued to teach...needless to say, my lesson from that point on was a mix of laughter and giggles, including disgust as I changed my band-aid in front of my class.
Today, I learned that it's okay show some vulnerability sometimes.
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having sooo much fun being me...
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LET'S PAAAAARTY!
February 24, 2011
11:47pm
Just finished my report cards...just in time for the weekend!
Pass me some redbull and vodka!
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I'M A PROUD MOM!
February 23, 2011
7:10pm
Today, as I was driving home from visiting my friend's newborn, my daughter called.
"I had my Tae Kwon Do test on Sunday, and I passed!" She said in her all too familiar jovial voice.
I was really excited, for she was stuck on blue belt for a year. It was due to the combination of being stretched thin with hockey practice (inevitably leaving little time for additional Tae Kwon Do practices) and having been set back by a trip to California and an ugly eye infection that lasted three months...
So, the past year, Qianna watched as her classmates graduated from one belt level after the other while she remained stagnant on blue belt. I knew she was losing little hope as immediate gratification was taking waay too long...At this rate, I knew she would just settle for advancing just one belt color - never mind trying to win the shiny, covetted trophies that line the judges table in front of her Master. The children always seem to marvel at the trophies as if they are peering through the window of a candy shop...drooling...ooohing..and ahhhhing over 1st, 2nd, 3rd...or even over the round iron-on badges that were handed out as a token representing sportsmanship - or, as we put it...the consolation prizes...
Many times, Qianna's Master handed her a slip to invite her to the promotion test. This test would determine if she would advance a belt level. This slip also indicated 'readiness'.
"Qianna, your Master says you're ready!" I'd often tell her, "Let's sign the slip and have you advance!"
Many times, Qianna would tell me that she was no where near ready. She was adamant that she needed more time to perfect her skill....more time to learn the routines...more time to strengthen...Furthermore, she was pretty much adamant that Tae Kwon Do was no longer 'her thing'...
I remember trying to boost Qianna's morale during this stagnant period by taking her to watch Karate Kid starring Jayden Smith. This movie came at a time when Qianna was constantly pushing for 'OUT!'. She occassionally complained about this and that in order to let us have her opt out of the program all together.
Well, I tell you, the moment she came home from watching the movie, I stated with a smirk on my face, "So, we'll finally opt you out of Tae Kwon Do since you have been begging so badly..."
"No way!" She shouted, "I'm not quitting! I'm going to work soooo hard and win a trophy! Just like in the movie!"
I noticed she was performing some forceful front snap kicks and back hook kicks as she talked. This was very cute. I remember thinking to myself, "Man! I'll need to buy this movie and play it over and over again just before each practice and each day in between in order to keep her exuberance up!"
I'll do anything...I thought to myself...
Anyway, after her first sentence about passing blue belt, I had a smile on my face. It was nice hearing her so excited about Tae Kwon Do again.
Even more exciting was when she followed her first sentence with, "...and I won second place!!!"
That's my girl...!
I learned a valuable lesson from her this day...
We need to be in tune with our inner feelings...
We just need to be aware and allow ourselves to enter a state of conciousness amidst this hectic, fast paced world that always wants to rush us to perform and tackle the next step with such haste...
By ackowledging this...we will eventually know when we are ready...
...for anything...
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PINK BALLOOON PARADE!
February 23, 2011
4:01pm
This day was simply amazing! 153 Pink balloons...and 153 smiles...EVERYWHERE!
Truly memorable!
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SHARING...
February 22, 2011
9:00pm
I really want to share...
Every day I am making memories...
What is life if we can't express our deep emotions and feelings tied to experiences with the ones we love?
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SPONTANEITY AND PINK BALLOONS GO HAND IN HAND
February 21, 2011
8:31pm
Yesterday, I spontaneously emailed my school principal and told her I will buy a large helium tank and 200 pink balloons to celebrate PINK DAY (*a day for many schools, both nationally and internationally, to celebrate anti-bullying, diversity, and taking a stand against homophobia). To show our support, my idea is to have 200 students parade in single file along the sidewalks of our innercity community.
Today, I picked up the helium tank and 200 balloons and realized that I actually needed to accomodate 130 students - this means that I would have 70 extra balloons!
