Well-it's officially been over 2 months since I last blogged and A LOT has happened. Most importantly and probably the most exciting news is that Kyle and I found out on October 13th that we are going to be parents! We are expecting our first child on June 22nd, 2 days after our 2nd anniversary. We are SO extremely excited and have waited a long time for this to happen. We went to the doctor for the first time the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, where we got to hear the heartbeat and actually see the baby on an ultrasound. Our doctor is so great and he even did some 3D ultrasound pictures for us that day also! I don't know if I've ever been more emotional. It's crazy to think that there is this little thing living inside me, but it's starting to sink in more and more. We had another appointment last Wednesday, but this time we only got to hear the heartbeat-it was 152 (apparently this is code for boy). I was bummed that we didn't get to have another ultrasound but the exciting news we got at the appointment made up for it-we will find out the gender of the baby on January 19th (approx. 3 weeks, but who's counting? =). We've been trying to plan ahead and have been buying diapers here and there, so we have a good stock. We also went for the selfless Christmas gift this year from Kyle's parents and asked them to combine our Christmas present with the baby shower gift. They agreed and purchased our nursery furniture for us. It was supposed to be on backorder for 5 weeks and arriving right about now, but instead it showed up less than a week after they ordered it after Thanksgiving. The good news is that everything except the crib came already put together. We haven't put the crib up yet because we're going to be getting new carpet after winter. I told my class at school and they were so excited. They've even started helping me decide on names-some of my favorites were Darth Vader, Mario, Luigi, and Princess Leia. Needless to say I think this will be a decision I won't consider their input on. I got some great gifts from my students this year for Christmas-gift cards to Baby Gap, Gymboree, Motherhood Maternity, and even some baby clothes and toys. We've definitely got more things than I thought we would by now, but I'm assuming that's just going to get worse once my mom finds out what it is. She's super excited!
Also exciting for me is the conclusion of my master's program. I now am a Master of Education. I finished classes the first week of December and officially graduated December 18th. I was going to attend commencement but cancelled because I was deathly sick that whole weekend. I still got my diploma and will hopefully get a pay raise next year for completing the program. It's such a relief to have it over with. I'm definitely glad I started it when I did.
I could post about a lot more, but those are the two biggies for now. My goal is to be better at blogging so bear with me. I am trying. Until next time....
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Perks of Being a Teacher
So I'm starting to experience the much dreaded report cards and parent-teacher conferences that all my friends have complained about and dread doing twice a year. Report cards are due next Wednesday for us and I have yet to start, so from what it sounds like I'll be doing those all weekend. Oh well, as crazy as it sounds I'm looking forward to this first experience, although it might be the only time I look forward to doing report cards. We'll see how it goes.
Now I'm wondering why I decided to hold parent-teacher conferences. Since the State of Indiana took away teacher professional development days a year ago, West Lafayette decided that they would leave it up to the teacher to do conferences-which is really nice and extremely different than what my friends in TSC have to go through. Still being the goody-good person that hates to let people down (my kids' parents), I decided to have conferences. We have one day for Fall Break next Friday, so I decided I wanted to get them done before then. So I gave the parents a scheduled time and I'm only meeting with parents for 20 minutes each until 5:30 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. I told them if they can't make their time it has to be rescheduled for one of those 3 days. I want to be done with them after Wednesday night. Luckily, most of the times have worked out and a few said they don't really feel the need to meet. =) I've gotten some really nice emails from some of my parents thanking me for holding conferences-they said they know it's all out of my own personal time and they really appreciate my graciousness. Haha-guess I'm getting brownie points. Still, I can't help but think that I would expect the same thing from my child's teacher someday. I mean everything aside, we are still teachers and we need to be looking in the best interest of the kids. I'll let you know how they go.
2 weeks ago, Kyle sold his truck and got a newer, updated style that he is IN LOVE with. He sold his 99 Ford outright and we actually made some money on it which was nice. We went looking because it sold so quickly and he found a 07 Chevy Silverado that's a brownish color and has leather interior, 4 door, a sunroof (totally unnecessary, but he wanted it if he could find it), and his favorite feature-the input to plug his iPhone into the stereo so it plays directly into the car (like my car does). It was a little bit more than I wanted to spend, but he really wasn't finding anything remotely close to what he liked, and well he had to have a truck because I for sure was not going to drive his toosh to work at 5:30 in the morning. So he now has a new baby and washes it and cleans it out almost every other day. After we broke down and bought it I asked him what he thought and if he was excited. He said he's never been so excited because he never thought he'd have a truck this nice that was exactly what he wanted. Definitely brought a smile to my heart. He doesn't hold high enough hopes, and goals, and dreams for himself sometimes, so I was so happy to be able to help him get his dream. And of course the dogs are loving have their own full window to roll down when they go for a ride with us. All in all, that's the only thing that matters with us-if our dogs are happy.
