Nothing is safe on a counter as far as cats are concerned.
Carrie poured me a glass of milk to empty out the container and make room for a fresh pair. At the time, I was feeding Shane. My wife placed the cup on our serving counter and I intended to partake once Shane was done.
Max found the cup first.
I looked up from Shane and saw the cat licking out of my cup. I hissed and she vaulted off the serving counter and onto the TV stand. Max blinked at me, and flicked her tail in what was probably kitty annoyance. She then trotted to the other side of the TV stand and hurled over the edge. Cat puke cascaded onto one of Shane's building blocks. Apparently, my cat's system is not accustomed to lactose (much like my own).
I dumped the milk out in the sink.
Can you blame me?
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Nostalgia: When the Future Wife Met Her Future Mother-In-Law (DUN DUN DUN!!)
My mother was always eager for me to fall in love.
Part of it is your typical mother wanting the best for her child, and part of it was my romantic escapades were the exact opposite of hers growing up. Basically, I had none. Nana had a boyfriend from 5th grade onward!
Imagine all of the advice I used to get.
Now imagine a teenage boy who really doesn't want to hear it.
"No, Mom. I do like girls." The usual disclaimer. If the motherly advice continued, Nana would hear,"If you don't stop asking, I'm going to mail order a bride from Russia."
She loved to hear that. "But Mike, she wouldn't be Christian!"
"I can pay extra for that. Maybe I"ll buy a pair: one to cook and one to clean!"
I never claimed I was a perfect child.
Part of it is your typical mother wanting the best for her child, and part of it was my romantic escapades were the exact opposite of hers growing up. Basically, I had none. Nana had a boyfriend from 5th grade onward!
Imagine all of the advice I used to get.
Now imagine a teenage boy who really doesn't want to hear it.
"No, Mom. I do like girls." The usual disclaimer. If the motherly advice continued, Nana would hear,"If you don't stop asking, I'm going to mail order a bride from Russia."
She loved to hear that. "But Mike, she wouldn't be Christian!"
"I can pay extra for that. Maybe I"ll buy a pair: one to cook and one to clean!"
I never claimed I was a perfect child.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Shane's Expanding Vocabulary
Shane's vocabulary has grown! I don't know if it's from having tubes put in his ears or if it was just a coincidence of timing.
Shane's new words include "Go," "Nana," "Banana," "Whoa," and something that sounds like "Ah-Gee." I haven't figured out what that last word means, but he sure likes to say it. He's also pointing at letters and can say "A," "C," and "E" but it's random what name he assigns to what he points at. There are plenty of other words that he will try to say like "Chair," "Horse," and "Balloon" that I understand even if your typical passerby would not. Shane's approximation for "Kitties" will still drop some jaws if he were to say it in public.
The speech therapist has been visiting, as well. She comes on Friday and hangs out for an hour with Carrie and Shane in the morning. Carrie said that the therapist spent the first day asking a lot of questions and watching how she and Shane interacted. Then she offered some advice and assigned us homework. The next week she checked in and she did more interacting with Shane, but it was still a Shane and Carrie with suggestions sort of endeavor (or so I understand).
While there has been some progress since Shane started therapy, I don't think she's the source of the new sounds. She hasn't been working with Shane long enough, but now that things are in place and he's picking up sounds I hope I can be conversing with my son soon! (Or at least having a conversation that doesn't only involve Shane shouting the word "SEE!" and pointing).
The therapy will also be more effective once we start doing all the homework...
You'd think I'd be better at that as a teacher. We did 3 out of 4 things assigned so I guess that's a C.
If only politicians could get things right that often!
Shane's new words include "Go," "Nana," "Banana," "Whoa," and something that sounds like "Ah-Gee." I haven't figured out what that last word means, but he sure likes to say it. He's also pointing at letters and can say "A," "C," and "E" but it's random what name he assigns to what he points at. There are plenty of other words that he will try to say like "Chair," "Horse," and "Balloon" that I understand even if your typical passerby would not. Shane's approximation for "Kitties" will still drop some jaws if he were to say it in public.
The speech therapist has been visiting, as well. She comes on Friday and hangs out for an hour with Carrie and Shane in the morning. Carrie said that the therapist spent the first day asking a lot of questions and watching how she and Shane interacted. Then she offered some advice and assigned us homework. The next week she checked in and she did more interacting with Shane, but it was still a Shane and Carrie with suggestions sort of endeavor (or so I understand).
While there has been some progress since Shane started therapy, I don't think she's the source of the new sounds. She hasn't been working with Shane long enough, but now that things are in place and he's picking up sounds I hope I can be conversing with my son soon! (Or at least having a conversation that doesn't only involve Shane shouting the word "SEE!" and pointing).
The therapy will also be more effective once we start doing all the homework...
You'd think I'd be better at that as a teacher. We did 3 out of 4 things assigned so I guess that's a C.
If only politicians could get things right that often!
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Unfortunate Speechisms #2
It's hysterical when your wife is playing "Horsey" with your son and he crawls off, turns around, points, and announces "HO!"
R's are hard to pronounce.
I nearly died laughing.
Carrie's eyes bugged. "Our son says 'titties' and 'ho!' What kind of parents are we!?"
Then she started laughing, too.
The bad news is that the laughing is probably only going to encourage Shane's new name for Mama.
My reply?
"That's going on the blog!"
R's are hard to pronounce.
I nearly died laughing.
Carrie's eyes bugged. "Our son says 'titties' and 'ho!' What kind of parents are we!?"
Then she started laughing, too.
The bad news is that the laughing is probably only going to encourage Shane's new name for Mama.
My reply?
"That's going on the blog!"
Monday, September 24, 2012
Resurrected: Whoa
I totally forgot.
On a whim, I remembered my actual login for my old journal. I knew I had some posts that I'd blocked from public consumption, but I didn't remember I started to post on my old livejournal again BEFORE I started this blog. The posts were all marked Private and aside from my old friend Kevin (who I need to call again) no one could really see them.
It's weird.
Has my writing changed that much from this blog? It has been going on for a couple of years, but still...
A lot of what I wrote I clearly wasn't planning for open posting. The writing style felt more like I was trying to remember events in a list sometimes than tell a story. There's one post about "I'M GOING TO BE A FATHER!" that was hilarious to read, but has a little TMI for the internet in my opinion. Maybe I'll go through and edit it and post it later.
Also, the editing on some of these old posts bothers me. I don't usually re-read before I post, but I would have thought spell-check was within my repertoire!
Here's a sample of a post I found. It came after my initial post about possibly being a parent when I knew the pregnancy was really real.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's official. Carrie and I are going to be parents. It's hard to describe how excited I am. I came home and rushed to greet Carrie. I was calling people on the way home from work and grinning big. Bill and Igor were highly excited for me. Matt called later all pumped up. I joked multiple times that "I'm just glad I beat Patrick to it!" (Sorry, Patrick). We were going to try and get people to gather at the Fortune House, but only Bill and Dan were available. (It was DnD night and Igor had a class and possible midterm....lame.)
I've told the story many times today. The story start with Carrie and I talked about having children in February or January. I was the one who wanted to start trying for children around the year anniversary mark. I think part of it was I was afraid if I didn't get started at some point, I'd just be too content with what I had to ever really rock the boat. I'd been thinking about things, and I didn't want to be 47 when my first child first went to college. I wanted to be younger and healthier so that I could play more sports and see my own grandkids one day. I feel so blessed to have my family, and I want to start my family. Carrie was more hesitant and wanting to wait a little longer. However, she thought about things and soon became an ardent support of having kids. ASAP. Igor phrased it as I "activated the want to have a baby gene" when we had the discussion. I can't claim there's much science behind his assertion, but I don't particularly care. Carrie went off of birth control and it was agreed that we'd try soon. If you read my last post, you'd see more about what happens next.
To skip a few beats, Carrie had an appointment to draw blood and test for pregnancy yesterday. The results were supposed to be given to us by noon. I had my phone on at school so I could receive Carrie's text. Things didn't go according to schedule. At noon, Carrie called for the results. The office was closed for lunch. It stayed closed for lunch until the nurses returned an hour and a half later. Could I have that job? I worked straight through my off period and my lunch today at a two hour IEP meeting. Hell, when I get a lunch it's 25 minutes and I work through most of them. Still, It's hard to stay angry with them because Carrie got the results we were hoping at close to four. I called to chat with her and share the joy while I was watching kids waiting for the late buses. I've spent so much time on the phones since, that I'm sure Stu is going to call me for the first time in his life. Then he's going to tell me I"m over my minutes!
Carrie's sleeping on the couch as I write this. I know she's just as eager as I am. She passed out after we watched our DS9 episode and I went to work cleaning up her plates and tissues and things so I could run the dishwasher. Jack is purring in my lap and I think I'm going to try to relax for a short while before heading up to bed.
G'night world, from a man predicting to be a father on December 11th.
