Mech's Den

It's been a while

2012-01-28T18:28:00.001-05:00

Ok so I know that I haven't been on here in a while but work has been very busy. I really want to move to the mountains and that is the plan for next year. I hope to open a B & B (a bed and breakfast for the great unwashed)...lol...I have fell in love with the lodge on Sheelah Clarkson's website. If I could afford it...I would snap it up. Before I forget...congratulate me! I got a Kindle for Christmas- and I didn't have to buy it for myself...lol. I know I'm behind the times but I put a lot of my time and my money on books for my students instead of myself.
My dog has this habit of putting his nose on my feet. That is a cold nose ya'll! So I been giving some thought to actually dating again. Don't know if I'll actually go through with it but I've thought about it. Sad huh?..*smile....that's okay- I have my dog, my niece and nephew, and friends---not to mention 2 brothers, a mom, dad, and host of other family members..*grin*...even if I wish they would mind their own sometimes. Oh well....right now I plan to curl up with my kindle and warm my feet back up... so ya'll have a great night....think of me...not..lol

Here's hoping this works!

2011-07-23T19:21:00.000-04:00

I found another book to share ya'll.....The Search by Nora Roberts. It was great. I really liked the fact that the heroine was a survivor. She survived being a victim of a serial killer and having her fiance killed. She also created a job that helped her help others. The funny part is the guy she's interested in...doesn't want to be interested in her- key words here- want to be. But he loves the fact that she is so strong- even while he hates the fact that she is strong enough to not really need him. The characters are thought out and fun to "watch"- because to me- a book is a movie that is read. I see these characters and their actions. The better the storyline the author gives- the better my inner movie plays...and this was a great movie. I've "watched" it 3 times since I bought the book.
The community can be a shelter as well as a cage. Roberts did a fabulous job skating that line. You knew the community wanted to protect her even while letting her live a life in which being a dog trainer/search and rescue was one to be admired. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a strong heroine and a guy that is strong enough to let her be the strong woman she is.

So I have new plans!!!!

2011-07-23T18:57:00.000-04:00

I plan on moving next year. My family and I ( a group of 8 people ya'll) agreed to move to the mountains. Do you know how hard it is to get 8 people to agree on anything? Well we all agreed to move next year. We want the kids to be able to say goodbye and finish out the school year before moving. I know what you're thinking- school hasn't started back yet- but guess what? Soooo? I teach and I made a promise to work this school year and I can't break my promise. That goes against everything I believe in. But...I will be starting to look for a new job as of next May. I will be putting out applications and getting ready to start begging. 10 years of experience should count for something. But I know it will be better for us all to get away for a while. I am so ready for this!

a trio to read

2010-12-30T13:03:00.002-05:00

Okay so I know I said that I had to go think about what to tell you to read....I have really eclectic taste in books okay! But I have figured out what I want to talk about first so here it goes....a threesome!!!!!
LOL...I know it's a new concept for some and fantasy for others. But just so you can understand my choice let me give you the titles. And if you have read them already and have a respectful comment to share- please feel free to do so. I will try to respond back to the comments.
Please read them in order if you can. It will help keep certain scenes better anchored in your mind. Pack Challenge, Go Fetch!, and Here Kitty, Kitty by Shelly Laurenston. The trio is about three best friends that have changes to adjust to, love, and fight (my favorite). In my opinion the more argumentative the book, the better the spicy scenes. In the first of the set is Pack Challenge in which the lead, Sara, is a shifter that doesn't know she's a shifter. She had a grandmother that could have taught the devil lessons in meaness. So her sole reason for keeping a somewhat level head was the other two girls in her life. In comes a biker alpha-to-be, Zach, who "helps" her get into her "skin".
The second part of the trio is Go Fetch! in which the lead female is Miki, a genius computer hacker that has a hard time getting her brain to calm down, so in comes Zach's best friend Conall- an extremely tall Viking shifter that believes in getting his man...umm mate...ummm genius woman. (As you can tell I like this book better than the first.) I happen to like books in which zesty spirit is shown. Miki is a black woman that has no problem destroying anything that messes with the people she considers hers....literally. And to tell you the truth- while I knew she was a black woman, Laurenston handled it in such a way that a 1/2 white/ 1/2 Indian chickie such as myself could lose the whole race scene. Which to be honest was quite refreshing...I don't like being hit over the head with the whole "interracial couple" theme in some books. It shouldn't matter if the woman is one race and the man is another.
And so we have come to the last book in the threesome! Here Kitty, Kitty and I have to say...my personal favorite of the set....lol. This is a latina woman,Angelina, that is use to men falling over her because of her beauty...but don't be fooled- remember who her best friends are (a feral shifter white woman and a genius hacker black woman.) So you know that she can kick butt if she has to....she just has to look good while doing it. But what really impressed me was that the fact that Angelina didn't care about staying thin or dieting...She made the comment -"There's no same in having an X in front of that L." Not to mention the cheeseburger, fries, real soda, and loads of ketchup she could eat without regret (and the ribs, fried chicken, sweet tea, and other normal fatty foods that normals like me eat.) While I know she wasn't a size 18- she also wasn't a size 6 either. She enjoyed being feminine, watching tv, music, and life. But she also took care of business---hey someone has to hit a tiger in the head with the toplid of a toliet...even if the tiger was in his human skin at that point. *Smile* Like I said...the third one was my favorite-when it comes to leading ladies...but of the men- I'm torn...think on it...You have Zach- use to dealing with nuts-which these three ladies are (whipcord lean, deliciously hot), Conall- 7 ft tall and seems bulletin proof (muscles, able to handle short mad geniuses, patient, loves trying new positions), and Nik- southern boy charm, with brothers ya'll, takes care of his people, loves to tease (built but makes a suit look good, caramel on a stick). Who to choose.....so hard to decide...hey---all three!!!
Tell me what you think- did you enjoy them? Did you find them lukewarm? Were they not what you were looking for? Too hot? Not hot enough?
Comment people!..lol
For other random reads:
http://simpleloveofreading.blogspot.com/

Snowing!!!!!

2010-12-26T22:16:00.000-05:00

So down here in Lumberton, NC we don't see a lot of snow....especially snow without a ton of ice. But today we got a couple almost 4 inches. How awesome is that! Seriously, we have this week to enjoy the winter scene, so if it lingers around I won't mind. I don't have to be back at work until next Monday. The buses are not on the road because school is out- so it's fun for the kids and the dog! So of course I plan on enjoying my winter wonderland this year. This is the closest to a White Christmas for us since 1989. I know that some people just don't know how to drive in the snow- an in my opinion they need to get someone else to do the driving for them. Just so that those that don't live around here can understand what I am talking about- let me paint you a visual.
It starts to snow...just a few flurries....everyone heads to the grocery store for milk, bread, and eggs...don't ask me why...now we have about an inch (that will not be there later in the day mind you) and everything is closed down. All the schools, churches, most of the businesses, all mom and pop places...and in the midst of this little bit of snow- Walmart, Food Lion, and Dob's gas station will stay open....lol.
So I hope that now you understand the reason that I am enjoying the fact that I can have my snow without having to make up a day teaching!..lol

Christmas!