Last weekend we went to Bluefin with some of my besties from Hershey and their husbands. It was so nice to see everyone and catch up. I realized how much I miss those girls. My job now would be perfect if they all came to Cumberland, but I doubt that will happen.
I am definitely ready for next weekend to be here because we don't have school on Friday for our Fall Break which has seemed extremely far out. I'm going to try and get all my stuff done on Friday here at the house and for work because Saturday we are going to venture up to Chicago to see my ultimate bestest, Jackie and her...wait for it...husband, Alex. I'm so excited to go up there and see their place post wedding gifts and for Kyle to go to the big city. He hasn't been up there with me to Jackie's ever. I know he's a little nervous about going into a big city-he's not at all a fan of the traffic and all the people-but he is excited to get away for awhile and see their new place. Also wanted to give a big shout out and congratulations to Alex for passing his BAR exam!! He's now in the process of looking for jobs and I know he'll land a great one! We're so proud of you!!
I guess that's it for now. As much as I hate this colder weather, I am super excited and can't wait for Thanksgiving and the day after! This is my favorite time of year. I love the holiday season and just the overall mood that it sets. It doesn't hurt that there will be an insane amount of amazing food! I LOVE shopping the day after Thanksgiving to get good deals and just watch the people-it's always so interesting. Not yet sure what mom and I will do this year. Whatever it is I know it'll be a good time.
Now I'm wondering why I decided to hold parent-teacher conferences. Since the State of Indiana took away teacher professional development days a year ago, West Lafayette decided that they would leave it up to the teacher to do conferences-which is really nice and extremely different than what my friends in TSC have to go through. Still being the goody-good person that hates to let people down (my kids' parents), I decided to have conferences. We have one day for Fall Break next Friday, so I decided I wanted to get them done before then. So I gave the parents a scheduled time and I'm only meeting with parents for 20 minutes each until 5:30 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. I told them if they can't make their time it has to be rescheduled for one of those 3 days. I want to be done with them after Wednesday night. Luckily, most of the times have worked out and a few said they don't really feel the need to meet. =) I've gotten some really nice emails from some of my parents thanking me for holding conferences-they said they know it's all out of my own personal time and they really appreciate my graciousness. Haha-guess I'm getting brownie points. Still, I can't help but think that I would expect the same thing from my child's teacher someday. I mean everything aside, we are still teachers and we need to be looking in the best interest of the kids. I'll let you know how they go.
2 weeks ago, Kyle sold his truck and got a newer, updated style that he is IN LOVE with. He sold his 99 Ford outright and we actually made some money on it which was nice. We went looking because it sold so quickly and he found a 07 Chevy Silverado that's a brownish color and has leather interior, 4 door, a sunroof (totally unnecessary, but he wanted it if he could find it), and his favorite feature-the input to plug his iPhone into the stereo so it plays directly into the car (like my car does). It was a little bit more than I wanted to spend, but he really wasn't finding anything remotely close to what he liked, and well he had to have a truck because I for sure was not going to drive his toosh to work at 5:30 in the morning. So he now has a new baby and washes it and cleans it out almost every other day. After we broke down and bought it I asked him what he thought and if he was excited. He said he's never been so excited because he never thought he'd have a truck this nice that was exactly what he wanted. Definitely brought a smile to my heart. He doesn't hold high enough hopes, and goals, and dreams for himself sometimes, so I was so happy to be able to help him get his dream. And of course the dogs are loving have their own full window to roll down when they go for a ride with us. All in all, that's the only thing that matters with us-if our dogs are happy.
Last weekend we went to Bluefin with some of my besties from Hershey and their husbands. It was so nice to see everyone and catch up. I realized how much I miss those girls. My job now would be perfect if they all came to Cumberland, but I doubt that will happen.
I am definitely ready for next weekend to be here because we don't have school on Friday for our Fall Break which has seemed extremely far out. I'm going to try and get all my stuff done on Friday here at the house and for work because Saturday we are going to venture up to Chicago to see my ultimate bestest, Jackie and her...wait for it...husband, Alex. I'm so excited to go up there and see their place post wedding gifts and for Kyle to go to the big city. He hasn't been up there with me to Jackie's ever. I know he's a little nervous about going into a big city-he's not at all a fan of the traffic and all the people-but he is excited to get away for awhile and see their new place. Also wanted to give a big shout out and congratulations to Alex for passing his BAR exam!! He's now in the process of looking for jobs and I know he'll land a great one! We're so proud of you!!
