Meandering stories from Manville, and other things that stick in my belfry

What the hell just happened?

2010-09-16T11:00:00.002-06:00

I am kidding. Many things have happened since last I wrote on this page, just a part of me misses the quiet, non-response that comes from writing to no one.

There is also a chance I will no longer be the only person the writes here, since I am now married. I hope that at times she will contribute to the story as well.

That being said I am now thinking about a new title....thoughts? haha< only laughing because I think I have waited out my handful of readers.

I pray you are well, and welcome............

Cold Turkey

2010-02-19T07:15:00.002-07:00

Somehow I gave up Facebook for lent. It came down to Facebook, Beer or my girlfriend. I thought this was the safe choice. I also was surprised that this was still one of the few Ash Wednesday services I have been to in my life. I thought it would be different BUT when they had a children's service it felt like the same old thing.

Since I brought up the children....I would like to go on a rant. I feel safe because of the group that reads this stuff. I like the church I go to these days. I have felt very welcomed there by the congregation, or at least by everybody that isn't my age. It seems like the people my age, that seemed to be married with kids, have more to worry about. Oddly enough they do not worry about getting their children to there rooms or classes during the service. It seems like these couples have a plan in mind when they spread out throughout the service. The toys, the talking the wrestling - well it can get out of hand. I laugh at the parent that keeps leaning over and saying 'shh' every five minutes. They are pulling me away from the service more then their kid. That and when the kid realizes that the only thing that is going to happen in a 'shhh' every couple minutes are they really going to stop? Nope. I am not a parent, and many people and waiting for the day to see what I do, or better yet what my children will do to this world BUT what is the official time frame for taking a crying baby out of the room? Is it one minute, two, three or five? It baffles me that parents just sit there with crying kids going along like nothing is happening. It is like when they get in this setting they stop listening or caring. It can be comical. Yes, I am a little old school and even wound tight on some issues.

eek, I will stop. I better go have a cup of coffee.

This might be hard for all of us if I keep ranting for 40 days.

Cigars and the man-child that loves them

2010-01-05T10:44:00.002-07:00

I did not come into the fad like some of the other guys around. With most things that are 'cool' or 'in' I tend to shy away from. I remember smoking Swisher Sweets when I was in high school. Those wood tipped things make me laugh now. I am unsure why I started to smoke them, but pretty sure it was a guy thing. When I spent my time in Europe for the year I would, at times, act the international and have a cigarette. Now that I know was more the Canadian influence. Look for the black and white photos on my FB account. It was probably the worst thing for us to do at that time, and in that place. The building that we lived in was around 100 years old, and insulated with saw dust. My bet is in around 5 minutes that building would be just ash.

During my college years my taste for cigars grew and my preference changed as well.

I didn't know much so I just went for price, and at times because of just the name. I remember working for a, horrible, graphic design company where an employee was an airline pilot. He would bring in boxes of Cuban cigars in his pilot bag. That is where I got to experience my first, and probably only Cuban Cohiba that would have cost me $25 for just the one. It was heaven, and I would have gladly had another and yes I did get two of them. I can remember smoking it at a friends house. It started to rain during my smoke and everybody went inside. I stood in the garage for another 30-40 minutes. I wouldn't let anything get in the way of that cigar. Being older, and even then, I would never spend that type of money on a cigar or buy one just for the name. During the early years of my sister's marriage my brother in law introduced me to - well may things, here it was Backwoods Cigars. I still chuckle because I wasn't sure what end you were to put in your mouth. I have had those on a number of occasions, mainly out of the public eye and in the woods some place. What can I say the guy is straight up Chicago Blue Collar, nothing wrong with that.

A handful of years ago a friend got me onto the Rockey Patel brand and I have never been happier. Well, he then went on to rep the line and handed out about $300-$400 worth of cigars. That was a good summer. I would hand them out at the card games. Remember the first one is always free. Since that time I have had friends buy them for me, and this past summer I bought my first box for a fishing trip. It is sad to see the prices keep going up because of the newer taxes, and laws. There was a Cuban restaurant downtown that I liked going to because it was a cigar bar...man that place went out of business quickly after the new laws were in place.

Here is a list of terms and names, in regards to length/ring gauge.

I could tell you many reasons for why I enjoy a good smoke. There are times when I want to smoke alone, with friends and if there is a card game going on. In the summer time when I go and speak with my father I will usually bring a cigar. It helps me sit and relax, to spend time sitting there and taking in the surroundings. Having a cigar takes my mind off of the things that are stressing me, and I focus on the smoke. I realize this sounds odd to some of you. It can free my mind to look at things differently, slow down and relax. Well, it might not just be the cigar. It could also be the Sinatra or the Jameson - both topics we will get into at a later time.

I enjoy going to The Golden Leaf in Uptown. Guys sitting around talking about the days activities, and a couple big screen televisions. You do tend to smell when you walk out of the place. The funny thing at times is the reaction you get from other guys when you have a tasty smoke. It is kind of like a new beer, at times you can pass it around for a taste. As long as the tip is not wet, because that is just gross!!

Try these sites for options and deals for the cigar person in your life:

JRCigars
or Cigar.com

There are great deals to be had, and at times free stuff. Enjoy a smoke with someone you love........

Wandering, but not lost

2010-01-03T21:10:00.002-07:00

Having just deleted the entry I had just written, I will keep this short.

2009 was an amazing year for me, and I pray that the positive of that year continues to follow me - or me it.

It was a poor year for resolutions, my life was just spinning around a bit to much to focus at times. I do have three for this year - two of which I will share at this point.
1. Reading the Bible, again. I need to work on a quiet time and make a point of taking time for this in the coming year.
2. My health. For the good part of the last 5-6 months my back has gotten the best of me. It really grabs hold of being able to function properly. It hurt to walk, sit be active - you name it. This also encompasses the rest of my health. Knocking on 40's door, and already having my 20 year reunion in a year has got me thinking that I am getting older.

My third one will be shared in time. I am not trying to be aloof, but if it blows up I would like to keep it to myself. It is being creative in new ways and doing something more with what God has blessed me with.

In this up coming year my posts, at times, will become less personal in ways and more about certain things i.e. thoughts on books I am reading, things I am enjoying, links to things that have grabbed my attention. My own stories tend to run a little dry.

Blessing to you, and yours, at the beginning of this new decade.

As I sit here............

2009-12-11T10:20:00.002-07:00

Well, I was supposed to sub today BUT it got canceled just before I was to take off. That does not make me smile. I might have to rethink being a reserve teacher at private schools. It does give me the time, like I need more, to finished what I started around the house last night AND get more info for my interview today.

Yes, my interview got rescheduled because Wednesday was a snow day, but since no one called me I went down there and was waiting for somebody to show up. Kind of a bad first impression. It is at a middle school in Apply Valley, 6-8 grades and straight south of my house. So today at 3:15 I will shine like a star on a cold Minnesota night!!

Being a reserve teacher has stressed me out this fall/early winter. I need to be working five days a week, not three days and maybe more. I have been exposed to experienced that I have not had before - working with elementary age kids, severely handicapped kids and ghetto kids. Yes, I said ghetto - you would agree if you were standing next to me. This is another reason why I am happy with how God made me, because if I was not a big guy, with a big voice I would have not gone back to some schools. I am not kidding when I say the the toughest time I have had was not at North High School, but the other day while in a second grade classroom. My bag of tricks had nothing to keep these kiddos in check. I tried. I a, not kidding when I say that at the end of my time in that classroom I thanked the little ones AND told them that they had not only been disrespectful to me, but to their classmates that were trying to listen and do their work. Their teacher, in the back of the room, was holding in a laugh while she walked forward and told them the same thing. She went on to say that some of their parents would be called as well, eek.

There was a card game last night that I wanted to go to BUT thought I should probably stay home. My girlfriend, who I got to visit at her work for coffee yesterday, asked me if going would make me happy. Well, yes it would make me happy......cards, beer, cigars and the fellas - what on that list would make me not happy. So she told me that I should go and have fun. So I did. I thought I was ready to play BUT my mind was a little wound up. Early in the game, with the bets mounting I was up against one other guy. I knew I had the hand, and we were both betting heavy. I actually turned my cards over before the river card was shown. Unfreakingbelievable. I tried to cover up with some cocky words, but it didn't work. I still had a solid night at the table. It has been two months since our last game, not good. The good thing is that the place we were playing - he is moving out west of the cities.........I think our game just got another group of good card players!! Here is to 2010!!

I know you are used to good stories but I just do not have them these days.

Almost noon and I have not had coffee or oatmeal, I best get on it. AS the year comes to an end I am a little unhappy with the thesis only being 85% finished :( and the fact I want nothing to do with it at this point. Yes, I planning on finishing it.

Laura, I finally made my pizza - need that recipe from you.......

This week in December

2009-12-06T22:06:00.002-07:00

Well, strange that I do not want to tell the world to pray for me BUT I have a job interview this Wednesday. Please, if you read this pray for this opportunity for me. I really miss being in the classroom and teaching kids art. I have had this tug/calling for longer then I wanted to admit.

The job is a middle school art position in Apply Valley. It is at Valley Middle School, it is a full time position. I sent my resume in over a month ago and got the email telling me I was great BUT they went with someone else. I got a call last week to see if I was still interested and to set up an interview for this Wednesday. I try to take this one step at a time, but I am teetering on some major frustration. I am not working enough and am finding it difficult to find another pt job. If you know me you know that sitting around doing nothing drives me crazy......

I will let you know what happens. I am thinking they would want to find someone before the Christmas holidays :/

Subbing has been fun, just not something I will be doing for more then this year.

An Old Man

2009-11-10T07:53:00.002-07:00

This summer my back went out, and it has not gotten better. It brings a lot of stress into my life, and attitude. Something between a hot poker and getting hit by a bat in my lower back. If this is how it is going to be the next 30 years - check please!! If you were able to take away this pain - I would give you almost anything! Really.

So, being a substitute teacher is challenging. It is kind of like being a lazy secret agent. Every morning you get a call, an unknown assignment. You do not know what you will teach, where you will teach it OR how old the students will be..... lazy because all you have to do is say no thank you. I have been getting calls for the past week - which is really good! My very first two calls I didn't answer 1- because who in there right mind answers the phone at 5:30AM? 2- because I thought it was a creditor :). At this point I got smart(er) and put the number in my phone. The next two calls I kept putting in the wrong pin number - no kidding. The Minneapolis District and the Hopkins District use the same automated system, and I have a separate code for both - so you have to listen very closely to that early morning call. This past Friday I used the right code, very proud of myself for getting to this point I presses the wrong number and did not take the job. Falling back into bed I decided to take care of the gf's backyard of leaves for my mistake. Yesterday I was in Hopkins - my old stomping ground. This more I mulled over the job that I got called on - in the future I will take this BUT today I didn't think I was ready for Jr. high special education. Next time.

Yes, as I just reference I am still dating a very nice lady. For her efforts in our community ed. class she should get at the front of the line in heaven. We get taught a LOT of steps each week, and the teacher is so-so AND I am going against generations of thinking among my people ( the Scandinavian up tight variety). Tonight is our last class - prayers people!! I told her that I would be amazing AND that she would have fun. I am unsure of how many preclass drinks I will need to pull this off.....any guesses?

My thesis is with my adviser, so I have been relaxing. I might have even 'wasted' some time on Saturday sitting on the couch watching a movie on tv. The roommates are great! The house is pretty clean, and the garage looks amazing. My glass is half full, and my only problem is that I want to keep drinking it.

No funny stories this week. Say a prayer this weekend for safe travels, and just plain safety. JW and I are going up north to chop wood this weekend. This time there will be no Tequila!!

Enjoy the weather, it will not last.

Will it go round in circles.............

2009-10-15T13:58:00.002-06:00

Wow, has it been this long? Have I lost the unspoken few that read along through the travels I call life? Where to start, what to say, what to leave out and how should I put it?

Ok, so things kind of moved along this summer. I have probably said this before BUT Idaho did some good things for me. I was more relaxed this summer with everything that was going on around me. I was able to finish 98% of the jobs around the house that I had started over the last 5 years. I got to enjoy my garden, and make it bigger. I got rid of a LOT of stuff from the house and garage. Funny how well you clean after moving three times in one year, and thinking you are going to sell your house. I am not going to sell my house. I have two roommates that are moving in this weekend. Fingers crossed that these two women are better than the last two. I still shake my head at the last two :(

I did not get a teaching job, which sucks. That and trying to become a substitute teacher is crazy work. I am not used to answering the phone for #'s I do not know or 800's. That being said I missed out on two days of working. Old habits I guess. I am looking for another pt job since the paint store is cutting my hours after next week. I have had a blast working there this summer. Nutty stories. Melting pot of coworkers to say the least AND the Edina customers were at their best this season!! I was also able to paint a couple houses this summer as well. good times.

Getting back into the groove of hanging out with friends was a process as well. The push and pull of old friends and the new opportunities of the tried and true. It is a part of life, right?? Our friends change over the years, just part of growing up or growing apart. I was also more likely to just hang out at my house alone, Idaho made me a lot more comfortable with alone time. The summer just blew by, the yearly fishing trip was amazing - I had to go late and JW got married so everybody made the best of it. The bbq at the Berge's was a riot!! There are good reasons not to invite people, and I felt like that point was made. Really, 30 minutes of a woman I don't know and her two kids?? funny. The gang is getting together this month for a little dinner party. It will be the usual blast, with a couple new people - the group has not met JW's new wife and I am bringing my girlfriend. A dinner party in a brand new remodeled kitchen!! Double oven!! Come on people Tim only needs one for the frozen pizzas....you heard me!!

I also was able to work on a couple creative things as well over the past two months. One is my bottle cap piece - which I am making strides on AND some illustrations for t-shirts. A new friend works with a non-profit in town and I asked if I could do a couple things. I will post pictures if they are made...... i drew ravens in the Pollack style of painting, after taking photos and cleaning them up - the finished product was pretty cool. I hope to do more of this type of work. I want to make a bigger point of being creative on a regular basis.

Man this is getting long :(

I am also part of a church community, which I was looking forward to after last year in Mormon town. This is the second summer I have attended a Covenant church in my part of town. Having grown up in this church structure it was nice, that and most people either knew me or a relative of mine. I was just on a retreat at Covenant Pines this past weekend - so strange. It looks like the place of my youth BUT is has changed. The kids are getting soft!! Heated cabins with bathrooms - please! It was at church that I met my girlfriend, Kirsten. She went to North Park, where I went for a year, so we kind of knew of each other. We started to hang out at the end of the summer, and continue to do so. She is great. Yes, I realize that even mentioning this break from tradition for me. What else do you say? It seems on our first few outings we kept seeing people I knew, not surprising.

