When I got home from work yesterday, the household of sickies was pretty quiet. S was in his sleep pants, but told me that the bad feeling in his tummy came and went. Hubby still didn't look very good at all, and the R-man was napping.
I made dinner, and as I was cleaning up, S worked on his Math homework. He didn't bring his laptop home because, as I had indicated in a note to the school, it would appear the two programs he uses - Word Q and Kerzweil - are having some sort of 'interaction' problem. He was having a number of errors yesterday at school.
Now, AGAIN, the computer person has to be requested to come to the school to repair the laptop. AGAIN, he will be without the 'essential to his learning' computer. So crazy. But, that said, he was a happy camper working away on his algebra. He really enjoys it. (strange like his parents - we both love algebra too...)
Hubby, the A-man and I sat down to watch a movie last night. It was nice just sitting by the fire, watching a comedy. Towards the end of the movie, my friend came over. It would appear she is going through a separation, and she is now sleeping on my couch in the basement. I feel for her.
Off to work soon. Going to be alone in the office today, so that should be nice. Off in the morning for the final golf show that I will be working, but at least I am only working AT the show, not running the show. It will be a very relaxing, stress-free kind of adventure for me!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Flu Season
It would appear the flu bug has his this household in a big way. Hubby is still sick, and home again today. Last night, the R-man came home from work, and said he'd been sick for the better part of the day, and when I looked out this morning, his truck was still here - meaning he is still in bed. S came upstairs last night shortly after 8, told me he didn't feel well, and he went to bed and went right to sleep.
At first I thought he was trying to get out of doing his homework - I was on the phone when he came upstairs - but when I went in to check on him a short while later, he was quite pale, and I could tell that he was really not feeling well. Poor guy. He does seem to be better this morning however - and I am still making him finish the homework. (He is resisting a wee bit...)
Now, on to the subject of homework. On Monday night, I had asked S about his homework, and he said he had History homework due for Wednesday. Yesterday morning, I get a phone call at work from the teacher. It seems S hadn't completed his homework, and she was concerned that maybe he either didn't understand it, or had some issues with the computer program. I assured her that he is not having a problem with the computer, and I also apologized for not looking at the agenda the previous night, and for taking S's word on what was due, and when. And then he got sick last night. I'm wondering if he is having some difficulty around the whole History issue.
~later~
I've been helping S with his History homework for the past little while. I don't think it was that he was having a problem with the actual work, it was more of not quite sure how to approach the task at hand. Once I made my suggestion, and he got started on it, he seemed to be much more willing to complete the task, but then we ran out of time. I am going to call the teacher today to discuss this further. I feel bad that he didn't do his homework when I told her that I would make sure he did, but let's face it - he was sick. He did his Math, he did what he could on his History. I need to stop beating myself up.
By 9:30 last night, it was just the A-man and I. We actually sat around and discussed things. Many subjects, actually. He is really growing up to be a very interesting - and insightful - young man. He showed me an essay he had prepared for his Religion class, and I was amazed to see that he had actually paraphrased me in a section of the essay. When I commented on that, he smiled, and said, "See, I do listen to you sometimes." (brat)
Actually, his essay was probably a very insightful piece for the teacher, too. I am very interested to find what he thinks about my little man. Here's part of what he wrote:
At first I thought he was trying to get out of doing his homework - I was on the phone when he came upstairs - but when I went in to check on him a short while later, he was quite pale, and I could tell that he was really not feeling well. Poor guy. He does seem to be better this morning however - and I am still making him finish the homework. (He is resisting a wee bit...)
Now, on to the subject of homework. On Monday night, I had asked S about his homework, and he said he had History homework due for Wednesday. Yesterday morning, I get a phone call at work from the teacher. It seems S hadn't completed his homework, and she was concerned that maybe he either didn't understand it, or had some issues with the computer program. I assured her that he is not having a problem with the computer, and I also apologized for not looking at the agenda the previous night, and for taking S's word on what was due, and when. And then he got sick last night. I'm wondering if he is having some difficulty around the whole History issue.
~later~
I've been helping S with his History homework for the past little while. I don't think it was that he was having a problem with the actual work, it was more of not quite sure how to approach the task at hand. Once I made my suggestion, and he got started on it, he seemed to be much more willing to complete the task, but then we ran out of time. I am going to call the teacher today to discuss this further. I feel bad that he didn't do his homework when I told her that I would make sure he did, but let's face it - he was sick. He did his Math, he did what he could on his History. I need to stop beating myself up.
By 9:30 last night, it was just the A-man and I. We actually sat around and discussed things. Many subjects, actually. He is really growing up to be a very interesting - and insightful - young man. He showed me an essay he had prepared for his Religion class, and I was amazed to see that he had actually paraphrased me in a section of the essay. When I commented on that, he smiled, and said, "See, I do listen to you sometimes." (brat)
Actually, his essay was probably a very insightful piece for the teacher, too. I am very interested to find what he thinks about my little man. Here's part of what he wrote:
We were at the top of the food chain a year ago, and now we are at the bottomThe teacher made some very positive comments on the essay, which was actually the response to 4 questions. The A-man got 4 out of 4 (meaning he answered all the questions within the essay) but I think the teacher may have learned a bit more about each of his students through this particular assignment. Anyway, I think he is quite an incredible guy, and I am so happy to see him growing and maturing as he has.
here. Another reason is because most of the teenagers today only care about
what other people think, so we don't want to appear like idiots to other
people. We don't even care about what we think; it all depends on if or if
not others like us. I am not like those people; I don't care about what
others think and I am proud of it! I even wore a dress and bra on
Halloween..... and I don't care about what other thought about that.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Interesting
On Saturday, both boys were acting a little more crazy that what we have been experiencing for the last few years. I found myself giving reminder after reminder, and the A-man was the biggest offender. He was doing things to intentionally irritate his brother. After about 9 hours of it, Hubby lost his temper. Hubby doesn't often loose his temper - takes a LOT to make that happen. As a result, all electronics (computer, TV, video games, etc.) were banned for Sunday.