I've told the story many times today. The story start with Carrie and I talked about having children in February or January. I was the one who wanted to start trying for children around the year anniversary mark. I think part of it was I was afraid if I didn't get started at some point, I'd just be too content with what I had to ever really rock the boat. I'd been thinking about things, and I didn't want to be 47 when my first child first went to college. I wanted to be younger and healthier so that I could play more sports and see my own grandkids one day. I feel so blessed to have my family, and I want to start my family. Carrie was more hesitant and wanting to wait a little longer. However, she thought about things and soon became an ardent support of having kids. ASAP. Igor phrased it as I "activated the want to have a baby gene" when we had the discussion. I can't claim there's much science behind his assertion, but I don't particularly care. Carrie went off of birth control and it was agreed that we'd try soon. If you read my last post, you'd see more about what happens next.
To skip a few beats, Carrie had an appointment to draw blood and test for pregnancy yesterday. The results were supposed to be given to us by noon. I had my phone on at school so I could receive Carrie's text. Things didn't go according to schedule. At noon, Carrie called for the results. The office was closed for lunch. It stayed closed for lunch until the nurses returned an hour and a half later. Could I have that job? I worked straight through my off period and my lunch today at a two hour IEP meeting. Hell, when I get a lunch it's 25 minutes and I work through most of them. Still, It's hard to stay angry with them because Carrie got the results we were hoping at close to four. I called to chat with her and share the joy while I was watching kids waiting for the late buses. I've spent so much time on the phones since, that I'm sure Stu is going to call me for the first time in his life. Then he's going to tell me I"m over my minutes!
Carrie's sleeping on the couch as I write this. I know she's just as eager as I am. She passed out after we watched our DS9 episode and I went to work cleaning up her plates and tissues and things so I could run the dishwasher. Jack is purring in my lap and I think I'm going to try to relax for a short while before heading up to bed.
G'night world, from a man predicting to be a father on December 11th.
So Ends A Long Couple of Weeks
It felt like we were bouncing from crisis to crisis for a while.
This weekend was a very nice way to recoup and get some fresh air. Carrie's friend, Genevieve, and her fiance, Chris, came by on Friday night. They watched Shane so Carrie and I could go out for the first time in a long time. We ended up walking the mall, going into a few stores, and enjoying a dinner together. We returned home to chat with Genevieve and Chris built a brick fort around one of our cats (The picture is on Carrie's Facebook).
Saturday, we enjoyed our first meal out as a family! I say "enjoyed" because Shane actually sat in his high-chair and ate with us! We went to a Noodles and Company. I order a mac and cheese since I knew it was something Shane would be interested in. There're pictures on Carrie's phone, but she's hoarding them.
Sunday, Nana and Pop took Shane for the night. Carrie and I went out to a Dogfish Head Alehouse. Dan always comes home from there bragging about how "EVERYTHING IS GOOD!" Sometimes, he brings home food and requires us to sample it before he'll eat the rest of it. I have to say, the steak-bomb sandwich blew my mind. I knew I was going to order it before Carrie asked me "Where are we going?"
The crises?
Well, Philippians 4:13.
This weekend was a very nice way to recoup and get some fresh air. Carrie's friend, Genevieve, and her fiance, Chris, came by on Friday night. They watched Shane so Carrie and I could go out for the first time in a long time. We ended up walking the mall, going into a few stores, and enjoying a dinner together. We returned home to chat with Genevieve and Chris built a brick fort around one of our cats (The picture is on Carrie's Facebook).
Saturday, we enjoyed our first meal out as a family! I say "enjoyed" because Shane actually sat in his high-chair and ate with us! We went to a Noodles and Company. I order a mac and cheese since I knew it was something Shane would be interested in. There're pictures on Carrie's phone, but she's hoarding them.
Sunday, Nana and Pop took Shane for the night. Carrie and I went out to a Dogfish Head Alehouse. Dan always comes home from there bragging about how "EVERYTHING IS GOOD!" Sometimes, he brings home food and requires us to sample it before he'll eat the rest of it. I have to say, the steak-bomb sandwich blew my mind. I knew I was going to order it before Carrie asked me "Where are we going?"
The crises?
Well, Philippians 4:13.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Resurrected Post: Anesthesia Aphasia
Spring Break 2006
One of the real tricks to Spring Break is balancing out doing nothing and doing something. You are, also, required by law to sleep in as late as you can. This may be 3pm for some of you. For me, it was a glorious 10:00 AM. Sure, I really woke up at about 9, but my lard butt wasn't getting out of bed for anything. Anything short of one million dollars, a full breakfast, or brand new Red Ryder BB Gun, that is. We all have our prices....I'll make a list for those interested at some point.
The day started off nice and lazy. I found out one of my friends is hoping to become a mama-bear. Her choices of name were suspect, but congratulations to the little fart. Hatch something you're proud of! Afterward, I ended up running to Starbucks to meet up with Christine.
Things got a little interesting at that point. While Christine and I are catching up, I get a cell phone call from Mom. No big deal. I figure I'll just call her back in 5 minutes. 5 minutes later, my phone is ringing again. Uh oh...better pick that thing up like it's hot.
"Hello?"
"Mike. I need your help with your brother. He's being TERRIBLE. Where are you?"
"Starbucks with an old friend."
"I'll be right there."
Normally, everyone who knows me would assume that my Mom was talking about my youngest brother, Patrick. Not so! She's speaking of Matthew. Matt was lucky enough to get his wisdom teeth pulled out today. That means he got to get doped up with a bit of general anesthesia as well. Matt's a hand full of fun when he's cognizant, but when he's tripping daisies he's apparently too much for my mom to handle! She pulled up in front of Starbucks and asked me to follow her home.
What exactly did Matt do to our poor mother? Here are the highlights.
1. Matt bit a nurse after clearly being asked not to.
2. Nature called and Matt tried to take it all out in front of the doctor and nurses. (Almost successfully)
3. He was throwing his sandals around the surgeon's office.
4. He played hide and go seek with his sandals in the surgeon's office.
5. There were many cartwheels through the parking lot
6. Car doors were attempted to be opened while the vehicle was in motion.
7. Matt thought he was a siamese twin attached to Mom's hip.
8. Water was splashed over Mom to the chorus of "A2 A2! I sank your battleship!"
9. A pair of socks were loaded with ice and worn as bunny ears.
Matt's memory apparently started kicking in around number 6 or so. God bless my annoying as hell to Mom yet still lovable brother!
One of the real tricks to Spring Break is balancing out doing nothing and doing something. You are, also, required by law to sleep in as late as you can. This may be 3pm for some of you. For me, it was a glorious 10:00 AM. Sure, I really woke up at about 9, but my lard butt wasn't getting out of bed for anything. Anything short of one million dollars, a full breakfast, or brand new Red Ryder BB Gun, that is. We all have our prices....I'll make a list for those interested at some point.
The day started off nice and lazy. I found out one of my friends is hoping to become a mama-bear. Her choices of name were suspect, but congratulations to the little fart. Hatch something you're proud of! Afterward, I ended up running to Starbucks to meet up with Christine.
Things got a little interesting at that point. While Christine and I are catching up, I get a cell phone call from Mom. No big deal. I figure I'll just call her back in 5 minutes. 5 minutes later, my phone is ringing again. Uh oh...better pick that thing up like it's hot.
"Hello?"
"Mike. I need your help with your brother. He's being TERRIBLE. Where are you?"
"Starbucks with an old friend."
"I'll be right there."
Normally, everyone who knows me would assume that my Mom was talking about my youngest brother, Patrick. Not so! She's speaking of Matthew. Matt was lucky enough to get his wisdom teeth pulled out today. That means he got to get doped up with a bit of general anesthesia as well. Matt's a hand full of fun when he's cognizant, but when he's tripping daisies he's apparently too much for my mom to handle! She pulled up in front of Starbucks and asked me to follow her home.
What exactly did Matt do to our poor mother? Here are the highlights.
1. Matt bit a nurse after clearly being asked not to.
2. Nature called and Matt tried to take it all out in front of the doctor and nurses. (Almost successfully)
3. He was throwing his sandals around the surgeon's office.
4. He played hide and go seek with his sandals in the surgeon's office.
5. There were many cartwheels through the parking lot
6. Car doors were attempted to be opened while the vehicle was in motion.
7. Matt thought he was a siamese twin attached to Mom's hip.
8. Water was splashed over Mom to the chorus of "A2 A2! I sank your battleship!"
9. A pair of socks were loaded with ice and worn as bunny ears.
Matt's memory apparently started kicking in around number 6 or so. God bless my annoying as hell to Mom yet still lovable brother!
Riding in Cars with Toddlers
I feel a little guilty whenever I strap my son into a car seat and I know it's rush hour.
Shane had to sit through a 53 minute drive home from my parents' house today.
My fondest hope is that my son takes a nap whenever traffic is bad. He has a bad habit of struggling to stay awake far longer than he should. Shane enjoys the car ride at first, but quickly starts to lose interest (especially if traffic hits a standstill and there's no construction vehicles to point out).
Here's where I start to feel guilty.
When Shane starts to fuss, I have two options: 1) I try to calm him down, or 2) I ignore him.