Anywho, hello again. I pray all is well with you.

2nd Verse

2009-08-23T21:39:00.000-06:00

Taking a break from my fun writing to take care of a couple things.

I pray to have a handful of fun updates after Labor Day.

Don't be afraid to use the comment section until that point on the calendar.

99 Problems..............

2009-08-03T10:14:00.002-06:00

So, the last we...err I spoke I applied to another job - in town. The principal emailed me on Friday, asking for more info. :) It would such an odd feeling landing a job in town and living in my house this fall.

I am almost over my Ch.2 hurdle on my paper. I ran right through the Ch.1 hurdle.

I am almost finished with the list of things to do around the house. What to do when I am finished. Last week, while getting some rotten boards off the garage I put a hammer into my hand. Oddly, that stuff doesn't bother my much. Later that night........ I got three stitches in the back room at my PT job. WOW. Parts of that event did not tickle.

It was such a nice day yesterday that I stood in my backyard and decided to add to the garden. Yup, I added another 100+ sq ft. What can I say? The grass looks like crap and the gardens make me feel good.

This is a short note for people with no time to get to the end of the long ones.

I leave Wednesday for my summer fishing trip with the guys. AS always, it will be a memorable time together.

Had a funny title, but probably just to me

2009-07-28T10:08:00.003-06:00

What has been happening lately? I forget half of my stories before I get time to write.

I am working PT at the paint store again. When I got back to town and started painting the manager asked if I wanted to work there again. It keeps me out of the trouble I am not getting myself in this summer ;) Two funny stories from last week..............

I got a call Friday night from the manager about a mishap with a customer that he helped and I took care of when he left. I made the paint and carried it out to the car for these two ladies. He said that I gave them the wrong paint. I told him there was not a chance that happened. HE said there is always a chance, so I was like 'Ok, I will give you that. I am 100% sure I gave them the right paint BUT there is a chance, I will take the heat." He called me back later that night and just wanted me to know that she got the cans mixed up at home and grabbed the wrong one. Yup, me right!!

We had a couple come in a couple times the other night, doing a project and trying to get the colors right. Nice size guy, with the muscles and UFC shirt - you know the type. Girlfriend just happened to look AMAZING in her sundress - chew on knuckle!! I was speaking with him and ringing him up, not looking at her - thought it was a good game plan. Out of the blue she says, "You have the most beautiful eyes!" I just keep looking at the keyboard of the computer and her boyfriend lets out this noise and was like "What?" I was ALL business and asked if there was anything else. She was like, What? He does! I said we should probably not talk like this - Have you seen the guy standing next to you?? We got a laugh. I said she was right, but we didn't need to talk about it out in the open.

Anybody else think this summer is on warp drive speed?? My only summer trip is next week with the guys........so needed!! I have been working on the house list, painting, painting and trying to tackle this paper. None of this sounds like fun.

This next story is not a lie, it is unbelievable but it is all true!!
I got a bill from the dentist saying the insurance did not get back to them in time and that there was an outstanding bill. So I called the bluecross people and the dentist office, going back and forth. What it came down to was that me office was not contracted with them. There were many in town I could have gone to and it would have been covered, I was told. Yup, that vein on the side of my head started to heat up. I called the dentist back, not surprising the person that I needed to speak with was out that day - would I like to leave a message with her?? :/
Cindy, this is DR calling. I was in your office a couple months ago for a cleaning. At that point I spoke with the ladies at the counter to make sure I was covered and to see if there was any problems because I worked in IDaho. They made a call to check a couple things and everything was fine. Cindy, I feel like I am being hoodwinked here. At multiple times I asked if I were covered. I feel like I am being asked to take it for the team, and that does not make me happy!!
The next day I got a call from Cindy. She told me she looked into it and went over the things we both know. She then went on to say - We are in the wrong and that outstanding bill has been taken care of - sorry for the inconvenience. I almost fell over, those ladies are getting cookies!!

My buddy told me that he was a little surprised at how I handled a situation last Friday night. I just sat there telling the woman that I didn't know the person she was talking about. She kept talking about these people like I knew them. If I have to ask who you are talking about - please stop the story. I sat there as she told me about this woman that walked away from God, has no relationship with her family and has two kids with her husband. Nope, it didn't ring any bells. I told this person that if you were to have this conversation with the other 'lady' she would have the same response. Turn the page.

Man, this summer has been pretty good. It has been 70% unexpected. Made friends, lost friends and reconnected with others. The next four weeks will be hard because of the impending job stuff and what happens next.............move, stay, sell the house, find roommates, and a couple other things. I find it hard to pray at times because I am not sure where to start.

Last thought of the day......I got to cross an item off the bucket list this week :) I bought a box of cigars. I get confused how old I am at times, and the Star Wars sheets do not help, hahahahaha

Post Garage Sale Hangover

2009-07-12T09:03:00.004-06:00

I am so happy to be finished with my garage sale!!! It turned into more work than I thought because of 'structural' changes. Driving around, twice, to hang signs and putting a post on Craigslist took time. That and having a couple friends drop stuff off, was nice but having to organize and price is a time suck. I was a little surprised at what some people thought you could sell at a garage sale. For not selling everything I was surprised at how much I made, everything else is on the way to Savers after my coffee. It was a blast to have all sorts of friends stop by on Friday and I was a little surprised to have hardly anybody stop by on Saturday. It did feel nice to sit in the sun and 'relax'. So, this stage is finished.......now to drag the other half of the garage around and sort through it. It will get finished.

Here is probably the story of this post: While setting up the sale a buddy stopped by and we hung out and had a couple beers - thanks. He saw my Star Wars stuff and we started to go through it and laugh about it. We got into a 'heated' debate over the right weapon for Bobba Fett. How many times has this happened to you?? Arguing over the weapons of plastic figures from the seventies, very funny stuff. The only things, toys, I will have after this sale are things that my sister's kids are borrowing at the moment. That and the shadow box of the original figures that I had from the first movie. Come on people!! Did you think I was going to get rid of everything?? That and the bedding I ordered this week.....I must be close to heaven.

I am wrapping up a big painting job this week. It has been fun, but frustrating. The ladder movements and tricky corners bothered me. The house looks great, the home owners picked some really nice colors. Maybe I will post some before and afters.

I might be transitioning into my thesis in the coming week. I am doing pretty good, but the daunting pressure of the future job issues, the thesis and what is going to happen with the house is slowly lurking into the frontal lobe. I would also like to wrap up the little projects around the house in the next two weeks. It sounds so easy...I am young, I am single, what else do you have to do? Yup, so easy.

Small world story of the day......I was again hanging out with my friend Steve for a couple hours yesterday. We have gotten into Gears of War 2, a computer game. He had gotten a couple new games and was working a deal with a friend. The friend was coming over to pick the stuff up. I was sitting on the couch. The guy came over, and Steve brought him downstairs. Before the friend came around the corner Steve said,"I want to introduce you to my buddy David. Jed, this is David." Steve was a little surprised when I got up and Jed and I gave each other a hand shake and a manly hug, while laughing. Steve was wondering what was going on. Jed just happens to be one of my closest friends younger brother. I will be seeing him more when we figure out how to work out a Gears of War weekend. People we need to borrow another Xbox 360 if any of you have one.

I am kind of trying to figure out a little vacation of sorts. Just a short, cheap get away.

Ok, last one. Part of the group of guys came over last night to plan our summer trip. We are a group that laughs a lot. Kind of a quirky group of fellas. Last month one of the guys, who could not make the meeting, brought over a bottle of Riesling. He got a little crap for it. Well, I told the story last night and we chuckled. It got even better when Tim said,"Riesling, you can bring a Riesling over. A Chardonnay, maybe, but not a Riesling." I thought Charley was going to fall out of his chair. It got even better when he added to his stance later in the night. It is going to be another GREAT trip.

All spell checks for wine types are not my fault.

Thinking of hitting Chicago, very soon. Anybody have any ideas?

Where do you start?

2009-07-06T19:40:00.002-06:00

Ah, the holiday weekend!! I needed to take today off because of the fun that kept happening throughout the weekend.

I am painting a big house currently, and finding out my body was not ready for everything that goes along with a project that size. There is a lot of ladder moving, balancing and the mental strength it also takes. I have never fallen off a ladder, or gotten hurt while painting BUT you would never know that watching me freeze up when the wind blows. My chest was sore most of the week from all the upper body motion. It is sooooooooo my element! I have been painting most my life.

Now that i am writing I am forgetting what I wanted to say.

I am getting more comfortable being home. The thought of selling my house has been in the back of my head, but it does weigh me down at times. The unseen future is starting to get to me. I want the next stage to be one in which I continue to move forward - a little less baggage.

My bad for the boring entry.

How do you get rid of baggage?

2009-06-25T17:58:00.003-06:00

I think I have been home for four weeks. I was surprised that after two weeks I just wanted out, but now after four I can honestly say - I am ready to wrap up the Minnesota chapter. Who knew? Please give me the benefit of the doubt, it is not one thing, it is not a girl - but it is just a feeling.

I have a list of things to do BUT I do not want to do any of them because I have a feeling of what comes next. In the next three days I will have finished the kitchen, staining the fence, painting the garage?? and have the hole in my house figured out. Yes, I have a hole. I tore out a basement window, and the replacement window was just a tich small. I currently have Budda holding back the force of weather from coming into my house.

Had a killer card game last weekend. Great group of guys, but missing some regulars. I should have won, but as usual last interest. It was a night of laughs, ribs, G&Ts, Whiskey neat, hard punches and memories. Next game is July 11ish if you are interested.

I had a CRAZY night this week. I have baby birds outside my backdoor and I wanted them gone. Have you ever willed something to happen? Then it did. So, Monday night I walked out my back door and heard this odd noise. I looked down and saw a very small baby bird. IN BARE feet I had stepped on it. Yup, freaked out. A couple minutes later my hand was bloody - yup, freaked out. I AGAIN stepped on the bird. The Horror!! The next day I came home after a long day and there was THREE more baby birds on the back stoop!! Dear Lord - WHY?? I used paper to push them into the yard. To hear the noise of dying animals is SO unnerving. I think one was still alive today. JW said to step on it - I said I would give him a dollar to step on it.

I had an unrelationship die this past week. There has been this girl that has always done something to me, and well....reality set in. All I can say is that with what I brought to the 'table' I could not move forward. This is a tough one, and we were not evening 'seeing' each other. Did I fall for the person I thought she was? Do I look for unattainable people so I know long term it will not work out?? She is amazing, and I am jealous of who gets to spend time with her.
Good luck in life girl ;) until next time.

Oddly enough, I have signed up for Match.com. I know, please no jokes. It is just crazy!! I feel like I am looking through a catalog for women. Kind of like the Victoria's Secret magazine without the matching 'outfits'. :) :) Speaking of catalogs, I just got the Pottery Barn Kids. Not idea why. I am actually ordering something out of it. If you are ever in the position to find out what, please do not point and laugh.

Well, the garlic/onion burgers are finished. Hope you are handling the heat.

Crap, I had other things to write about.................next time

How do you know?

2009-06-17T07:59:00.002-06:00

This week is just movin' by!! I actually started to work this week, but with the weather and volunteering out at Bethel - can you count 3 hours working?

So, the other night I was coming home from swapping out cars. I tend to let my mind/eyes wander. As I passed a house - I noticed a person up against the house looking in a window. My mind did not take it in fast enough, but when I got to the end of the block I could not believe that it was a peeping tom!! Who does this? AND how are you so unhinged that you are out in the open? I thought for a second of what to do......so I doubled back. I found the guy - glued to whatever he was watching - I backed the truck up slowly to see him. I gave the horn a good pound and called to him out the window. ( can you see my smiling face?) In short the look on his face was priceless!! I said a few things out the window ;) Before I was finished I had gotten my point across and he was running for the alley. Part of me wanted to chase him down and beat him within an inch of both our lives. These types of people need to have these kinds of 'private talks' with other citizens.

I am in the midst of a little spring cleaning still. My buddy is starting to figure it out. I have no answers, but he has the correct feeling about everything. There is going to be a lot of cool stuff at my garage sale!! It has moved to July 10-11, I think.

I squeeled like a kid yesterday when I felt something on my leg AND SAW that it was a tick!! It just would not die.

Two things to leave you with...........

Dating since I have been back has been nutty. I just feel no good at the 'blind' date type of thing. We shall see where this goes.

I have a new top job that I want. What I want to teach, where I want to teach it, around people that would be a blessing. That is my focus!!

I pray all four of you are doing well. At least I think I have four people that read this thing....

As I live, and drink coffee.....

2009-06-09T10:04:00.002-06:00

Well, I have started my second week back in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. I thought that first week just DRAGGED on and on. I was able to see a wide array of people - which was nice. I am not sure if it was the weather, adjusting, the fumes of my painting project or this damn cough I still have from my stint in 'nowhere'. I think you will all be shocked to hear that I miss hanging out with my Idaho crew.

What can I tell you about last week? Ok, so I hung out with some people on Sunday night. A friend of a friend was in town and we had a lot of laughs. The food was oh, so amazing. Michelle knows how to whip it up. I was ready to get home around 9pm, still not feeling right, and wanted to start the week off rested. Getting into my car I had a message from JW, and Dan earlier, about karaoke over in Nordeast. I am still unsure how my car got there, when I was trying to get home. We sang until 1:30 in the morning. I caught this bug last summer when we had a party for a friend moving to DC for school. I all of a sudden have come into my own and kind of like being apart of the bad singing culture. That being said all these young hotties should up and after two of them sang I had a feeling the varsity choir had just walked in. My buddy Dan is a known karaoke singer now. He has only been going to this bar for about 3 months and is only behind the guy who runs the singing and the bartender for number on times on the mic. He is a singing whore!! no reason to pull punches. He can sing anything, and usually does. I look forward to more singing this summer, and maybe some of you can swing out. It is entertaining.

Had a solid game of cards on Saturday night out in the clubhouse. It is always good to get a group of guys together. I had one friend come for the first time and he was a little surprised at our 'banter'. I am thinking of two tables for the next game. Cheapest entertainment in town. Might try and have a bbq this month as well, a good reason to dust off the pingpong table. hard to figure out who to invite, sounds sad I know.