I guess that's it for now. As much as I hate this colder weather, I am super excited and can't wait for Thanksgiving and the day after! This is my favorite time of year. I love the holiday season and just the overall mood that it sets. It doesn't hurt that there will be an insane amount of amazing food! I LOVE shopping the day after Thanksgiving to get good deals and just watch the people-it's always so interesting. Not yet sure what mom and I will do this year. Whatever it is I know it'll be a good time.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
So This is What it's Like
It has officially been forever since I last posted. Things have definitely gone from crazy to crazier! I started my new job as a 1st grade teacher at Cumberland, which is the main reason I haven't blogged in so long. My life has virtually been dedicated to my job 24/7 for the last month. Don't get me wrong I love my job, but I never realized how much time and effort it took to be a teacher. I finally know what it's like and why all the teachers I know are always exhausted and never stop working. I've posted some final pictures of my classroom for you all to see. The kids love it!
As some might know, Kyle and I have been trying to start a family since last November without success-obviously. So I made an appointment with the OBGYN to discuss what are options were. I went to a completely new doctor since my original OBGYN moved to Lebanon. I really like the guy and he got started with some tests right away, which I was grateful for. Not really sure what the tests were, but I know they were basic and just required my blood being drawn. We go back on the 6th to go over the results and run some more tests. He was good with explaining everything to us. I had Kyle go so that he could kind of see what goes on at the appointments and hear what the doctor has to say. He just thinks I'm full of it sometimes so it was interesting for him to hear everything and realize that I'm not overreacting and giving him false information. He's super excited about the "sample" that he will be asked to give at some point. I try to remind him that it's all for the greater good and our overall goal. I'm hoping that it's nothing to serious and can be an easy solution. I'm trying not to be too pessimistic and more optimistic but it's hard. It's hard when it's something that you have absolutely no control over and can't just make it happen. Hopefully we'll have some answers soon.
I'll keep you posted.
Hope everyone is having a great start to fall-my favorite season!
The view into the classroom from the door
The calendar area and computer center-there are now computers on the long table
The front of the room with my SmartBoard-this thing is the best invention ever!
The reading corner-the kids love the tent!
My desk
Part of the back of the room
The year has gone really pretty great so far. I really can't complain much. The first day was crazy, but the kids all survived and made it home alive. The second day was by far my worst day due to a note from a crazy parent and one of my boys got on the wrong bus to go home. Luckily, that night we had tickets to see Jeff Dunham at the State Fair, so I was cheered up by the time I went to bed that night. It was a great show and we definitely laughed until we cried. He's a hilarious guy and Walter did not disappoint. As for the crazy parent-she still sends me a note almost daily and is constantly concerned about her child and his academic progress, which makes me realize she is going to be on my back all year long. If that's the worst that I've got out of my 21 kiddos, then I think I'm good. I only have one girl that is truly challenging for me to handle every day and I'm working with her mom to try and get something figured out for her. All in all, it's been going good. I'm getting more and more confident in my routine and what I want to do and accomplish each day, as well as the kids. I finally got 2 student computers Friday, so I was really excited. I was promised these the first week of school and that clearly did not happen. The corporation is great and my principal totally has my back 100% which is a relief. I have a great building mentor, Kathy, who has given me so much and helped me out more than I could ever thank her for. I'd definitely be lost without her. We had our first field trip to the Indianapolis Zoo on the 16th and that went really well. The weather was perfect and the zoo was not packed at all. I was totally nervous and expecting to forget something, but it went without a hitch. I had 8 parent chaperones which is amazing! I didn't even have to take any kids which was a nice break.
Guitar Man opening for Jeff Dunham
Walter
Peanut and Jose the Jalepeno
As some might know, Kyle and I have been trying to start a family since last November without success-obviously. So I made an appointment with the OBGYN to discuss what are options were. I went to a completely new doctor since my original OBGYN moved to Lebanon. I really like the guy and he got started with some tests right away, which I was grateful for. Not really sure what the tests were, but I know they were basic and just required my blood being drawn. We go back on the 6th to go over the results and run some more tests. He was good with explaining everything to us. I had Kyle go so that he could kind of see what goes on at the appointments and hear what the doctor has to say. He just thinks I'm full of it sometimes so it was interesting for him to hear everything and realize that I'm not overreacting and giving him false information. He's super excited about the "sample" that he will be asked to give at some point. I try to remind him that it's all for the greater good and our overall goal. I'm hoping that it's nothing to serious and can be an easy solution. I'm trying not to be too pessimistic and more optimistic but it's hard. It's hard when it's something that you have absolutely no control over and can't just make it happen. Hopefully we'll have some answers soon.
I'll keep you posted.
Hope everyone is having a great start to fall-my favorite season!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
It Keeps Getting Better
Mr. & Mrs. Dimitt
They beautiful bride-she looked absolutely stunning!
The bride and her mom....Diane looked like a fox!
The best friend a girl could ask for-my sister
All the bridesmaids after getting our hair done
The bride and groom to be at the rehearsal
So July 31st my best friend got married! I thought, being her matron of honor, I would be an emotional wreck. I surprised myself and did much better than I thought I would at the wedding. I definitely think I cried more while I was typing my speech for the reception-although I did cry a lot while I was giving my speech. Although it rained that day (they say that's supposed to be good luck), it was a beautiful weekend! The bride and groom dazzled and had a bunch of great family and friends there to support them and party. I know I did my fair share of partying, but I've waited two whole years for this. I'm so happy for you Jackie and Alex and hope your weekend was nothing short of what you dreamed of. You both deserve it.