Immediately, I drove home and called for my daughter to meet me in my Honda Element. I didn't want to lug the tank into the house, so, instead, I asked her if she would like me to blow up balloons for her close friends
so she can take to school to celebrate Pink Day. She was ecstatic! Qianna wanted 4 balloons to give to her friends - eventually, we upped the number to 8 (she wanted to give two balloons to each friend)....
We sat in the back seat blowing balloons, cutting ribbon, and injecting the deflated balloons with HiFloat gel to help extend the life span of the balloons up to one full day....We laughed, sang, and poked fun at eachother about how slow our 'assembly line process' was taking shape...
We continued all the while listening to the pit pat of the rain hitting the roof of my car....We peered out the window and rapidly watched the day turn dismal, dark and grey. It was funny because, amidst this dreary day, we managed to have the time of our lives cooped up in my Honda Element ('the toaster' as many would call it) surounded by 30 pink helium balloons! (*Yes, I caved in! We blew up balloons for her entire class...including one for her teacher!)
My posture slowly shrank smaller and smaller as the balloons seemingly caved in on me. "Man! I'm getting claustrophobic surrounded by all this pink latex!" I shouted!
Qianna didn't hear a single work I shouted. She was just busy singing some weird hamburger song over and over again while inflating balloons for half an hour!
This day was truly a memorable one! We really need to be spontaneous at times and just BE...without thinking too much...just live the moment...
Sure, the helium tank costed me $89, and the two packages of balloons $33, including $44 of HighFloat...but hanging out with my daughter in my little SUV and marvelling at the look on her face among the 30 pink helium balloons....PRICELESS!
I'd do it again...in a heartbeat...
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EXHIBITIONS HERE I COME!
February 20, 2011
4:11pm
I finally framed three of my works of art! Likely I will be exhibiting for the first time in the First Annual Westend Art Krall (*yes, I'm full of optimism...i know, hard to believe!)
I'll submit the images Friday...I'll keep you posted re: whether or not I am chosen!
It's soooo motivating to create art and to see the finished product framed! I can finally stop talking about framing my work and....start actually framing!...and soon...exhibiting!!
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COMPANIONS
February 11, 2011
11:00pm
Today, my friend called and I spontaneously invited her over. We have been friends for 13 years and have lost touch over the many years. We ocassionally meet up for birthdays and milestone functions, but never for a 'random' outing.
We talked about love, groundedness, and the idea of learning to love ourselves before loving anyone else. This topic got us talking about how one can be happy and love themselves before reaching out to others in a happy and loving way...we were both confused because we see that both are so closely intertwined...
For me, I see it as clearing all negative thoughts and judgements about ourselves, hence, leaving room to pay attention to what we value, what makes us happy...it is the idea of developing an awareness of ourselves which would inevitably foster a strong and self assured character capable of loving others.
If we are certain in ourselves, we are certain in everything that we do...including loving others...
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CHANGE...
February 10, 2011
Change is hard...and challenging...
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DRESSING IN THE DARK...AND IN A RUSH!
February 9, 2011
Today, like most mornings, I was in a rush to leave the house for school. I got dressed in the dark and scrambled for my typical three large, heavy bags I normally carry to school.
Minutes later, I was clumsily trying to fumble for my keys to lock the door. "Why does my morning routine always make me out to be some clumsy, dishevelled character from the beginnings of some romantic comedy?!" I thought to myself.
As I waited for the elevator doors to open, I glanced down at what I thought was a well put together outfit.
I blushed as I realized that I had two different boots on! They were both the same color, but not matching at all!!!!
To add to my morning madness, I had to run back to my apartment to change! Luckily by the time I reached my car I still had two minutes to spare before I headed for the road!
Wish me luck the rest of the day!
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
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LUCKY TO HAVE A HIGH METABOLISM!
February 8, 2011
Afterschool, I scarfed down six chocolate chip cookies in one sitting...An hour later, I drove to a Vietnamese restaurant and ordered a submarine sandwich!
I ate while I drove. Minutes later, I found myself lining up to pay for 12 cans of Santa Cruz Organic beverages (mango lemonade, gingerale and lemon/lime). To top it off...I also paid for 4 cans of Red Bull! I scanned the gocery store for some vodka, but figured I would have to head to a liquor store...hmmm...maybe in the weekend...it is a school night after all!