I am now two for two on having Swedish Pancakes on Saturday mornings this summer, not bad!! I was also determined to make it to church on Sunday as well. I hope to start going to the church in my part of town again this summer, they just had not updated their service time for the summer....boo.

Sent out another packet for a teaching position yesterday - and in MN no less.

Come and buy my crap, I am having a garage sale (i think) in two weeks.....

Monday, Monday

2009-06-01T09:39:00.003-06:00

Well, I should first wrap up my time in Idaho. It was a crazy year, to say the VERY least. I do not regret the opportunity they gave me to teacher because I learned so much over the past nine months. I was able to meet people that could have become great friends if I had been there a little longer - that being said I do hope to keep in touch. I was able to make it out of the building without shedding a tear - no lie. I almost lost it when I said goodbye to the woman who runs the office, she is a saint!! I might just have to send her some chocolate for the pig - she had a ceramic pig full of chocolate :)

Things from the last two weeks:
Ron and I won the rubber match at golf. Me hitting three one putts ( one from the fringe), and Rob using his mulligan for the win. Nobody saw that coming!!
A student saying in front of the class that her mother thought I was good looking. My response was that the year was almost over - have her give me a call. :)
I got a strange cold, that turned into my first case of a sinus infection!! The only good thing was that I got to see the cute PA again. It really is the little things in life.
Went out walking with my roommate around the ditches looking for wild asparagus, and found some. People that stuff is SO good!!
Made it past the 15 page mark on my thesis. Going to edit the section next week and see what my professor thinks - eek.
Busted out a Marble Cheesecake for my last presentation in the teachers lounge. Great reviews. Might have to throw together a dinner party soon....
Went to the batting cages with Rob and got into the fast pitch cage. Has anybody gotten into one of those lately?? Rob was making nice contact, and I was just chopping them down. I am pretty sure at my age I have nothing left to prove, in sports.
I had to repack my whole trailer the morning I left because my crap would not fit in the way it was after the first attempt.
My last night in town Rob and I won golf and went to grab a pizza. While waiting we went into the bar next door for a libation. They didn't take plastic, so Rob paid. I wanted to get the next round BUT the ATM was broken. I am unsure if it was my blue eyes or the mustache but when I couldn't get money the bartender gave use the second round on the house!! I made sure to smile a lot after that......

So, I am back in Minnesota. I drove from Rigby, Idaho to St. Cloud, Minnesota before going unconscious for an hour. I made the trip in 22 hours, pulling a trailer. Yes, there was a moment where I really did almost lose the trailer. It was a nerve racking experience!!

The weather has been FRICKIN' amazing since I have been back in the state. I pulled up to my house and within 5 minutes was mowing the lawn. I started weeding after that because the flower garden looked, well I can not write what it looked like because my mother reads this stuff ;) When my buddies got there to help me unload they were surprised that I had not been inside the house yet. I told them I didn't come back to hang out in the house. So, after spending the afternoon in the yard yesterday it is starting to look good again. I planted my veggies and moved around some other plants, ahhhh to have dirt under the finger nails.

I am also trying to relax for a couple days, damn that John Ryding blood in me!! This is almost an impossible task. I have at least not made a list of things to do yet, so there might be hope for me. I have a couple projects around the house, and need to organize the garage into these writing central. With only being in town around the 24 hour mark last night, I already had to take a step back from everything. I spent the closing hours of the weekend sitting on my back stoop gazing into the stars and sippin' on some Jameson. It was kind of sad that I could not see as many stars as in the Idaho sky. It was a nice kind of somber opportunity to take it all in. Like I have said before it will be a crazy summer and I think my only choice is to buckle up or not. Screw it! No buckle for me, but I am putting on the helmet and inserting the mouth guard. I like excitement, but I am not stupid.

I just got off the phone with my brother...... he told me to put a for rent sign in my yard. I told him I kind of wanted to live alone. He then told me what the sign would say. I am going to make that sign tonight!!

Well, not sure I did such a great job of wrapping up on Idaho. We shall see if I can keep up some of these writings this summer, but whatever would I write about??? Such a boring life that I lead in Minnesota. I did enjoy DQ last night, that was on my list of things to do this summer. I think we both could have used more ice cream, next time we should opt for larger cones.

There is a really good chance if you are looking for me this summer I will be out back doing one thing or the other. Stop by for a game of pingpong or to take in what is a real purdy garden.

Here is to enjoying each day that I am in and letting other people worry about the rest...........

Can I get a John Denver song, please!!

2009-05-14T16:58:00.002-06:00

I do just have to start off by saying that the last three months have been a lot of fun out here. I tend to bring people together for good times. Someone made the comment that next year the gang might not make the effort. I hope they do, it gets really mundane without laughing so hard you puke. True story.

I have made it through my first year of teaching!!!! The next eight days are just for looks. My team of teachers have already finished half the paperwork we need to finished before the last day :) I am an hour away from having my grades completed for the year. I have to say that finishing strong is kind of hard. The kids are getting on my last nerve!!! Next week the schedule starts to get screwy, some classes are going on field trips and a half a day on Wednesday for the graduation. My classroom will be emptied of my things this weekend, and I will have it cleaned by the following weekend. When the last day comes I just want to walk out.

I figured out the plan on the way home, and I will try and relax. My mother was very thoughtful in her offer of road tripping back together. I am thinking I will hit Teddy Roosevelt National Park for camping, some hiking and horse back riding. It looks like beautiful country and it touches the Painted Mountains(?). I will pull into town during the first couple days of June. Should be interesting.

So, I have said one or two things about my roommate Rob. We have a blast together, but are SO different. Last night we went to grab a couple things from Walmart - he thought I was kidding when I told him I had been inside that store only once. I told him that I came from the amazing state that brought the world Target!!!! After going through every isle looking for food our cart was full of.....frozen fruit, pre-made hamburgers, cake mix and the Heineken Party Keg. We could not stop laughing, it just looked funny. Tonight I am going to bust out a double batch of cookies for the coworkers. Last time they were all gone in 20 minutes. Something about being a teacher and free food.

Tomorrow the school is having a dodge ball tournament after school. There are 19 teams, crazy right? I put a team of male teachers together - we play at the end. The kids want to pound us :) If only they still played with the red playground balls, remember those?? Now they use these smaller, lighter balls which could throw my shoulder out if I bring the heat. Rob and I are working plays out this evening - like throwing the grenade and when the kid looks up another guy hits him. Good times. We will probably let them win, still not clear on that yet.

Well, this is it from Idaho. I hope you all got a couple laughs over the last couple months. Might think about taking the summer off, and starting up again in August - where ever I end up. I still feel really good about the choice to not come back to Idaho. I will miss the friends that I have made. If I do not get a job in the fall I might just have to come back and sub for a couple days - now that would be funny.

This summer is going to be a LOT of fun. I would write more about the events happening leading up to the summer BUT I am not sure I can do that....let us just agree that after being away from Minnesota for nine months that this guy is ready/due for a LEGENDARY summer.

:)
Peace

Updates, dates and other things that rate.

2009-05-09T14:31:00.002-06:00

It does not seem like that long ago when I first laid eyes on the state of Idaho. I can remember getting out of the truck as Charley took my picture at the sign. Kooky kids!! There is three weeks left of my time here in the spud state, did you know that?

Yes, I have decided to move forward with my teaching career. I also have no idea what that means. I have a lot of applications out for another position in the art education field. I look forward to which one I will end up in come this fall. I have applications out in Minnesota, Illinois, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Wisconsin and possibly a couple more. Something about being closer to family and friends making a difference in the long run. That and this state pays nothing. I would like to be paid for my level of education. I am going to wait until the last couple days of regular class before I tell the students. I want to put off all the cheering.

I am been able to get to know some great people here as well. I have my gang of friends that gets together once a month. We laugh so hard some times that some of us forget how much we had to drink. No finger pointing goes on at these functions. I will miss them. I hope through this information age we live in that email ,on a seasonal basis, is a reality. I think one coworker almost cried when I told them. These people have truly touched my life and helped me see what I want to do and how I want to do it. My principal has been great BUT he has needled me a couple times now. I look forward to updating these people on where I end up next year. I have three places I would love to end up, and not all of them are in the Twin Cities.

It has been one of the best weather days today and I find myself working on THE LIST. I was in my classroom for three hours setting up chapter two of my thesis. I am going to go back this evening and finished what I started. I hope to start typing tomorrow in the afternoon. It stinks that I am best at this type of stuff late in the evening. I might actually come close to having this section completed by the time I step into 55406.

Crud, the library is closing. I guess this will not be my last entry before I leave.

Crap, my mind just went blank once she said they were closing.

oh yeah, CS I wouldn't mind if you broke the glass. If it happens, it happens. If I can help it from happening - I will move the glass :) Stuff, it is just stuff.

peace

Pretty sure it is May already

2009-04-30T17:37:00.002-06:00

I thought I would have had an entry by now, but I am in a different town with a different library. Time has gone so fast since coming back almost two weeks ago. For many reason I had hoped to have a couple more things written down.

I got back and the first thing that happened was I bumped into my sub..... and I thought what he was telling me was a joke. I even said to him - You are kidding, right? He wasn't. I gave him the easiest job for a couple days, just watch my students work. We had started a new unit on block printing and they were carving their pictures. The sub decides to have them print before I get back. I never told him to do this, never showed him how, never told him where the stuff was before I left. Them man used 75$ of my ink. Didn't clean anything. Didn't put anything away. Ah, to be a teacher.

To say the least I did get the group back on track!! We are now on to dragons, and Egyptian Tomb drawing. Another week and I will be able to taste the finish line. I am staying on top of my grades and class because it would be so easy to save things for the end. I had my observation from the assistant principal and it went really well. Oh how I love to teach.

I have also continued to work on the thesis. I might actually have my second chapter finished by June. I think in another week I will have everything I need to start punching it out. I am VERY excited about this moving forward.

Trying to take care of a couple things before the weekend, and one is getting face time with the principal. That should go over like a cement balloon.....or anything else that shouldn't be airborne.

I have gone golfing already, and plan to go on Wednesday again. A par 3 course, 18 holes, $14 dollars - jealous? The gang is getting together tomorrow night. Grilling, complaining and drinking - good times. I have really gotten to like a handful of people here, and I feel really good about that right now.

I am not thinking of the summer, only because I have so many things to do before it starts. During the past couple weeks I have wondered how I have gotten to this exact spot. Four months ago I would have thought it to be on a far off horizon someplace.

I hope to write at least once more before the summer BUT if I do not........ please pray for the end of the school year, wrapping the year up on the right note and safe/slow travel back to MN for the summer.

So little time

2009-04-26T19:25:00.000-06:00

I hope to make it over to the library tomorrow to tell a couple stories.

The weekend was packed with everything but company. I got to grade, work, more work, writing and applying to the future.

This week will move as quick as the last, but it ends with a social gathering :)

Can you believe how fast June will be here, and we haven't even started May.

See you tomorrow night.

Sit down, buckle up and just listen.............

2009-04-16T09:11:00.002-06:00

People I will be the first to say that my last effort was crap, but I just wanted to write. Yup, a failure. My mother even let me know last night, so strange. So here is where I do what I do......

I continue to wake up in the state I was born in, and oddly enough I would have let for Idaho by now. There is something about the open road that is inviting to me. In 2003 I went on my first mission trip with the church I was attending and it was exactly what I needed at that time in my life, my mind set was to have no expectations....I guess I should have that mind set for all of my trips, even if they are back to Minnesota. I have such a packed time here I actually feel sick. The food, the friends and the drinks..........oooohhhh, could I just get a glass of water and a chair in the sun?

I am open to as much to my surroundings as I can be these days. I will try and capture the moments with friends. I was able to see some of the best people in my life and share stories and time with them. From what has become Friday coffee dates with Cholie(?) and her father, to last minute beers at a bar or on the back steps of a friends house, walking around my favorite lake with my favorite female to firing up the hot oil with the Unspectacular Seven. I have had some great moments. I am not sure if this is supposed to recharge me for the road ahead or to hook me into the life I am supposed to live.

This trip was to try and kick start a couple things for the upcoming summer and I could not be happier with the results. I was not only able to work on my thesis over at Bethel but get some face time with my advisor. She is such an amazing woman. I really feel good about starting this paper and where I want to go with it. It will be a lot of work, but since I believe in it I actually believe it will spill out of me onto the page. I met with a realtor about the thought of selling my house. Through the past 7 months I have learned to release my grip on certain things in life and it feels pretty good. The REALLY odd thing is that I do not get an overwhelming feeling that I am supposed to sell my house. We shall see how I feel in 6 weeks. I was able to spend enough time with family. Easter was a marathon of patience, but so much fun. Regardless of where we are at my family knows how to laugh when they get together. WE might be as normal as everybody else about communicating about issues but man can we have a good time. It should come to no surprise that we are a loud bunch as well. Check my FB soon for photos of the little buggers. I was going to try and find a PT job for the summer when I was home but that didn't happen.

Ahhh, I love music. I just downloaded a couple new albums and am loving it!! Thanks JW.

Please do not fall out of your chair, but I was also able to spend time with this woman. I realize I do not open up about this part of my life - ever, but what the hell. I have learned more about myself during this time in exile, which has accidentally poured into my thoughts on relationships. Regardless of the position I find myself in I think she is truly amazing. Now, I wouldn't say she doesn't frustrate the hell out of me at times BUT that melts away when I spend time with her. When she puts her hand on me, or I look into her eyes or we find ourselves laughing in the lotion section of Target these are the things that do it for me. There are times that I think that she might not know what to do with me, I mean I have some ideas but I try and keep them to myself. I sure hope the shelf life on these entries is as short as I think it is :) I look forward to more trips to Target.

I will try and wrap this up soon. Please, please PLEASE when you think of me over the next six weeks - pray. I am wrapping up my first year of teaching, moving back to Minnesota for the summer and writing my thesis. Your thoughts carry me through the day. I want to finish the year on a positive note and enjoy my remaining time there. Officially I do not know if there is a position for me there next year. My future is bright, but unclear. I am doing what I can to move forward but unsure where it will take me. I have a couple things I need to take care of this summer and go from there.

I just keep singing the song........."the future's so bright I gotta wear shades........."