As I was going to bed (for the final time) on Saturday, the A-man apologized for acting so silly, and then told me that he had not taken his medication that day. I told him that I accepted his apology, but I also told him that medicated or not, he needs to realize when he is being annoying, or silly, or rude, and HE has the power to cease. I told him that the medication is meant to be an item of assistance - to help with concentration - not to be 'blamed' or 'praised' for good or bad behaviour. He knows how he should be acting, and he was not behaving as an almost 15 year old should.
Anyway, Sunday was very nice here, I must admit. There were chess games, and monopoly. There was a romp out in the snow, and there was helping me with cleaning up the house! Everyone was just so much nicer to each other, and I don't think either of them missed the electronics. Around dinner time - as Hubby and I were visiting with my Dad - the boys were allowed to watch TV because you could tell they weren't enjoying the adult conversation. At supper time, I pointed out how much more civilized our household seemed, and all agreed. We are now going to make sure to have pre-determined "non-electronic" time on a regular basis.
Last night, after dinner, I went to a horticultural society meeting. I haven't been to one in well over a year, since the meeting nights always conflicted with S's karate nights. But, since he isn't in karate anymore, that option is now open to me again. Last nights topic - plants for shade, and drought resistance. The speaker wasn't all that good, but it sure was nice to be able to just sit around and talk about plants.
When I got home, both boys had finished all of their homework, and S was heading off to bed. The A-man and I hung out for a bit, then it was off to bed for us. Hubby was in bed when I got home, but I think he had just gone there. He came home from work today - sick again. This is not like him.
On the school front for S: got an email from the SERT yesterday telling me that I would be getting a term-three revised IEP, and she also wanted to know how S liked his training session and the new programs that are on the laptop. I told her how this past weekend was the first time I have ever seen S happy about doing his homework. The stress level seemed to be gone - simply because he doesn't have to struggle with reading AND comprehending what he is reading. She asked me what my thoughts were on him having a novel study assignment, and I told her that I want to see him doing GRADE LEVEL work, and I only want accommodations as needed. I guess we are on the same page, because she seemed happy with my response.
S is a bright boy. He has an average, to above average IQ. He simply does not learn in the conventional way, and now that he finally has all of the devices in place to enable him to learn, I think he SHOULD be doing the work the rest of the class is doing. We shall see how Term 3 goes. He seems so much happier now, and he is much better about going to school. Have we crossed that bridge? I hope so.
As I was going to bed (for the final time) on Saturday, the A-man apologized for acting so silly, and then told me that he had not taken his medication that day. I told him that I accepted his apology, but I also told him that medicated or not, he needs to realize when he is being annoying, or silly, or rude, and HE has the power to cease. I told him that the medication is meant to be an item of assistance - to help with concentration - not to be 'blamed' or 'praised' for good or bad behaviour. He knows how he should be acting, and he was not behaving as an almost 15 year old should.
Anyway, Sunday was very nice here, I must admit. There were chess games, and monopoly. There was a romp out in the snow, and there was helping me with cleaning up the house! Everyone was just so much nicer to each other, and I don't think either of them missed the electronics. Around dinner time - as Hubby and I were visiting with my Dad - the boys were allowed to watch TV because you could tell they weren't enjoying the adult conversation. At supper time, I pointed out how much more civilized our household seemed, and all agreed. We are now going to make sure to have pre-determined "non-electronic" time on a regular basis.
Last night, after dinner, I went to a horticultural society meeting. I haven't been to one in well over a year, since the meeting nights always conflicted with S's karate nights. But, since he isn't in karate anymore, that option is now open to me again. Last nights topic - plants for shade, and drought resistance. The speaker wasn't all that good, but it sure was nice to be able to just sit around and talk about plants.
When I got home, both boys had finished all of their homework, and S was heading off to bed. The A-man and I hung out for a bit, then it was off to bed for us. Hubby was in bed when I got home, but I think he had just gone there. He came home from work today - sick again. This is not like him.
On the school front for S: got an email from the SERT yesterday telling me that I would be getting a term-three revised IEP, and she also wanted to know how S liked his training session and the new programs that are on the laptop. I told her how this past weekend was the first time I have ever seen S happy about doing his homework. The stress level seemed to be gone - simply because he doesn't have to struggle with reading AND comprehending what he is reading. She asked me what my thoughts were on him having a novel study assignment, and I told her that I want to see him doing GRADE LEVEL work, and I only want accommodations as needed. I guess we are on the same page, because she seemed happy with my response.
S is a bright boy. He has an average, to above average IQ. He simply does not learn in the conventional way, and now that he finally has all of the devices in place to enable him to learn, I think he SHOULD be doing the work the rest of the class is doing. We shall see how Term 3 goes. He seems so much happier now, and he is much better about going to school. Have we crossed that bridge? I hope so.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Can it really be?