2010-12-23T13:10:00.000-05:00

I know that I haven't been blogging as much lately...and while I have good reason- that is not a good excuse. I'll admit to having a little time between the Christmas play, School, Students, Family...you know- all the biggies. I just didn't feel like blogging....I know- not cool. *Smile* But that's okay. Besides if you can see my house right now you would know that I haven't been doing anything but being lazy. Upside- it's the Christmas break of my life...I get to clean, wash dishes (for stuff I didn't cook), wash clothes (that I didn't wear), and wash the dog (who really needs the bath). But I am teaching my niece how to grill a ham and cheese sandwich on the stove. I told my nephew I would teach him to grill a peanut butter and jelly if he wanted....he said "NO!" very emphatically.....wonder if he means he doesn't want to learn to grill a peanut butter and jelly sandwich?..lol...
I have bread I need to make for the next couple of days... I wanted to try a new receipe but I couldn't find one I liked. Anyone have a good sweet bread receipe that I can make for a family with two diabetics? Really need the help here. I need to go help wrap presents..so I'll catch ya on the flip side!

Found a New Blog!!!

2010-12-23T12:52:00.000-05:00

I like the do-it-yourself kind of blogs that tells all kinds of tips to fix small and sometimes big problems with organizing your life. The one that I found...is called Infinity Goods blog. I know...not the most interesting name out there but she has some cool tips...such as a kitchen colander in the bathroom to help with kiddie toys. I really never thought about your a colander to help with the drainage and storage of those bath toys..but how cool is that. Still I am on the lookout for more organizing ideas though. ohohoh...forgot to tell you always make sure you come back and please tell me if you know of any other organizer blogs, tips, ideas, or anything that might help an under-paid school teacher out...lol

Okay so a new prize at BBB

2010-10-29T19:36:00.000-04:00

They are having a new contest this time and the Prize: Rachel Caine is giving away an iPad!! She’s giving away the 16GB Wi-Fi edition ($499 value)......hey guys how can you beat that. Come join the discussion and enter to win that iPad at
http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=32545
and make sure that you visitor any other author's page that catches your eyes...can never have enough publicity..lol.

If you want to buy a copy of Rachel's new book...just click on the link and enjoy.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0451231619?ie=UTF8&tag=bittenbybooks-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0451231619

BBB's newest contest and author

2010-10-09T15:17:00.000-04:00

So once again I am back to providing you with my dazzling wit and snarky quips...lol. Bitten By Books is having another contest. J.K. Beck is the featured author and if you want to read her books or if you have no idea what they are about please go to http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=31430 and check it out.
You could win a kindle or other really good prizes. But get there before Monday Oct. 11th or you could miss out on a chance to win.

Back from Vacation

2010-07-28T15:45:00.000-04:00

So I am back from Disney World....jealous huh? Don't be...it was great but you can go too with a little secret that I found. Save your change...I am serious! My mom and I took my niece and nephew with us to Disney World. Because we went with a group of more than 10 people- we got a discount on the rooms during peak time. We also help car washes and dinners in order to help everyone afford the payments. But the biggest help for us was saving our change. Everyday we took the change out of our pockets and put it in a jar. We didn't count it or even go in it (if we could help it). Mama worked on this for about 8 months and I did it for about 5 months. Mama kept putting daddy's change in there too...lol. When we took it to the bank coin changer Mama had over $500 saved and I had over $200 saved. I didn't keep as much change in my pocket b/c the vending machines at work didn't always take bills. But that's okay because the last supplement check that I got (I teach and I get 2 a year) I had planned to use for DW. So overall I think that we did really well....especially considering that we collected change (mostly pennies and dimes) and not dollars. We plan to go back...in the winter next time so we have begun to save our change again. This time I am adding whatever I have in my pockets- if possible. This should be good....don't know if we'll take both of the kids back with us but I know that they want to go. Hopefully it will turn out great. Esp. since I will have to take off from school to go...lol...I think that my kids would enjoy having a sub---NOT...they get more work with a sub than without one...hahaha- bad teacher..lol

Bitten By Books Contests!

2010-07-01T15:13:00.000-04:00

So Rachel is having another contest on her site today....for a kindle this time....come and get it. Do a little commenting on Nicole Peeler's column and sign up. Don't forget to check in on other's author's blogging and you might be pleasantly surprised!
http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=26986

Eclipse to soon follow

2010-06-29T21:10:00.000-04:00

So I plan to watch Eclipse tomorrow...would have like to watch it tonight but unlike some of my special friends.....I didn't get tickets for it....which is unfair. They knew I'd want to watch...but I'm not upset..a little jealous- but not upset. Have to say though....I am looking forward to watching this one as it is my favorite of the Twilight series. I love the whole- I'm Switzerland" deal Belle has plus the teamwork that finally helped everyone get along- at least for a while. Really looking foward to tomorrow...Wanna come? Please do!

Running Hot....not so much

2010-06-28T20:19:00.000-04:00

Okay so I read Running Hot...it was okay....not the best work I've read but for a quickie, it was decent. I have to say that it could have been hotter. Since it wasn't....on to more interesting topics......So I read Moira Roger's 1st book in the Red Rock Pass series....loved it.... will definitely have to get the rest.... I even downloaded Amazon's version of a kindle for it...yeah darlings...I used actual computer space for her book... Am I cool or what...I know- behind times but when I get the money to blow I will buy a Kindle for little ol' me...lol.....in the mean time....share your knowledge...tell me what book I should get next...catch ya on flip side.

Zena Wynn's Mary and the Bear

2010-06-19T01:21:00.000-04:00

Okay I didn't read Running Hot yet. But if you remember I'd already told you that I wasn't really looking forward to it. But another new author was recommended to me and I have to say that I like her stuff. It's not on par with Shelly Laurenston, but she is pretty decent. I read Zena Wynn's Mary and the Bear. I liked it. It was a little different than a lot of the shifter books I've read. It seems way too easy to become a shifter if you are the "true mate" to one for one thing. Another thing that was a little strange is the lack of shifter hierarchy as with most of paranormal shifter series. Usually there is the whole "who's more alpha" and "who should be the top dog" mentality that I usually read. Not to say that someone isn't the "top dog" but there are a lot of different kinds of shifters living in the same town and they get along great...it's the outsiders that they have the most problems with. But back to the dynamics within the book- Mary Elizabeth has lost her twin (no real lost though when you read the book) and is trying to get away and stay away from a controlling mother that made the comment -Why couldn't it have been Mary Elizabeth that died?-at the twin's funeral. So M. E.'s best friend gives her that opportunity by inviting her to manage a new store in "shifter" town. But Mary doesn't know it's shifter town until after she gets there and said friend explains that while she's under the alpha's protection- other shifters want a mate and she is going to be introduced to them. Luckily for Ms. Mary the guy she is renting an apartment from is a bear shifter and he has his sights set on her. The erotic scenes with the book isn't bad...but if you like the more hardcore stuff then you might want to leave this book alone. Wynn is a little more tame then most of the more sexier shifter books, but she is more hardcore than Nalini Singh..almost like Lora Leigh in a way. But like I said in the beginning- I did like her book. I liked it enough that I also got True Mates and Nikolai's Wolf. And in case your question is- should you read them in order- the answer is as long as you read the three books together it can be a little out of order but read all three around the same time. Here is the other reason I said Wynn's shifter books were a little strange/different. She seems to write three stories at one time. I really mean that too. The first book seems to be True Mates the second one Mary and the Bear and the third is Nikolai's Wolf. The reason I said seems to be is because the timing of the books happen in the same month and each book seems to switch from one character's story to the next. If you can keep all that straight then you would enjoy the books. Otherwise- don't attempt it. It was almost like trying to read The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.