Sorry, here is a little insight to where I am at with life. I had the fellas over last night - so much fun. Before everyone got there Tim and I were playing a mean game of pong. Newest rule is that you have to have your drink on the table during play. We got some good laughs during the first game. Tim had his drink in one of my favorite glasses and I only have a couple left. You are unable to get these glasses any more because of the cost and I think everybody else stole them from the bar as well ;) It was a Pizza Luce glass, heavy with the ridges going down the sides. I got two the night back in the day that Scott wanted to have a bonfire over at Como Park. I forget whether they were put in my coat or her purse. Anywho, during an amazing volley he went aggressively for a shot and went right through the glass. It did not even phase me. Back in the day who knows. We laughed so hard!! I joked that I was more heart broken over the quality beverage that had been spilled. Man, I used to be such a tight minded bastard!! I just hope that this summer is filled with more laughs, memories and broken glasses!!

April already

2009-04-14T22:53:00.002-06:00

I feel bad about not writing for so long. I kid you not that so much has happened during the last month or so. I am not even going to try and catch you up. I seem to be awake and have nothing better to do at this hour of the night.

I have had a blast being in Minnesota for the past week. God has not forgotten me!! I have been able to see family, friends and such. I am a better person for all of the changes that have happened during my time in Idaho. I look forward to the last six weeks. It will be fun to get back and wrap up the year.

It seems so strange to do things I could not picture doing a year ago. To walk toward opportunities I would not have taken and to walk away from opportunities that I have wanted so badly. Crazy. With all of these things I still have this odd peace. God is moving in my life and it is a good thing.

I am not sure how much I will write during the next 6ish weeks. I really enjoy writing these stories but I think this short stage might be mine alone. Unless something changes I might drag my feet getting back to Minnesota. I might go to Yellowstone, or see the biggest frying pan. The only reason to rush back to Minnesota is if someone needed to get back to work. Do not worry, I have a handful of funny stories to give you before I stop.

I know this sounds funny but I really enjoy writing these silly stories. I am horrible at this thing called grammar - just imagine what my thesis will look like when I write that gem.

Man this post was a little rusty. I guess i just didn't want to go to bed yet.

March

2009-03-03T20:13:00.002-07:00

I will be taking this month off from writing my little stories. Enjoy the first parts of Spring.

Another Me

2009-02-28T11:20:00.002-07:00

I had a great evening yesterday when I had some coworkers come over for dinner. It is a really nice mix of people, but my buddy just had to ditch out and see his girlfriend up in West. Eer, I mean West Yellowstone. It is so interesting to pick up the local verbage. They ask if I am going back East for a break, and I am like "back East"? No, I am from Minnesota - not Boston.

So the gang came over last night and we made some great pizza, enjoyed a couple beverages and amusing conversation. The group consists of a married woman, a divorced mother of two, a girl on the verge of an engagement and a married man struggling with his combative/failing marriage. Oh yeah, and me.......what is my heading? We just get together and laugh. I think the two ladies almost fell over when I held my friend's young son, Tyler, while she was doing something else. He was in his pjs and he does enjoy being around me. When I was talking to me I guess the other girls had a look of astonishment on their faces - wish I had not missed that. What can I say....I really like kids. I have even offered to babysit, they even have a big yellow lab. Heaven, what?

So, I have left over pizza, beer and cheesecake.....anybody interested in coming over tonight? If so please bring a movie.

This past week has been very packed. I applied for four more positions in MN and IL. I am crossing my fingers for the position in Duluth. That would be a perfect place to put roots down. I hope that is the next step for me, kind of settle into my career and a town. It would be close to both family and friends. I remain open for what while happen next year, God seems to continually push me. Character, boooo. Who wants more character? I could use a little break.

C.S. come on man!! No pics of me on this thing. Check out your ladies FB page, the photos are there. Still hanging onto the free bowling games, in case you show up and want to lose.

March is going to FLY by into the Spring. Plan, Plan Plan.

The events of last weekend were relived each day at school. So many laughs. I told them I could take it, say anything you want. I just hope there will be no other future ramifications of the outing. There is nothing like drinks with the fellas.

Crossing your fingers as I go back to working on the thesis!!! I SAID CROSS THEM!!!!!!

Another fun filled Monday night

2009-02-23T18:46:00.002-07:00

I am so ripped apart about coming to the library on Monday nights, I do love the idiot box tonight. I will just give a little, and must finish my work.

I had a BLAST on Friday night. I seem to be, always, the person to get others together. We had a great group of guys. Having to work that evening at the theater I told them to start around 9:30, they started at 7:30. I was not happy. I did get off around 9ish, and raced across town to meet up with them at this little dive. The night did not disappoint. Having been here since September, and being able to count how many times I have been out socially, I tend to get excited. Let us just say that I found my happy place, followed by the place that remembers that they have to work 12+ hours the next day. I got to Saturday school late, and one kid was dead on - Mr. Ryding, did you get in a fight last night? No. Mr. Ryding, are you hung over?.......No, why do you ask? You do not look so good. I said it was allergies. Today the kid told everyone that I had gotten into a fight the night before.....

Thanks for the note C.S.

This week is going to be a killer!! The students are not clamping down, and grades are going in the book Friday!! I finally had enough with one student, and sent her to the office. I got the class started and told them I would be a few minutes, AND if when I came back they were not working I had enough to go around. I know, I try and sound tough. I went to the office and open a can on this student. So much so that the Assistant Principal came over, and turn the light on where we were. I looked at her and said,"Please turn the light back off, I am not as scary with the light on."

My mother got the chocolates today, and loved them!! Another added bonus was that today is my father's birthday. If I am right, he would have been 65ish. It has been interesting speaking with my family again. I am such a better place, and am open to the things that are starting to happen. I forgot to tell my mother this evening that she needed to plow through the chocolates, because that is what dad would have done. That man would go through a bag of fun size snickers like it was a race. Writing that makes me think of the afternoon that my brother, brother-in-law and I had cleaning out his car the week after his death. Pretty sure if there was a sledge hammer around there would have been nothing left, but I do remember the wrappers and apple cores.

Happy Birthday dad, I continue to think about you and miss your guidance.

Yes, the library again.

2009-02-17T19:38:00.002-07:00

I always forget that I use this as a communication tool, and you use this as a 'voyeuristic' endeavor. This is a way for you to check in, and for me to still feel isolated. Oh well, what to do?

I feel great about how things have really turned around for me the last four weeks. I feel so relaxed, and in control of the daily stuff. I am even going out this Friday for beers, again!! Crazy. It will be fun to get out and have a couple with the guys. I also am having the gang over on the 27th for food, fun and games (and beer, wasn't sure if that was fun OR games).

I quit the movie theater this weekend, and will be working at a small sporting goods store until some time in May. Again this weekend I had some friendly ladies say sweet things to me. One made a comment about my eyes, and the other just had to have a look - so I just looked at her. Yup, I guess I just have some amazing blue eyes and am pretty sure I will get over it as well. I need to stop this PT job thing. Here is to having one job, unless you really want to have a PT gig. I am unable to have facial hair at the new job, don't ask, so I shaved this weekend. I found a way to get the kiddos attention. I had to laugh at all of the comments, let us just say they have NO filter. Glad I have over come the whole self esteem issue. The beard was getting a little nutty.

I had a long weekend just now, and was able to not relax at all - I worked 33ish hours over my time off. I think I need someone in my life to make me stop acting like this.....for that or other reasons. I also got to be a Valentine, which was kid of nice. Time is short not to have fun. I also got my chocolates that I had been waiting for on Friday - OMG!!! These things are amazing. I am going to send them out to the Valentine next week I think, that should make her feel better. I might get more for myself, that would make me feel better.

I have started working on the thesis again. I am feeling pretty good about that as well. I am just full of good feelings these days. I also have a couple things starting to simmer, love to have things on the back burners.

Please say a prayer for my friend's child this night, for they do not know what is wrong. There have been many tests, and many doctors. Also for a friend that is traveling back to MN from a kind of life hiatus, if they could only last a little longer.

I thank you for the thoughts, and prayers since I have been out in this wilderness. God has been doing some amazing things in, and around me. With that, another poem....

This Bridge

This bridge will only take you halfway there
To those mysterious lands you long to see:
Through gypsy camps and swirling Arab fairs
And moonlit woods where unicorns run free.
So come and walk awhile with me and share
The twisting trails and wondrous worlds I've known.
But this bridge will only take you halfway there -
The last few steps you'll have to take alone.

Shel Silverstein

2009-02-11T19:31:00.002-07:00

God's Wheel

God says to me with kind of a smile,
"Hey how would you like to be God awhile
And steer the world?"
"Okay," says I, "I'll give it a try.
Where do I set?
How much do I get?
What time is lunch?
When can I quit?"
"Gimme back that wheel," says God,
"I don't think you're quite ready yet."

Hello

2009-02-09T19:22:00.002-07:00

I was going to try and write something this evening, but want to go home.

I am feeling a little sick, and staying home tomorrow in an effort to feel better.

Here is the oddest thing to happen to me this past weekend, while working at the movie theater.......I had sold a ticket to a lady, I think for a date movie, and thought I had finished the transaction. I looked back up and she was still standing there, not a lot of time had passed - but enough. I thought I forgot to say something or had given her the wrong change. She looked and me and told me,"You're gorgeous." As a Swede what the hell was I supposed to say? I sat there a little speechless. I said thank you. She asked if I got that a lot - come on!!

Anywho, have a great week.

I am off to take Nyquil and sleep through tomorrow.

Same old.....

2009-02-02T19:04:00.002-07:00

Well, it is now a reality for me......I can not give plasma. Unbelievable!! I will continue to do the arm work outs, nothing like a couple push ups during your day. That and the fact that there are no PT jobs around here. I will give that one more shot this month.

Things continue to go well with teaching. I gave each class a warning about the end of the trimester coming in four weeks. Yup, no one listened. We finished water colors last week, there are some good young artists in the crowd. The last trimester will be great, I will know what is going to happen and when. What a learning curve. I have held many jobs, at many levels and this is one of the more taxing jobs to hold. I have stood on a ladder for 12 hours and had more energy at the end of the day, but when I get home from school my ass has been kicked. Love it!

I can see this month moving so fast. I have it broken down, because of a three day weekend right in the middle. That and new kids next month. My students are funny, I tell them that I do not lie and they laugh. I ask them when I have lied to them, one kid says that I have said that I like every student....I said that was true, each one of you I want in my class. That almost sunk in with her.

Still struggling with not being able to be in Minnesota for certain things, like a friend that is going through a real difficult time right now and the little things like last minute calls for a drink. I am in such a better place than I was before, probably because I am starting to understand that Minnesota is not in my near future. What is a boy to do?

So, my language arts class...the one I write about not listening to me. They are so funny, and want to know more about me. I am good at keeping it in the arena of little things. During the first trimester of school I put a picture on the wall by my desk of my girlfriend. They asked her name, and I told them I called her Honey. So, they still ask about my girlfriend and they wanted to know her name - it is Kate. I wasn't lying. The kids must not know who Kate Hudson is, because it is as clear as day. Half of them think it is really my girlfriend, they are a riot. The picture is up because it was part of an art assignment - fyi. They ask if I am going to send her anything for VDay. Do not worry I have started to tell them that the picture is of a movie star, but they do not want to listen to that part of the story. With all of the crap these kids go through they are just looking for a happy ending. One student, in the sixth grade, said he had been through three divorces already. I did not know what to say, I just sat there and felt like I had been sucker punched. Be thankful.

What did Alice take before her world started to spin?

2009-01-27T14:49:00.002-07:00

It has been a couple weeks since I left home. Because Minnesota is really the place I believe is my home. It is not my house, my garage or anything like that. It is the place, the people and the history. I miss it very much.

I told a friend the other night that I felt like a 14 year old kid after summer camp once I left. I talk to friends on the phone and almost say things like "Hey, I will check with my parents to see if they can take me to Valley Fair to meet you this weekend - you ask you folks too.." or I feel like I was the exchange student and I should have passed around a yearbook to have everybody sign before I went back to Idaho. Such a language barrier.

The kiddos are really making some great art these days. I also have my seventh grade class doing a report on an artist, which is really blowing their little minds. I have been slow to start creating art since I got back, and I am sure it has nothing to do with the TV a coworker gave me. Naw! I do love my three hours of NCIS on the Ion channel Monday nights. I am trying to find a balance, but not that hard. I have a month left of this trimester and will be teaching positive/negative space, water color, paper mache? and linoleum prints. It should be crazy!!

My position was for a year, so I need to reapply for next year. I thought this would be a good time to see what is out there for me........so I currently have 5 applications out for other teaching positions back in the midwest. Should be interesting. God has been doing a lot of things in my life this year, and somehow I have made it through (with His help).

Just so you can plan your winter/spring...............this is a nice place to visit. I have time over Feb. 13th weekend, April 10th(when is Easter), and something else. I am known to show people a good time. That and I am praying this is my last chance to be able to do this :) The door is open for me being able to give the same tour next year, we just never know.

Here is my last thing, which should make most of you chuckle..........I forgot to make my profile private before I left Minnesota on Match.com. Eek! I say this because it came up the other week when I came up on a friends search. What do these computers know :O So, I went to the site today. I was shocked to see emails, winks and matches. The bad thing is that I can not see some of that because I do not pay for those features. Oh well, I guess I will just focus on what is in front of me. Fields, cows and kids. I think I would rather speed date instead of online stuff. Can you imagine reading my profile the way I spell?? Maybe an English teacher would take pity on me.

Things are moving here, which is good. I move in with a buddy in two month. I am also making friends, see so much like summer camp. Tell mom I said hello, and money for the canteen would be great. I also met this girl, but since I am fourteen am more likely to just make fun of her OR sit by her at the campfire. Tough one.

Going, Going...............Gone

2009-01-16T13:23:00.003-07:00

Do you ever feel that way? So, I have made it back to Idaho and into the swing of things. I just wrapped up conferences, which I enjoy. We had them for the last two night, right after school. The first night I had them in my room and stayed 30 minutes after with parents - the second night I had them in the gym and only went 5 minutes over. I find it important to grab parents at any opportunity to connect about their child. I spoke with one mother, who I have talked with before, about the real possibility of her son being in the 6th grade again. It does not look good for this kid, but better to learn it in 6th grade and not in 10th grade.