When I arrived home, I took a shower and tried to blowdry my hair. I rested the blow dryer on the edge of the sink (still on!) and the darn thing fell into the sink that had not finished draining yet! Yes! The sink was still full of water! I nearly electrocuted myself! Needless to say...I will likely be buying a new hair dryer tomorrow...I'm scared to death to even try to plug it in to see if it works!
Anyway, after this ordeal, I finished my submarine sandwich and scarfed down what was left of my bag of potato chips and one large cookie...
What's next?....hmmm...I'm eyeing the last large chocolate chip cookie in the package...
What do you say?....should I?....
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
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BOWLING WITH MY ONE AND ONLY...
February 4, 2011
March 22 - Today, I did 5-10 minutes of lunges uphill with Summer. She was very patient...no tugging at all! I admit...I slacked off and just went for a walk to Langford Lake...my legs and butt feel strained from days one through four...I forgot to factor in some needed rest days for my fourteen day challenge...So, here I am changing my rules as I go along! I took my book "Siddhartha"...sat on the rails of the boardwalk overlooking the lake and read for half an hour. It was nice to see a whole bunch of people casting their lines hoping to catch some fish. The lake was calm, peaceful and inviting...
March 21 - Today, I ran partially around Langford Lake for 25 minutes. The scenery was beautiful! I am feeling more fit each day, and I wonder why it took me so long to begin this challenge! It is amazing how a few minutes of exercise each day can make a big difference both physically and mentally! Can't wait until tomorrow...I'm going skating!
March 20 - Today, Summer woke me up early and I let her out in the backyard. She refused to do her business, so I went back to bed...Moments later, I smelled a foul smell. I sniffed some more and tried to convince myself that it was just my imagination. Seconds later, I jumped out of bed...sniffed some more as if I was a bloodhound and jumped back in bed. Just as I had thought...no feces in my bedroom...it was just a dream. Moments later, I smelled the foul smell again! I ran downstairs to the living room and sniffed around - I still didn't see anything...until...I took one step...yes...I found it...No, I did not step on it, but it was at the bottom of the landing...That's when I walked her at 6:30 am for 10 minutes.
On a lighter note, the sun was just rising...the air was crisp and cool...it was still a beautiful morning...So, besides my 10 minute walk/'workout' this morning, I squatted, lunged and worked on my arms this afternoon for 25 minutes! I feel great!
March 19 - Today I did 5-10 minute lunges uphill while walking Summer. She was patient...she waited for me every step I took. I also ran for 20 minutes partly around Langford Lake. The scenery is soo beautiful there! The sun glistening off each wave was mesmerizing. Each ripple of the waves reflected blue skies and white clouds...it was a clear sunny day...I got lost in the moment. It was as if I was looking into an optical illusion. Nothing mattered at that moment...
March 18 - Today I tried to power walk the dog for 20 minutes only to find that she was power walking me! When we hit the pavement, she dragged me left and right, and I almost tripped over her a couple of times! There is nothing classy about walking a 100+ pound Golden Retriever for the first time - especially when I was being jerked and thrusted around every half second...I had to tug at her leash constantly as she is easily distracted and more than ocassionally refused to follow my pace and stride.
I also managed to do 25 minutes of non-stop jump training from what I can remember from the P90 program. I found it refreshing that I chose to exercise outside in the backyard. At one point I let Summer, my brother's dog, outside to lay on the grass as I 'trained' on the pavement. She refused to stay on the grass...when I jumped...she jumped...when I kicked...she pounced!....on me! Lol! Needless to say, I had to have her sit inside until I finished.
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IT'S FREEZING AT MY PLACE!!...
March 8, 2011
9:15pm
So, I went to a thrift store and purchased a nice looking heater for 5 bucks..."SCORE! What a deal!!"
Well, it was worth it for the first 20 minutes until it blew! Did it over heat?? The red indicator light still stays on when I plug it, but no heat...Man, that lady at the counter was so eager to sell it to me! Did she rip me off or did I manage to break it (no surprise)! Is it worth getting fixed...or should I get a brand new one?
ACCIDENT PRONE (II)...
February 30, 2011
7:00pm
Cut my finger deep with a bread knife!!! The wound is gaping and nowhere near close to healing...
ACCIDENT PRONE...
February 28, 2011
6:13pm
As I type, I just finished peeling off the band-aid from my forehead...I winced as I peeled the hair off the adhesive and wondered how in the world did I manage to injure myself at school again - only this time...right in front of 22 students!