The Monday before the wedding I got a phone call from Hershey's new principal asking me if I'd be interested in filling one of my friends' maternity leave. I went in Tuesday and accepted a maternity leave for my dear friend, Sally, until mid-October. Of course I was still praying something full time would come up. Luckily it did-I received a phone call from Cumberland the following Tuesday for a 2nd interview (I had a 1st at the end of June). I went in for my interview Wednesday and was SO nervous because let's face it-there was A LOT riding on this interview. I needed this job. The interview as intense and I had a few moments I wish went better. I went home frustrated and freaking out that I had ruined it all. Apparently I didn't because Kim, the principal, called me later that afternoon to offer me a 1st grade position at Cumberland Elementary in West Lafayette Schools. I cannot even begin to explain the relief and weight that I felt lifted off my shoulders at that moment. Luckily Kyle stayed home that day and was right there to share my happy news with. I am SO excited that a-I got a job and b-I finally get my own classroom and c-in a wonderful school corp that seems to have it together. I went in Friday to get my keys and start the moving process, which I hope I will NEVER have to do again-as I'm sure my parents and Kyle hope as well. They have all been great in helping me move and get things settled in. My mom has been my saving grace though and has been the best helper in the world in so many ways. I don't think I could've gotten everything done had it not been for her. Since that Friday, I have spent everyday in my classroom for anywhere from 10-14 hours. I'm exhausted, but I'm also not complaining because I have a job. My room is finally almost done-just a few things left to hang-I'll post pictures soon.
Things seem to have a weird way of working out. I never thought in the HUGE pool of unemployed teachers that I would be the one to get a job. I feel so truly blessed. Someone is definitely watching over me. Mom is convinced I have a guardian angel. I'm hoping she's right and that guardian angel will finally bless us soon with what we've been trying 8 1/2 months for. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
As excited as I am about my job, I am sad that summer break is officially over. We have our first teacher workday tomorrow and students come back on Tuesday. Summer just never seems to be long enough. Already looking forward to the fun holidays that are just around the corner-Halloween, Thanksgiving (Mmm) and Christmas (Mmmm). LOVE this time of year!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Trying to stay hopeful...
Wow! It's been forever since I've blogged. In my defense I typed a whole thing up a month or two ago and went to submit it and it deleted the whole post. I didn't want to spend another 20 minutes typing everything out, so I decided I'd wait. A lot has happened since April. I have officially been RIFed from TSC and am now unemployed which is still so surreal. I'm still wanting to enjoy my summer and not do anything, but Kyle keeps reminding me that I don't get that luxury because I'm no longer an employed teacher. I guess the truth hurts. I was surprised at how well I did the last week of school. I think everyone knows I tend to be a very emotional person so I was worried how bad I would be that last week. I honestly think I had plenty of time to worry and fret over it the last two months of school that when the time came, I was just ready to be done and move on. Don't get me wrong, as soon as I walked into school that last day I was bawling, but I held strong while the kids were there. Reality really hit when I loaded up my car with the last of my things to take over to store in my parents pole barn. Thank god for them because I don't know what I would do with all my stuff. I feel bad for invading their privacy again, but very grateful that we don't have to pay for a storage unit.
I successfully completed my real estate course in April and passed the state test in May after much struggle! I waited until school got out to start looking at real estate companies. I interviewed at Keller Williams and Tucker. Both are great companies but for me it really just came down to which option was the lower risk at this point in my unemployed life. So I signed with FC Tucker about 2 weeks ago. I really liked Keller Williams and what they had to offer but it would have been a lot of out of pocket cost up front from me and I wasn't willing to take that financial risk right now. Things have gone slow so far. It's all something very new to me that I don't know a whole lot about. I'm not really sure who to talk to or who to trust, so I've been more timid than I usually am. Luckily today, two of the other realtors took me under their wing and showed me some things and answered some of my lingering questions. I've got a few leads on clients that I need to look into, but no official listings or sales yet. I think it has potential, but realize it is slow getting started and with the economy the way it is makes it even tougher! Keep me in mind though if you want to buy or sell a house!
In addition to the real estate gig I'm tutoring two girls this summer for some extra money. It's an easy hour a day of work for some decent money. I did get a phone call from my boss when I worked at Wonderful Weekdays at Cumberland. There's apparently a 1st grade position opening at Cumberland and she wanted to give me a heads up to get my resume in there. I took it over on Monday, so I'm waiting to hear something back. Hopefully I will. That would definitely relieve my mind a TON!