If I try to calm Shane down with a quiet voice, look at him, or try to hand him toys or kick my hand he starts to get louder. If I ignore him, he starts to look out the window. If I try to calm him down, he will not sleep. If I ignore him, he falls off to sleep about half the time (depends on how long he napped and the time of day as well). If Shane's really upset I sing. This calms him down as long as my voice holds up, but when I stop....the crying starts. Then I either ignore him and he falls asleep, or we get to our destination.
Sometimes, the best thing I can do is ignore my son when he's fussy in the car. Do you see where the guilt comes from?
I'm seriously thinking about getting a portable TV. It could have the added benefit of being attached to the seatback in front of him, so that Shane can't throw it like his books. That way my son isn't stuck strapped in for an hour long journey in traffic. He shouldn't have to deal with that until he's an adult!
Heck, I don't think adults should have to deal with that, but I'm not in charge. Feel free to vote for me in the upcoming election if you agree.
Shane had to sit through a 53 minute drive home from my parents' house today.
My fondest hope is that my son takes a nap whenever traffic is bad. He has a bad habit of struggling to stay awake far longer than he should. Shane enjoys the car ride at first, but quickly starts to lose interest (especially if traffic hits a standstill and there's no construction vehicles to point out).
Here's where I start to feel guilty.
When Shane starts to fuss, I have two options: 1) I try to calm him down, or 2) I ignore him.
If I try to calm Shane down with a quiet voice, look at him, or try to hand him toys or kick my hand he starts to get louder. If I ignore him, he starts to look out the window. If I try to calm him down, he will not sleep. If I ignore him, he falls off to sleep about half the time (depends on how long he napped and the time of day as well). If Shane's really upset I sing. This calms him down as long as my voice holds up, but when I stop....the crying starts. Then I either ignore him and he falls asleep, or we get to our destination.
Sometimes, the best thing I can do is ignore my son when he's fussy in the car. Do you see where the guilt comes from?
I'm seriously thinking about getting a portable TV. It could have the added benefit of being attached to the seatback in front of him, so that Shane can't throw it like his books. That way my son isn't stuck strapped in for an hour long journey in traffic. He shouldn't have to deal with that until he's an adult!
Heck, I don't think adults should have to deal with that, but I'm not in charge. Feel free to vote for me in the upcoming election if you agree.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Proportions
Carrie called me at work to let me know there was a situation. She had to go see a doctor and I told her I would take care of Shane. I called Pop and gave him a 30 minute eta (the usual).
It took me 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive 17 miles today. I knew my trip was going to be bad when the two motorcycle cops came pushing along the jersey wall to escort a tow truck through gridlock.
80 minutes / 17 miles = 60 minutes / x miles
1020 = 80x
1020/80 = 80x/80
12.75 = x
That's an average rate of travel at 12.75 miles per hour.
Who says you can't learn anything useful in middle school? Math like that is one way I keep myself entertained when I've run out of license plates and bumper stickers to read. On long road trips, I try to calculate distance per minute, per 5 minutes, per 10 minutes.....etc etc. It's not high level math, but it's enough to keep my brain from turning off.
It only took me 50 minutes to drive 20 miles home with Shane, so that was an improvement. We pulled up at 7 PM.
Long day, but there was only an hour and a half or so of child care before Shane went to bed.
There are many things I love about the area I live in, but the traffic is not one of them. It's a bit of a rat race.
My commute in?
6 miles in under 15 minutes. The drive home makes those 6 miles transform into a 20-30 minute trip on average with 35 minutes being my upper extreme so far.
Traffic flows in mysterious ways. I'm a lucky son of a ______ by this area's standards.
My wanderlust sometimes calls me to look at traveling to other areas, but my roots are deep. My school system is great for a public school system (good for my job and for Shane one day), I have family in the general area (which includes the Nana-Pop Day Care Center), and I like that there are hills and trees. Plus, there's about any kind of restaurant and people from all sorts of interesting places living in this area. I want my son to grow up with an open mind. He tried pho for the first time with Genevieve and Carrie yesterday.
That's it for tonight.
It took me 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive 17 miles today. I knew my trip was going to be bad when the two motorcycle cops came pushing along the jersey wall to escort a tow truck through gridlock.
80 minutes / 17 miles = 60 minutes / x miles
1020 = 80x
1020/80 = 80x/80
12.75 = x
That's an average rate of travel at 12.75 miles per hour.
Who says you can't learn anything useful in middle school? Math like that is one way I keep myself entertained when I've run out of license plates and bumper stickers to read. On long road trips, I try to calculate distance per minute, per 5 minutes, per 10 minutes.....etc etc. It's not high level math, but it's enough to keep my brain from turning off.
It only took me 50 minutes to drive 20 miles home with Shane, so that was an improvement. We pulled up at 7 PM.
Long day, but there was only an hour and a half or so of child care before Shane went to bed.
There are many things I love about the area I live in, but the traffic is not one of them. It's a bit of a rat race.
My commute in?
6 miles in under 15 minutes. The drive home makes those 6 miles transform into a 20-30 minute trip on average with 35 minutes being my upper extreme so far.
Traffic flows in mysterious ways. I'm a lucky son of a ______ by this area's standards.
My wanderlust sometimes calls me to look at traveling to other areas, but my roots are deep. My school system is great for a public school system (good for my job and for Shane one day), I have family in the general area (which includes the Nana-Pop Day Care Center), and I like that there are hills and trees. Plus, there's about any kind of restaurant and people from all sorts of interesting places living in this area. I want my son to grow up with an open mind. He tried pho for the first time with Genevieve and Carrie yesterday.
That's it for tonight.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Muay Thai Three
Carrie and I switched at the last minute and I went to Muay Thai on Monday. We spent most of the class working on the basic stance, footwork, and an advancing 1-2.
The hardest part for me? Keeping my toes and knees pointed outward and not bending my knees too deeply.
It's one of those stupidly small things that makes a big difference.
In wrestling, the whole object way to stay low and spread your base for balance. You had to be ready to sprawl at a moment's notice if your opponent came in on you. In Muay Thai, the coach keeps yelling "Stand tall!" It's the opposite of what my muscles are trying to remember to do.
The knee being turned outwards is another oddity for me. The whole point is to be able to defend yourself from leg kicks. My foot keeps turning so that it's pointing forward. I feel like I'm devoting a large part of my conscious thought to keeping that foot and knee turned outward enough and my hips square that it's hard to complete the necessary 1-2 motions fluidly. It's something I'm going to have to drill on my own if I don't want to go back to square one in class each week. My body is ingrained with a different pattern and I need the Muay Thai pattern to make learning new moves easy and effective.
Shorter class = Shorter update.
Night for now!
The hardest part for me? Keeping my toes and knees pointed outward and not bending my knees too deeply.
It's one of those stupidly small things that makes a big difference.
In wrestling, the whole object way to stay low and spread your base for balance. You had to be ready to sprawl at a moment's notice if your opponent came in on you. In Muay Thai, the coach keeps yelling "Stand tall!" It's the opposite of what my muscles are trying to remember to do.
The knee being turned outwards is another oddity for me. The whole point is to be able to defend yourself from leg kicks. My foot keeps turning so that it's pointing forward. I feel like I'm devoting a large part of my conscious thought to keeping that foot and knee turned outward enough and my hips square that it's hard to complete the necessary 1-2 motions fluidly. It's something I'm going to have to drill on my own if I don't want to go back to square one in class each week. My body is ingrained with a different pattern and I need the Muay Thai pattern to make learning new moves easy and effective.
Shorter class = Shorter update.
Night for now!
Sunday, September 16, 2012
What are "Resurrected Posts?"
Do you remember when I said the internet is forever?
On a whim, I looked up my old livejournal. It still exists.
Every now and then I think I'll post something from way back when. It's fun and easy and works out great for when I want to be lazy. The first one I posted up was a "What will I do with this live journal post?" which I found funny since I'm doing the whole blogging bit again years later. Only now, I went through graduate school, got married, have a kid, and I'm not living in my parent's basement anymore.
Or maybe it's only amusing to me. It's like a little time warp, but it's also funny to see the similarities in my current writing.
The next time I post a resurrected post it'll be about the time Nana's rear window exploded!*
Disclaimer* - Or not. I reserve the right to change my mind whenever I want**
Disclaimer** - Or at least whenever I think I can get away with it.
On a whim, I looked up my old livejournal. It still exists.
Every now and then I think I'll post something from way back when. It's fun and easy and works out great for when I want to be lazy. The first one I posted up was a "What will I do with this live journal post?" which I found funny since I'm doing the whole blogging bit again years later. Only now, I went through graduate school, got married, have a kid, and I'm not living in my parent's basement anymore.
Or maybe it's only amusing to me. It's like a little time warp, but it's also funny to see the similarities in my current writing.
The next time I post a resurrected post it'll be about the time Nana's rear window exploded!*
Disclaimer* - Or not. I reserve the right to change my mind whenever I want**
Disclaimer** - Or at least whenever I think I can get away with it.