Hunting Julian by Jacquelyn Frank

2010-06-17T16:05:00.000-04:00

I've finished Hunting Julian and I am sorry that I didn't get back on to talk about it but after teaching for the past 10 months...I deserve a break. I enjoyed Jacki's book and I am looking forward to reading the next one. I did have somewhat of a problem suspending belief in a few parts. It wasn't from the lack of trying but this one didn't flow as easily as the Shadowdwellers and the Demons series. I did like the fact that the authority was shown up but I had some problems with the background. I wanted to know why they were in charge, how did the Gatherers get picked- did they show power or promise and if so how? I wanted a little more of the background and I didn't get it. at least it didn't feel like I did. In her Demons series, Jacki gave plenty of background and explained that Demons weren't really bad and that Druids helped/harmed the image/lifestyle. The leaders were chosen because of heredity and show of power. In her Shadowdwellers series it was the same, but in the Gatherers series all I know is that if you are powerful you may become a member of the Ampliphi but I don't understand how become one...is there are check off list that says you have now learned all you need to know and if so- how come there aren't more members of the Ampliphi? But the upside is the story with Julian and Asia was very well written- by this I mean while the background might have been lacking the storyline between those two characters was cohesive and flowed like I expect from Jacki. Maybe the second book will give me more of the background I'm looking for and if not- Jacki is getting a message from me...lol

Books books and more books

2010-06-16T10:54:00.000-04:00

Ok so I am reading a few books this week. Yes I will have about 5 read in 3 days....not unusual for me. What's unusual is that I haven't finished a book that fast in a couple of months because of work/school. So I have catching up to do. Jacquelyn Frank has started writing a new series called the Gatherers. I am starting it today. I know I'm late to the party but---school closing-students' last day- and paperwork to get ready for next year. That takes a while when you teach so I usually make up for the lack of reading time on weekends, holidays, and summer. I am starting Hunting Julian today. Will probably have it finished by 5 barring unforseen circumstances. Then I plan to read Jayne Ann Krentz's Running Hot...not really looking forward to that one as much but it was recommended and I plan to read it. I might be surprised. Should have that one done by midnight tonight. I'll be saying what I think about them soon...lol...whether I liked them or not.

Ok so the blog battle is over...at least this one..lol

2010-06-16T10:34:00.000-04:00

So I enjoyed the blog battle...couldn't get on the computer as much as I would like seeing that it's the end of school and I had to get the students' paperwork done by Monday. I spent yesterday actually finishing it up. I haven't had to work on the last day for teachers in 8 years. This was so not cool. I like being able to walk around and talk to the teachers before we leave for the summer. I won't be seeing some of them this summer as they will go up North to see family or vacations to get out of RobCo. This year I couldn't and I have to say I am disappointed. But on the plus side my Boos...previous students...came to see me! I am so proud of my graduating darlings...they worked so hard. I hope and pray that they make it in the profession that they choose. They will need all the help they can get to resist temptation enough to finish college and get a degree.

Team Vampire Lumberjack

2010-06-06T01:45:00.000-04:00

So Moira Rogers is running a blog battle....This is not my contest or battle. I just a lowly Lady in Battle that is hoping to express her thoughts in a clear enough way so that the Ms. General is impressed. Also it would help gather troops for my defense of Team Vampire Lumberjack..and leave my opponents in the hair lying on the ground....So here goes a little information.
So remember to leave a comment and be prepared to defend it.
It's Team Vampire Lumberjack versus Team Werewolf Bootlegger.
Normally I am for the werewolves..no matter what...but that word...Lumberjack. It makes you think of sweaty men, muscles bulging and physical "wooden" activity. I am not saying that a Bootlegger can't "dance" but a vampire that climbs trees, yells timber and works outside...He just has to have that extra "ummpphh" needed to make you close your eyes. So I would have to say that I am totally Team Vampire Lumberjack. Besides... just think how much fun it could be to "warm-up" the Vampire...Werewolves are already heated up without the foreplay...lol .. You want to check out what I am talking about click here: http://moirarogers.com/blog/archives/2261/

Before you decide to go against my team let me explain a few things:
Vampires have strength, stamina, are highly "combustible" (wowzer) and you don't have to cook for them....so no clean up either..(yeah Vampies) Yes, your neck may look good, but they don't take without giving..if you catch my drift...also you don't have to worry about that turkey wattle you call a neck--if you date a Vampire....they don't care about the package...they are all about the "inside"..lol... Vampires also have a tendency to be "up" at a mortal's bedtime and you don't have to worry about having tests taken or even getting a rabies shot...Now before you make the mistake of thinking that I don't enjoy a little werewolf romance..remember this is a blog battle for one or the other...but if I could make the ultimate sacrifice of body I would definitely have a wolf/vamp experience...lol

Let's hear it for the Vamps!

Prince of Persia

2010-05-30T22:25:00.000-04:00

So I went to see the new Disney film, Prince of Persia: Sands of Time, yesterday with my brother, mother, niece, and my conscience. No I am not telling you that it was the best movie I've seen from Disney. However, it was good...not awesomely great, but good. I loved the character that Jake Gyllenhal plays. It was not stagnent like many action characters can be. Gyllenhal's characte is Dastan... an orphan that runs amok and is given a chance to become Prince of Persia by the sheer force of personality and courage that he displays when the king first sees him.....The movie itself seems to be Moses meets Aladin with a ton of gymanstics thrown in for good measure. I really liked Dastan and Gyllenhal filled those shoes wonderfully...my problem is that without Gyllenhaal I wouldn't have watched the film. The other characters doesn't seem to be as strongly represented. You mostly see Dastan and his search for a way to save his family. Princess Tamina, played by Gemma Artenton, could have been a great foil for Dastan if we could have seen her "grow" more as Dastan does. The relationship between those character reminded me of The Scorpion King...hostile, hostile, hostile-- until her people's life depends on him. I would say that it was worth the ticket for the movie but not the popcorn. I don't think that I will be buying this movie for my house collection..maybe for the school collection- no cussing, no sex, no nakedness, no major problems- except the deaths that happened- but not my personal collection for family...I think that it had the potential to be great but it fell a little short of my greatness mark.