The weather has been hovering just below the freezing mark for most of the weekend. In fact, it was sunny and warm(ish) yesterday to the point that we were seeing the snow melting.
Can it really be that Spring is on its way? Glorious, beautiful Spring??!!
Yesterday during one of my frequent breaks, I found myself going through a seed catolouge. The last few years my veggie garden hasn't really been very plentiful, simply because I haven't got much in the ground at the suitable times. I think I have found the answer this year - plug packs. The seedling is already started (12 to a package), and they mail you the pack just at the right time to put them in the ground.
I am going to order these plug packs, and then I will plant my garden, and divide the remainder up with Connie, and Cuz. Cuz started a veggie garden last year, so I am sure she will be happy to use some of the tomato plants, and I think I will get some hot peppers - more for ornamental in the regular garden - but I know she will use them for hot sauce. I will start some things from seed, naturally - peas, lettuces and yellow and green beans - but the rest will either be plug packs or nothing. Okay, no that has been decided, time for the snow to skiddadle and the warm weather to arrive!
Can it really be that Spring is on its way? Glorious, beautiful Spring??!!
Yesterday during one of my frequent breaks, I found myself going through a seed catolouge. The last few years my veggie garden hasn't really been very plentiful, simply because I haven't got much in the ground at the suitable times. I think I have found the answer this year - plug packs. The seedling is already started (12 to a package), and they mail you the pack just at the right time to put them in the ground.
I am going to order these plug packs, and then I will plant my garden, and divide the remainder up with Connie, and Cuz. Cuz started a veggie garden last year, so I am sure she will be happy to use some of the tomato plants, and I think I will get some hot peppers - more for ornamental in the regular garden - but I know she will use them for hot sauce. I will start some things from seed, naturally - peas, lettuces and yellow and green beans - but the rest will either be plug packs or nothing. Okay, no that has been decided, time for the snow to skiddadle and the warm weather to arrive!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Slowly seeing progress
Over the past number of weeks, I have been, well, swamped at work. I come home each night, with the greatest of intentions to get this, this, and this done, and by the time I get home from work, make dinner, clean up from that, and then help the boys with their homework, yeah, I'm too darn tired to do much else.
Heck, it took me until when in January to get all the decorations away? I can't remember if I had them away before the London show, but I don't believe I did. I know they were away before February, but more than likely JUST before the month began.
This weekend I was planning on claiming back my house. Clutter be gone, was going to be the motto of the weekend. We went to buy the boys some new pants yesterday - early afternoon - and on the way home, I suddenly started to not feel too well. Hubby had been ill on Friday, and when I started to tell him how I was feeling, he told me that is what he had gone through to. Great. We got home from shopping probably around 2:30, and I went straight to bed. I stayed there until 6 or so, then tried to get up to have something to eat. I was able to do that, then had to lay back down again. Did that cycle (out of bed, in to bed) for the duration of the evening. Not quite as productive a day as I had been hoping. The kitchen had been cleaned, and that was it.
I have been moving at a very leisurely pace all day today, but as I look around, I can see progress. Furniture has been moved around - we have really had to move things around with the R-man. Firstly, everything out of my office to allow a bedroom for him. Then, the pool table was moved in - thereby creating a need to move around the boy's TV room. We now have the computer that was in my office upstairs, and have had to shift around some other things. Add to that the weeks of clutter accumulation.... yeah, it's a never ending battle. But, it is one that I am going to win!
I have finally got the furniture in the living room the way I want. Pictures have been shifted and hung up in better spots, and miracles of miracles - the dining room table is free of paper, and ready to be utilized for our Sunday night dinners again! My dad is coming over for supper tonight, and I think this will be the first time we have used the dining room probably since the New Year.
Both boys have been very helpful with getting things done today, and they both spent some quality time on their homework just after lunch. Progress - it CAN be measured in baby steps!
Heck, it took me until when in January to get all the decorations away? I can't remember if I had them away before the London show, but I don't believe I did. I know they were away before February, but more than likely JUST before the month began.
This weekend I was planning on claiming back my house. Clutter be gone, was going to be the motto of the weekend. We went to buy the boys some new pants yesterday - early afternoon - and on the way home, I suddenly started to not feel too well. Hubby had been ill on Friday, and when I started to tell him how I was feeling, he told me that is what he had gone through to. Great. We got home from shopping probably around 2:30, and I went straight to bed. I stayed there until 6 or so, then tried to get up to have something to eat. I was able to do that, then had to lay back down again. Did that cycle (out of bed, in to bed) for the duration of the evening. Not quite as productive a day as I had been hoping. The kitchen had been cleaned, and that was it.
I have been moving at a very leisurely pace all day today, but as I look around, I can see progress. Furniture has been moved around - we have really had to move things around with the R-man. Firstly, everything out of my office to allow a bedroom for him. Then, the pool table was moved in - thereby creating a need to move around the boy's TV room. We now have the computer that was in my office upstairs, and have had to shift around some other things. Add to that the weeks of clutter accumulation.... yeah, it's a never ending battle. But, it is one that I am going to win!
I have finally got the furniture in the living room the way I want. Pictures have been shifted and hung up in better spots, and miracles of miracles - the dining room table is free of paper, and ready to be utilized for our Sunday night dinners again! My dad is coming over for supper tonight, and I think this will be the first time we have used the dining room probably since the New Year.