On June 2nd we celebrated Tucker's 2nd birthday! Well, I did-Kyle totally forgot until I gave him crap at 10 o'clock that night. Poor Tucker. The boys are doing well. They are not liking all the humidity we have been experiencing lately. Zeke especially just cannot take the heat. He is getting so big though. Kyle just weighed him yesterday and he's up to about 120 and still isn't even a year and a half old! They are both such good boys though and I don't know what we'd do without them. They have been one of my few sources of happiness over the last couple of months.
I had Jackie's bridal shower this past weekend! It went really well! I don't think I ever realized how much preparation, time and effort go into those things, but I definitely have a lot more appreciation for the people who throw them now. It was a lot of work but definitely worth it. Everything turned out great! She had a great turnout and got some great gifts. I'm so excited for her and glad that her big day is quickly approaching. She's going to be an amazing bride!
We really haven't done much that's very exciting-just trying to get things done around the house like finish landscaping, lay rock, paint the porch and shed, etc. We're trying to make it look nicer. I've been reading a lot more which always makes me happier! I'm reading all the Twilight books for a second time now. Getting ready to start Breaking Dawn tonight! I finally got Jackie hooked on them! Haha! She tried to avoid it as long as she could and I think I finally drove her nuts enough to give them a try. I'm definitely ready for the movie Eclipse to come out! Kyle does not share my enthusiasm but I expect him to be there with me on opening night. Haha! We'll see how that goes.
I successfully completed my real estate course in April and passed the state test in May after much struggle! I waited until school got out to start looking at real estate companies. I interviewed at Keller Williams and Tucker. Both are great companies but for me it really just came down to which option was the lower risk at this point in my unemployed life. So I signed with FC Tucker about 2 weeks ago. I really liked Keller Williams and what they had to offer but it would have been a lot of out of pocket cost up front from me and I wasn't willing to take that financial risk right now. Things have gone slow so far. It's all something very new to me that I don't know a whole lot about. I'm not really sure who to talk to or who to trust, so I've been more timid than I usually am. Luckily today, two of the other realtors took me under their wing and showed me some things and answered some of my lingering questions. I've got a few leads on clients that I need to look into, but no official listings or sales yet. I think it has potential, but realize it is slow getting started and with the economy the way it is makes it even tougher! Keep me in mind though if you want to buy or sell a house!
In addition to the real estate gig I'm tutoring two girls this summer for some extra money. It's an easy hour a day of work for some decent money. I did get a phone call from my boss when I worked at Wonderful Weekdays at Cumberland. There's apparently a 1st grade position opening at Cumberland and she wanted to give me a heads up to get my resume in there. I took it over on Monday, so I'm waiting to hear something back. Hopefully I will. That would definitely relieve my mind a TON!
On June 2nd we celebrated Tucker's 2nd birthday! Well, I did-Kyle totally forgot until I gave him crap at 10 o'clock that night. Poor Tucker. The boys are doing well. They are not liking all the humidity we have been experiencing lately. Zeke especially just cannot take the heat. He is getting so big though. Kyle just weighed him yesterday and he's up to about 120 and still isn't even a year and a half old! They are both such good boys though and I don't know what we'd do without them. They have been one of my few sources of happiness over the last couple of months.
I had Jackie's bridal shower this past weekend! It went really well! I don't think I ever realized how much preparation, time and effort go into those things, but I definitely have a lot more appreciation for the people who throw them now. It was a lot of work but definitely worth it. Everything turned out great! She had a great turnout and got some great gifts. I'm so excited for her and glad that her big day is quickly approaching. She's going to be an amazing bride!
We really haven't done much that's very exciting-just trying to get things done around the house like finish landscaping, lay rock, paint the porch and shed, etc. We're trying to make it look nicer. I've been reading a lot more which always makes me happier! I'm reading all the Twilight books for a second time now. Getting ready to start Breaking Dawn tonight! I finally got Jackie hooked on them! Haha! She tried to avoid it as long as she could and I think I finally drove her nuts enough to give them a try. I'm definitely ready for the movie Eclipse to come out! Kyle does not share my enthusiasm but I expect him to be there with me on opening night. Haha! We'll see how that goes.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Oh the Places You'll Go....
Jackie got me a book by Dr. Suess when I graduated called "Oh the Places You'll Go". That seems to be the trend of my life right now. Oh the things that are happening and the grown up decisions that must be made....A lot has happened since my last post over a month ago.