How to Train Your Dragon

2010-04-06T22:34:00.000-04:00

So I took the kids to watch the 3D version of "How to Train Your Dragon" and I have to admit I liked the movie. The extra charge for the 3d glasses and 3d experience just wasn't worth it to me. I think that I would have enjoyed it with the regular version playing as well as I did the 3d. Besides it would have been cheaper. I am not saying that no 3d movie isn't worth the price of the ticket, but this movie didn't have enough "effects" for the extras. There was only a couple of instances in which the 3d was nice...and that was mostly in the beginning and in the commericals. It was like the movie was not given the extra uummmph that was needed to make it a great 3d movie. That being said, I really enjoyed the movie. I plan to take my second grade students to watch it and I know they will enjoy it. I would like to point out though that if you read the book....the movie wasn't like that. The ending was pretty different even though some of the events were placed in it. But I think that this was one of the few movies that doesn't leave you saying "that didn't happen" or "in the book.....happened instead." So I would recommend this movie...especially for the 10 and under group. My darlings are 9 and 10 and they enjoyed it.

Alice in Wonderland...new

2010-03-11T20:22:00.000-05:00

So I went to see the new Alice in Wonderland movie and I have to say that it wasn't bad. The cartoon from Disney really got on my nerves because half of the time it didn't make sense. This version was actually decent in my opinion. I wouldn't say that is was the best Disney movie but for an Alice flick it was cool. I liked the Sy Fy version better but that is neither here nor there. Based on theater seats in my town, others liked it too. I think that overall the new Alice was a strong character that didn't seem too dopey. Johnny Depp as the Hatter was great. It gave a new meaning to madness..or breakdown in this case. The acting was well done and the CG was great. I loved the fact that the Red Queen had such a hugh head and that the White Queen wouldn't hurt a living thing..but had no problem with the dead..lol. Because the Alice movie is set after young Alice has grown up, the movie is a little more mature than the animated version. The Hatter is heard to say "You are always either too tall or too short" and at one point it looked like he wanted to kiss Alice. ***Spoiler***** The Jabberwocky's head bounding down the stairs made me glad that it was rated PG...but that was the only "Parental" advice needed. There wasn't any cussing or nakedness..not to mention no making out or anything else that I wouldn't like to see for a kid's movie. So I would say: thumbs up as a family movie.

Percy Jackson Movie Review

2010-02-13T23:13:00.000-05:00

Okay so last night I watch the new Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief movie... It was good don't get me wrong, but I spent so much time saying "That is not how it happened in the book" and "Where is (different character's name)?" If I hadn't read the books I might have been happier while watching the movie. Luckily I am adaptable. The books are great for my 6th grade tutoring students. The movie was enjoyable for the whole family. It was funnier than the book in a way. There were moments in the movie that was explained in the book in a way the movie couldn't and didn't. For instance, in the book Percy's mom was not rescued by Percy and in the movie was and she even showed the kids how to get to Olympus which she shouldn't have known about because she is mortal. Or how about the reason that the gods and their offspring: in the book it was that the Big 3 were not to have any children with mortals because of a prophesy and in the movie it was that no gods or goddesses could have contact with their offspring because of chance they risk in becoming more human.   The whole thing lacked the suspense that made the books so good. The movie lacked the personality that the books had.
While I recognize that the director wanted to make sure that his Harry Potter deal wasn't repeated, it wouldn't have been better for those that have read the book if it had followed a little more closely...especially since Percy Jackson is a series of books. If they plan to continue making movies based on the book series, the other movies may have a lot of backtracking to do to make sure that characters that were left out of first movie show up in a way that makes sense. Especially since a few of those leftout characters are important in later books in the series. For instance two characters that were in the first book were Clarisse and Ares, which were not even in the movie or thought of. Something else that seemed a little strange was Percy's mom's willingness to "get rid of" stinky (you have to read the book or watch the movie to find out who this character is) when in the book she "stoned" stinky. (Once again this is an event you will have to read the book to understand.) The movie and the book portrays her as "self-sacrifing" and just throwing him out just doesn't flow in the scheme of "protecting Percy from the monsters."   As much as I enjoyed the movie, I still think that holding to the book would have made the movie better and would have had less of a "why" aspect.
On to the acting portion of this review: The character Percy is played by Logan Lerman. I have to say that the kid did a great job showing insercurity and strength. He was a good choice for Percy. He didn't overact and he delivered a believable performance.  Alexandra Daddario was Annabeth. She was good but showing more of Annabeth's "powers of stratedgy" was have been better.  Daddario's character seemed a little flat in the movie while the book had Annabeth as more of an angry but sticks to the rules kind of person.  Brandon T. Jackson was great in the movie version of Grover...I don't know if he would have been able to pull off the book version of insecure and earnest Grover though. I don't plan to go into the other characters as this time, maybe later. Just understand that the movie and the book were different. If you are a die hard stick to the book person...don't watch it.

I think that I could be a movie critic

2010-01-16T23:25:00.000-05:00

I love to watch movies, but I do have a little standard... I only like the movies I like..lol. I love to watch movies. It helps you to think outside the box and gives you a chance to get out of your head. I'm sitting here watching Oceans 13 and it is so much fun. I really like the 3rd one. Not the other 2 weren't good, but this one was about justice, not revenge or helping yourself.
I also love to watch the Bring It movie series.. for teeny bobs I like the 3rd and 4th better. The first is not bad but I really don't like the 2nd movie. It's just a couple of cool movies to watch with the preteens. The teenagers nowadays would think that it's a little too "pretty" or "clean-cut" for them but for the younger kids it's cool.
If you like Eliza Dushku and you are a fan of the horror genre then you may enjoy Open Graves. It's kind of cool for a sci-fi/horror flick. It has a more sinister board game Jumanji almost feel to it. The main difference is that the players' (about 6 of them) lifes are affected as the game is played. It truly is a life or death game being played. As Eliza's character states, "Everybody can win or everybody can lose" and that pretty much depends on the game, how you play it, and your intentions (character/personality).
Avatar is great movie. The problem I have with it, is the language within it. I understand that it really wasn't made for the kids but a lot of kids went to watch it. And I know the main character had a military background but the movie wasn't about the military until the last 30 minutes or so. There could have been a way around the majority of cuss words being used. I would have been happy to watch this movie with my niece and nephew (8 and 10) as many times as they would have wanted if not for the language. As it was I went with my brother first so that I could see if I wanted my kids to see this movie and I wouldn't even take them. I plan to buy the movie true, but I would not ever take kids under 15 to see the movie. The movie had great CG (computer generated) effects and the relationships between the characters didn't become intimate on the screen. The characters has a great rhythm with one another but the main relationship was between the characters and the planet and life as a whole. I fully recommend it to my friends from college and we are the anime sect without being "immersed" in the culture.
As of right now that is as far as I want to go in my critic career. I haven't gone to the movies in about 2 weeks so I'll have to wait for the next one that I "have" to see before I can chew the movie fat with you.