Today, I was busy gathering materials for Science class. There is a reason why I do not like teaching Chemistry...waaay too many materials to search and hunt for! I had 15 minutes to run to my car to search for the deflated balloon stashed somewhere deep in my glove compartment, rummage in my dark cupboard for the balloon pump and animal balloons, fly down the hall to stash the rootbeer flavored freezies in the freezer, pray for a miracle that the freezies would freeze in ten minutes time for my lesson, steal a single cream puff from the freezer to add last minute pizzaz to my lesson on solids and, lastly, call Praxair only to find out that it would cost $20 too much to purchase dry ice to teach the concept of sublimation.
My lesson ran smoothly up to a point. Amidst all the chaos moments before, I thought I managed to pull a Science lesson last minute and be able to brag about it. Of course, I would not be able to brag about it without having first experienced a successful lesson before hand.
I had 22 students sitting on the carpet before me. I rambled and spoke intensly as I usually do when I'm either super excited about the suject or totally unsure of what the heck I was talking about. We opened our text books to page 117, and I jumped up realizing that I forgot to put the kettle on to deliver the lesson on condensation. I scurried to the corner of the room behind my large chart stand and plugged in the kettle with excitement...All of a sudden, before I could run back to the carpet to teach, I stood up and ran my head into the corner of the chalkboard ledge!
"OOW!" My yelp cut through the silence in the room. I was still hidden behind the large chart stand with my hand on my forehead. I paused and wondered how I was suppose to explain myself to my students! The room remained silent. I was sure my students were confused, but not at all surprised that I managed to hurt myselft yet again - only a month before I was standing before my class - on my Birthday - explaining why I had a bloody chin. I managed to have my toaster fall from the cupboard and bash my chin...
"I ran my forehead into the ledge of the chalkboard!" I whined. My eyes welled up in pain, and I could see my students half giggling all the while asking me if I was okay.
I dragged my feet and headed to the cupboard. Seconds later, I returned to the front of the room and handed the band-aid to one of my students.
"Can you help me put a band-aid on my forehead, please?" I pleaded.
I continued to teach...needless to say, my lesson from that point on was a mix of laughter and giggles, including disgust as I changed my band-aid in front of my class.
Today, I learned that it's okay show some vulnerability sometimes.
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having sooo much fun being me...
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LET'S PAAAAARTY!
February 24, 2011
11:47pm
Just finished my report cards...just in time for the weekend!
Pass me some redbull and vodka!
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I'M A PROUD MOM!
February 23, 2011
7:10pm
Today, as I was driving home from visiting my friend's newborn, my daughter called.
"I had my Tae Kwon Do test on Sunday, and I passed!" She said in her all too familiar jovial voice.
I was really excited, for she was stuck on blue belt for a year. It was due to the combination of being stretched thin with hockey practice (inevitably leaving little time for additional Tae Kwon Do practices) and having been set back by a trip to California and an ugly eye infection that lasted three months...
So, the past year, Qianna watched as her classmates graduated from one belt level after the other while she remained stagnant on blue belt. I knew she was losing little hope as immediate gratification was taking waay too long...At this rate, I knew she would just settle for advancing just one belt color - never mind trying to win the shiny, covetted trophies that line the judges table in front of her Master. The children always seem to marvel at the trophies as if they are peering through the window of a candy shop...drooling...ooohing..and ahhhhing over 1st, 2nd, 3rd...or even over the round iron-on badges that were handed out as a token representing sportsmanship - or, as we put it...the consolation prizes...
Many times, Qianna's Master handed her a slip to invite her to the promotion test. This test would determine if she would advance a belt level. This slip also indicated 'readiness'.
"Qianna, your Master says you're ready!" I'd often tell her, "Let's sign the slip and have you advance!"
Many times, Qianna would tell me that she was no where near ready. She was adamant that she needed more time to perfect her skill....more time to learn the routines...more time to strengthen...Furthermore, she was pretty much adamant that Tae Kwon Do was no longer 'her thing'...
I remember trying to boost Qianna's morale during this stagnant period by taking her to watch Karate Kid starring Jayden Smith. This movie came at a time when Qianna was constantly pushing for 'OUT!'. She occassionally complained about this and that in order to let us have her opt out of the program all together.
Well, I tell you, the moment she came home from watching the movie, I stated with a smirk on my face, "So, we'll finally opt you out of Tae Kwon Do since you have been begging so badly..."