It has been stressful the past two weeks. Having the kids back from break, trying to get my new room organized, and putting grades in the book - I snapped. My language arts class got to see me get serious, and strict. I spoke with one student in the office and let him know that if he stepped out of line again he would spend the rest of the year in the office during my class. I also got to speak to the class, and yes I know they are 6th graders. So, come Tuesday I am going to take half the class to go over our contract. I am going to let them help with the rules of the class, and the consequences of what happens when you break the rules. I will print it on a huge piece of paper and have it on the front wall. I am tired of raising my voice. I will just default to the contract and quietly dole out the consequences. They tell you there is a lot to learn in your first year of teaching, and they were not kidding AT ALL. I will be glad to be done with 'teaching' language arts after this year. My art program suffers because of it.

I tend to worry about life. I also tend to replay things over in my head. Over the holidays JW asked if I was grinding on an issue, working on a pearl. I thought that was a riot, and exactly what I do. This year I want to learn to relax, and let go. That it is ok to be responsible for things, but to let them work themselves out. Some of you might not realize that I, at times, have control issues. Yup, who knew? Here are some verses that I have been thinking about, and dwelling on to help me.

I remember saying to friends this week that I wish I had one area of my life that could be relaxing, or calm. I chuckled when I read this verse. Is it wrong to want more? I guess I also have to learn to relax in the presence of God.

God is our refuge and strength,an ever-present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1

What? Me worry? I am carefree, and live for making people laugh.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is life not more important than food and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life.
Matthew 6:25-27

This is my verse for 2009. I want to embrace this thought as my own.

So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34

Somethings are starting to fall into place around here. Say a prayer about a PT job opportunity that would be great AND bring in $$. Not only that BUT another job to cross off the job list of things I have always wanted to do.

Last night I got a group of teachers together after conferences to hang out and relax. This was the first gathering of the sort of teachers for me this year. We had a blast. Most are new to the school, but not new to teaching. Half were raised in the area, with Jersey and Minnesota bringing up the other side of the country. It seemed like last night was good for everybody, but honestly I did it for myself. We each talked about where we were from and our lives; married, children, divorced, dating, religion. We all got to be surprised at one point or another.

I am starting to grasp the idea of being here again next year. I want what is best for me, and also a good opportunity to teach. This being said, I will be selling my house this summer. You can relax in the idea that the glass half full notion that come with this bitter pill is that a HUGE MANVILLE PARTY will be on the calendar!!! That I can Guarantee!! Beer signs half price.

The Devil you know

2009-01-06T18:01:00.002-07:00

Wow, the last two weeks were just plain CRAZY!! Kind of like I got time off for good behavior, which makes the second leg of this 'period' interesting. There has really been no down time since being back either - getting my new room organized, connecting with my friends here and figuring out where to take the class from here. I have three weeks of grading to do this week, and I still do not have a computer. My head hurts from the lip service. We have two months left of this trimester, and conferences next week. Giddy Up!!

So, how to recap the holidays......can I just say that I did not see so much happening. Please do not get me wrong, or think I am complaining about the amazing time I had in Minnesota BUT it was overwhelming. I guess that is the way things happen, in town for two weeks and the powers that be had their own ideas for me. Not even three days in and my head was spinning, well that only took a couple hours :) I tip my cap to Carlson and the tickets to the Wild, that was the best kick off to my time back in town. The Guys know how to have fun and JW didn't start any bars scenes. Working off the cobwebs the next morning was just fun to drive through the neighborhood. The card game that weekend was also a blast. From the first quick hand, the cell phone rule, the Johnny Walker Two Step (ending in fireballs), to the 'Charles Ingalls'!! I already have another date in mind for the next game, so not kidding. Shhhh!! The kitchen time I spent in the cities was top five stuff, from watching Smith make a Shark's Tooth, Michelle taking the ribs out of the oven, to assorted/variety of pies and getting to make a couple things myself. I need to give a big THANKS to JW and Mar for letting me crash in the corner of an empty room. One thing I did learn from being home is that I am much tooooooooooo large to sleep on the floor, next time I am praying for a bed. To Colleen and Michelle......that night was a riot! The food was killer, the people were perfect and the game was just the right amount of filth! We so need to do that again. To the Gang, family style is so the way to go!! I feel at home with you all, and your husbands - ha!! So sad that we could not fill that last seat with anybody, not happy with some of you....cough, hack RN, cough what did I say? Like all trips I was unable to see all of you, or even spend enough time with the people I was around. Trust me when I say that next time I will make sure all of you will be SICK of me by the time I leave.

My guys, friends, food and couch time - that is my top four list.

Being home also made me think of the past year, and how I got to where I currently am right now. On so many levels 2008 was one of the best years, but it also held some lows. I am very excited for 2009 and what it holds for me. Five days in and I already know that I will have three very large things to deals with this year. Cross your fingers and pray for me. I want to go where God leads me, but at times it feels like I do not have the strength or know how. I have a couple verses for the year, I will share next time.

New Years Resolutions, did you know I have been doing this for a couple years with a great friend of mine? I will have five this year, dealing with finishing my thesis, finding an amazing woman and following my current path in life. I will be writing about some of them over the year. I have my main ones, and also my smaller ones LIKE trying to dial back my use of the F word. Yup, it is a fun word to use.

Oh yeah, thanks to the Molde family and my mother. I have no mind, if I missed you - eek, sorry. Pretty much anybody I saw while at home I need to thank - every moment was so much fun.

So, here I am back in Idaho. A couple things are on the front burner this month, and I have five short months until summer break. I also have long weekend in April, I think. I am going to throw this out to anybody who reads this crap- Come on out and I will show you my world. My stories do nothing to the reality of living out west.

No kidding, I forgot the things I was going to write about. Reflective, serious and deep. Thanks, and hang on tight because this year has just started - I have a feeling my stories have only started, and the best are yet to come............................

Ah, the Christmas spirit washes over me......

2008-12-30T22:57:00.002-07:00

When you ask for something, how do you go about it? When you talk to God and pray, how do you phrase your prayer? Since I was in high school I have felt the power of prayer. I have been in the potato state for almost four months. It has been an amazing experience. In under a year I have felt myself start to come into my 'own'. There have only been a couples pieces left, and they seem to be falling into place before my tired, frustrated eyes. I should have moved out of Minnesota years ago!! Ok, that might be a bit much.

I had high hopes for my trip back to the state with all the lakes, and nobody saw all of this coming!! I have had a BLAST! I have almost seen everybody, and hope to get my hands on a copy of all the pictures. A big part of me is all of you. Thank you thank you thank you!! From the Wild game, the card game, the cooking/baking, and ALL OF THAT FOOD! I have an old friend that currently lives in another zip code as well, and I feel his pain around the holidays - and missing the gatherings. It was odd to go back to a church I attended a couple years ago without him being there to say hi. It might sound funny, and like I am complaining BUT it has been overwhelming to back as well. I almost felt like I should go back early because of everything. I have gotten used to no tv, no drinking, no friends and looking at the walls of my apartment. I had such a good, and relaxing, Christmas by the fire.

Well, I wanted to wish the rest of you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Do you make a list to better yourself each year? To you try new things, or just change the calendar?? My list is starting to become clearer, and short.

I am shocked to feel excited to go back to Idaho. My 13-14 hours in the car on Saturday should be a mixed bag of fun.

Is it how you end the year, or how you start it? How did I start this one? I see 2009 as being just as packed with excitement as 2008, I tend to attract it.

Oh yeah, friends just gave me a Mike Doughty cd - so good! I really like the titles of the songs, and his sound. What band was he in?? I love the song More Bacon Than the Pan Can Handle.

Give you the update on the holiday break this monday, when I am back in the library. :)

Check, check and double check

2008-12-15T19:19:00.002-07:00

Well, this will be the last update before I go to Mpls. The next few days will really fly by before I realize that I am behind the wheel and in NoDak.

It is funny what life throws your way. I would like it to be the mundane in the year 2009. I really do like my job, and I am coming around to the idea of spending another year in Idaho - yup, sober. I guess I could work on a list over the break and everything but I have this feeling about the spud state. By me a drink and I will tell you stories.

I used the cards from my camp package from last month to wish a handful of people a merry Christmas and to thank them for their help and friendship. Tomorrow is our lack luster holiday party, again sober. Oooh, maybe a drink afterwards with the fellas might be in order. I am leaving Thursday after school. If you get bored, just give me a call ANY time on Friday - I will probably be between Bumfuke and Nowhere. I might just pass out when I get back to 55406, so if you see me hit the ground AND you are a single female - give me CPR!!

What else to say? I feel homesick at the silliest of things. I pray I get my fill over the next two weeks. I would hate to come back half full.

Please pray for the drive, the weather looks pretty shitty. I will be smart, and do most of my driving during the day. I am going to start to play with the sleep schedule the next two days, I need to fall asleep early on Thursday night. I know, I sound a little nutty.

See you when I see you

Check List

2008-12-09T19:41:00.002-07:00

Wow, this is the first time that I have deleted a post. I had a rough patch tonight. I wanted to throw myself a pity party and invite you all to come.

Do you ever get the feeling that there is no way you could feel more your age? Or an adult? Out of the blue comes character building opportunities and BAM!! When you get back to your feet and look around to see what happened a strange feeling washes over you. You ask yourself - Why do I felt more like an adult? Hmmm.

Reaching for my life goals has taken me WAY outside of my comfort zone, my circle of support, my house, and away from most things that hold me in place. This is one guy that does not want another character building experience!! I am brought back to this past Saturday morning when I was working at school. One boy came in and sat down, head on the table I could tell that he was going to cry. I walked oer to him and told him we could leave the room. I went out in the hall with him, so the other wouldn't see him cry. I waited for my moment. Before that came the other teacher came out and wanted him to come back in the room, and said that he didn't want to hold up the group much more. This was one of our counselors. I told him I would take care of it and to give us a couple minutes. I sat on the floor and started to talk to the boy. I asked what was on his mind, and almost had to have him stop so I would not cry in front of him. This eleven year old child had a fight with his mother that he didn't understand. He spoke of fights between his parents, and how this impacted him. How his older brother was out of jail and at the house a lot. He held his head in his hands and just said that he felt so stressed. This kid is in the sixth grade. What kind of world are we living in? He was able to finish with the fact that he has food on the table and a bed to sleep in, and that is more than other people. I told him that we should go check out the new rooms that are not open yet. He asked if that was ok, and I said I knew how we could get in. As we walked I could tell that he was getting his head together. I asked him about his classes, and why I had not seen him in art yet. He said next term, and he looked at me and told me that he liked me. AH, please. I am going to need a moment. Can someone hand me a tissue??

I am thinking of starting an after school art club next term. Man, it is getting harder not to grab a hold of these kids and tell them that everything is going to be fine. This world is changing so fast, and not for the better these days. I have hand a lot of students come up and need me to provide art supplies.

After a long day, and telling this story, I would just like to say that I am blessed. I have my family, friends, faith, job, house, car, food, and looks. What more could you ask for..........

What does this season mean to you? What are the best memories you can remember about Christmas time? I love the late candle lit services, and gifts from Santa (small gifts are sometimes the best).

If we do not talk again, have a great week and embrace the season.

A quick note to the new 'followers'

2008-12-08T20:11:00.003-07:00

Here is the thoughts behind my title.......I will not make apologies for my creative mind. I am a big Johnny Cash fan. So, first off it is a tip of the hat to Cash. Second, this being my first year of teaching and starting late I felt like I was thrown into the fire. Also, a little baptism by fire. Mix all of this up with starting late, starting a curriculum from nothing and moving in six days - I call that getting a quick lesson in how to swim. This is not a negative comment, or anything like that at all. I love my job. I changed everything to become a teacher. Done.

Oh yeah, gas has hit 1.41$ here!! Eat it!!

Let us get to the good stuff first, I will be back in town on Dec. 19th! I have taken my second, of three, vacation days to see the Minneapolis air for one more day. The schedule is starting to have some dents in it, so please let me know if you want to get together.

On to the front page stuff...........the second coming of the Alien Baby happened over the night. Yesterday I felt really odd, and not myself. I kind of felt faint, and was getting a headache. That is not a good feeling when you are working. When I got home hours later and took my temperature it was over 101. I decided to take, a couple hits of, Nyquil and rub Icyhot on my neck - don't ask. I work up with this disturbing feeling of this past Spring. @#$%^& So, on my way to work I made up my mind to come back to Mpls. a day earlier. I also knew I needed a song by Bob Marley, so I started to look on the radio. Well, that did not happen BUT I did get a good Metallica song. So, with two inches of fresh snow on the ground, and my first experience with red rock, I pulled into the school parking lot. It was at this point my car started to swerve.....and I thought ahhhhhhh, the fresh snow and empty parking lot.............my foot hit the gas. As a pumping rock song played in my ears I hit forty five miles an hour and whipped a PERFECT 'shitty' in the school parking lot. Hello Monday, what do you have for me now??

Oh, I almost forgot.........I went to the clinic after school to have the Baby looked at. There is nothing like working all day with kids, and going to the doctor to drop your pants. Lucky for me I have been through this before and I was fine with it. OK, who is writing the 'script' of my life?? This is the third time, second time because of this, in a row that the door opens to my room and a HOT woman walks in. COME ON!! A single P.A. comes in and starts to talk to me. I tell her it is on my lower back, and she tells me to sit on the table for her to look at it. I say it might be hard, because it is a little lower. There is nothing like wearing your red Superman briefs to the doctor. She said if it gets worse to come back. Oh yeah, excuse me but my Baby is bigger and has fluid in it - right.

If any one sees Santa tell him that your pal would like a nice lady to start a relationship with. Tell him that you think he is ready, and a pretty good guy. If he has any questions let me know. I thought there still might be enough time to get that on his list.

Tomorrow I give plasma, good times. Only 1-2 more posts before I am walking around Lake Harriet!!

This is hard to swallow

2008-12-02T19:53:00.002-07:00

I have never gotten this much heat for the shaved head. I have had coworkers come up and tell me they do not like it. Yes, these are the people that do not really talk much to me. One lady told me this, and my response was - 'That's fine if you do not like it, they woman my age really have enjoyed it in the past.' That's right, step back lady!!

The students have been a riot! They want to know what happened, or if I realized I was bald. I do like the look BUT it seems to harsh at this point. I do plan to start growing it out again after the Christmas break. I told some of the students that the Tooth Fairy came and took the wrong thing.

I will say that the look does get my point across without raising my voice. You wouldn't believe what one simple look can do now - super powers!! Yes, I do realize it is over 11-14 year olds.