Chuck me in the shallow water

2010-01-09T20:11:00.000-05:00

I feel like I am trying to tread water in mud. A friend leaves our boss's office crying and she won't tell me what is going on. Well she said it had something to do with her not "being at her station" when the students came down the hall. But in her defense, they let the students go 5 minutes early and her daughter had to go to the bathroom. I don't know when we got to the point in which everyone has more rights than teachers, but we are there. I would like to be able to offer comfort but she was told it could cost her job if she talked to anyone... how does that help someone cope with stress and stuff that life pushes in your face if you are not allowed to speak unless you want to lose your job. I mean really...I wasn't asking for details... I just want to make sure that my friend is okay. I want to know that she understands that I am there if she needs me and that she can get through it with God's help. But I can't advise anyone when I don't know what is going on. I can only say "Take it to the Lord in prayer" and pray for her myself. Why is it okay to hurt people and to not see both sides of the story? Why do we even try to be fair in today's society? We tread water that is mostly mud. We breathe air that is so thick that we choke. So chuck me in the shallow water before I get too deep. Give me breath that I don't have to swallow. I want to see through glass that is transparent and not rose colored. Things are not black and white. They never have been. Gray is such a strong part of us that we can't see it anymore. It's one way or the other and compromise is never heard from. The same person should not get their own way all the time. It's not good for anyone to have everything the way they want it to be.
I guess I'll try to talk to her again and if she doesn't want to talk, I'll pray.
Mech

Mythbusters, Whiz Kids, Misfits of Science, or The Secret life of an American Teenager

2010-01-06T22:54:00.000-05:00

I watch Mythbusters pretty regularly. I have to say that I am a fan and enjoy watching the myths being tested. That being said.. I really like the episode in which they take on McGuyver. I think McGuyver was a great show because it was fun to watch and had a lot of critical thinking decisions that were made by Mac. Well, on Mythbusters...Jamie and Adam stated that they enjoyed McGuyver too...it got me to thinking...were the shows from the late 70s and early 90s better for the youth than the shows that are seen today? Case in point "Whiz Kids" verses "The Secret Life of an American Teenager." WK is about a group of friends that use a computer to solve mysteries. TSLoaAT is about a girl that gets preganent and still attends high school. Wk showed that kids using computers and building their own is a positive thing. TSL is about bad decisions being a little gloried. I am not saying that there isn't anything positive about TSL but when the series revolves around an accidental preggo girl who then has two boys almost chasing after her, how is this suppose to discourage teen pregancy? Maybe I am looking at this wrong but sometimes I wonder if the only thing worth watching is old movies and tv series.. when I can find the whole collection. I guess that's why I'm on the computer so much.. old well.TTYL
Mech

Mr. Darcy

2010-01-02T22:52:00.000-05:00

So I don't have a Mr. Darcy. I wonder how one goes about getting one for her own? The man that the character was based had to exist. And if not then what was he? A dream, a thought, an ideal? If he was only an ideal then I would hate to imagine the kinds of men that Darcy was the antithesis of. Were they men of hypocrisy or bigotry? Maybe men of conceit and lacking in intelligence or maybe even men that lacked faith in the fact that women had reasons for their decisions other than the chance to be a part of the social elite.The image of Darcy walking through the fog in order to talk and grab at his one chance at happiness grips me. I would dearly love to be able to know that someone loved me enough to throw caution and status to wind just to be with me. Not to mention that he asked her twice, put his pride on the line the last time, to be his bride. To give him the chance to show her that they could make a match of it and not a muck of it.
The reason I don't think that he offered his pride the first is that he thought that she should be "grateful" for the chance to be his wife. I think that he was very shocked to know that she didn't want to be his bride because of her pride for her family. I love the fact that at the end of the book she understands that she has let her own pride and prejudice be a stumbling block for her chance at a marriage with a man that would dote on her and try to please her. I mean look at Darcy's sister, she only slightly protested the gifts he gave her and just accepted that he gave her what she wished for or longed for.
I am glad that we don't call our husbands..and wives.. Mr. "Bennet" or Mrs. "Bennet" I mean, really andthe fact that two of the sisters only cared about meeting men and looking for another change to get married. How crazy is that. But then again this is coming from someone that did not grow up in that age. I might have been just like Kitty. Which if I had to choose, I think that I would rather be like Lizzie. I am not beautiful enough to be Jane. I suspect that I would have been Lizzie's best friend Charlotte. Trying to find a way to better my station because my parents haven't a dime and no estate to pass on to me once they had died. Oh well, I guess that's why the Good Lord made sure I was born in these times and not the ones from before. I don't even know if I could have survived the 50s and 60s with a sane mind.. Especially if my mother was like Lizzie's. But I can understand her thinking in wanting the best for her daughters. She did as thought she should in order for them to have a better life or at least a life in which they were taken care of. Not to mention how greatly she judge the weather and the like. LOL
Well, "the bright day is done, and we are for the dark." (Shakespeare)
In other words, good night all
Mech

Movies: The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel

2010-01-01T18:11:00.000-05:00

So I will admit I went to see the Squeakquel. I went with my mom and my brother Phillip. It was funny and surprisingly true to life in the way kids react and bully and tease at school. The jocks that picked on the new kids... the one that was so use to the attention suddenly not getting it and decides to trash/threaten then become friendly with the one who is. Also the fact that students seem to think that social status and popularity is more important than family activities and feelings of siblings. On a positive note, I loved the music and the fact that the movie had the principal love the Chipmunks. It shows that principals and other staff members are people too. As a teacher I love it when you find movies that show teachers are people that try to help, listen, and try to better their school- not just as those people that lecture, bore others, sleep, and pretty much are a negative aspect of school to the students. I also liked the fact that the principal in the story was able to control a multitude with just a finger. That was so funny to me.
So for right now I will be signing off for a little while. I will let you know that I plan to buy the CD..not necessarily the DVD. I love music remember... and this had some great songs in it.
BBL
Mech

New Year's Eve

2010-01-01T17:56:00.000-05:00

So here I am, once again since leaving Greenville, alone on New Year's Eve. I guess I should have went over to a couple of friend's place for New Year's or gone to the church for the New Year's service. Oh well. AToo late now. So I have no idea what I'll be doing next year but hopefully I will enjoy the ride. If I'm lucky I will still have my family and friends and my boo (dog). If I am real lucky I might have a Heaven sent guy with me too. So I guess I will watch the ball drop on tv and listen to some music on the laptop. Oh I am running an experiment. I am going to see if the laptop turns off at midnight. Someone from the tech dept decided it would be a great idea to turn my laptop on automatic shutdown... I hope it doesn't work because I would hate to have to ask them to fix it....I'll be back in a little while... I will be checking in from time to time tonight.

Guess what.. it did turn itself off. But I know how to fix it.. fix the person that did it...lol

My Boo is sick

2009-12-30T23:59:00.000-05:00

My dog has been sick tonight. He never poohs in the house and he did tonight. He couldn't even get up to go out. He just laid on the floor and let go. Cleaning up wasn't so bad this time. At least it wasn't full on liquid. But between the throwing up and poohing... he was one sick baby. I just wish I knew what was wrong with him. He would barely move. He didn't wag his tail. At least he has started to feel a little better... I think. He is moving around some and going out to use the bathroom. So I wonder what had him sick. I do know that if he doesn't act like his self tomorrow, I'm liable to take him to the vet. Alicia takes sophie and duchess to Baird's... that might be where he ends up.