Resurrected Post: March 3rd, 2006
Well...I got slack on updating already. I've just been exhausted lately. I'm not really complaining mind you. I'm rather content with large quantities of my life. Sure, there's one or two areas to work on, but things will always be like that. It's called progress. However, I've been too tired lately to really plan any big or out of the normal activities. I've just been waiting for someone else to do it or resting on my bum.
It's ironic how boredom or discontentment is really the largest catalyst for change in life. Once you're bored with too much time on your hands, you can't help but think about things. Usually, you end up thinking or planning things that will remove the before-mentioned bored state from your life. I'm sure Edison got fed up with working by candle light before he went out and invented the light bulb. Einstein got fed up with haircuts and pioneered the afro hairstyle for white men. Now it's a staple for mad scientists everywhere!
The random meandering purpose of all that is...well...I guess it was an attempt at deeper thinking. Normally, I philosophize while I'm sleeping and then immediately forget everything once I fully wake up. That, or when I try to transition any of my ideas to words I end up with "Cookie monster needs a cookie intervention" or something not as profound as I had originally imagined. I'd like this journal to be entertaining to whomever reads it. I'm not really thinking about using it to vent personal frustrations, because...well, normally I'm a diehard optimist and when I do need to talk about something, I have a lot of people around me I just go ahead and vent to. Then I'm not left with the need to get it out or commit it to writing.
I do like writing. Once I got a computer and my mom could suddenly read my handwriting, she's always told me that I have a small gift for it. Back in high school, I seriously thought about becoming a writer. Heck, when I worked at Pohick, I checked out books on publishing every several months. It's kind of been a recurring thing for me. Just look at the length of what was going to be a short journal entry! It's getting to the point that not even I would read it and I'm the writer!
I guess I'm going to cut the entry right here then. I would like for each entry to be entertaining so that someone could scroll back and get a chuckle out of stuff whenever they're bored. That way, they'd be more than just Michael Status Updates. Granted, I dont think this was a particularly funny entry, but I put some humor in there! Bah! STOP TYPING MIKE!
Later skaters.
It's ironic how boredom or discontentment is really the largest catalyst for change in life. Once you're bored with too much time on your hands, you can't help but think about things. Usually, you end up thinking or planning things that will remove the before-mentioned bored state from your life. I'm sure Edison got fed up with working by candle light before he went out and invented the light bulb. Einstein got fed up with haircuts and pioneered the afro hairstyle for white men. Now it's a staple for mad scientists everywhere!
The random meandering purpose of all that is...well...I guess it was an attempt at deeper thinking. Normally, I philosophize while I'm sleeping and then immediately forget everything once I fully wake up. That, or when I try to transition any of my ideas to words I end up with "Cookie monster needs a cookie intervention" or something not as profound as I had originally imagined. I'd like this journal to be entertaining to whomever reads it. I'm not really thinking about using it to vent personal frustrations, because...well, normally I'm a diehard optimist and when I do need to talk about something, I have a lot of people around me I just go ahead and vent to. Then I'm not left with the need to get it out or commit it to writing.
I do like writing. Once I got a computer and my mom could suddenly read my handwriting, she's always told me that I have a small gift for it. Back in high school, I seriously thought about becoming a writer. Heck, when I worked at Pohick, I checked out books on publishing every several months. It's kind of been a recurring thing for me. Just look at the length of what was going to be a short journal entry! It's getting to the point that not even I would read it and I'm the writer!
I guess I'm going to cut the entry right here then. I would like for each entry to be entertaining so that someone could scroll back and get a chuckle out of stuff whenever they're bored. That way, they'd be more than just Michael Status Updates. Granted, I dont think this was a particularly funny entry, but I put some humor in there! Bah! STOP TYPING MIKE!
Later skaters.
Min and Shane
I miss Brogan, but Min has turned out to be a good cat for a baby. Even before Brogan left, Shane enjoyed running up and stuffing his face into her. I tried to protect her more in the beginning (partly because I didn't want her to get fed up and claw Shane), but she puts up with it as long as she wants and then scoots away when she's had enough.
Until now, every time I tried to video tape the "Shane stuffing his face into the cat" phenomena has failed. Either Min booked it while I went to find the iPad, or Shane saw the iPad and lost interest in the cat.
Min: she ain't a dog, but she's pretty close (for a cat).
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Shane Meets Maru the Cat (on Youtube)
Carrie was playing techie this week and hooked the laptop up to our TV. She immediately proceeded to fill our living room with videos of cats running and jumping in boxes.
Shane loved it.
Here's the video.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Another exciting work week ends
This week was filled with carrying a trash can for a student to puke in on our way to the nurse's, running out of work early when Carrie got hurt, Shane's surgery and starting to really like my basic skills periods. I got an aide to help since I'd become something of a 'dumping ground,' but I like the kids being 'dumped.' Double win? Or is trouble going to start later?
Anyway, just a quick thought-dump. I don't want to really write much right now.
Anyway, just a quick thought-dump. I don't want to really write much right now.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Good Bye, Brogan. You will be missed.
My dog has joined another family. It didn't work out for him here, but the breeder told Carrie she had a family friend who was looking for a "puppy who was not a puppy-puppy." Brogan fits that billing perfectly. We wish him the best.
Brogan started off like this....
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...and left us closer to this.
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Brogan started off like this....
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...and left us closer to this.
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He's still got a lot of room to grow.
I took Brogan for a final walk the night before, and said my final farewell the day of. I wanted to remove his name-tag as a memento before he left. I was upset to find that he'd somehow lost it in his many jailbreaks from the backyard (the stupid-smart dog).
Thankfully, I found it yesterday in the far corner where he always escaped. Now it hangs with my keys as a reminder he once lived here.
Some Surgery Shennanigans
Carrie was hurt and unable to attend Shane's surgery, so I took a few videos here and there. They have the added effect of entertaining Shane. The boy loves to look at himself.
I collected the best videos here if anyone wants to see them. Shane loves to watch himself, but he also loves to "press the button."
I collected the best videos here if anyone wants to see them. Shane loves to watch himself, but he also loves to "press the button."
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Surgery
"Do you have any other concerns?" the gowned man asked.
Will my son wake up from the anesthesia? What could go wrong if the doctor makes a mistake? Am I making a mistake doing this?
"Just the usual ones," I said. I threw in what I hope was a wry smile.
The anesthesiologist smiled back. I guess I put enough wry into the smile to be convincing.
Oh, I knew that Shane was in good hands. There wasn't any serious danger for him. I think being in a surgical center is enough to put anyone (much less the parent of a young child) at some unease. It would be different if Shane was in immediate danger and they were stopping something that was already happening. As it were, I was bringing my son in voluntarily and he looked healthy enough if you didn't live with him.
Shane's three back-to-back ear infections warranted tubes. Carrie didn't need them as a child, but my parents told me I had a "7-month long ear infection" and the operation "changed their lives radically." Sorry, son. It looks like you're dada's genetics got you again.
Shane and I had to report to the surgical center at 6:45 AM. God must have been looking out for us, because I hit over 15 green lights in a row on the way in. The instructions didn't allow for him to eat or drink anything after midnight, so I was counting on an upset baby. Shane's backpack was stuffed with books, a garbage truck, and a fully charged iPad. Everything went better than I expected until Shane had to take some grape medicine. I think he was too distracted by the shiny new surroundings, at first. The nasty grape flavor hit and he had a meltdown for the next 10 minutes. I couldn't keep the kid happy. He sobbed, sniffled, and curled against me in his gown. He was so distraught he didn't even want to watch videos of himself (and we all know how vain my boy is). Eventually, he calmed down and Perry the Platypus caught his eye. We were admiring all the balloon, airplane, and train art on the walls when the nurse collected us.
8:10 AM Shane held my hand and we walked into surgery. The boy was clueless. He stared around in wonder at the gowned people and the strange room. I picked him up and laid him on the table. Shane was mesmerized by all the new sights, but when the breathing mask came out the fighter in him surfaced. Three adults held down one tiny boy while another made sure the breather was on properly. Shane's eyes flicked side to side. That was the worst for me. The anesthesiologist congratulated me on how well things went and told me it was time to go, but I couldn't stop looking at my son's eyes. They kept moving like he was awake.
Apparently, I hide whenever I'm nervous or anxious pretty well. I certainly try to never let it stop me from doing what needs to be done. I picked up Shane's stuff and headed out so the business of making my son feel better would get started.
Growing up, I always had a good imagination. That included the ability to imagine all sorts of things going catastrophically wrong. On the other hand, I think my brothers and sisters were born without a sense of fear. What's an older brother to do? Let the young ones go it alone? Many a time I'd run in after them or try to do something first (substituting impulsivity for bravery), but I'd have a running catalog of a few worst case scenarios playing out as I went. I couldn't help but think about Shane's eyes moving as I went to the waiting room, but I'm older (and maybe wiser) now so I squashed my fears and pulled out the iPad to kill some time.