Peace

dsr
The Mayor
'Sota
Horseback

Come One, Come All

2008-12-01T19:23:00.002-07:00

I would love to have 10 followers by the time I come back to Minnesota. Is that asking a lot? I could just name names right now.......yes, I am talking about you.

Thank you Mrs. Smith. If I didn't have stories I would not be ..crap, can not write my real name. It cuts down on the google searches from my mother. :)

I had a great Thanksgiving weekend, and yes I did cook. That is truly my happy place. My Principal's family was great. I got to meet another teacher's family, and get to meet his adorable kids. The house had sheep and chickens. He collects old cars like Mr. Miyagi, and has a collection of old farm tractors as well. There was so much food we could have had ten more people show up. Much to my chagrin his single daughter was not there for dinner. I did have fun meeting everybody else - and might be able to get my hands on Sundance tickets in February. Might need a side kick for that weekend..........

So, I have regrouped again. I moved the desks around, had a talk with each class and have a game plan. I am as focused as a laser beam!! I took eight students out of language arts and had a talk with them. I told all of my classes that if things went really well that we would have a fun day on the 19th. HA, they do not even know that it is more for me. My new art classes are starting to fall into place, which is nice. I have the principal coming into my classes this week to check to see if I am doing everything right. It was great to see my past student's reactions when they saw their work hanging in the hall. I saw groups pointing and talking about the work,warms my heart. One of my students was making fun of a drawing to his buddies, I informed him that his work would be hanging there soon.

There is not much to say today. I worked at the theater for 37 hours this weekend, I am getting my bang for my buck on the free popcorn. I brought in my test run of the mini pecan pies. Of course they got a mixed reaction. I had a couple managers get slack jawed over the fact that I made them. That is part of the fun of baking, I won't lie. I added more hours to my time there, it is like doing stand up. To watch the guys buy tickets to Twilight, priceless!! We shall see if it is in my future after Christmas - but how will I meet the girl again?? I am hoping she shows up again to my window, and this time I will be ready!!

For those who read this drivel, I will be in Minnesota from Dec. 20-Jan 2. Plan accordingly.

The Mayor

What does a man have to do?

2008-11-24T17:10:00.002-07:00

Show a little love people when I write such vein opening entries. I continue to have odd occurrences in life. I will get to that later..........

Mark your calendars, today I lit a class up. I am pretty sure they didn't think I could get that serious, or angry. I have a class of 30 students, in a room made for 25. I hope tomorrow is better, I do not like having to be that serious. This term my art classes are really getting the hang of still life drawings. I am going to bring in my bikes and other things after the break. I am excited about what the term holds.

I got moved from taking tickets to the box office at the theater. I love it. I get to sit for six hours and they give me a microphone to talk into - can anyone say funny, funny times. I might have to hold onto this job for awhile.

I let the cat out of the bag last week. In discussing my birthday issues I had to explain an email that I received. It is great to be loved, and to be missed BUT not from anyone that has the prefix of 'ex' in front of their title. No, not her - her mother. Good times.

Thank you for the well wishes on my birthday. I will have to make up for this birthday next year. I do not recommend trying to eat the whole birthday cake - wow, what a sick feeling. I even tried to wash it down with beer, again - do not try this at home. I now have pictures of the guys on the fridge - nice. Thanks Jen.

Ok, in closing I will tell you the latest story. For a single guy I have no idea how most of my stories have to do with women. I am working the theater on Friday night, it is very busy because of Twilight. Four theaters are exiting, and I am letting in a large crowd. I hear someone calling out my name - DAVID, hey DAVID. I start to look around to see who is calling me. I land on the face of a very good looking young woman. I smile and try my best to figure out who she is AND how I know her. Now, remember this all happens very fast. She says, "I am your Minnesota friend." I must have a funny look on my face, and she repeats this phrase. I smile, and get caught up with my job, and she is caught up with the crowd and her friends. Right when she is out of sight the light bulb goes on.........crap! She is the cute girl from the airplane when I flew to Kansas for the funeral. I sat across the aisle from her, and we spoke going to Mpls. and coming back. We had small talk and exchanged names. I thought about asking for her number, but noticed a guy in the car she went out to....no need to ask if she is dating. So, she has found me - in my movie theater outfit. I can get over it, and I just might. I could wait for her to come back OR I just happen to know where she works - I might have to leave her a note. Seems like fair play. Alas, What the hell is her name!!!

The Mayor

Nyquil, Tylenol Cold Nightttime, Stress and a Summit Bottle Cap Outside My Door...

2008-11-19T18:57:00.002-07:00

Have you ever experienced something that you could not put your finger on? Something that was almost like a dream state? The closer you came to it the more out of focus it became? I was in a tail spin last week and was on overload, but I had the most amazing weekend I have had in years. This might seem like a work of Non-Fiction, or even Fantasy BUT it might have been everything I needed. I will try to explain myself, with bad punctuation and horrible grammar.

The weather did a 180 this last weekend and it was sunny and in the 50s. I spent time out in Idaho Falls and enjoying my surroundings. I went to the book store and lost myself in genres and music. I browsed spines, fonts and even enjoyed the Christmas music in the background. I spent hours in the kitchen cooking, new and fabulous dishes. I listened to music, I made playlists, I drank wine and (no kidding) even relaxed. It seemed the closer I got to taking hold of the experience the more I would get anxious or light headed. I do not get light headed and when I had to hold onto the grocery cart I knew I was having my senses overloaded! This was too much, my system has throttled down since moving to Idaho falls. I could not handle the smells, the tastes, the feelings and the thoughts. There was even a moment I had to lay down on the floor of the living room. The ability to touch it with my fingers, hold it in my arms, smell it in my nose, taste it in my mouth -man, I needed to stop taking so much Nyquil.

This is hard to put into words. To state something, or to overstate something - what to do. When you get stressed out and sick and take things to sleep, you can get disoriented. Disoriented, that is a good word for what I was feeling. I would wake up on the couch wondering what the day held and how possibly this day could get better. I told my principal that I had a doctor's appointment in Salt Lake City on Monday, he just asked what type of Doctor. When I got back from Utah it was dark out. I was standing in the dark just outside my apartment. As I walked inside I heard something drop outside on the steps. I turned the light on to look around. The oddest thing, a Summit bottle cap was outside my door. I laugh that the weekend was surreal and almost a dream. The cap made me miss Minnesota and wonder why I was reminded of this fact....I was again reminded that it must not have been a dream because of the smell of garlic, the onions, dirty dishes, remnants of dark chocolate and the note that was personal- yet simple 'thank you'

Yes, I had a great weekend. I have not had that much fun in years with someone. I realize I like to joke around and hide truths in half-truths. I had a great weekend, and yes I was sick leading up to the weekend but came through like a champ. Does this sound fun to you.....a new place, great sites, small towns, old movies, relaxing, cooking, laughing, music, creating, silence and the warmth of sun on your face with the sound of rushing water around you? Sharing all of that with someone else? I could not have asked for more out of my weekend, with company. What more can I say? When reality came washing around me like warm bath water on Tuesday I was back at school in meetings, just as we were to leave the principal asked (in front of everyone) how my doctor's appointment was the day before in Utah. I can not repeat what I said, but it did get the laughs AND my point across.

If my words were to fall on the correct ears - thank you.

On to other things. This is what my FB status was about yesterday, my iPod!! I sent my iPod to get fixed - in the mail to MN. Well, it got lost and everyone washed their hands of it. I could not believe my luck, this during the period of extreme stress and loneliness. I come home last night and put my hands in the mailbox, and my fingers wrap around a box. In the darkness of the street lights I could not read any hand writing. I get inside the apartment and realize as I open the box it is from the fix it place. I got my iPod back!!! It was fixed and the experience cost $5!! God might not want to put a relationship in my lap BUT He does want me to be happy.

The movies of the weekend are Run Fatboy Run, Casino Royale, and NYPD Blue Session 1.

I still love everyday at school. The kids are great. I love teaching. I move into my new classroom just before Christmas break. They just installed my Smartboard today. Oh baby!! Please continue to pray for the author of these funny stories, this is not an easy position to be in. I still find moments where I am lonely, and just want to have a conversation over drinks - looking at someone. The phone does work as well.

I know I should proof read this post, but that is not my style. I could polish this one up and make it an amazing little entry but why dwell.

God is good, all the time, All the time!!

OH, Dear Lord

2008-11-12T19:06:00.002-07:00

As I stepped out of the shower this morning that is what I was thinking. So, I have been a little stressed lately - go figure. Who knew that everything would come to a head at once? Golly, not me. My back is starting to go out, again. I have done nothing for this to happen, nothing. It can only be the internal stress. Ok, just laugh and get it over with. Finished?

I am just finished with this term. I have emails from parents wondering how their child can do better AND that art is their lowest grade. I just tell them that they can come in anytime with their student and we can go over their work. I just roll my eyes at this stuff. Two days left in the term and I get this stuff. Hey, here is something COME TO CONFERENCES! I have started my plan for next term, head and shoulders people. I need to refocus during the breaks coming up.

Oh yeah, love getting the mail. It is always a nice surprise. Today I almost fell over from the mail. Why me Lord, why me? I am going to make cupcakes for my Language Arts class on my birthday. This is the class I will have all year, and has been the hardest to bond with currently. It isn't a birthday with cake, at least that is my thoughts on the subject. Maybe I will go out for a nice dinner that night or something. Good times. I could always treat myself to a 12 pack or something, go crazy.

Ok, so my job at the movie theater is just a waste of time. I am going to start looking for something that pays a little better. One kid, I will call him Billy, and I goof around. The other girls treat him like crap. He bought me dinner last weekend, it was a riot. We went next door to a chinese place and grab takeout - oh man it was heaven. The food was average, but just grabbing chinese was fun. He started to hit on a girl that was working there, doing a VERY bad job at it. He calls me old man and stuff, I gave him a couple stories so I got some 'cred'. Turning 36 and working a PT job, please some one just kill me. Whose dream am I living anyways??

I was out one day this week and the good stuff happens....a girl in seventh grade got caught with alcohol in school. It was given to her and she is not given up the other person. No good. Most of the troubled kids are not mine.

Here is a parting visual for you..ready? I teach at Saturday School, it is for students to get caught up on past homework. You can guess it isn't the best of students. Some of these little kiddos do not know me. I have the others tell the story. Last Saturday it was loud. Let's just say that when I did raise my voice, the whole place was quiet. I do not think the group saw that coming. I told three students to sit back down, they started to laugh and I kicked it up a notch. I told them to sit down and not talk for five minutes. None of my students have been that quiet so fast since I have been here. Picture the principal from the Breakfast Club, only not dressed that nicely. I do like to do the 'I got you for two months' thing to myself.

later

What is going on....

2008-11-08T14:35:00.003-07:00

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/nBxi7SJmJhP60mZiHBvINg

I didn't check when I last wrote, but it does seems like it has been awhile. Things have been moving along. I am currently into my second weekend at the movie theater. Wow, it is hard work putting up with complete idiots - oh, I mean high school girls from the sticks. I did see a movie for free this week - it sucked. Eagle Eye, do not waste your time.

School has been getting stressful, but I do see a light. I have five more days of the first trimester, if I make it. I have two short weeks before digging in before Christmas break. I am getting my thoughts together and I am starting to feel good. I do not want to fail the kids I have for Language Arts, so I am doing everything in my power for them to get their grades up. I have my one student who is doing poorly, and his parents asked for extra credit. HA, I told them I would rather have him focus on the work I do hand out instead of extra work. I did have fun with my class on Friday. I realize that I have high expectations and am new at all of this stuff. I started throwing animal crackers around at kids. It was funny. I walked around and handed some out to each student. I have this one kid who is a quiet, cute little student that hardly makes a peep. She showed up at Saturday School with her mother for a moment. The girl is So shy, and I try everything with her. I said hello to her mother and her mother said that her daughter really liked my class. I was shocked. I tell these students enough of my life as a student for them to connect to what I am trying to do. I have decided that tomorrow is the day I start to wage my campaign on the next trimester. I forgot my keys today so I could not get into my classroom - me not happy!!

I shaved down to just a mustache this week - for giggles. I couldn't handle it for more then a day. The next day the students ALL said they missed it, and that I looked good with it. I was laughing so hard. One kid said I looked like cowboy. If I didn't have an earring. A cowboy with tattoos. He kept adding something else, very funny. I am still on the fence about shaving my head next week. It is a 50-50 split within my inner dialog.

I have come to terms on the fact that I am a novelty. I have not found anyone that is not from the area, or within a short drive from the area. One teacher is from California, but let us just say she is not friendly.

Going to have a little talk with the upstairs neighbor today or tomorrow. I moved my room AND have been woken up 8 out of the last 10 days. I am thinking an air horn will help get my point across. It is her kids room that is above me, so he might not realize that jumping on the floor at 5am is a bad thing. ;)

Anyone want to buy a nice house in Minneapolis? Hello?

Mr. Ryding you have two minutes until the doors close!!

2008-10-27T18:07:00.003-06:00

I kid you not, that is what I heard at the airport last night. The flight time got moved ahead 20 minutes. I am so glad that I plan out my time...I was fifty yards from the gate. Before I get ahead of myself....