Spaghetti Dinner Recipe

2009-12-29T20:46:00.000-05:00

Okay so I said that I was going to start a new diet plan... but what I really plan to do is manage what and how I eat and try to exercise more. I am not going to guarantee that I will be absolutely successful. But I will have success. This means that I probably will not lose 160 in the first 4 months.. but I might be able to manage it in about 2 years or so. Hopefully sooner than that but you can never tell. So I plan to keep a record of what happens during the next few months and hopefully I'll be saying something positive about all this.
First.... the spaghetti dinner secret.
The first thing you do is buy the following ingredients:
1)either fresh tomatoes or get 2 cans of 17oz whole tomatoes or diced. It depends on how long you want to cook the sauce. The shortest time.. diced.. short time...whole-- which you cut up... longer.. fresh tomatoes.
2) ground hamburger meat ( the bigger the family the more meat you want) I use about 4-6 lbs.
3) tomato paste (1 small can) I like Hunts but use what you want
4) noodles (depends on how many you are cooking for) I usually have about 1 to 1 1/2 lbs of thin spaghetti noodles..... you can use the kind you like
5) and here is where it can get tricky.... 2 packs of French Italian Spaghetti sauce (dried herbs)
The reason this is tricky is that I have a hard time finding it... so we use the Piggly Wiggly version sometimes.
Now when I can (without the family finding it out) I use a little fresh shaved garlic and a basil leaf...which I take out after the simmering. Sometimes I add green and red peppers...but this is optional.

So I usually put the water on for the noodles first.. because I don't pay attention enough to keep up with the boiling otherwise. Then I heat up a pot for the meat. I brown the meat thoroughly before adding anything to it. Once it's browned.. I drain the grease out of it. This keeps the fat content down. If you would like to leave a little of the grease in it, that's okay but think on this.. I usually end up with about 12 oz of grease if not more.
Notice I still haven't mentioned the boiling water.. that's because I just remembered to check it. If it is boiling let it.... back to the sauce. I add the packs of sauce herbs into the meat once all of the meat is brown. I mix it well and let it cook on low heat. Let the herbs get into the meat and simmer. Now I get the noodles...Place the noodles in the boiling water a little at a time. Keep it stirred as you place the noodles in.
Back to the sauce.... add the paste in first. Mix it well. Then add the tomatoes and let it simmer. Stir it occassionally and stir the noodles enough to keep them from sticking together.....
Now I like have garlic bread with my spaghetti so you might want to see if you can find a low calorie low sodium version... if not just remember to limit your bread intake.
**** A NOTE ABOUT THE NOODLES
If you are looking to lose weight you may want to switch your noodles to a wheat or spinach noodle. The taste of the wheat is not much different than the white noodle version and it's healthier for you.
**Okay so here is the secret... not a secret.. don't fill your plate to the brim with spaghetti and don't go back for seconds. If you want more... eat a small bowl ( about 3-5oz) about 2-3 hours later. This will keep you from overeating.
***If you are like me and love a good salad with your spaghetti that's great. Make sure you have about 4-6 different veggies on there. Eat this about 10 minutes before the spaghetti. It will also help keep you from overeating. Plus.. if you like fruit- eat that on an empty stomach and about 5 minutes before your regular meal. Fruit helps with digesting... if you eat it after your meal you are more likely to get gas and/or as my dad calls it (the runs).
**** questions? post a comment and I'll try to answer as quickly as possible.

My Baby

2009-12-26T20:46:00.000-05:00

You guys want to meet my baby..Here he is... my 90 lb. baby boy. He was 9 years old in October... No I have not bred him and don't plan to. Yes I will be devastated when he dies. His name is JB and he has never slept outside. The only chain he has been on was when my dad had his heartattacks and I was going back and forth to the heart center at Carolina. He has always slept in the house. And most of the time it was in either my or my mom's bed.

wedding gifts

2009-12-26T20:04:00.000-05:00

So I still haven't figured out what to give my friend Tiff for her wedding. She is fun-loving, a fellow teacher and I think 28. I know that she loves to dance so I was thinking of some CDs or DVDs but that doesn't include her fiance at all. He is not the dancing kind... at least not like we are..hahahaha. I need all the help I can get for this. I need to ask around and see if she has registered anywhere. That would be helpful if she has. I don't know.. maybe Wanna has an idea or too. At least I still have a little more time to figure it out.
Great-- Footloose just came on...I really don't like the first 30 minutes of this movie. So I guess I will find something else... and it will not be Saw or any of the Saw series.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T22:20:00.000-05:00

It's Christmas Eve and I am watching Meet the Santas... I really like the movie. I also had a piece of the best pineapple cake in the world... My Grams makes it. She keeps telling me that I can make a better one but I don't believe her. She makes the bomb pineapple cake and I wish I knew how she did it. I promised daddy that I would make his pound cake, but he has to let me know when he wants it. I don't mind cooking as long as someone else does the clean up. Like that really happens. I end up doing it anyway. I guess I need to find a man that likes to clean. Know anyone? I'll do the cooking and wash the clothes. I'll help vaccum and fold up the clothes. I'll even put the clothes away if someone else does the washing dishes and keeping the crap off the floor. I'll admit... I'm not very good at that. I wish I was a little better but hey we all have our good points and our bad points. I just wish my points were a little more balanced. I do know that most of the stuff that ends up on my floor is books. I read as much as I can and I have a tendency to leave them within reach for rereading. I know I should put them away but I can't seem to help myself....
Hey guess what.. *jinx* I am actually growing my nails a little. Wonder how long that will last but I have been able to keep them a little long. Oh Ace of Cakes is on.... love that show. Wonder if I could cook for them since they have a dishwasher...... I don't have to decorate anything... Just cook the cakes. I'll chat you later... Have to walk the dog.

So I haven't been blogging in a while

2009-12-22T22:39:00.000-05:00

Okay I know that I haven't blogged in a while but that's okay because we had a lot of last minute things to do at school this past week or so... Getting ready for Christmas Break and taking down Christmas stuff in the classroom is redundant but necessary. Oh well, at least I have everything for the students taking care of and if others don't like it then they can pray for me. I know that everyone has their own ideas on what makes a good Christmas but for me it's simple. Family and friends. My birthday is on the 18th and it's real hard for others to understand why I don't view my birthday as a positive thing... but when you grow up hearing "just pick a present from under the tree as a birthday gift" you just don't expect people to separate your birthday and Christmas. I also heard "this counts as both a birthday and a Christmas gift, Mech." That's bull and they know it. They didn't intend for it to be a birthday gift they just forgot that my birthday was this close to Christmas and they didn't get me anything for it and don't plan to buy 2 gifts for me. But that's okay.. I just wish they were honest about it. I have to admit though, Chawanna and Donna make a point to get me something for both. I am so grateful for both of my friends. I don't always remember everything but I try to remember them in all my prayers.

On to the reason for the blog... have you notice that people lose their minds at Christmas? I mean, I try to pick up Christmas through out the year because I buy for the individuals and not the group. You know what I mean, the whole "everyone gets the same" or "everyone gets a gift card" deal. I like a gift card don't get me wrong but I like buying things that I know the person will enjoy and use. I don't expect them to buy me something I really don't- it's nice and all- but I really like watching their faces when they open a gift that they didn't expect to get. It's like Christmas each time. My favorite part is when they say something like "Oh, I didn't expect this" or "I know just where to put this" or "Where did you find this?" Those comments mean something to me.