Probably the most important and devastating news is the RIF (reduction in force) letter that I received in the mail March 5th. TSC has to cut $7.8 million out of its budget this year, making the elimination of teachers and programs unevitable. They have decided to lay off over 150 teachers and displace almost 70! I just so happen to be lucky enough to be one of the 150 RIFed teachers. While the letter we received isn't set in stone and for sure yet, it is basically a heads up letter that when the board meets again in mid-April that I will probably be having my contract terminated. Not only is it bad because we are losing one of our sources of income, it is also bad because last May I decided to start my grad. school work. I am now over halfway done and will graduate in December. The problem with this and getting laid off presents me as an expensive teacher with not a whole lot of experience when I do go back into the education job hunt. I'm going to take my chances though and finish my masters. I want it done and over with. I've worked too hard and paid too much money already to stop. This week we have had two meetings, one with the teacher's union and another with central office, about being RIFed and the process. It was all very overwhelming and emotional but a good opportunity to learn more about the overall process and get questions answered. I never though I'd be getting laid off after only being in the workforce two years. Being a grown up is definitely not as much fun as I thought it'd be.
In the midst of losing my job, I've been trying to research and think of alternative careers that interest me. The only one that I felt most interested in was real estate. I know this isn't necessarily the best field to go into right now either, but it's definitely been on my bucket list of thins to do and try during my life. So this past Tuesday I began taking classes to get my license as a real estate salesperson. Classes are Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30-9:30 and Saturdays from 9-12 for 6 weeks. Luckily one of those weeks (next week) is my Spring Break so I'll have one somewhat easier week. Call me crazy-I know! I've got a lot on my plate right now.
And as if I wasn't doing enough already, I decided to sign up to be an Avon sales rep. It was very cheap to start up and could be another possible method of bringing in some additional income without a lot of demand and time. I feel somewhat silly saying that I sell Avon now because I always made fun of my Grandma Wilcox for being an Avon fanatic. At least I know I'll have one customer! =)
Jessica and Phil had their baby boy, Carl Phillip Ferger V. He was born on March 4th and is adorable. We went down to Indy the following evening to meet him and see how Jess was doing. The delivery went well and mom and baby are doing just fine. It's so exciting to see our friends begin the next chapter in their lives and add to their families. Jesse and Libby will soon be having a baby girl and Brandon and Tonia are next having a baby boy! I also just found out today that my half-sister Hilary is having twin girls. Poor Ryan! He's totally outnumbered by girls in that household. Soon to be 5-1.
I'm trying to talk Kyle into taking one last vacation somewhere before I get laid off. It's not working very well. He would rather save money. I guess that's the smart thing to do. He turns 25 on Thursday! He's becoming such an old man. Hahah! I have to say though that I am floored that we have had a full week of temps in the 50s and 60s and he has still yet to go out and use his brand new golf clubs. Never saw that one coming! I'm sure once he does go though, I'll never see him again.
Hope everyone else is enjoying this nice weather as much as we are! I was getting so sick of the dreary winter! I know Tucker and Zeke are loving being outside and running around again! They are tired boys every night now!
=)
Probably the most important and devastating news is the RIF (reduction in force) letter that I received in the mail March 5th. TSC has to cut $7.8 million out of its budget this year, making the elimination of teachers and programs unevitable. They have decided to lay off over 150 teachers and displace almost 70! I just so happen to be lucky enough to be one of the 150 RIFed teachers. While the letter we received isn't set in stone and for sure yet, it is basically a heads up letter that when the board meets again in mid-April that I will probably be having my contract terminated. Not only is it bad because we are losing one of our sources of income, it is also bad because last May I decided to start my grad. school work. I am now over halfway done and will graduate in December. The problem with this and getting laid off presents me as an expensive teacher with not a whole lot of experience when I do go back into the education job hunt. I'm going to take my chances though and finish my masters. I want it done and over with. I've worked too hard and paid too much money already to stop. This week we have had two meetings, one with the teacher's union and another with central office, about being RIFed and the process. It was all very overwhelming and emotional but a good opportunity to learn more about the overall process and get questions answered. I never though I'd be getting laid off after only being in the workforce two years. Being a grown up is definitely not as much fun as I thought it'd be.
In the midst of losing my job, I've been trying to research and think of alternative careers that interest me. The only one that I felt most interested in was real estate. I know this isn't necessarily the best field to go into right now either, but it's definitely been on my bucket list of thins to do and try during my life. So this past Tuesday I began taking classes to get my license as a real estate salesperson. Classes are Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30-9:30 and Saturdays from 9-12 for 6 weeks. Luckily one of those weeks (next week) is my Spring Break so I'll have one somewhat easier week. Call me crazy-I know! I've got a lot on my plate right now.
And as if I wasn't doing enough already, I decided to sign up to be an Avon sales rep. It was very cheap to start up and could be another possible method of bringing in some additional income without a lot of demand and time. I feel somewhat silly saying that I sell Avon now because I always made fun of my Grandma Wilcox for being an Avon fanatic. At least I know I'll have one customer! =)
Jessica and Phil had their baby boy, Carl Phillip Ferger V. He was born on March 4th and is adorable. We went down to Indy the following evening to meet him and see how Jess was doing. The delivery went well and mom and baby are doing just fine. It's so exciting to see our friends begin the next chapter in their lives and add to their families. Jesse and Libby will soon be having a baby girl and Brandon and Tonia are next having a baby boy! I also just found out today that my half-sister Hilary is having twin girls. Poor Ryan! He's totally outnumbered by girls in that household. Soon to be 5-1.