This is my Playlist for the trip to Kansas. Most of it has to do with the titles of songs....people, places meaning and such. Here you go,

Tired Of Being Alone - Al Green
Lets Stay Together - Al Green
Blues At Sunrise - Albert King
Alabama Boy - Alice Peacock
Send My Heart Back Home - Alice Peacock
Ramblin' Man - The Allman Brothers Band
Let It Rain - Amanda Marshall
Fall From Grace - Amanda Marshall
Loneliness - Annie Lennox
Stay By Me - Annie Lennox
Non Stop Flight - Artie Shaw & His Orchestra
Don't Get Around Much Anymore - B.B. King
Tears Of Rage -The Band
The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - The Band
Hello City (acoustic) - Barenaked Ladies
With A Little Help From My Friends - The Beatles
Help! - The Beatles
Where The Trees Stand Still - Bebo Norman
Long Way Home - Bebo Norman
Song For Sunshine - Belle and Sebastian
Cadillac Man - Belushi - Aykroyd
This Time Of Year - Better Than Ezra
Another Man's Done Gone - Billy Bragg & Wilco
The Unwelcome Guest - Billy Bragg & Wilco
Wiser Time - The Black Crowes
Could I've Been So Blind - The Black Crowes
Part Of Your History - Blue Merle
Stir It Up - Bob Marley & The Wailers
I Will Not Be Broken - Bonnie Raitt
Papa Come Quick (Jody And Chico) - Bonnie Raitt
Take Me To You - Brad Hoshaw
With God On Our Side - The Brothers Frantzich
Fly Like an Eagle - The Brothers Frantzich
Rebel Boy - The Brothers Frantzich
Rainbow's Cadillac - Bruce Hornsby
Thunder Road - Bruce Springsteen
All Systems Red - Calexico
The First Cut Is The Deepest - Cat Stevens
Feels Like Home - Chantal Kreviazuk
Worked It Out Wrong - Chris Isaak
Clumsy - Chris Rice
God Put A Smile Upon Your Face - Coldplay
Friend of the Devil - Counting Crows
Cannonball - Damien Rice
Where Are You Going - Dave Matthews Band
Easy Way To Cry - David Gray
Never Enough - David Wilcox
Cry Me A River - Diana Krall
I'm Pulling Through - Diana Krall
Something's Got A Hold On Me - Etta James
Time Is A Healer - Eva Cassidy
Track 08 - Fiona Apple
Cold Day In The Sun - Foo Fighters
Fall Away - The Fray
Keep Your Hands To Yourself - The Georgia Satellites
I Dream A Highway - Gillian Welch
Going Through The Motions - Hall & Oates
Who Is Your Midwest Representation? - Happy Apple
I'm Goin' Home - Hootie & The Blowfish
Standing In The Sun - Howie Day
The Rooster Moans - Iron & Wine
Family Reunion - Jill Scott
Kansas City - Joey DeFrancesco
Goodbye Again - John Denver
Small Town - John Mellencamp
Point of Know Return - Kansas
Smile Like You Mean It - The Killers
The Other Side - Lenny Kravitz
The Wanderer - Marc Broussard
Things We've Handed Down - Marc Cohn
Track 03 - Marc Cohn
When You Go Home - Mark Schultz
Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Breathe - Melissa Etheridge
Cupid's Got A Brand New Gun - Michael Penn
One Moment More - Mindy Smith
Step Up To The Microphone - Newsboys
Carnival Town - Norah Jones
Comet - Omaha Opera House
Hard to Handle - Otis Redding
Alive - P.O.D.
Fly Away - Paul Wright
Life After Death - Paul Wright
Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
Amie - Pure Prairie League
Lesson Learned - Ray LaMontagne
Gone Away from Me - Ray LaMontagne
Jolene - Ray LaMontagne
Shattered - The Rolling Stones
Honey - Romantica
One More Day - Rosie Thomas
Something Changed - Sara Groves
Loving a Person - Sara Groves
Fly - Sara Groves
This Journey Is My Own - Sara Groves
Hello Lord - Sara Groves
Push - Sarah McLachlan
Do What You Have To Do - Sarah McLachlan
Beautiful Wreck - Shawn Mullins
Untitled 5 - Sigur Rós
It's Beginning To Get To Me - Snow Patrol
Headlights On Dark Roads - Snow Patrol
Pains To Life - Solomon's Porch
Shadows In The Rain - Sting
Consider Me Gone - Sting
Don't Let's Start - They Might Be Giants
Don't Bring Me Down - Tobymac
Still Here Waiting - Todd Agnew
This Fragile Breath - Todd Agnew
Get Back Up - Tom Cochrane
Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
Hopeless - Train
End Of The Line - Traveling Wilburys
Exit - U2
Undone (The Sweater Song) - Weezer
Will It Go Round In Circles - Billy Preston
Something's Gotta Give - Sammy Davis Jr.
Bittersweet - Big Head Todd & The Monsters
Catch My Disease (Live Version) - Ben Lee
Warning Sign - Coldplay
Paper Bag - Fiona Apple
A New Family - Colour Revolt
Slip Away (live) - The Muckrakers
Don't Take My Sunshine Away - Sparklehorse
(Don't Fear) The Reaper - The Caesars
Brother - Toad The Wet Sprocket

Yup, it was a good experience. I do not think anybody wants their family members to die, but my uncle was 'getting on' in years. I had not seen him since my father's funeral. The funeral was a small family affair. It was good to see my relatives from the area, who I see at these events. I will upload some pictures next go around. We went out to where my family had a farm back in the day. It was good to see how things were holding up. I am thinking about doing some paintings based on this trip. I did a quick sketch while we were out there. For all of the realities of life, I had a really fun time with the family. I almost feel like I have lost parts of my memory at times like this, because so much has happened and it is hard to believe the years that have passed before me.
The traveling part was interesting......and by that I mean - WHO makes the plane that small? The average person CAN NOT fit into these seats. It was an 'airlink' flight, four seats across. I was assigned the window seat. The smaller person next to me took the middle arm rest and sat close to me. Unbelieveable!! I am not looking forward to the flight back to Minnesota at Christmas. A little shout out to the friends that came out to the airport...THANK YOU!! It was great to see you and it meant a lot. I even had repeat customers. Thanks.

Well, time to get back down to business and focus on the rest of the tri-mester. I want my students to pass art. Yes, there are some that are not getting above a C. These are the ones that are trying for a bad grade. I try to tell them. I try to make it easy. Some lessons you can only learn for yourself. Not good. I have one kid that uses some naughty words, I corrected him AND the next thing out of his mouth was the EXACT same word. He left the class. The next student started to back talk out of the blue. I was FLOORED! I told him to stop , buuuuuuuuuttt no he just kept going. I told him to leave. I saw him waiting outside the class. I went out and informed him that he was to get his things and go to the office. It was not a good finish to the day. The topping was that I came to find out that the second kid never went to the office. If you ever wanted to know what a kid on fire smells like, come to my school tomorrow when I light him up. It is like the line from Cool Hand Luke, " What we have here is failure to communicate. I don't like this anymore than you do, ......"

Thanks for the long read. I start at the theater on Friday. I will be working 40+ hours Thanksgiving weekend, with time and a half on the day. I asked for a double shift. I was also told that I will be the ticket taker. She thought I would be good at that position. Letting people know what they can not bring in and enforcing it. I also get free movies and can bring a friend along. I know, NICE. Oh yeah, no friends.

BYE BYE

I wanted to tell you about my great Sunday

2008-10-21T19:36:00.002-06:00

I really plan on it. Today kind of took a turn, for the not so good. Looking back I kind of laugh, not a funny laugh mind you. I wrote a friend about my 'bad' day, and asked about hers. Truly, my day was not that bad. I got out of a ticket, which was going to be around $300. I was speeding, no proof of insurance and no registration in that car. I don't even know what that is, I do not get pulled over much. I can not remember much after that, so I will move on.

This morning I found out that my Uncle Stuart died. It was kind of a shock. We do not speak, but I kind of thought he would be out there, somewhere, forever. He is my father's older brother. I think the main reason I want to go to the funeral is to support my Aunt Pat, because she is the only one remaining from her family. I want to go for myself as well, but that is secondary. This might sound odd but I think it was good for me to speak with my students about this topic. I almost lost it when some of them started to share about their lose and could see that they understood. Yup, I am a big sucker when it comes to these type of emotional things. I told them they would have a sub, and that they were to be on their best behavior. I felt my hardest class of kids actually might have connected with me today. Why is it that when God moves, it washes over everything? This is not just one small event. Many things will be touched by this event. So, on Thursday morning I will be flying out of Idaho Falls and heading to Lindsborg, Kansas. Weddings and funerals, that is what we do as a family.

Anyways,

Here is my Sunday. I took a motorcycle ride outside of town. There is nothing like the open road and bugs in your teeth. I always forget to put my shield on. The weather was great and I wanted to get outside and relax. I went up into the hills, where they are starting to build subdivisions. I parked my bike on the last road and started to walk out into the fields. It was great. I felt like I was in the middle of nowhere. I heard animals and that was it. I was out there for a couple hours. I read a new book and did a couple drawings. When I got up to leave I put my earphones on, and saw all of this movement forty years away from me. There was a herd of deer that had been moving my way. Let me tell you, we were both surprised. They were White Tail Deer. It looks like they are pooping a feather. God does have a sense of humor.

Well, not sure I will write until next week. Light a candle or say a prayer this weekend for my Aunt and the rest of the family. Thanks in advance.

2008-10-18T14:07:00.000-06:00

I am doing a mortuary drive by……

Hello everyone, or the five or six of you. Things continue to go really well. I had a wonderful weekend, and started to read my non-fiction book. Who am I? I read non-fiction, listen to
K-LUV and have almost stopped swearing. I do not mean I am perfect BUT heck, I might even vote Democratic. I hope my family does not read that statement. I am just kind of tired of it ALL. I say that we fire ALL of the senators!! We shorten the term limits and re-vote. Can we do that? Sounds good, I think.

So, where were we in the story? I was going over the different types of sentences and saying them aloud. I actually thing the students in the first two row crapped their pants when I gave the example for exclamatory. Their little eyes popped open so wide. I believe the kiddos thought they had heard me raise my voice before, well I showed them. Even though language arts is challenging the students still connect with me. I went into another teachers class the other day and was just standing in the back watching for a couple minutes. I was about to leave when I heard one girl tell the other, quietly, that I was one of her favorite teachers. Isn’t that cute? It is SO my fault that it took this long to become a teacher. I actually went back for my education degree after my father died. I quit the program when I got the job at the design company. Hind sight is so clear.

So, anybody want to recommend a book for me? Or a movie they have rented lately? I just saw Driving Lessons last night. I like me the English movies, and for some reason Laura Linney. They had the right ideas, but bad execution. I really liked the music in the background.

Sorry, no pictures of the mustache!! I have got some comments. One teacher asked what I was doing with that “Thing” on my face. He said I could blend right in ….. oh yeah, my work here is done. I will try to get a pic before it gets crazy looking.

Oh yeah, I think I will be starting piano lesson next week!! I asked a teacher and she said yup - for free!!

Mortuary is not giving me a signal!!!

On Tap

2008-10-11T11:20:00.000-06:00

Here is what is on tap for my enjoyment this week(end)…………

Music: Otis Redding
Ella Fitzgerald
Flogging Molly
Billie Holiday
Black Crowes

Movies: Atonement
Midsomer Murders
The Queen
2001: a space odyssey
X-Files: Season Two

Reading: Long Way Down

That and my phone is up and running…..who should I call?

Um, what is that smell?

2008-10-10T15:05:00.002-06:00

So, the last two nights we had parent-teacher conferences. Some teachers were getting worked up, I still do not understand why. I actually had a great turnout. It was great to see the kids stand there and squirm when I spoke with their parents. It was fun to see families and get a better feel for the locals. The principal is wonderful about shutting the place down on time as well. I walk out of my room at 7:05. I saw one parent going down to my room when I was walking out, it was 7:25. That was the parent of my 'challenging' student.

I have today off, but I did go in for a couple hours to work on the mural in the 7th grade hall and do some online learning that was due earlier this week. There are a couple of 7th grade teachers that love to bust my chops for the wall that I am painting. I told one guy, who thinks he is a riot, that I could easily paint his head up there with a couple red circles around it. That was after his making comments for over a week, he has since been very polite. One woman kept making comments and I told her I had been at school for most of the weekend AND that I had not seen her once. She too has fallen in line. Ah, Mormons. The mural is starting to look good. I am mixing all of my colors - it takes time. That is also where the smell was coming from.....I was standing there painting and my mind wandered. I was thinking.....what was that smell. It came to me and I laughed.....remember when we were young and had to go to the dentist? That smell of the goop they put in your mouth, fluoride. Just like old times!!

My classes are going really well. My language arts class is still trying to get the best of me, HA those kids have no idea who they are dealing with!! I am trying my best to get the students to stop saying 'suck'. The last few nights I was surprised to hear the sounds of cows mooing when I left my classroom. There is nothing like small town life.

When conferences were finished last night a couple guys went out for beers. I have learned you can still smoke inside in the state of Idaho. There was a jukebox - and I LOVE a jukebox. I went up and was making my picks when I woman came up to me and said," I like your music picks here is some money, make a couple more." The guys gave me a lot of crap. It was fun. There was four of us, and one guy brought his girlfriend. BIG MISTAKE. The gym teacher, who has been at the school forever, got to talking about some issues at the school from the past. He is NOT Mormon, and the other guy's girlfriend is - see where I am going? I left the table to get another couple pitchers and could tell there was something just not right happening. She got up and left. We sat there. I was a little surprised and my buddy sat there - finished his beer and followed. When they were gone the gym teacher said - I can tell you who is not going to have sex tonight. Ah, just the fun of shooting the shit with a couple guys was a lot of fun. I am now going over to the gym teachers house to do some painting next week. $$

I will leave you with my Tuesday morning event. I got up at the crack of dawn 6am. I wanted to mail my bills and grab my coffee cup from the car. I walked down the block to the mail box, and noticed a light on. I thought to myself at least I wasn't the only one up right now. I go put my stuff in the mail box and look up at the light.....there in the window, with the shades open was a woman standing there naked. It didn't register with me at first and then I was like YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!! It was still dark out and it made her window look like a big screen tv. I told the story to the guys at school, they were like - I guess we know when you are going to be mailing your bills from now on.

The Mayor

Ok, who put this music on my shuffle??

2008-10-05T11:24:00.003-06:00

So, I spent the day in Jackson, Wyoming on Friday. What a beautiful drive. I rubber necked it a couple times. That and I learned to go the speed limit they post - taking the curves going downhill fast is fun, but I want to live. This is at the beginning of the Nation Park. I believe these are the Teton Mountains. I will be getting a year pass because I plan on spending time in them there mountains!! Who is with me??

This was my first drawing, from last week. I went out from my place a mile and pulled the car over to the side of the road. I also have a pencil drawing of this view. I have said this before but I think this move might make me an artist again. Maybe I will post my drawings and sell them for $20 bucks to make money...hehe I'll think about it.

I LOVE this sign. I always thought signs on the side of the road were to warn us of something to come...so, this must be warning me of the upcoming LDS church around the corner. This road is a short cut to work. This is also what it looks like around me most of the time.

I think Jen wanted to see what my place looked like, well what do you think?? I live under the stairs. I am the modern day Harry Potter, didn't he live under the stairs?? I really do like the place. It is close to everything. I have been to the library so much in the last 2-3 weeks that I already know my 14 digit card number by heart - so sad.

Odd things since I got here........I wear a baseball cap, I wear my seat belt more, I do not swear, oh what else.