The doctor came out to get me before I'd read more than a chapter in Matthew. Things had gone well, and Shane was ready to recover. He gave me a prescription for some ear drops, because there was a drop of blood in Shane's ear they didn't want to clog a tube.
I went to another waiting area and got to hold my son. He was angry and crying until we got a warm blanket and a bottle in him. After the bottle I started reading Big Bird's Book of Colors and The Very Hungry Caterpillar until it was time to go. Shane seemed no worse for wear. He didn't even look like he'd been through surgery. Shane was mellow and it was a pleasant drive back.
Carrie rushed out to greet us. I wanted her in bed resting, but she wanted to see Shane. She'd been so worried that she had cleaned the whole time we were gone. When Shane saw her he smiled....and immediately sprinted around the car to the garage door.
"SEE!?!?!?" Shane yelled. He pointed at the garage door buttons.
That's our boy! He's home and healthy and hopefully done with ear infections for a looooong time.
Will my son wake up from the anesthesia? What could go wrong if the doctor makes a mistake? Am I making a mistake doing this?
"Just the usual ones," I said. I threw in what I hope was a wry smile.
The anesthesiologist smiled back. I guess I put enough wry into the smile to be convincing.
Oh, I knew that Shane was in good hands. There wasn't any serious danger for him. I think being in a surgical center is enough to put anyone (much less the parent of a young child) at some unease. It would be different if Shane was in immediate danger and they were stopping something that was already happening. As it were, I was bringing my son in voluntarily and he looked healthy enough if you didn't live with him.
Shane's three back-to-back ear infections warranted tubes. Carrie didn't need them as a child, but my parents told me I had a "7-month long ear infection" and the operation "changed their lives radically." Sorry, son. It looks like you're dada's genetics got you again.
Shane and I had to report to the surgical center at 6:45 AM. God must have been looking out for us, because I hit over 15 green lights in a row on the way in. The instructions didn't allow for him to eat or drink anything after midnight, so I was counting on an upset baby. Shane's backpack was stuffed with books, a garbage truck, and a fully charged iPad. Everything went better than I expected until Shane had to take some grape medicine. I think he was too distracted by the shiny new surroundings, at first. The nasty grape flavor hit and he had a meltdown for the next 10 minutes. I couldn't keep the kid happy. He sobbed, sniffled, and curled against me in his gown. He was so distraught he didn't even want to watch videos of himself (and we all know how vain my boy is). Eventually, he calmed down and Perry the Platypus caught his eye. We were admiring all the balloon, airplane, and train art on the walls when the nurse collected us.
8:10 AM Shane held my hand and we walked into surgery. The boy was clueless. He stared around in wonder at the gowned people and the strange room. I picked him up and laid him on the table. Shane was mesmerized by all the new sights, but when the breathing mask came out the fighter in him surfaced. Three adults held down one tiny boy while another made sure the breather was on properly. Shane's eyes flicked side to side. That was the worst for me. The anesthesiologist congratulated me on how well things went and told me it was time to go, but I couldn't stop looking at my son's eyes. They kept moving like he was awake.
Apparently, I hide whenever I'm nervous or anxious pretty well. I certainly try to never let it stop me from doing what needs to be done. I picked up Shane's stuff and headed out so the business of making my son feel better would get started.
Growing up, I always had a good imagination. That included the ability to imagine all sorts of things going catastrophically wrong. On the other hand, I think my brothers and sisters were born without a sense of fear. What's an older brother to do? Let the young ones go it alone? Many a time I'd run in after them or try to do something first (substituting impulsivity for bravery), but I'd have a running catalog of a few worst case scenarios playing out as I went. I couldn't help but think about Shane's eyes moving as I went to the waiting room, but I'm older (and maybe wiser) now so I squashed my fears and pulled out the iPad to kill some time.
The doctor came out to get me before I'd read more than a chapter in Matthew. Things had gone well, and Shane was ready to recover. He gave me a prescription for some ear drops, because there was a drop of blood in Shane's ear they didn't want to clog a tube.
I went to another waiting area and got to hold my son. He was angry and crying until we got a warm blanket and a bottle in him. After the bottle I started reading Big Bird's Book of Colors and The Very Hungry Caterpillar until it was time to go. Shane seemed no worse for wear. He didn't even look like he'd been through surgery. Shane was mellow and it was a pleasant drive back.
Carrie rushed out to greet us. I wanted her in bed resting, but she wanted to see Shane. She'd been so worried that she had cleaned the whole time we were gone. When Shane saw her he smiled....and immediately sprinted around the car to the garage door.
"SEE!?!?!?" Shane yelled. He pointed at the garage door buttons.
That's our boy! He's home and healthy and hopefully done with ear infections for a looooong time.
Monday, September 10, 2012
School Daze Week 2
This is the first school year I've had to correct a student for licking my lab tables and insist another's hands stay up where I can see them.
I don't have the time/energy for a real post tonight, but I felt that line holds up by itself.
I don't have the time/energy for a real post tonight, but I felt that line holds up by itself.
Unfortunate Speechisms
Shane likes to say the word "Kitty." He's much better with the letter "T" than "K."
So much so, his "K" sounds more like a "T" sometimes.
I'm waiting for the day he shocks someone in public. It'll be a funny facial expression.
So much so, his "K" sounds more like a "T" sometimes.
I'm waiting for the day he shocks someone in public. It'll be a funny facial expression.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Nostalgia: How I Met My Wife (Long)
Carrie and I met electronically before we ever met in person.
Nana was half-convinced I was gay. She was concerned that I didn't go on many dates or seem to chase after many women. I must have given her other reasons to worry too, since she tried to check my computer for 'naked animals' once.
I digress. Maybe I exaggerate some as well, but it's good storytelling (sorry, Nana!).
My mother is not shy to speak her mind. Several times, Nana would offer to sign me up for eHarmony or introduce me to someone she met at church. Me, being a prideful young male, did not want any maternal help in romance. I actually dated a couple of girls I never told Mom about, but she was right that I wasn't dating very often or chasing after many women. I like to think that I was discriminating, but I also had a habit of getting friend-zoned or falling for an unattainable girl and losing the interest to chase anyone else. I've always been a one-woman kind of man.
Unfortunately, I was having a lot of trouble finding a woman who met all of my criteria. Bars did not hold what I sought, and I wasn't bumping into any geeky, athletic, Christian beauties at my church either. When I knew I was moving out of my parents' house, I signed up for eHarmony on the sly. I was too prideful to tell anyone and it was my little secret. I figured that it would be a fun experience and A) I would probably have some goofy stories from goofy dates (because who needs help and signs up for online dating anyway?) or B) maybe it would actually work and I'd meet the 'right one.'
I was incredibly skeptical. Prideful too, looking back, but that's always been something I've had to watch.
I talked to several women on eHarmony, and it seemed almost like a dating game. It was a better service than I thought. I always had trouble lowering my guard to express the desire that I needed someone, but by signing up I was meeting people who were also interested in a serious relationship by default. I talked to some interesting people online and even set up a meeting with one girl that was promising online.
Carrie's match was delivered on June 27th, 2008.
Nana was half-convinced I was gay. She was concerned that I didn't go on many dates or seem to chase after many women. I must have given her other reasons to worry too, since she tried to check my computer for 'naked animals' once.
I digress. Maybe I exaggerate some as well, but it's good storytelling (sorry, Nana!).
My mother is not shy to speak her mind. Several times, Nana would offer to sign me up for eHarmony or introduce me to someone she met at church. Me, being a prideful young male, did not want any maternal help in romance. I actually dated a couple of girls I never told Mom about, but she was right that I wasn't dating very often or chasing after many women. I like to think that I was discriminating, but I also had a habit of getting friend-zoned or falling for an unattainable girl and losing the interest to chase anyone else. I've always been a one-woman kind of man.
Unfortunately, I was having a lot of trouble finding a woman who met all of my criteria. Bars did not hold what I sought, and I wasn't bumping into any geeky, athletic, Christian beauties at my church either. When I knew I was moving out of my parents' house, I signed up for eHarmony on the sly. I was too prideful to tell anyone and it was my little secret. I figured that it would be a fun experience and A) I would probably have some goofy stories from goofy dates (because who needs help and signs up for online dating anyway?) or B) maybe it would actually work and I'd meet the 'right one.'
I was incredibly skeptical. Prideful too, looking back, but that's always been something I've had to watch.
I talked to several women on eHarmony, and it seemed almost like a dating game. It was a better service than I thought. I always had trouble lowering my guard to express the desire that I needed someone, but by signing up I was meeting people who were also interested in a serious relationship by default. I talked to some interesting people online and even set up a meeting with one girl that was promising online.
Carrie's match was delivered on June 27th, 2008.
Weight Loss!?
I can tell school's in session, because I've already lost a couple pounds. I walk many miles during the day trying to be exciting for the students and walking from classroom to classroom. Plus, my lunch ended up in a locked room a couple of times at the beginning of the week.
No food = no calories.