Another favorite thing about Christmas is getting Christmas cards. I know some of you are wondering what is so special about getting a card and not a present. Let me explain it. Some people buy because they think it's expected of them. Some people buy to make themselves look better in someone else's eyes. Cards are not like that. You really look at the cards before you buy them. You think about the message on the card and is it something that you want to say. Then you think about the reason you're getting the card. Cards are thoughtful and caring. When you get a card that means that someone was thinking about you. Even if you are just someone on their list, they thought enough of you to send it through the mail. So from my family to yours (my pack to yours)... here is my Christmas card to you. I hope you enjoy it.

It's getting closer to Christmas

2009-12-01T21:51:00.000-05:00

It's is getting closer to Christmas... how can I tell? All the Christmas movies playing on the tv. It's not getting colder, at least not more than 10 degrees. I am not really in the Christmas spirit. I haven't even decorated the house this year. The house is usually done by the end of the Thanksgiving weekend, but not this year. I also have begun to lose my temper more and more over the last month. That hasn't happen since college. I am even getting irritated with friends that are as sweet as sugar. Wonder what's going on? I wish I knew. Maybe it's loneliness or knowing that more and more of my family and friends have died. Maybe it's that I really wish that I wasn't as single as I am or maybe the fact remains that I am working at a job that is no longer a joy anymore. The students seem to get ruder by the month not to mention how each year seems worse than the year before. Whatever happen to the times when you got your tail tore up for mouthing off at the adults much less the teacher. Or if you got in trouble at school you also got in trouble at home. I guess it doesn't really matter huh? *Sigh. I don't think that this is going to change any time soon. But maybe I can change my attitude toward things. I think that I am going to sleep on the goodness of my family and friends. Hope for the best at school and pray that I have the strength to beat down the darkness that seems to want to take over. One way or another I will survive to handle another day of life and hopefully laughter. I'll try to decorate this weekend. The niece and nephew would enjoy that. Good night everyone

Field Trips

2009-11-23T21:26:00.001-05:00

Why do we go on field trips with 2nd graders? Are we gluttons for punishment? That may be true but I do believe that we have lost our minds when we take 90 some 2nd graders on a field trip with 5 teachers, 4 assistants, and a student teacher that has no clue what she is in for.....But that is okay because the students have to learn how go on field trips without getting lost in the long run. Or if they get lost, know that someone... usually me because I have a big mouth, can find them. Why am I asking these questions? Because I am going on a field trip with 16 2nd graders and no assistant, no parents, and no other adult help.... Why b/c I've lost my mind. Maybe I should have taken tomorrow off and I wouldn't have to deal with the drama tomorrow. I hope that the ones that are not going on the trip will stay home, but if they come to school I will have work for them to do. Don't know exactly what, but I will have something for them to do. I'm apt to say that they need to help in the Kindergarten and 1st grade classes. I probably will give the ones in 3rd work to do.... Don't think that they can help the 3rd graders. Well, I think that I will turn in... or at least tone it down. I am starting to get stiff here. Going to finish watching "Ghost". :)

Facebook

2009-11-16T21:57:00.000-05:00

I figured out why Facebook is so addicting. Because other people get on there and talk to you. Some of them actually make sense so it makes for interesting conversation. Do you know how hard it is to turn down interesting conversation? About as hard as it is to just eat one french fry. Facebook is about people connecting and understanding yourself. I am not telling people to get on Facebook and become a member. If they do, great, if not then big deal. I am just one person trying to understand why so many have turned to Facebook and have turned their backs on MySpace. Well, at least most of my friends have abandoned MySpace. But I have been able to find people that moved away and those from high school. I didn't realize that I missed those people as much as I did until I found them on Facebook. I wish that a few more of my friends would get on Facebook and then my circle would be almost complete. It would be great to able to find them and have insteresting conversations.

getting some work done

2009-11-11T12:46:00.000-05:00

So it's Veteran's Day and I actually have the day off without having to take a sick day. I will be trying to get some work done on the computer that I just can't do while in the classroom. The kids don't give a lot of down time there. I know that some people think that teachers are glorified baby-sitters or they have a sit down job--- I think that those people should volunteer in a teacher's class for one week and see all the things we do. I mean really- the accidents, the fights, the talking back, the arguing with everyone, the rudeness, the laughter, the sickness, the fun, the learning, the cleaning up behind them, and all the other standard everyday things that we deal with. The positive and the negative. It is not about all the negative but the classroom is a work in progress every minute. I have fun with my students and I know that they enjoy parts of the school day. But I am realistic that they don't enjoy it all. Otherwise the students wouldn't listen when an adult had to discipline them. This doesn't mean touching a student. You can discipline with consequences. My students know the consequences of their actions. They CHOOSE to obey the rules or accept those consequences when they break the rules. Well, I think that I will take a little break from the computer and go find some snacks. I am getting a little hungry and thirsty. Wonder what the family is up to?

I will figure it out.

2009-11-09T23:09:00.000-05:00

Right now I have not added music and photos to my page but I will. As soon as I figure out how. It was so much easier to add stuff to my school webpage. Speaking of, I need to update it and add a little sparkle. If you have suggestions please let me know I am always willing to listen, I just might ignore the advice... but don't be offended, I have a tendency to revisit advice given and take it later. lol
http://www.robeson.k12.nc.us/10302057231044860/site/default.asp
If you teach and you have ideas, please share. Thanks *smile

Back to Rock

2009-11-09T22:49:00.000-05:00

Okay so I don't have a lot to say about the fact that I haven't been on lately---except to say... it was not my fault. I was having tech difficulties with the laptop. It took a while to fix. But at least I have it back now. OMG, can't wait for next Friday. I will be taking a half day so that I can make sure that I am in line to watch my movie. Oh well, I plan to have a blast with or without my baby watching it with me. I don't know what to say about the mouse I keep hearing in the house. It is driving me crazy. He will have to go... dead for the count is the plan. One way or another that mouse will die.
I can't believe that I was talked into going to the beach in the middle of January. Have I lost my mind? Anyone want to go with me? I have to do some workshops and I am sorry to say that this will be on a Sunday night, Monday, and Tuesday morning. No fun for the nightlife. At least I don't think so. I don't think we can plan for dancing. Unless someone knows something I don't.... Still waiting to hear if anyone wants to go with me..lol. No worries. I'll find something to do. Maybe I'll get a couple of friends together and watch them fish... I don't fish. Love to walk on the beach but I don't fish.

School Has Begun!

2009-08-28T14:56:00.000-04:00

Okay so I know that no one should be biased when it comes to the students, but I think that I have a really good class this year compared to the other second grade classes. They are a talkative bunch but if that is all I have to complain about then I'm doing great. I do have some that need help in the basics but it's not like I have 6-7 behavioral problems. I have two that seem to have a problem sitting down... they don't want to... but other than that, it's just the talking that's a major problem. Well see how the year progresses.. I pray that the kids will settle down and learn to work to work quieter. *smile... it could be worse. Thanks be to God that it's not.

back to work again

2009-08-12T22:32:00.000-04:00

Okay so I was the one to decide that I wanted a jump start on my room. And that was a good thing, but I am so tired that I just want to sleep everytime I come home. On the bright side, I have the desks pretty much where I want them, I just don't know about the whole smartboard set up though. I'll see how it works once I get the LCD and stuff hooked up. Normally I already have my computers up and running by the second day and I don't even have the coverings off yet... crazy. More to come later.