Ok, the title of this post....really I just got my shuffle working again and I have no idea who half of this music is singing to me. I like it but did somebody do this to me??

later, more pictures to come.

I am giving you a break, really.

2008-10-01T21:12:00.003-06:00

I have the rest of the week 'off' of school, so I am going to try and get out of town. I got a digital camera from school soooooooooooo be looking for some photos this weekend or something.

Things continue to go well at school. I am helping with Learning Lab after school on Tuesday and Thursdays. These are the students struggling in Math or English. I also said I would take the lead in Saturday School. By doing these two things I will not have to work retail or at B&N. I can not tell you happy that makes me. That and I will get more experience within the school. Here are my stories from our first after school session........I go over to quiet a kid down for the second time. This small child calls me, no joke - BOY. I gave him my best unhappy face and asked him if he would like to start over. I let him know that he could call me Sir, Mr. Ryding or the guy who is going to call your parents!!

Ok, I took a 24 hour break. People call, so I have to run for the broken phone.

Where was I? As to a previous post about my class and religion, I knew it was thin ice but I told the student that I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. This is also the student that want to do a routine in my class - he wants to do shtick. I was dying on the inside when he asked if he could open class with a joke. I might let him do it on Fridays.

My plans for going to Jackson are slipping away. It is supposed to be cold and rainy. That is not good motorcycle weather.

I found out today that I was actually picked over other applicants. They had two local people that were interviewed, but that the principal wanted me. I KNOW!! Doesn't that just kill you? I was surprised to learn that as well. My mentor told me today, we were almost the only teachers at school. Sad thing is that I might go back tomorrow. I got so much done today, the students will not know what hit them. I am a grading machine. Dunes, I realize I write poorly BUT these kids need me to be at my best to get them to the next level.

Ok, movie reviews since the last time............

Papillon - McQueen, Hoffman come on. I like looking at the other actors, like seeing the cook from the TV Show Alice. It wasn't the best, but it was fun to watch those two great actors.
Raising Helen - Why do they keep making movies like this? AND why in the heck am I watching them???
Columbo (Season 1) - How can you not like Peter Falk?
Cinema Paradiso - I will be watching that during the next 24 hours.

Yes, I do like a wide variety.

Mrs. JB, do you have faith in me?

Pictures to come.........

Oh, Come on.

2008-09-29T20:47:00.002-06:00

So, I have been without a phone for a week. My favorite Qwest employee, Camille, has informed me that I might be able to do the switch Friday. I am thinking that Monday will be my lucky day. Each person that has called, thank you. I would make an attempt to call, but the thought of putting my mouth close to a public telephone - yup, a little vomit.

Here I am. Adjusting to life in this state. I will tell you something funny. I have a couple friends who like to do the online dating thing, I myself can not bring myself to do it. The other night I had nothing better to do - so, I went to a couple sites and put in my town. PEOPLE, whichever one of you who thinks I am going to meet somebody here......punch in the town I live in!!! I have a better chance at so many other things happening before me finding somebody here. Let us move on.

This year has been something. I am starting to feel like an adult, a little. Having a job in my field, and not three part time jobs is a start. Have to make the decision to move, wow. It has been a good year. I have even karaoked in public, and think it all started at Britt's goodbye party. I blame that night. With three months left in the year I sit here and wonder what will happen next. I have an idea. No, I am not trying to be secretive about anything - I'll let you know in January.

It is nice to meet brand new people. Like I have said before, I have not gone to school with them or their family....their parents have not gone to school or church with my parents....I haven't dated any or their friends. What a nice feeling.

I brought the crown to school today and put it on my paper mache head. The kids laughed. I tell that they better hope I do not put it on. My hard class was great today. I didn't hold them after the bell - first time in a week. They are starting to respond. Now I just have to start teaching sentence structure - alright, just laugh and get it out of your system.

Raise a glass to the king!!

Sending this one out................

2008-09-27T20:50:00.002-06:00

This is a shout out to the Summer of '08!! I am not sure how the stars played a part, but it was a summer to remember. The next Manville Party is going to be celebrating Christmas, details to come.

Me boy, the big cats never have a chance!!

The King

2008-09-27T12:50:00.002-06:00

That is what I am. During my cross country trek I picked a crown, never knowing it would come in handy. I have been a little crazy over the last couple days, if you have received an email from me - I am getting used to 90 kids looking at me all day long.

I am getting used to this life. I just wrote a friend that all I would need now is six guys, lots of beer and a ping pong table in my garage. I would feel selfish after all of that if I were to ask for a woman too.

I might need to read the manual again on the school. One of my classes started to talk about church things. I asked a girl about it and she said it was a Mormon thing. I replied that I had figured that part out and wanted to know more. One of my students asked me that if I was not a Mormon - what was I?? My Language Arts class is not going well. I need to pull a couple kids out for testing and for some reason they will not listen. I told them that I had no problem with them sitting with their heads down on the table for 30 minutes and not talking. I will figure out what to do, for I am the King. Let's just say that they had no grades in the book before I got there - wonder what the last teacher was doing with them? I just thought of this, I might bring them into the gym and have them run laps. The gym teacher would fall over laughing.

As to the comment about my new friends. I went to the high school football game last night. It was good to see the locals, not sure if they liked seeing me. It was also good to see some of my students outside of class.

Oh, did I already tell you that I met the female half of the Idaho Falls wrestling team? My neighbor from upstairs introduced herself to me last night. I have a cute neighbor. I am wondering at what part of our new friendship I should bring up the fact that I hear her having sex?? Any thoughts. Could be a good ice breaker.

I always forget what I want to write about.

We shouldn't talk here........

2008-09-24T19:38:00.002-06:00

Don't you love when a conversation starts like that?? We should get together later and have the LDS talk. As the two of us sat there looking around at the people that were trying not to watch us. I felt like Mulder, when the smoking man would come out of nowhere. Well, I have found my gang. A couple guys that have been thrown together for being nonbelievers. Lord, how did I get here?? It is pretty funny. I had a lady make an off the cuff remark about asking for forgiveness and I shot back the God I pray to is laughing right now because he knows me and I make Him smile.

Thing continue to move along. I do not have a phone right now, hopefully by the weekend. Qwest is trying to make me angry. So, email or write. I got my first letter yesterday, from the Postal Service. I should have a working phone by Monday at the latest, or Oct. 6th if things do not go my way. I will still have the same number.

I think the hair is coming off. I need to put just a little healthy fear into some of these kids. It is shocking. I actually think that I will be up and running with lesson plans, unit plans and hand outs by Oct.5 That makes me happy.

I watch dvds on the computer, 1st seasons of L&O Criminal Intent, Seinfeld and Northern Exposure. I know, the good life.

This art teacher thing is pretty funny stuff. I enjoy painting and I can draw if I put my mind to it for a while BUT man I do fast contour line drawings on the board for these kids and they are amazed. I tell them that if they paid what I have for school I better be able to draw better then others at Pictionary!!

Who else wants to be a Follower?? Show the love people.

Was today Monday?

2008-09-22T19:35:00.002-06:00

Holy Crap, what a day. The students are doing their best to kill me. I was at a meeting last week for first year teachers. A principal said that you want your students to like you, heck even love you. He said this because this is the age where students start to bring guns to school. He said the students LOVE him, so he doesn't have to worry about being shot. I just sat there. I was laughing inside at the comment and how matter of fact he was about the whole topic. I thought if one of my prepubescent students had the where with all to get a gun out of their pocket and shot before I could get to them - Good for them, but so help that child who is one step slower for he will not see the light of day for a very long time. Just the thought gives me a bad feeling. So I am working on all of my students loving me. :)

Here is the movie list of the weekend...
Pushing Tin - I do like me the John Cusack guy, but WOW did this suck.
Regarding Henry - I got to get me some of that. It was still a good flick.
Terms of Endearment - First time watching this film. Man does Shirley MacLaine remind me of my ex-mother in law. In a good way, mainly looks.
1408 - Again, John Cusack. It could have been so much better. There were some moments.
The Guns of Navarone - Gregory Peck, David Niven and Anthony Quinn, please. The funny thing was that I kind of felt man on man love - which is funny for the time period and topic.
When Harry Met Sally - It was to be my perfect Saturday morning pick, but it didn't work. Dame good movie.

This is what happens when the weekend comes.

The lady upstairs started the week out right, boo!! That goodness they were on the clock. I made eye contact with her yesterday for the first time and again this evening before leaving for the library.

Still need a TV.
A lady at school wanted to know how I was single, anybody want to give her an answer??

I am alright with being alone.

2008-09-20T13:22:00.002-06:00

That is until I start hearing the person above me having, oh what can I call it, SEX!! At first you think - nah, that can not be what I - wait a minute. Oh hell, it is. Hearing the bed squeak is almost funny. That is until you realize you will not be sleeping until they are sleeping. Thank goodness because they must have had a tight time frame.

Oh well. I have survived the first week. So many things, so much stuff and the students - wow. I love it. If I can focus on the task at hand I believe it will be amazing. Right now we are working on the color wheel and lines. I want to figure out where they are at, because they had so many different teachers teaching whatever they wanted. I am going to jazz up the walls in my room. I am also going to quietly go through the cupboards of other classrooms.

Maybe next week I will link to some writing examples for all to enjoy.

Sitting in the library is the high point of my day.

Ending on a high note, it will be cheap to buy my co-workers a round because most of them can not drink. Oh, I laughed so hard at that line in Burn After Reading.

First Round of Photos

2008-09-18T17:48:00.004-06:00

So, this is the parking lot of the place where we rented the rental truck. The weather was great, and I saw a coupon in the rental place.....so got four tokens. When was the last time you have taken swings in a batting cage?? I can not remember, but it was so much fun. We thought if the remaining guys could come out, we would grab a couple cases and make a game of it. I am just happy I didn't pull a muscle.
This is a building in downtown Idaho Falls, in the historic district. I was kind of hoping that the lounge was still open for business. This building would be a huge hit back in my town. I can picture it now. The photographer just loved to try and get me in the picture. How cool would it be to go to the Bonneville for a beverage??
Come on, can't you just see a clock tower on this building?? It so made me think of Back to the Future. Doc and Marty charging the Flexcapasitor (how do you spell that word). That and after going in the basement of the building to get my utilities hooked up - felt like a Coen brothers movie. There are no pictures but trust me when I say you can not make this stuff up.

I was just as surprised as you to find out that this little town was the birthplace of television. We took the tour at the museum, and Chucko got a t-shirt. You will want to see more pictures from this place.

So today was another day. The students are getting used to me, and I am getting used to teaching language arts. The was one word on my spelling pre-test today that I skipped because I was not sure I would use it right in a sentence. So funny. I sent a couple kids out of the room today - they still want to test me. I am still unsure how the year is going to go because they have nothing for me. I am making a wish list but am unsure what will happen. I have white paper and crayons, no joke. I am not asking for much...glue sticks, scissors, art books, things to hang on the walls, sketch books and such.

Getting a new phone next week, same number. Moving into the FREE Blackberry. Camille is helping me at Qwest, she is over in Boise.

Still taking reservations for late fall and winter months. ;)

The Baptism Begins

2008-09-16T17:48:00.005-06:00

What a day. If I had anything else to do, I would be doing it. I forgot to pack the TV - boo. OK, so here is what I remember.....

I taught the first class of the day, but thought I was going to team teach to get used to it before I took over. That teacher was so happy to inform me that she was not going to be in the room. Three students were added today, which should add to the level of fun. When I found myself still alive after the bell rang I bumped into a group of other teachers, one said that I was taking her fourth hour class. I guess everyone was going to be playing dump on the new guy. I was ready. I said it was nice to meet her, BUT unless she was the principal I did not have a fourth hour on my schedule today. I went on to find out that the lady in the office wanted to hand over my whole schedule TODAY! I told her that I just got my class room, I just set the new tables up, I still can not get onto my computer AND I have NO art supplies. I said if she wanted to give me the classes I would be playing the game of "Put Your Head On The Desk Until I Turn The Lights Back On" They laughed, I said "What, you have never heard of that game"

Yes, my grammar and spelling might improve - we shall see.

Got all of my paper work finished at the district office, and even went and got my finger prints done. Met a nice lady cop. I asked my usual questions. The bank turned my check into cash, so sweet. The post office will have my keys ready tomorrow. Start the letter writing people!! Because Me so lonely. I think I might need to buy a fishing poll.

The other night I went to Target to feel like I was at home. I started to joke around with another lady there, but I started to laugh on my own when every time I ran into her in the store she had another kid with her. Yikes!!

So far this is the first place in my life where someone does not know anybody that I know, or am related to.

I had photos for you today, but where did they go???

I love this. I really feel great about coming out here. This should be a great year, for the students and for me. Oh yeah, they saw the tats today. One class wanted to talk about them and I told them possibly at a later time.

Homecoming this weekend in Rigby - GO TROJANS!!!!

A correction from yesterday - it is called Bowl-ero.

The Mayor

First Day of School

2008-09-15T17:30:00.002-06:00

So, here we go again people. This is going to be the true story of my first year of teaching in another state. The great moments and the ones that make me scratch my head as well.

I really liked my first day. I could have used a nap at around 11am, but my energy will build. Since I arrived here last Friday I have had a sense of calm - which is odd because I felt like throwing up every day before I left Minneapolis. When I get a chance I will attach some photos from the last weekend that Charley took before he left. My first impression is that I really like my town. Great old buildings, stores and development happening everywhere. I have a movie theater, a Best Buy, Target and a cool bowling alley. What more could I ask for??

Tomorrow I take over one art class, of kids that almost cried when they heard they were getting another teacher. Ah, for once not my drama. I also take over my one language arts class, where to begin. The teacher was just filler, and thought she was going to be there a week SOOOOO she was not following a lesson plan. That class will be a challenge, wait who am I kidding ALL of the classes will be a challenge. I am going to really enjoy this, but will be very tired at the end of each day. I am going to look into after school teaching/ tutor opportunities as a part time job, only because the pay is way better. If it was not I would be working at Bowl- arama down the street and perfecting my game.

So far my neighbors are not showing me Minnesota nice, and I hope that the heels I heard on my kitchen ceiling after work were from a woman. ; ) Anybody know if Naughty Catholic translates into naughty Mormon?? Just kidding.

I will try and do this 2-3 times a week. I hope you enjoy this window into life outside of Minneapolis. This will not be as drama heavy as past blogs, who knows who will be reading.

The Mayor