My school lunches aren't exactly calorie rich either. I eat Lean Pockets all year round. They're a dirt cheap, easy-to-store, quick-to-make, hot lunch. I just cram a bunch into a staff freezer and I'm set for a while. My mornings are normally busy enough I don't want to take the time to make something cold.
Wait. Why Lean Pockets, you ask? They taste better!
Hot Pockets are too greasy or something for me. This is probably the only time you will ever hear me pronounce that a diet version of something tastes much better than the 'real deal. The downside is that I cannot even LOOK at them over the summer.
Thursday was also Back-To-School-Night and staying at work until after 9 PM is a good way to burn calories. I was bad and ate at Burger King for linner (Lunch + Dinner) and got a reminder that my intestines are not as young as they used to be.
This will all change once I stock up on candy and treats in my room. I have a bad habit of munching.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
School's in Session
Nana asked if Carrie took a "Back to School" picture of me the other day.
Nope!
School is in session, though. The needs this year are different than in previous years, so I'm going to have to modify a lot of my materials. To some degree, I do that every year, but this year will be markedly different. I'm not going to post about any of my kids or exact needs up here, because the internet is forever. Plus, "the e in email is for evidence." That's something I heard last year, but they're saying it even more this year. I assume that applies to blog posts, too. Confidentiality is the name of the game in my world.
Still, it looks like it could be a very good year. My class sizes are more balanced, I have support in one of them, and just maybe I can make a difference.
Teachers salivate at that phrase: "make a difference." Watch just about any teacher motivational video and you'll hear it. Its what we all want to do on some level. Even the most jaded, lazy, or misguided teacher wants to think that some student somewhere will attribute some success to their teaching or personality.
Hopefully, I'll be a teacher who does make a difference in at least one of my students' lives this year.
Nope!
School is in session, though. The needs this year are different than in previous years, so I'm going to have to modify a lot of my materials. To some degree, I do that every year, but this year will be markedly different. I'm not going to post about any of my kids or exact needs up here, because the internet is forever. Plus, "the e in email is for evidence." That's something I heard last year, but they're saying it even more this year. I assume that applies to blog posts, too. Confidentiality is the name of the game in my world.
Still, it looks like it could be a very good year. My class sizes are more balanced, I have support in one of them, and just maybe I can make a difference.
Teachers salivate at that phrase: "make a difference." Watch just about any teacher motivational video and you'll hear it. Its what we all want to do on some level. Even the most jaded, lazy, or misguided teacher wants to think that some student somewhere will attribute some success to their teaching or personality.
Hopefully, I'll be a teacher who does make a difference in at least one of my students' lives this year.
Shane and the Medicine Miracle
Shane is finally taking medicine in a manner which doesn't involve a two-man team and barfing. He still thrashes, but once you get him pinned down he will actually swallow the medicine instead of trying to spit it out or gagging on it when he cries.
This is a miracle.
I had to watch Shane all on my lonesome for five days while Carrie was out of town. In the past, I'd solo hold him down and give him medicine, but it was a messy affair. I much prefer to mask the meds in a small bottle and avoid the fight. The last round of antibiotics had a very strong smell (and I guess a strong taste) and Shane refused any med bottle proffered. We had to get the meds in him, so the syringe battles commenced. Thank God, by day 3 of 10 Shane decided to cooperate partly. I just have to pin him down (he's a strong and thrashy little booger), stick the syringe in and say "Sip."
Maybe he likes the taste. Maybe he realizes resistance is futile.
Either way, Shane's taking meds easier now.
I hope he doesn't forget how to cooperate the next time a prescription is issued.
This is a miracle.
I had to watch Shane all on my lonesome for five days while Carrie was out of town. In the past, I'd solo hold him down and give him medicine, but it was a messy affair. I much prefer to mask the meds in a small bottle and avoid the fight. The last round of antibiotics had a very strong smell (and I guess a strong taste) and Shane refused any med bottle proffered. We had to get the meds in him, so the syringe battles commenced. Thank God, by day 3 of 10 Shane decided to cooperate partly. I just have to pin him down (he's a strong and thrashy little booger), stick the syringe in and say "Sip."
Maybe he likes the taste. Maybe he realizes resistance is futile.
Either way, Shane's taking meds easier now.
I hope he doesn't forget how to cooperate the next time a prescription is issued.
Monday, September 3, 2012
I'm Looking Forward to Work. Really.
Last Monday was my first official day to report in. I came by the school the week before for a training and the parking lot was already half full.
How do you a know a school is full of over-achieving staff? The parking lot is half full before anyone is paid to be there.
I really like my school. I feel like I work with a group of dedicated, high-quality teachers. Our custodial crew keeps earning awards for how clean they keep the school, and our admin team is probably one of the best in the county. No, things are not perfect, but by comparison there's not many schools of a similar caliber in my opinion. There was the one AP who I felt had an unwarranted low opinion of my ability last year, but I felt like that changed with my performance. Plus, she saved a kid's life with CPR at one point during the year. That warrants some respect.
I knew that I was excited about going back to work when 5:00 PM came around on Monday and it still felt like early afternoon. I love my home, but I need variety in my life. Getting up and going to work with 120 other adults and 1400 kids provides that spice of life nicely.
My friends and I used to joke that we'd be happy being house husbands married to a sugar momma. We were "a-okay with doing housework, eating bonbons, and lifting weights to make ourselves pretty!"
As I said briefly once before, being a stay-at-home parent is not the racket I once thought it was. If Shane was in school and I could work on whatever 'projects' I wanted to, it'd be one thing. For now, he requires constant supervision and play time which prevents me from doing other projects. I like to do one thing for a little while, switch to another task, and switch back as my attention wanders. Teaching is good for me in that way, because I'm constantly seeing different people or I teach one subject and switch to another afterwards.
I'm very curious what I'll think of this blog post if I reread it later in the year. Teaching always feels like a sprint to me. Before the whistle blows, you're amped up, maybe a little nervous, and ready to go. You pour your energy in as you start to accelerate and hit your stride. Your energy starts to flag towards the end of the race and you can feel the burn in your muscles until you stumble across the finish line exhausted.
Thank God for summer.
Shane's napping and I took a short break before working on some PowerPoint slides and planning. I figured I'd write this up real quick, because I don't know how frequent my posting will be once the school daze begins. From what I can tell, the population I'm going to work with this year is going to be a different breed of needs than normal. I'll probably have to modify most of my material. I won't know for sure until I really get to know the kids, though.
That's tomorrow!
How do you a know a school is full of over-achieving staff? The parking lot is half full before anyone is paid to be there.
I really like my school. I feel like I work with a group of dedicated, high-quality teachers. Our custodial crew keeps earning awards for how clean they keep the school, and our admin team is probably one of the best in the county. No, things are not perfect, but by comparison there's not many schools of a similar caliber in my opinion. There was the one AP who I felt had an unwarranted low opinion of my ability last year, but I felt like that changed with my performance. Plus, she saved a kid's life with CPR at one point during the year. That warrants some respect.
I knew that I was excited about going back to work when 5:00 PM came around on Monday and it still felt like early afternoon. I love my home, but I need variety in my life. Getting up and going to work with 120 other adults and 1400 kids provides that spice of life nicely.
My friends and I used to joke that we'd be happy being house husbands married to a sugar momma. We were "a-okay with doing housework, eating bonbons, and lifting weights to make ourselves pretty!"
As I said briefly once before, being a stay-at-home parent is not the racket I once thought it was. If Shane was in school and I could work on whatever 'projects' I wanted to, it'd be one thing. For now, he requires constant supervision and play time which prevents me from doing other projects. I like to do one thing for a little while, switch to another task, and switch back as my attention wanders. Teaching is good for me in that way, because I'm constantly seeing different people or I teach one subject and switch to another afterwards.
I'm very curious what I'll think of this blog post if I reread it later in the year. Teaching always feels like a sprint to me. Before the whistle blows, you're amped up, maybe a little nervous, and ready to go. You pour your energy in as you start to accelerate and hit your stride. Your energy starts to flag towards the end of the race and you can feel the burn in your muscles until you stumble across the finish line exhausted.
Thank God for summer.
Shane's napping and I took a short break before working on some PowerPoint slides and planning. I figured I'd write this up real quick, because I don't know how frequent my posting will be once the school daze begins. From what I can tell, the population I'm going to work with this year is going to be a different breed of needs than normal. I'll probably have to modify most of my material. I won't know for sure until I really get to know the kids, though.
That's tomorrow!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Missing My Wife
Carrie's been gone at her cousin's wedding since Thursday. Dan was nice enough to let her borrow the corvette, and I know she's having fun with it. I got a text Thursday morning saying "I WANT ONE!!!!!"
I've been blessed with a lot of family time and visits while Carrie's been away, but I'm ready for her to get home. Life's little moments are more fun when your partner is around to share them.
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Love ya, Carrie.
I've been blessed with a lot of family time and visits while Carrie's been away, but I'm ready for her to get home. Life's little moments are more fun when your partner is around to share them.
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Love ya, Carrie.