Both boys have been very helpful with getting things done today, and they both spent some quality time on their homework just after lunch. Progress - it CAN be measured in baby steps!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
An interesting concept
While I was at the conference in Jackson, I went to a seminar on "Face Reading." It's a very interesting concept, and one that I had never heard of before. Basically, she prefaced her seminar with "we are born with the face we have, but at 50, we have the face we have earned."
At first I was quite skeptical, and thinking it was quite hokey, but after she explained the concept, I was intrigued. The lady ended up "reading" the faces of 5 strangers, and when I saw the reactions of these people, I believed that what she was saying could just be true.
After the seminar, I went to ask her about the book she was selling. I asked what the price of the book was ($17.95) and she answered that, then read my face. I was shocked! She told me that the little lines on the bridge of my nose - she commented on the number of them - told her that I have a "disgustingly so" need to be a 'can do' person, and she told me that my small chin tells her that I am very hard on myself, and don't take critisism well, since "you already know everything that is wrong with you..."
I bought the book, and was using it to 'read' hubby's face. It takes a while to determine which 'shapes' match up to the person, but I can see how you could get used to it after a while. Anyway, hubby said that it seemed to be true. Of course, I know hubby's face quite well, and I know Hubby quite well, but when I read the section on the lines around his eyes, I said "No, that doesn't really describe you," and he surprised me with "Yes, it does - I just keep some things inside..."
Okay, enough for my book review and new topic of interest...
I contacted S's doctor yesterday, and we are going to go in for an appointment on March 4 to get the results of the fMRI. The doctor has requested the classroom teachers complete some information sheets prior to that appointment, too. It's only a week and a half away, but I wanted answers sooner than that - especially considering the 'silly' actions of S lately.
The A-man was VERY grouchy this morning, but I think he is getting over it now. Hubby has him helping with a dump run, and he was cranky that he has to 'work' on a weekend. Yeah, welcome to real life, buddy...
Okay, I am off to clean the house. Now that my busy time at work it done, hopefully I will be able to get the house back in to a state I can live with!
At first I was quite skeptical, and thinking it was quite hokey, but after she explained the concept, I was intrigued. The lady ended up "reading" the faces of 5 strangers, and when I saw the reactions of these people, I believed that what she was saying could just be true.
After the seminar, I went to ask her about the book she was selling. I asked what the price of the book was ($17.95) and she answered that, then read my face. I was shocked! She told me that the little lines on the bridge of my nose - she commented on the number of them - told her that I have a "disgustingly so" need to be a 'can do' person, and she told me that my small chin tells her that I am very hard on myself, and don't take critisism well, since "you already know everything that is wrong with you..."
I bought the book, and was using it to 'read' hubby's face. It takes a while to determine which 'shapes' match up to the person, but I can see how you could get used to it after a while. Anyway, hubby said that it seemed to be true. Of course, I know hubby's face quite well, and I know Hubby quite well, but when I read the section on the lines around his eyes, I said "No, that doesn't really describe you," and he surprised me with "Yes, it does - I just keep some things inside..."
Okay, enough for my book review and new topic of interest...
I contacted S's doctor yesterday, and we are going to go in for an appointment on March 4 to get the results of the fMRI. The doctor has requested the classroom teachers complete some information sheets prior to that appointment, too. It's only a week and a half away, but I wanted answers sooner than that - especially considering the 'silly' actions of S lately.
The A-man was VERY grouchy this morning, but I think he is getting over it now. Hubby has him helping with a dump run, and he was cranky that he has to 'work' on a weekend. Yeah, welcome to real life, buddy...
Okay, I am off to clean the house. Now that my busy time at work it done, hopefully I will be able to get the house back in to a state I can live with!
Friday, February 22, 2008
More of an update
When I got back to work yesterday, there was an update email from the Special Ed teacher with respect to S and both his laptop and his current classroom situations.
Some good news - the laptop system is finally back up and working again. That was going to be call number one made in the morning, but I was happy to hear that it was repaired while I was at the conference. Secondly, they have installed a new program on him system that will scanned written text, and turn it in to words and read back to S. The system is called Kurzweil, and although they have it on the computers in the classroom, this had not been made available to S while at home. (I thought one aspect of his software did this, and was very unhappy in the Fall when I realized it did not.) I have lobbied for him to get this system - as has the SERT - and thankfully that has now been done. Now, here is something even more incredible - they have actually trained S on how to use this new software! Yes, it's true - they have! I guess wonders will never cease.
The SERT was also emailing me to let me know that she has been successful in rearranging EA schedules, and now S will have an EA with him 100% of the time. This has proven to be very important in the French, as S tends to have more issues/concerns during this unassisted time than any other of the day.
S just told me that in addition to the Kurzweil system, they have also installed Dragon Naturally Speaking on to his school laptop, too. Now, this is a program Hubby and I actually bought way before he had his school system, but S didn't have a lot of success with it - and actually got to the point where he refused to use it. I'm not 100% sure why they gave him that, but hopefully the board will take the time to properly train him on it, and then in future if the Word Q stops working, he will have an alternative software program available to him.
I am going to send an email to the specialist today to see if the results of S's fMRI are in. I was advised that it would take at least two weeks for the final results, and we are just past three weeks, so I am hoping we will be able to learn more about what makes my youngest son tick.