I'm trying to talk Kyle into taking one last vacation somewhere before I get laid off. It's not working very well. He would rather save money. I guess that's the smart thing to do. He turns 25 on Thursday! He's becoming such an old man. Hahah! I have to say though that I am floored that we have had a full week of temps in the 50s and 60s and he has still yet to go out and use his brand new golf clubs. Never saw that one coming! I'm sure once he does go though, I'll never see him again.
Hope everyone else is enjoying this nice weather as much as we are! I was getting so sick of the dreary winter! I know Tucker and Zeke are loving being outside and running around again! They are tired boys every night now!
=)
Monday, January 18, 2010
Back to School!
We went back to school on January 4th. That first week was rough getting back into the swing of things. I got so used to sleeping in during my two weeks off, that getting up at 6:45 was a big snap back into reality. That was the week we got all the snow. We ended up getting sent home on Thursday at 2:15 and had school cancelled on Friday. I was a little surprised to see school cancelled on Friday, but I guess the corporation received enough flack for sending us to school on Thursday that they thought they better make up for it. It was nice having the day off, although I spent the whole day cleaning since Kyle's family was coming over for Mexican night.
This past week was upset by constant talk of the school corporation's financial situation and who would or would not possibly have a job next year. Unfortunately, I am on the list of being very uncertain as to whether I'll have a job or not next year. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. It's very scary to think about, but I'm trying to be realistic and look ahead in case I have to eventually. Only time will tell.
We had a three day weekend this week because of MLK day. Our next day off isn't until President's Day. =( Work is going quickly right now because we are doing our DIBELS testing. However, music is getting harder and harder to teach each day. I just can't get motivated to be excited and teach something that I know nothing about and dislike doing. I'm already counting down the days til my last day of teaching music.
I'm definitely ready for nice weather to come. I'm getting very tired of the cold and dreariness. I would love to plan to go somewhere for spring break this year. Kyle and I have never gone on a spring break trip together and the last trip we both went on was our senior year of high school almost 6 years ago-WOW-weird to think of! However, I am sure that we will stay home and save our money for something better, like trying to get out of this house. We're both definitely ready to move back out into the country whenever possible. We even have our eye on a few houses we'd like to look at eventually, but right now we're trying to get our ducks in a row and figure out if and when we can put our house up on the market. We'll see. I'm even debating on getting a part time job to speed the process along, but am really struggling with trying to get myself to apply for a job that will take up my free time (well what free time I have outside of grad school and tutoring). I guess I just need to decide which one I want more, and as the nice weather gets closer and closer I am reminded of the constant annoyance of our neighbors that are always over. So right now, I am thinking that part time job is looking better and better.
This past week was upset by constant talk of the school corporation's financial situation and who would or would not possibly have a job next year. Unfortunately, I am on the list of being very uncertain as to whether I'll have a job or not next year. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. It's very scary to think about, but I'm trying to be realistic and look ahead in case I have to eventually. Only time will tell.
We had a three day weekend this week because of MLK day. Our next day off isn't until President's Day. =( Work is going quickly right now because we are doing our DIBELS testing. However, music is getting harder and harder to teach each day. I just can't get motivated to be excited and teach something that I know nothing about and dislike doing. I'm already counting down the days til my last day of teaching music.
I'm definitely ready for nice weather to come. I'm getting very tired of the cold and dreariness. I would love to plan to go somewhere for spring break this year. Kyle and I have never gone on a spring break trip together and the last trip we both went on was our senior year of high school almost 6 years ago-WOW-weird to think of! However, I am sure that we will stay home and save our money for something better, like trying to get out of this house. We're both definitely ready to move back out into the country whenever possible. We even have our eye on a few houses we'd like to look at eventually, but right now we're trying to get our ducks in a row and figure out if and when we can put our house up on the market. We'll see. I'm even debating on getting a part time job to speed the process along, but am really struggling with trying to get myself to apply for a job that will take up my free time (well what free time I have outside of grad school and tutoring). I guess I just need to decide which one I want more, and as the nice weather gets closer and closer I am reminded of the constant annoyance of our neighbors that are always over. So right now, I am thinking that part time job is looking better and better.
Monday, December 21, 2009
No more music programs...no more school!
Well I am officially on vacationg for 2 weeks beginning today! I am so thankful for this time off. This kids were absolutely insane the last 2 weeks of school. The first grade music program is done and over with. I was really stressing out about the program because rather than the usual 5 days we get to practice on stage, they really only got 4 and I didn't have them practice the day of the program. In the end, they shocked me with the whole thing. They performed well for both the school and their parents without any major glitches. There was one little girl that threw up on the risers before we presented the program to the school, but we got her out and the show went on. Haha! The poor little girl was so nervous, her face looked like a ghost. I am SO relieved that it is over and hopefully that will be the last one that I have to do. I'm keeping my fingers crossed anyways.