"No way!" She shouted, "I'm not quitting! I'm going to work soooo hard and win a trophy! Just like in the movie!"
I noticed she was performing some forceful front snap kicks and back hook kicks as she talked. This was very cute. I remember thinking to myself, "Man! I'll need to buy this movie and play it over and over again just before each practice and each day in between in order to keep her exuberance up!"
I'll do anything...I thought to myself...
Anyway, after her first sentence about passing blue belt, I had a smile on my face. It was nice hearing her so excited about Tae Kwon Do again.
Even more exciting was when she followed her first sentence with, "...and I won second place!!!"
That's my girl...!
I learned a valuable lesson from her this day...
We need to be in tune with our inner feelings...
We just need to be aware and allow ourselves to enter a state of conciousness amidst this hectic, fast paced world that always wants to rush us to perform and tackle the next step with such haste...
By ackowledging this...we will eventually know when we are ready...
...for anything...
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PINK BALLOOON PARADE!
February 23, 2011
4:01pm
This day was simply amazing! 153 Pink balloons...and 153 smiles...EVERYWHERE!
Truly memorable!
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SHARING...
February 22, 2011
9:00pm
I really want to share...
Every day I am making memories...
What is life if we can't express our deep emotions and feelings tied to experiences with the ones we love?
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SPONTANEITY AND PINK BALLOONS GO HAND IN HAND
February 21, 2011
8:31pm
Yesterday, I spontaneously emailed my school principal and told her I will buy a large helium tank and 200 pink balloons to celebrate PINK DAY (*a day for many schools, both nationally and internationally, to celebrate anti-bullying, diversity, and taking a stand against homophobia). To show our support, my idea is to have 200 students parade in single file along the sidewalks of our innercity community.
Today, I picked up the helium tank and 200 balloons and realized that I actually needed to accomodate 130 students - this means that I would have 70 extra balloons!
Immediately, I drove home and called for my daughter to meet me in my Honda Element. I didn't want to lug the tank into the house, so, instead, I asked her if she would like me to blow up balloons for her close friends
so she can take to school to celebrate Pink Day. She was ecstatic! Qianna wanted 4 balloons to give to her friends - eventually, we upped the number to 8 (she wanted to give two balloons to each friend)....
We sat in the back seat blowing balloons, cutting ribbon, and injecting the deflated balloons with HiFloat gel to help extend the life span of the balloons up to one full day....We laughed, sang, and poked fun at eachother about how slow our 'assembly line process' was taking shape...
We continued all the while listening to the pit pat of the rain hitting the roof of my car....We peered out the window and rapidly watched the day turn dismal, dark and grey. It was funny because, amidst this dreary day, we managed to have the time of our lives cooped up in my Honda Element ('the toaster' as many would call it) surounded by 30 pink helium balloons! (*Yes, I caved in! We blew up balloons for her entire class...including one for her teacher!)
My posture slowly shrank smaller and smaller as the balloons seemingly caved in on me. "Man! I'm getting claustrophobic surrounded by all this pink latex!" I shouted!
Qianna didn't hear a single work I shouted. She was just busy singing some weird hamburger song over and over again while inflating balloons for half an hour!
This day was truly a memorable one! We really need to be spontaneous at times and just BE...without thinking too much...just live the moment...
Sure, the helium tank costed me $89, and the two packages of balloons $33, including $44 of HighFloat...but hanging out with my daughter in my little SUV and marvelling at the look on her face among the 30 pink helium balloons....PRICELESS!
I'd do it again...in a heartbeat...
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EXHIBITIONS HERE I COME!
February 20, 2011
4:11pm
I finally framed three of my works of art! Likely I will be exhibiting for the first time in the First Annual Westend Art Krall (*yes, I'm full of optimism...i know, hard to believe!)
I'll submit the images Friday...I'll keep you posted re: whether or not I am chosen!
It's soooo motivating to create art and to see the finished product framed! I can finally stop talking about framing my work and....start actually framing!...and soon...exhibiting!!
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COMPANIONS
February 11, 2011
11:00pm
Today, my friend called and I spontaneously invited her over. We have been friends for 13 years and have lost touch over the many years. We ocassionally meet up for birthdays and milestone functions, but never for a 'random' outing.