Speaking of which - boy, did he EVER tick me off this morning. Non-stop acting like a total goof. I was able to to tolerate it for almost an hour this morning, but less than 5 minutes before he was scheduled to leave the house, I lost it on him.
My instructions were very clear - put your lunch in your bag, and let the dog outside. I come out of the kitchen, and he's no where near the hallway to the front door. Nope - he's chasing his cat around, trying to give her a kiss. Yeah - she runs away from him now because he never leaves her alone (I have told him countless times to leave her alone, but he just doesn't clue in.) Anyway, the dog is doing that "I-have-to-go-out-right-NOW" dance, and here is S, not even close to the door, nor seeming to care that (yet again) he is not doing what he needs to do in a VERY limited amount of time. I was mad. Needless to say, I didn't get a kiss, nor a "Love you" as he was walking out the door, but I don't care - the "easily distracted" part of ADHD has really been rearing it's ugly head lately, and I don't like it.
Okay - off I go for yet another crazy day at work...
Some good news - the laptop system is finally back up and working again. That was going to be call number one made in the morning, but I was happy to hear that it was repaired while I was at the conference. Secondly, they have installed a new program on him system that will scanned written text, and turn it in to words and read back to S. The system is called Kurzweil, and although they have it on the computers in the classroom, this had not been made available to S while at home. (I thought one aspect of his software did this, and was very unhappy in the Fall when I realized it did not.) I have lobbied for him to get this system - as has the SERT - and thankfully that has now been done. Now, here is something even more incredible - they have actually trained S on how to use this new software! Yes, it's true - they have! I guess wonders will never cease.
The SERT was also emailing me to let me know that she has been successful in rearranging EA schedules, and now S will have an EA with him 100% of the time. This has proven to be very important in the French, as S tends to have more issues/concerns during this unassisted time than any other of the day.
S just told me that in addition to the Kurzweil system, they have also installed Dragon Naturally Speaking on to his school laptop, too. Now, this is a program Hubby and I actually bought way before he had his school system, but S didn't have a lot of success with it - and actually got to the point where he refused to use it. I'm not 100% sure why they gave him that, but hopefully the board will take the time to properly train him on it, and then in future if the Word Q stops working, he will have an alternative software program available to him.
I am going to send an email to the specialist today to see if the results of S's fMRI are in. I was advised that it would take at least two weeks for the final results, and we are just past three weeks, so I am hoping we will be able to learn more about what makes my youngest son tick.
Speaking of which - boy, did he EVER tick me off this morning. Non-stop acting like a total goof. I was able to to tolerate it for almost an hour this morning, but less than 5 minutes before he was scheduled to leave the house, I lost it on him.
My instructions were very clear - put your lunch in your bag, and let the dog outside. I come out of the kitchen, and he's no where near the hallway to the front door. Nope - he's chasing his cat around, trying to give her a kiss. Yeah - she runs away from him now because he never leaves her alone (I have told him countless times to leave her alone, but he just doesn't clue in.) Anyway, the dog is doing that "I-have-to-go-out-right-NOW" dance, and here is S, not even close to the door, nor seeming to care that (yet again) he is not doing what he needs to do in a VERY limited amount of time. I was mad. Needless to say, I didn't get a kiss, nor a "Love you" as he was walking out the door, but I don't care - the "easily distracted" part of ADHD has really been rearing it's ugly head lately, and I don't like it.
Okay - off I go for yet another crazy day at work...
Thursday, February 21, 2008
More time today
Oh, there is so much to update! I've been away for the better part of two weeks - there should be quite a bit to update, wouldn't you think?
First of all, Terso Resort and Spa in Manzanillo, Mexico is a beautiful place to visit. Hubby and I had a wonderful time, and it was just so peaceful and relaxing. Of course, it was very different from our vacation last year, because we didn't have the boys with us. May sound a bit harsh, but we really did have a much more relaxing vacation this time. We both came home very relaxed and refreshed, and next year, hubby says he wants to take two weeks (!!)
A sunset view from our balcony...
(having internet issues...will try again later...)
I think it also helped bring us closer - if that is possible. We tried to do a little bit each day - just so we would feel like we got to see the area. The first morning we went in to the closed town - called Santiago Bay. We wandered a couple of markets, had lunch at a wee restaurant, looked at the sights, and started to get our bearings. Sunday afternoon, we took a small boat cruise that stopped at a coral reef for some snorkling. Monday was our ATV adventure morning. Jori - off-road warrier!
Tuesday we went in to the city (or is is a town) of Manzanillio. Just getting there was an adverture. (You will have to ask for more details on that one, if you want to know.) Hubby got a new ring on this jaunt. It has Australian opals, and rubies and diamonds in it. The ring had to be brought up quite a number of sizes to fit hubby's finger, and the man in the store said he knew it couldn't be getting resized for a Mexican because mexican men don't have hands that big! We went back in to Manzanillio on Wednesday to pick up Hubby's ring, and I did a bit of wave advertures. Brought back a ton of sand that day...
Thursday was Valentine's Day - we poked around the small town again, and just sort of followed the shade around. Had a wonderful dinner at the al la carte that night, then danced up a storm at the disco. Friday was coming home day, and I was so sad about having to do that, but it was nice to get back home and see how the boys were.