GI JOE

2009-08-09T18:37:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I went to watch the GI Joe movie. If you are a purist then you will find a lot to fuss about. If you are not a purist then you will enjoy the movie without wondering why something was changed. I thought it was good, but I noticed quite a few changes but thing again I grew up with comic books and action cartoons. I would love to be able watch a movie without listening to others mouths or phones.... which were not suppose to be on. So I guess that is all that I feel like reporting on the movie...at least without giving away the plot and action sequences. I don't like to be a spoiler for the first weekend a movie is out in the theaters.
On another note... I go back to work tomorrow, trying to get my class ready for the students and open house. GTG

Friends Leaving and summer's going

2009-07-27T13:39:00.001-04:00

So I helped Tiff pack up her classroom materials today. She is getting married soon and I need to figure out a wedding gift. Maybe she is registered huh? Well we didn't finish the packing in the car part. The reason is because she has such a small car that we couldn't fit it all in. I can't believe her other friends didn't bother to show up to help. But that's okay, we got most of it done. It's getting closer to the end of the summer and I hate that. I love being able to sleep late and not worry about grading papers or behavior problems. I didn't accomplish anything I set for myself but I don't care. I will later but I don't right now. We are getting together tomorrow at San Jose's for a goodbye lunch. Tiff said that a good number is suppose to show up. I just hope we get our checks tonight so that I will have a little extra money. Even though I will be giving mom a good amount so that some bills get paid, still I do need the money. I really do need to clean my room, but I can't seem to get motivated to do it. I need to reorganize the whole house but I don't have the help for that. Well, I guess I will try to find some lunch. Don't know what I feel like eating though.
Any suggestions for a wedding gift? Please let me know. I need all the help I can get.

Twilight

2009-07-22T13:27:00.000-04:00

Okay so I wondered why Twilight fans scream a lot. I personally love the books, the movie, and most of the actors I could watch in other movies, but I hope I don't ever become one of the screaming "Twi-fans" that follow everyone around. That would really hurt my pride and my ears. Can you image having to wear ear plugs because of screaming fans or even having a doctor say, "Well, Mr. Facinelli, (Mr. Lutz, Ms. Greene- insert the actor you desire) I am sorry to inform you that you have a busted eardrum. You may lose 10% of your hearing in that one ear. On the bright side, Comic Con is coming up and I hope to see you there.) Oh, please that's like telling an athlete you broke your elbow but at least the SuperBowl is next week.
Like I said though, I wondered why they scream so much and then I figured it out. The screamers have no clue to the level of their pitchiness. It wobbles with intensity and pitch. The whole scream grates on your ears and makes you want to duck your head in a sound proof room. Oh well, maybe some day they will understand and know to talk in a reasonable voice. Actors have to put on their clothes one leg at a time and pull down their britches to sit on a toilet and use it. Not that I want to smell the use but I know that they do. Biology demands it.

so now what

2009-07-19T23:27:00.000-04:00

Okay so I was taking care of a dog, that wouldn't eat like she should nor was she drinking water as she needed to. I took her to the vet and they kept her because she was dehydrated. I don't know if I want her boarded or to bring her back home with me. Oh well, it will be up to the owner to figure that one out. GTG

I won a contest

2009-07-08T20:33:00.000-04:00

I know it seems crazy but an author that I love to read was having contest for different books. In case you like to read her stuff it is at www.NaliniSingh.blogspot.com and she runs contests a pretty good bit. But I actually won a book and Nalini is sending it to me. Is that not wild?! I might have bought the book yesterday though but that is okay because I can give away the copy I bought and keep the one from Nalini (who by the way is a fabulously sweet person). How crazy is this, but I will be going to town to buy Nalini's new book that was published yesterday but wasn't on the shelves in town. Since I live in Robeson County and there is NO BOOK STORES in the whole county, I have to wait until either Walmart or Kmart gets the book. Or I could drive to Fayetteville but I don't want to go all the way there just to pick up one book, even if I love the series. So right now in my mind--- you can't tell me nutin'. lol ;)

I twitter therefore I am

2009-07-08T09:23:00.000-04:00

okay so I twitter too... I thinks it's great to find out what is important to different people. This way I get info without being the paparazzi (is this how you spell that?). I don't think that people should be disrespectful. It's one thing if the celebrity puts out the information about themselves, it's quite another when someone stalks you, goes through your trash, or follows you around all day long. You know I think that would get boring. I teach and I don't like for my kids to follow me around a classroom much less someone with a camera stuck in my face.
I twitter the people that I want to know about at the time. Right now, I'm interested in how New Moon is going so of course I twitter the stars of the movie. While I think it would be grand to meet the cast, I am not going to stalk them to do it. I wonder how they feel about twitter and blogging being a way to out-think the paparazzi? You can twitter and blog anytime and anywhere, without someone shoving a camera in your face or flashes blinding you. I'm just not sure it photos are possible on twitter but hey, it's a thought. So I guess my thinking machine is slowing down. So I will sign off right now. C-Ya

Waiting waiting waiting

2009-07-04T22:11:00.000-04:00

Okay, so once again I am waiting for a book to be placed on the shelves. In case you ladies need a new author I have a few if you are courageous enough to try them. Lora Leigh or Nalini Singh for animal in you, Christine Feehan for the vamp lovers, and for those that love the strange try Jean Johnson, Allyson James, Susan Kearney, or even Robin McKinley. If you want to talk books I am perfectly willing assuming I have read it.
But those are not what I am waiting for: I am waiting for about 3 books: C.L. Wilson (Fading Lands Series 4th book) Nalini Singh, who is a fabulously sweet lady (Branded by Fire) Lora Leigh (next in the Breed Series)

I am also waiting for the new season of NCIS... love it. I wish that Dr. Who would come back on and Blood Ties was not cancelled. But hey life is not for regrets. I have a mission, and that mission- because I have accepted it- is to find Undercover Blues on DVD. lol... I love that movie and I will find it because I have burnt out my VHS tape of it lol. Oh well, I should sign off now. Have a headache so prayers would be appreciated... *smile
Find love and peace guys, that is what I am searching for myself...w/g

Vacation

2009-07-02T14:57:00.000-04:00

Is it really a vacation when you spend your time babysitting or dogsitting? Not that I have a major problem dogsitting, I love my dog and he is getting old so I don't trust a lot of people with him, but it would be nice not to have to worry about him sometimes. I teach 2nd grade and I love my kids, most of the time, but a summer vacation doesn't turn out to be a vacation. I spend it cleaning and taking care of other stuff. But this year I decided to be lazy for about a week. It has been great. Sleeping late and staying up late. Not worry about the time. Then I said yes to house/dog/catsitting. I tried to say no to going back to work for a day (without pay mind you) but "no" was not an acceptable answer to my boss. Great huh? Well I have plans. Just haven't sorted them out, but I have plans to relax.. and for a change only one festival this summer. But there is the Lumbee Homecoming and I really shouldn't miss it. It is this weekend along with the 4th of July fireworks. We'll see.