We talked about love, groundedness, and the idea of learning to love ourselves before loving anyone else. This topic got us talking about how one can be happy and love themselves before reaching out to others in a happy and loving way...we were both confused because we see that both are so closely intertwined...
For me, I see it as clearing all negative thoughts and judgements about ourselves, hence, leaving room to pay attention to what we value, what makes us happy...it is the idea of developing an awareness of ourselves which would inevitably foster a strong and self assured character capable of loving others.
If we are certain in ourselves, we are certain in everything that we do...including loving others...
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CHANGE...
February 10, 2011
Change is hard...and challenging...
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DRESSING IN THE DARK...AND IN A RUSH!
February 9, 2011
Today, like most mornings, I was in a rush to leave the house for school. I got dressed in the dark and scrambled for my typical three large, heavy bags I normally carry to school.
Minutes later, I was clumsily trying to fumble for my keys to lock the door. "Why does my morning routine always make me out to be some clumsy, dishevelled character from the beginnings of some romantic comedy?!" I thought to myself.
As I waited for the elevator doors to open, I glanced down at what I thought was a well put together outfit.
I blushed as I realized that I had two different boots on! They were both the same color, but not matching at all!!!!
To add to my morning madness, I had to run back to my apartment to change! Luckily by the time I reached my car I still had two minutes to spare before I headed for the road!
Wish me luck the rest of the day!
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
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LUCKY TO HAVE A HIGH METABOLISM!
February 8, 2011
Afterschool, I scarfed down six chocolate chip cookies in one sitting...An hour later, I drove to a Vietnamese restaurant and ordered a submarine sandwich!
I ate while I drove. Minutes later, I found myself lining up to pay for 12 cans of Santa Cruz Organic beverages (mango lemonade, gingerale and lemon/lime). To top it off...I also paid for 4 cans of Red Bull! I scanned the gocery store for some vodka, but figured I would have to head to a liquor store...hmmm...maybe in the weekend...it is a school night after all!
When I arrived home, I took a shower and tried to blowdry my hair. I rested the blow dryer on the edge of the sink (still on!) and the darn thing fell into the sink that had not finished draining yet! Yes! The sink was still full of water! I nearly electrocuted myself! Needless to say...I will likely be buying a new hair dryer tomorrow...I'm scared to death to even try to plug it in to see if it works!
Anyway, after this ordeal, I finished my submarine sandwich and scarfed down what was left of my bag of potato chips and one large cookie...
What's next?....hmmm...I'm eyeing the last large chocolate chip cookie in the package...
What do you say?....should I?....
This is me in a nutshell...love me or hate me...this is me...
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BOWLING WITH MY ONE AND ONLY...
February 4, 2011
Today I went Cosmic Bowling for the first time in a long time with my daughter. We had a blast! Music was blaring, and the alley was pitch black except for the glow of neon colours that lined the muralled walls. I lied...the detergent stains on Qianna's pants were also glowing amidst the dark backdrop!
Qianna danced and bowled the entire time! Me? I tried to sing along to the top 40 songs they blasted, but fumbled and slurred through every second word. Plus, she would think it was both weird and "totally uncool!" that her Mom was singing along with songs she liked. So, I stopped singing in order to beat her to the idea of telling me to stop!
We also had a very early dinner while bowling...I loved the idea that we could eat, bowl, dance, sing, and give eachother awkward Hi-5's in the dark (*yeah, we clumsily missed our Hi-5's further adding to my character as 'awkward Mom'! (*But, hey, at least my daughter did mention that I'm the best/coolest dressed teacher she knows! I get some points for that don't I?!)
From today, I found out that she is very positive and encouraging when losing...(*YES! I beat her twice!)...and that I suck at bowling (*I'll let you infer as to how great of a bowler she is!). For some reason I kept bowling gutter balls every first try (*I should have set the bunkers up!). Did I mention this was 5 pin bowling (*blushing). Those little balls get pretty heavy after a while! I think I actually got some calluses bowling today, and those balls don't even have holes to put your fingers in!
Today was memorable...I will definately find time to continue to connect with her beyond books and homework!
For the first time in a long time I felt excited that I was actually taking the time to...enjoy life...I usually hesitate doing anything social...I usually convince myself that spending a hectic week teaching all day requires nothing but R&R indoors...and at home...! I would usually opt for staying home planning and preparing even more for school the following week.
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I HATE MY CAR AND MY CAR HATES ME!!