They did just fine without us, I am happy to say. S had a bit of a problem at school on the Monday while making sock monkeys, but for the most part, it sounds like he did just fine. The A-man had no problems at all - other than no taking a hat or mitts to my Mom's house, and it was quite cold that week. Guess he will know for the future, huh? Mom brought him here to the house to gather items - I don't know why she made that long drive - I would have either made him suffer (yes, I'm mean) or more than like just gone and grabbed something at Wal-mart.
The A-man got his first semester report card back while we were away.
(!!) Yes, I am very proud of him. I knew he could do it - now he knows it, too.
We got home on Saturday afternoon. I did a few loads of laundry, and then we went over to friends for dinner - we were making Lithuanen "caldunia" - it's sort of like perogies, I guess. It was a nice night, but since I had to be up and on the road for 5:30 the next morning, I wasn't ready to party too much.
Sunday, I was out the driveway just before 5:30. Got to the airport in plenty of time, and we loaded the plane just before 10 am. Then we were delayed for over an hour. I missed my connecting flight in Altanta, but they were able to reschedule me with relative ease. Got to Jackson, MS around 4, and in to my hotel room for 4:30. Conference started at 6.
Got home last night - Wednesday - around 8pm. Work today was CRAZY. Have more than 4 full pages of "To Do" items - and boss left the office this afternoon around 4:30 and will be back Monday afternoon. Sheesh...
Have more to post with respect to S and his laptop, etc. - that will be done tomorrow, I think. Time for a hottub with Hubby and the A-man.
First of all, Terso Resort and Spa in Manzanillo, Mexico is a beautiful place to visit. Hubby and I had a wonderful time, and it was just so peaceful and relaxing. Of course, it was very different from our vacation last year, because we didn't have the boys with us. May sound a bit harsh, but we really did have a much more relaxing vacation this time. We both came home very relaxed and refreshed, and next year, hubby says he wants to take two weeks (!!)
A sunset view from our balcony...
(having internet issues...will try again later...)
I think it also helped bring us closer - if that is possible. We tried to do a little bit each day - just so we would feel like we got to see the area. The first morning we went in to the closed town - called Santiago Bay. We wandered a couple of markets, had lunch at a wee restaurant, looked at the sights, and started to get our bearings. Sunday afternoon, we took a small boat cruise that stopped at a coral reef for some snorkling. Monday was our ATV adventure morning. Jori - off-road warrier!
Tuesday we went in to the city (or is is a town) of Manzanillio. Just getting there was an adverture. (You will have to ask for more details on that one, if you want to know.) Hubby got a new ring on this jaunt. It has Australian opals, and rubies and diamonds in it. The ring had to be brought up quite a number of sizes to fit hubby's finger, and the man in the store said he knew it couldn't be getting resized for a Mexican because mexican men don't have hands that big! We went back in to Manzanillio on Wednesday to pick up Hubby's ring, and I did a bit of wave advertures. Brought back a ton of sand that day...
Thursday was Valentine's Day - we poked around the small town again, and just sort of followed the shade around. Had a wonderful dinner at the al la carte that night, then danced up a storm at the disco. Friday was coming home day, and I was so sad about having to do that, but it was nice to get back home and see how the boys were.
They did just fine without us, I am happy to say. S had a bit of a problem at school on the Monday while making sock monkeys, but for the most part, it sounds like he did just fine. The A-man had no problems at all - other than no taking a hat or mitts to my Mom's house, and it was quite cold that week. Guess he will know for the future, huh? Mom brought him here to the house to gather items - I don't know why she made that long drive - I would have either made him suffer (yes, I'm mean) or more than like just gone and grabbed something at Wal-mart.
The A-man got his first semester report card back while we were away.
- Drama - 81%
- Geography - 81%
- Learning Strategies - 95%
- Science - 75%
- Overall average - 83%
(!!) Yes, I am very proud of him. I knew he could do it - now he knows it, too.
We got home on Saturday afternoon. I did a few loads of laundry, and then we went over to friends for dinner - we were making Lithuanen "caldunia" - it's sort of like perogies, I guess. It was a nice night, but since I had to be up and on the road for 5:30 the next morning, I wasn't ready to party too much.
Sunday, I was out the driveway just before 5:30. Got to the airport in plenty of time, and we loaded the plane just before 10 am. Then we were delayed for over an hour. I missed my connecting flight in Altanta, but they were able to reschedule me with relative ease. Got to Jackson, MS around 4, and in to my hotel room for 4:30. Conference started at 6.
Got home last night - Wednesday - around 8pm. Work today was CRAZY. Have more than 4 full pages of "To Do" items - and boss left the office this afternoon around 4:30 and will be back Monday afternoon. Sheesh...
Have more to post with respect to S and his laptop, etc. - that will be done tomorrow, I think. Time for a hottub with Hubby and the A-man.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Back to life...back to blogging!
First off, we had a wonderful time in Mexico. Manzanillo is a beautiful area, with amazing weather every single day. I hope to be able to post a few pictures in a few days.
We arrived back home on Saturday, in time to pick up the A-man from my parent's house before they had to head to the airport for my mom's trip to Australia. We then went to get S, and had a visit with Hubby's parents. Got home, and I started doing laundry, and trying to figure out what I needed to take on my next trip.
I am now in Jackson, Mississippi. I will be meeting the Governor this afternoon. I have met quite a few people, some of whom I have worked with for years, and some of whom I am hoping to be working with in the future. It's been an interesting few days.