Things have definitely been interesting these last few weeks. A lot of our friends have found out that they are pregnant and will be adding new members to their families in the upcoming year. Kyle's brother and his wife Tonia are expecting a little on at the end of June/beginning of August. Libby and Jesse are expecting in August also. And I just found out that my half-sister, Hilary, is having twins in August. There must be something in the water! I feel like I should jump on the bandwagon and get pregnant too! Our time will come soon enough though.
I am really looking forward to the holidays. I have had so much fun spending time with my family and my nephew Chase. He is growing up so quickly-getting teeth and crawling already! It's crazy! It's also amazing how quickly you can fall in love with someone that you've only known a short time. He brings such happiness to our lives. I can't wait to see how much he grows in the next year.
Zeke and Tucker are good! Awnry, and LOVING the little bit of snow that we've gotten so far! They go crazy, running all over the yard, and wrestling. We gave Zeke his first squeaky toy the other day and he was completely and utterly confused and freaked out! He's so funny! He's opened up a lot to everyone and is totally comfortable at home now.
We wish everyone a happy holiday! Enjoy the time with family and friends!
Here's some of our latest pictures....
Monday, October 5, 2009
Wishin and Hopin
So a few months ago I helped my dad create a resume and apply for a new job within Tipmont that he was interested in and completely deserving of. I went to the Purdue women's volleyball game last Wednesday and found out that my dad got the job! I'm so excited for him because he totally deserves it, but can hear the uncertainty and nervousness in his voice when he talks about it. His new job is a higher position that has a lot more eyes watching him now and a lot more responsibility. I know he can do the job and perfectly because he's good at what he does and he's worked his tail off for this company, but it's a lot of new changes for him and I hope he can keep his head up. I know he can do it-I just hope he knows he can because I'm SO proud of him. He definitely deserves it and I hope it ends up being the right decision for him. I'm definitely hoping God has his back on this one.
My car is still in the shop getting fixed. It's been a week now since I killed Bambi (or his mom) on my way to work one morning and I still feel horrible. However, I can't help but be grateful for our car insurance because they are paying for every cent of the $2700 worth of damage that was done. I'm hoping we get a call tomorrow to get it. Right after we took it in, we thought something serious was going wrong with Kyle's truck, but found out his emergency brake had been shattered into pieces and that was only a $25 fix. Shocking! Car fixes are never that cheap, but it was and now it's running fine.
Work is starting to pick up. I've been stressing out about getting everything ready for interventions, creating the schedule (which has been a nightmare), and getting the actual interventions started. Yes, almost 9 weeks of school has gone by and we still have not started. Pathetic and frustrating! I'm starting auditions for the 1st grade Christmas program tomorrow during class. We'll see how that goes! I'm definitely not ready to be singing these songs in my head every Tuesday and Thursday night when I come home. It should be cute. The title is The Elves Impersonator. It's about an elf that thinks he's Elvis. I'm sure my mom will LOVE it. It's pretty cute.
IWU is going good, but it's becoming harder and harder to do my homework. I guess I better get my second wind of being all about school because we don't have a break until the week of Thanksgiving. Speaking of which, I can't wait for. Good food and time with family and friends. I'm hoping there's another annual trip to Edinburg or Michigan City with my shopping crew? What do you think Jack?
Have a great week!
My car is still in the shop getting fixed. It's been a week now since I killed Bambi (or his mom) on my way to work one morning and I still feel horrible. However, I can't help but be grateful for our car insurance because they are paying for every cent of the $2700 worth of damage that was done. I'm hoping we get a call tomorrow to get it. Right after we took it in, we thought something serious was going wrong with Kyle's truck, but found out his emergency brake had been shattered into pieces and that was only a $25 fix. Shocking! Car fixes are never that cheap, but it was and now it's running fine.
Work is starting to pick up. I've been stressing out about getting everything ready for interventions, creating the schedule (which has been a nightmare), and getting the actual interventions started. Yes, almost 9 weeks of school has gone by and we still have not started. Pathetic and frustrating! I'm starting auditions for the 1st grade Christmas program tomorrow during class. We'll see how that goes! I'm definitely not ready to be singing these songs in my head every Tuesday and Thursday night when I come home. It should be cute. The title is The Elves Impersonator. It's about an elf that thinks he's Elvis. I'm sure my mom will LOVE it. It's pretty cute.
IWU is going good, but it's becoming harder and harder to do my homework. I guess I better get my second wind of being all about school because we don't have a break until the week of Thanksgiving. Speaking of which, I can't wait for. Good food and time with family and friends. I'm hoping there's another annual trip to Edinburg or Michigan City with my shopping crew? What do you think Jack?
Have a great week!
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