February 1, 2011
So...the past few of months have been quite the challenge...I could tell you that my car hates me, and that I hate my car. I can also tell you that I am a complete idiot who loves to drown my electronics in order to purposefully make my life miserable!
Nov. 16th I had to jump my car three times in a half hour...faulty something or other...thankfully I have great friends who love me unconditionally!
Nov. 17th My car stalls at a near intersection...I took the day off work...
Jan. 22nd I spill my coffee cup on my car alarm clicker...
Jan. 23rd I spend an hour and a half in the parking lot of Richmond Center with a faulty alarm clicker that refuses to de-activate my alarm...
Jan. 27th Everyone has noticed that I have been driving around with one headlight burnt out...
Jan. 28th I spend half an hour having a nice lunch with my friends until the lovely waitress asks us if we have parked alongside Kingsway because we were literally in the process of being towed! (I had to flirt with the tow guy to let me off with a smaller fine while he took the straps off my car..albeit with a smile!)
Feb. 21st Stupid towing company!! They are still charging me $90 even after I paid $45 to have the straps taken off my car on site! They even served me a final notice without serving me my first notice! What a waste of time! I have to call them to clear this up! (*I guess I didn't flirt with the tow guy hard enough! I should have given him my number!)
Mar. 10th Had a friend pull my tail pipe completely off...weeks before, it was swaying and in need of some attention...
Mar. Some-er-other...I can't remember...I got stranded in the parking lot at Superstore with my steering wheel on lock. It was locked (and cranked to the left) so tight that I had major difficulties turning my keys in the ignition. Yes, I had to get my car towed. Luckily when my car was getting towed the wheel lock loosened and my back-up car keys were able to be inserted in -albeit with a little less diffulty. If you are reading this and come across my car in a listing...disregard what you read above!
This is me...in a nut shell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
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This is me...in a nut shell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
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I HATE MY CAR AND MY CAR HATES ME!!
February 1, 2011
So...the past few of months have been quite the challenge...I could tell you that my car hates me, and that I hate my car. I can also tell you that I am a complete idiot who loves to drown my electronics in order to purposefully make my life miserable!
Nov. 16th I had to jump my car three times in a half hour...faulty something or other...thankfully I have great friends who love me unconditionally!
Nov. 17th My car stalls at a near intersection...I took the day off work...
Jan. 22nd I spill my coffee cup on my car alarm clicker...
Jan. 23rd I spend an hour and a half in the parking lot of Richmond Center with a faulty alarm clicker that refuses to de-activate my alarm...
Jan. 27th Everyone has noticed that I have been driving around with one headlight burnt out...
Jan. 28th I spend half an hour having a nice lunch with my friends until the lovely waitress asks us if we have parked alongside Kingsway because we were literally in the process of being towed! (I had to flirt with the tow guy to let me off with a smaller fine while he took the straps off my car..albeit with a smile!)
Feb. 21st Stupid towing company!! They are still charging me $90 even after I paid $45 to have the straps taken off my car on site! They even served me a final notice without serving me my first notice! What a waste of time! I have to call them to clear this up! (*I guess I didn't flirt with the tow guy hard enough! I should have given him my number!)
Mar. 10th Had a friend pull my tail pipe completely off...weeks before, it was swaying and in need of some attention...
Mar. Some-er-other...I can't remember...I got stranded in the parking lot at Superstore with my steering wheel on lock. It was locked (and cranked to the left) so tight that I had major difficulties turning my keys in the ignition. Yes, I had to get my car towed. Luckily when my car was getting towed the wheel lock loosened and my back-up car keys were able to be inserted in -albeit with a little less diffulty. If you are reading this and come across my car in a listing...disregard what you read above!
This is me...in a nut shell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
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THERE'S A LOST SKINK IN MY LIVING ROOM! HELP! IT'S 4 A.M!
November 11, 2010
It was 4:30 a.m....I was lying in my bed fast asleep...Suddenly, I woke up panicking! I sat up with eyes wide open in sheer terror! "DID I LEAVE THE TEMPERATURE LIGHT ON!!! THEY'LL FREEZE TO DEATH IF I HAD FORGOTTEN! I ALREADY LOST ONE SKINK! I CAN'T AFFORD THE LOSS OF ANOTHER!"
Seconds later, I jumped out of bed and darted down the stairs. All that was on my mind was, "Division 1 would be soooo upset with me if the rest of the skinks passed away!"