I should have some free time this afternoon, and will post updates on the boys then.
We arrived back home on Saturday, in time to pick up the A-man from my parent's house before they had to head to the airport for my mom's trip to Australia. We then went to get S, and had a visit with Hubby's parents. Got home, and I started doing laundry, and trying to figure out what I needed to take on my next trip.
I am now in Jackson, Mississippi. I will be meeting the Governor this afternoon. I have met quite a few people, some of whom I have worked with for years, and some of whom I am hoping to be working with in the future. It's been an interesting few days.
I should have some free time this afternoon, and will post updates on the boys then.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Some good news!
The R-man told me that his dad (Cuz's husband) will be going back to work on very light duties on Monday! A few short weeks ago, he was a "Class 4 Heart Failure" patient, and now, after the bloods clots thinned, and defibulator put in, he is able to go back to work. I imagine that is one happy household right now.
That is very good news, Cuz, I was very happy to hear that. Now you just have to wait for him to get the Green Light to drive again, and life will be almost back to normal again!
Got to work about 2 hours late today, and left an hour early, but at least I left with my desk cleaned off, and the portable office all put away. I got my nails looking all purty, and then went to my board meeting. It was long. 'nuff said there.
S must have been very tired - he was sleeping when I got home at 9:30. I will have to be sure to give him lots of hugs and cuddles in the morning, since I won't see him for over a week after he gets on the bus tomorrow. I'm not as concerned about the A-man, but S just seems to have a really rough go of things when I am out of town. Hopefully all will be fine. I really do worry about him, poor wee booger.
Hubby is wanting to be on the road for 9 am, and planning on being up at 7 am to show the R-man how to use the snowblower. I will have to get the boys up and off to school, then cut Hubby's hair, and pack our last minute items, so this is probably be my last blog until I return. If I can get Internet access while in Manzanillo, I will post a brief blog, if not, I will let y'all know about it when I get back.
TTFN.
That is very good news, Cuz, I was very happy to hear that. Now you just have to wait for him to get the Green Light to drive again, and life will be almost back to normal again!
Got to work about 2 hours late today, and left an hour early, but at least I left with my desk cleaned off, and the portable office all put away. I got my nails looking all purty, and then went to my board meeting. It was long. 'nuff said there.
S must have been very tired - he was sleeping when I got home at 9:30. I will have to be sure to give him lots of hugs and cuddles in the morning, since I won't see him for over a week after he gets on the bus tomorrow. I'm not as concerned about the A-man, but S just seems to have a really rough go of things when I am out of town. Hopefully all will be fine. I really do worry about him, poor wee booger.
Hubby is wanting to be on the road for 9 am, and planning on being up at 7 am to show the R-man how to use the snowblower. I will have to get the boys up and off to school, then cut Hubby's hair, and pack our last minute items, so this is probably be my last blog until I return. If I can get Internet access while in Manzanillo, I will post a brief blog, if not, I will let y'all know about it when I get back.
TTFN.
Better today
Went to bed with the boys last night, and I feel asleep right away. Actually, was in a very good sleep, but at 3:15am, I woke up because Hubby wasn't in bed, nor could I hear the TV on. Came out to the living room, and saw that his vehicle wasn't in the driveway. Also saw that there was a LOT of snow on the vehicles that were in the driveway. Snow was up to the back bumper of my car.
So, I called his cell phone - he was just minutes from home. When he got out of his vehicle - on the road - he walked up the laneway, and the snow was above his knees. (Hubby is 6 feet tall.) He blew out the driveway, and didn't come to bed until 6:30 this morning.
So, now the R-man and I are having a leisurely coffee as we wait for the roads to get plowed so that we can attempt to get to work. The R-man actually commented this morning that he has never seen such a large dump of snow in such a short period of time. It's pretty crazy. Both school boards have actually CLOSED the schools - which never happens.
I have a few things that I need to clean up at the office, but I am not going to push it. I will get there when I do, and do what is vital for the next 2 weeks, but then, come 4pm, I am GONE!
So, I called his cell phone - he was just minutes from home. When he got out of his vehicle - on the road - he walked up the laneway, and the snow was above his knees. (Hubby is 6 feet tall.) He blew out the driveway, and didn't come to bed until 6:30 this morning.
So, now the R-man and I are having a leisurely coffee as we wait for the roads to get plowed so that we can attempt to get to work. The R-man actually commented this morning that he has never seen such a large dump of snow in such a short period of time. It's pretty crazy. Both school boards have actually CLOSED the schools - which never happens.
I have a few things that I need to clean up at the office, but I am not going to push it. I will get there when I do, and do what is vital for the next 2 weeks, but then, come 4pm, I am GONE!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
My friend
Thank you, dear Singapore Connection, for presenting me with this friendship globe.
Since I found your blog, I have learned so much about your region, and your traditions. I feel very sad when you don't do a blog, and often wonder how you and princess are doing. The internet is truly an incredible place. We have never met, yet I feel that we are friends. I'm sure my daily blog isn't as exciting as your other friend's, but it is nice to know you stop by.
Thank you, also, to my other friends that do stop by and keep up on our lives. I know it's not exciting, and I hope that I don't rant too much, but it's nice to know others are aware of what is happening in the day-to-day lives we have.