The Wedding
NOTE: I started writing this the day after the wedding (August 20th) and it's already September. It's for me dangerous to start a post and then "save it for later." My brain registers work as being done and I lose my sense of urgency. Before you know it, it's September 2nd and I still haven't done a wedding post. This is also in part because it was an AMAZING wedding and that means I have to do an AMAZING blog post to do it justice.
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The wedding was held at a historic mansion in Leesburg. It was a beautiful sight, and apparently right next to the biggest horse grounds in VA. I like being able to see open country, rollings roads, and trees when I drive. Instead of giving my wife directions, I should have said "Next to Morven Park" and she'd have known the way. I missed the setup to visit with MomMom, so everything was looking prepped and ready when I arrived. The chairs and cushions were outside overlooking the rolling hills. Sound equipment was being set up under the open sky.
Too bad the rain clouds didn't get the memo. A low drizzle started and guests were already seated when the coordinator made the call to switch to plan B. Rain wasn't in Matt and Renee's plans, but God's plans are different than ours. I have to say, I think it turned out for the best (Go God!).
I thought the sound of the rain was nice and calming. Plus, Matt and Renee (being very spiritual people) had woven an aspect of worship into their ceremony. The storm wasn't powerful enough to be frightening, but it was powerful enough to serve as a reminder of how small we humans are in the scheme of things. I found it appropriately humbling. Plus, the rain cleared up in time for dancing and the other festivities! Sometimes, the best thing that can happen to a scripted event is for something to go wrong (and not be so bad), so that everyone doesn't spend the whole event hoping nothing goes wrong. I think that Matt and Renee ended up being very happy with how things went despite the rain. They were all smiles and laughter and looked every bit the happy couple.
On a side note, the shoe game was hilarious. At the reception, Matt and Renee had to sit back to back in front of the crowd and hold one of their shoes and one of their new spouses. From there, they were asked all sorts of questions from trivia ("Who's neater?) to embarrassing fun ("Who's going to go to sleep first tonight?") The two were really in synch and if their high score is any indication it's going to be a long and fruitful marriage.
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Congratulations to Matt and Renee!
My brother and his fiancé are now a married pair. Soon they will take off to North Carolina to begin their new life and new jobs together. Carrie and I wish them nothing but the best! My wife sent me a text this morning saying “listen to 91.9 as you drive!” She had called the station and did a shout out for the wedding. Sadly, my phone was off and I missed the announcement, but my wife was stoked.
Weddings are a great time to catch up with old friends and family. I had Uncles, Aunts, Cousins, and Grandmothers galore to catch up with. Grandma flew in from Nebraska. The Most of the Carolina Crew made it up as well! Also, Matt and I used to run in some of the same circles before he went away for college, so lots of my friends were in attendance.
The wedding was held at a historic mansion in Leesburg. It was a beautiful sight, and apparently right next to the biggest horse grounds in VA. I like being able to see open country, rollings roads, and trees when I drive. Instead of giving my wife directions, I should have said "Next to Morven Park" and she'd have known the way. I missed the setup to visit with MomMom, so everything was looking prepped and ready when I arrived. The chairs and cushions were outside overlooking the rolling hills. Sound equipment was being set up under the open sky.
Too bad the rain clouds didn't get the memo. A low drizzle started and guests were already seated when the coordinator made the call to switch to plan B. Rain wasn't in Matt and Renee's plans, but God's plans are different than ours. I have to say, I think it turned out for the best (Go God!).
I thought the sound of the rain was nice and calming. Plus, Matt and Renee (being very spiritual people) had woven an aspect of worship into their ceremony. The storm wasn't powerful enough to be frightening, but it was powerful enough to serve as a reminder of how small we humans are in the scheme of things. I found it appropriately humbling. Plus, the rain cleared up in time for dancing and the other festivities! Sometimes, the best thing that can happen to a scripted event is for something to go wrong (and not be so bad), so that everyone doesn't spend the whole event hoping nothing goes wrong. I think that Matt and Renee ended up being very happy with how things went despite the rain. They were all smiles and laughter and looked every bit the happy couple.
On a side note, the shoe game was hilarious. At the reception, Matt and Renee had to sit back to back in front of the crowd and hold one of their shoes and one of their new spouses. From there, they were asked all sorts of questions from trivia ("Who's neater?) to embarrassing fun ("Who's going to go to sleep first tonight?") The two were really in synch and if their high score is any indication it's going to be a long and fruitful marriage.
Some takeaways from the wedding:
Saturday, September 1, 2012
One Ring to Bind Them...
Note: Last Monday night was an emotional one. I did not want to post this story right away, because of that. However, now that some time has passed I got the go ahead from my wife.
Saturday is my day for kickboxing. Monday is Carrie's.
The routine is only in its second week, but hopefully it keeps up. My day puts Muay Thai class hopefully in the middle of Shane's nap time. Carrie's class time ends after Shane's usually tucked in and sleeping.
So there I was on Monday night sitting at the computer. Shane was sleeping, and I was waiting for Carrie to get home to tell me what she learned. An hour passed and Carrie should have been home. I was starting to get worried, but I guessed class had run over, or Carrie had stayed after to chat, or some other simple explanation would fit the bill.
When I heard a car door shut in the garage, I popped up to go see my wife. I opened the door, and my heart sunk. Tears streamed down my wife's face and she ran up to hug me. I didn't know if she was hurt or if someone had tried to hurt her or what happened. It was a scary moment. Through the tears, Carrie told me her rings were missing.
It's not polite to punch people with metal pointy objects on your hands. Carrie's engagement rings protrudes from her finger, so she has to take off her rings when she wraps her hands. Normally, she hangs them on her necklace, but she was rushing and something went wrong. After class, she went to put on her rings and noticed they were missing. Coach and Carrie scoured the room. Carrie talked to the staff, too.
I was relieved. My worst fear was that someone had hurt Carrie and my second worst fear was that Carrie had hurt herself. In my eyes, I married a woman and not a ring. The rings are a shiny and pretty symbol, but they have no value to me beyond that (people before things, always).
Carrie was far more attached. She wanted her "Stay the hell away from me! I'm happily married!" symbols back (her words! ha ha). What can I say? My wife really loves me. I'm very blessed in that department.
Once the emotions had passed, we turned in and Carrie talked to insurance Tuesday. She ended up filing a police report, and found the insurance/appraisal forms for her rings. I asked around at the gym today, but the rings still had not turned up. I hope that they will, but if they don't insurance will help out (which is nice, because otherwise I might have pushed for cheaper rings and I don't know how well that would've turned out).
Carrie bought some super cheap fakes that look similar until we figure out the ring situation. She presented them to me and I re-proposed before she wore them. They fit nicely into the ring shaped groove on Carrie's finger.
Saturday is my day for kickboxing. Monday is Carrie's.
The routine is only in its second week, but hopefully it keeps up. My day puts Muay Thai class hopefully in the middle of Shane's nap time. Carrie's class time ends after Shane's usually tucked in and sleeping.
So there I was on Monday night sitting at the computer. Shane was sleeping, and I was waiting for Carrie to get home to tell me what she learned. An hour passed and Carrie should have been home. I was starting to get worried, but I guessed class had run over, or Carrie had stayed after to chat, or some other simple explanation would fit the bill.
When I heard a car door shut in the garage, I popped up to go see my wife. I opened the door, and my heart sunk. Tears streamed down my wife's face and she ran up to hug me. I didn't know if she was hurt or if someone had tried to hurt her or what happened. It was a scary moment. Through the tears, Carrie told me her rings were missing.
It's not polite to punch people with metal pointy objects on your hands. Carrie's engagement rings protrudes from her finger, so she has to take off her rings when she wraps her hands. Normally, she hangs them on her necklace, but she was rushing and something went wrong. After class, she went to put on her rings and noticed they were missing. Coach and Carrie scoured the room. Carrie talked to the staff, too.
I was relieved. My worst fear was that someone had hurt Carrie and my second worst fear was that Carrie had hurt herself. In my eyes, I married a woman and not a ring. The rings are a shiny and pretty symbol, but they have no value to me beyond that (people before things, always).
Carrie was far more attached. She wanted her "Stay the hell away from me! I'm happily married!" symbols back (her words! ha ha). What can I say? My wife really loves me. I'm very blessed in that department.
Once the emotions had passed, we turned in and Carrie talked to insurance Tuesday. She ended up filing a police report, and found the insurance/appraisal forms for her rings. I asked around at the gym today, but the rings still had not turned up. I hope that they will, but if they don't insurance will help out (which is nice, because otherwise I might have pushed for cheaper rings and I don't know how well that would've turned out).
Carrie bought some super cheap fakes that look similar until we figure out the ring situation. She presented them to me and I re-proposed before she wore them. They fit nicely into the ring shaped groove on Carrie's finger.
Muay Thai -- The second class
Thanks to my sister volunteering to babysit, I was able to go to my second kickboxing class today. Around 11:30 AM Kathleen showed up with baby Cole, Jama, and Nana! This was going to be a team-effort babysitting.