When I ran into the living room, I noticed it was icy cold. The light had been left OFF... :( ...My heart skipped a beat and I ran to the tank and flipped the switch for the heat lamp. I immediately fumbled to pull the skinks out of the tank to warm them up. To my pleasant surprise, they were still alive. They were cold but alive...I smiled to myself and thought, "Division 1 is going to love me! I didn't kill the skinks! Yaaaay! And what a story I will tell them tomorrow!"
I smiled as I pulled Skink #1 and Skink #2 out of the tank to bathe under the heat lamp (I let them lay on the top cover to warm up). Within seconds of laying them down, Skink #2, the fat one, bounced off the cover and landed on the carpet! *Who knew skinks can bounce half a foot into the air and land on all fours! I had little time to question how they can perform such miraculous feats as all I was thinking was, "Man, I don't have my glasses on, and I'm as blind as a bat. How am I suppose to grab this skink while holding on to Skink #1 (the skinny one)!"
I quickly placed Skink #1 into the tank and reached for naughty Skink #2. Actually, I think I am the naughty one as I failed to put the heat lamp on, therefore depriving the skinks more than 6 hours of heat! Anyway, as I reached for Skink #2, it quickly dashed under my leather couch! I immediately thought, "Great! I'm half blind and now I need to lift this heavy couch up to grab this naughty skink without having the couch come crashing down on us both!"
With all my might, I lifted the couch up, and then I realized that I had two hands holding the couch and no hands free to grab the skink! I definately couldn't grab the skink with my foot! What if i accidently stepped on it! I WAS HALF ALSEEP! I knew the best thing I could do was rest the couch on the coffee table and then go after the skink. OH! The skink ran under the other leather couch as I tried to grab it! They are sooooooo fast! Who knew skinks could crawl sooo fast!?!!
I finally decided to run upstairs to grab my glasses, for trying to search for a loose skink with such poor eyesight would just prolong the early morning madness! I was out of breath and hyperventilating when I reached my bedroom. "Great!" I thought, "I can't even find my glasses...I'm sooooo blind! I need to get back downstairs straight away to save that skink!" At that moment, my husband woke up from the sound of my heavy breathing. He asked what was wrong. I immediately answered, "HELP ME FIND MY LOOSE SKINK! IT'S UNDER THE COUCH!"
We ran into the living room and lifted up all the couches and realized that there was no skink in sight! My husband checked the kitchen, and I checked downstairs. We turned up all the other couches in the living room (yes, there were a total of 6 couches to lift up and shake!) and moved all the furniture to hopefully find Skink #2. Pillows were flying everywhere and I even checked behind the piano and in each basket/drawer in our living room. To our detriment, there was no skink :(
"What if the skink ran inside the leather couch?! Eeew! What if it dies in the couch and we smell it!" I shouted. My husband looked at me as if I was crazy. He was not happy to have been woken up to search for a lost skink at 4:30 in the morning while listening to me freak out! I immediately shoved my hand in the leather couch and realized that my hand only went so far as there were several wooden panels blocking my reach. "What if the skink is there and I can't reach it!" I yelled.
My husband then grabbed a pair of scissors and started cutting up the underside of the leather couch! "Oh, man! I'm in real big trouble now!" I thought to myself, "I just made my husband tear open parts of our leather couch!" After the sight of this, I couldn't help but burst into laughter because it looked sooooo ridiculous! Number one, I was still flipping up furniture....and number two, my husband was cutting up leather! LOL! And this happened all at 4:30 am!
By 5 am, I decided to allow my husband to sleep. I told him I would continue to look for the skink for a little longer. I decided to check the kitchen again. "Man! The kitchen tiles are soooo cold! The skink would definately not be here!" I thought to myself. I checked every corner of the kitchen and finally decided to lift up my dogs pillow which was laying on the floor.
To my surprise, I saw a frozen skink! "Eew! I think the skink is dead!" I thought. I immediately grabbed the skink and held it up to my face...It blinked!
To my surprise, I saw a frozen skink! "Eew! I think the skink is dead!" I thought. I immediately grabbed the skink and held it up to my face...It blinked!
Who knew skinks like dog pillows and that they can blink!
This is me...in a nut shell...love me or hate me...this is me...
Needless to say, I love my life...I am having so much fun being me...