One of Jama's first comments was "Mike, you didn't need to go to any trouble to pick up for your sister."
I didn't. That's what Jama was pointing out.
"Nope! She gets to see the house in it's natural state!" I said. We all had a laugh at that. You see, Shane loves to dump toys and books out whenever I put them up. He even gets a kick out of opening the bottom drawers of his dresser and pulling all the clothes out while I shovel the back in. It's something of a game for him. I try not to partake and pick up after he sleeps.
After the babysitting unit was settled, I grabbed Carrie's gloves and wraps and headed out. I was doubly excited for class, because I started the week thinking I couldn't go.
Turns out it was a private lesson.
Last week, there were 8 students. This week, I was it. I guess everyone else was out for the long weekend. If I hadn't shown up, I bet Coach would've been pissed he had an empty room! It turned out to be great for me.
Private lessons are expensive. I don't know what Muay Thai/MMA's going rates are, but in BJJ $50 bucks and hour was considered cheap for a purple belt years ago. I paid for a couple of lessons from a brown belt before a tournament for $70 or $80 back in the days of too much disposable income(I think).
Two hours of private Muay Thai instruction for just showing up and getting free childcare back at home: NICE!!
The day was filled with trying to learn fundamentals. All sports have a basic set of tasks that you need to do without thinking about them. Failure to do them automatically prevents you from learning more complex tasks and learning to do them wrongly leaves gaps in your skill set. In a large class, an instructor cannot watch the beginners exclusively, so they may find natural ways to compensate for harder tasks when attention is not on them. If not caught, this leads to bad habits that need to be unlearned at a later date.
Having two hours of Coach watching my every move has left me with a much better understanding of how different Muay Thai is from what I know. I learned a lot and learned that I still had way more to learn. At the least, I learned enough to make watching a UFC fight more interesting. I asked a lot of "Why?" questions, and Coach had all of the answers. I just hope that I can remember everything for next week!
We started off with stance do's, dont's, and whys (at least, we did after I got another hand wrapping lesson). From there, we transitioned into how to protect myself when throwing punches and drilled 1s, 2s, and 3s. The drills started with mitts and transitioned to bag work (which is new to me). After watching me drill on the bag, we'd move to the mirrors, Coach would have me watch myself and we'd transition back to mitts again. After doing arm work, I got a lesson in how to kick Muay Thai style and the drilling started over again.
We talked theory the whole time (which I love). I find the science of body mechanics and the small, seemingly insignificant details which make worlds of difference fascinating. Coach has been doing this for all but a couple years of his life, so he knows a lot. From his little quarter-speed demos I learned that this man could kill me. If I had a gun and the element of surprise the story might be different, but I'd never want to fight him fair. Normally, I feel very confident of my ability to defend myself, because of my grappling ability. Coach is shorter than me, but much broader and has thighs the size of my chest. Maybe some of his fights are online somewhere, so I can see him in action.
Things to practice during the week:
Everything!
Hand-wrapping - this is something I can do without actually working out.
Stance - Elbows down, chin down, shoulders rolled up and forward, hands up in the green to yellow zone making small inward circles, hips forward, feet slightly angled out, slight bend in the knees, and standing with my heels "a paper-width off the ground."
Punching - Always "look down the barrel." Keep the other hand up for protection. Use hips and feet and not so much the arm strength. Pop don't push the mitt.
Kicking - Swing like a baseball bat. No bend in the knee. Start with a small outward step. Keep the kicking leg's hand out for place and range-finding. Always follow through with kicks. I should do a full circle unless something stops me (aka the bag or my opponent). Coach also wanted me to work some on my off leg kicking because I had a harder time with balance on that leg (even though it was kicking with my right I once spun in a circle and slipped off my feet! ha! Everyone starts somewhere).
So yeah, I have a lot to think about and work on. I'll try to do some shadow boxing at some point. Video games are fun, but it's hard to match the thrill of a physical sport when you feel like you're making gains. I want to get better.
PS - What are the 1s, 2s and 3s? There are apparently 6 basic punches.
1 = Jab (forward hand - left for me since I'm a right hander)
2 = Thrust (back hand - "Power in the back!" as Coach said)
3 = Forward hand hook
4 = Back hand hook
5 = Forward hand uppercut
6 = Back hand uppercut
I'm right handed, so I'm supposed to stand left foot forward and right hand back. Coach said ambidexterity "is great" but start with the basics before getting funky (and I agree).
I'm a ways away from clinch work, but eventually elbows and knees get factored in and ranges will change. This art wasn't refined over hundreds of years with nothing to show for it.
One of Jama's first comments was "Mike, you didn't need to go to any trouble to pick up for your sister."
I didn't. That's what Jama was pointing out.
"Nope! She gets to see the house in it's natural state!" I said. We all had a laugh at that. You see, Shane loves to dump toys and books out whenever I put them up. He even gets a kick out of opening the bottom drawers of his dresser and pulling all the clothes out while I shovel the back in. It's something of a game for him. I try not to partake and pick up after he sleeps.
After the babysitting unit was settled, I grabbed Carrie's gloves and wraps and headed out. I was doubly excited for class, because I started the week thinking I couldn't go.
Turns out it was a private lesson.
Last week, there were 8 students. This week, I was it. I guess everyone else was out for the long weekend. If I hadn't shown up, I bet Coach would've been pissed he had an empty room! It turned out to be great for me.
Private lessons are expensive. I don't know what Muay Thai/MMA's going rates are, but in BJJ $50 bucks and hour was considered cheap for a purple belt years ago. I paid for a couple of lessons from a brown belt before a tournament for $70 or $80 back in the days of too much disposable income(I think).
Two hours of private Muay Thai instruction for just showing up and getting free childcare back at home: NICE!!
The day was filled with trying to learn fundamentals. All sports have a basic set of tasks that you need to do without thinking about them. Failure to do them automatically prevents you from learning more complex tasks and learning to do them wrongly leaves gaps in your skill set. In a large class, an instructor cannot watch the beginners exclusively, so they may find natural ways to compensate for harder tasks when attention is not on them. If not caught, this leads to bad habits that need to be unlearned at a later date.
Having two hours of Coach watching my every move has left me with a much better understanding of how different Muay Thai is from what I know. I learned a lot and learned that I still had way more to learn. At the least, I learned enough to make watching a UFC fight more interesting. I asked a lot of "Why?" questions, and Coach had all of the answers. I just hope that I can remember everything for next week!
We started off with stance do's, dont's, and whys (at least, we did after I got another hand wrapping lesson). From there, we transitioned into how to protect myself when throwing punches and drilled 1s, 2s, and 3s. The drills started with mitts and transitioned to bag work (which is new to me). After watching me drill on the bag, we'd move to the mirrors, Coach would have me watch myself and we'd transition back to mitts again. After doing arm work, I got a lesson in how to kick Muay Thai style and the drilling started over again.
We talked theory the whole time (which I love). I find the science of body mechanics and the small, seemingly insignificant details which make worlds of difference fascinating. Coach has been doing this for all but a couple years of his life, so he knows a lot. From his little quarter-speed demos I learned that this man could kill me. If I had a gun and the element of surprise the story might be different, but I'd never want to fight him fair. Normally, I feel very confident of my ability to defend myself, because of my grappling ability. Coach is shorter than me, but much broader and has thighs the size of my chest. Maybe some of his fights are online somewhere, so I can see him in action.
Things to practice during the week:
Everything!
Hand-wrapping - this is something I can do without actually working out.
Stance - Elbows down, chin down, shoulders rolled up and forward, hands up in the green to yellow zone making small inward circles, hips forward, feet slightly angled out, slight bend in the knees, and standing with my heels "a paper-width off the ground."
Punching - Always "look down the barrel." Keep the other hand up for protection. Use hips and feet and not so much the arm strength. Pop don't push the mitt.
Kicking - Swing like a baseball bat. No bend in the knee. Start with a small outward step. Keep the kicking leg's hand out for place and range-finding. Always follow through with kicks. I should do a full circle unless something stops me (aka the bag or my opponent). Coach also wanted me to work some on my off leg kicking because I had a harder time with balance on that leg (even though it was kicking with my right I once spun in a circle and slipped off my feet! ha! Everyone starts somewhere).
So yeah, I have a lot to think about and work on. I'll try to do some shadow boxing at some point. Video games are fun, but it's hard to match the thrill of a physical sport when you feel like you're making gains. I want to get better.
PS - What are the 1s, 2s and 3s? There are apparently 6 basic punches.
1 = Jab (forward hand - left for me since I'm a right hander)
2 = Thrust (back hand - "Power in the back!" as Coach said)
3 = Forward hand hook
4 = Back hand hook
5 = Forward hand uppercut
6 = Back hand uppercut
I'm right handed, so I'm supposed to stand left foot forward and right hand back. Coach said ambidexterity "is great" but start with the basics before getting funky (and I agree).
I'm a ways away from clinch work, but eventually elbows and knees get factored in and ranges will change. This art wasn't refined over hundreds of years with nothing to show for it.
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