I share this globe with:
Since I found your blog, I have learned so much about your region, and your traditions. I feel very sad when you don't do a blog, and often wonder how you and princess are doing. The internet is truly an incredible place. We have never met, yet I feel that we are friends. I'm sure my daily blog isn't as exciting as your other friend's, but it is nice to know you stop by.
Thank you, also, to my other friends that do stop by and keep up on our lives. I know it's not exciting, and I hope that I don't rant too much, but it's nice to know others are aware of what is happening in the day-to-day lives we have.
I share this globe with:
- Princess
- My Singapore Connection - can I give it back to the person that gave it to me??
- Scare's Mom
- Cuz
- The Bride's Mom
- Heath
- and The co-worker
- Starlily
I feel very blessed to have so many friends. Most of whom I speak with on a regular basis, but a couple that I have never met face-to-face.
Be well!
Still out of sorts
I'm not sure if I am coming down with something, or if I'm just over-tired, but I have not been 'right' all day today.
Hubby called me at work today, to just go over any of the last minute things we need to do before we depart on our holiday. Of course, the many little things take up all kind of time, but I think I was able to get through most of them. The main thing is making sure the boys have all that they need for a week away.
I was going to go in to my Mom and Dad's tonight for a wee visit, because my mom will be leaving for her Australia trip on the day we return from Mexico, so we won't be seeing her for over a month, but the weather wasn't willing to cooperate tonight. I am going to stop there in the morning and drop off the things for the A-man, plus to leave the birthday card I made for my mom, and the Valentine's day card I made for the A-man. I made one for S, too, and hubby will deliver all of that to his mom's tomorrow morning.
I have the majority of the packing finished. I need to add in a pair of capri's, and a couple of tank-tops, and wide-brimmed hats, then I think I am packed and ready to go. Hubby wants to be on the road for about 9 am on Friday. I have a board meeting tomorrow night, so I need to make sure all the 'last minute' things are taken care of today.
I also have to keep in mind the fact that I will be unpacking and repacking within a matter of hours when I return from Mexico, so I will have to pack the suitcase for the return trip to ensure I have the things that need to be washed and dried on that Saturday. Sheesh.
Boss and I went over the conference itinerary this morning. I know know which terminal I will be flying out of, and was very releived to learn that I would not have to worry about my luggage during my lay-over in Atlanta. I've never had a lay-over before, and have no idea what is involved in that whole thing. Boss told me that it's quite easy, and actually told me that Atlanta airport is one of the best of shopping and resturants. Will be around lunch time that I will be there, so this is a good thing to know.
Have called the school to inform them of our upcoming departure - in case they have forgotten, or can't read the agenda - but I have yet to get a return phone call. Will place another call in the morning, I suppose.
I'm off to tackle some more laundry. Want to make sure I am as caught up as I can possibly be before Friday morning...
Hubby called me at work today, to just go over any of the last minute things we need to do before we depart on our holiday. Of course, the many little things take up all kind of time, but I think I was able to get through most of them. The main thing is making sure the boys have all that they need for a week away.
I was going to go in to my Mom and Dad's tonight for a wee visit, because my mom will be leaving for her Australia trip on the day we return from Mexico, so we won't be seeing her for over a month, but the weather wasn't willing to cooperate tonight. I am going to stop there in the morning and drop off the things for the A-man, plus to leave the birthday card I made for my mom, and the Valentine's day card I made for the A-man. I made one for S, too, and hubby will deliver all of that to his mom's tomorrow morning.
I have the majority of the packing finished. I need to add in a pair of capri's, and a couple of tank-tops, and wide-brimmed hats, then I think I am packed and ready to go. Hubby wants to be on the road for about 9 am on Friday. I have a board meeting tomorrow night, so I need to make sure all the 'last minute' things are taken care of today.
I also have to keep in mind the fact that I will be unpacking and repacking within a matter of hours when I return from Mexico, so I will have to pack the suitcase for the return trip to ensure I have the things that need to be washed and dried on that Saturday. Sheesh.
Boss and I went over the conference itinerary this morning. I know know which terminal I will be flying out of, and was very releived to learn that I would not have to worry about my luggage during my lay-over in Atlanta. I've never had a lay-over before, and have no idea what is involved in that whole thing. Boss told me that it's quite easy, and actually told me that Atlanta airport is one of the best of shopping and resturants. Will be around lunch time that I will be there, so this is a good thing to know.
Have called the school to inform them of our upcoming departure - in case they have forgotten, or can't read the agenda - but I have yet to get a return phone call. Will place another call in the morning, I suppose.
I'm off to tackle some more laundry. Want to make sure I am as caught up as I can possibly be before Friday morning...
A total mess
Today, I am a disaster waiting to happen. I just feel it.
I didn't sleep well last night, tossed and turned quite a bit. Slept in this morning, and just feel like I can't put anything together today.
Last night S had homework in 3 subjects. He told me about it, and then I forgot to follow up on it, and when I was waking him (10 minutes before bus arrived) I realized he didn't do his homework. The A-man woke me up only minutes before his bus arrived, and then I realized I didn't sign the forms he gave me last night.
On the upside, my new windows are in, and I am about 90% packed for Friday morning.
Onward, onward...
I didn't sleep well last night, tossed and turned quite a bit. Slept in this morning, and just feel like I can't put anything together today.
Last night S had homework in 3 subjects. He told me about it, and then I forgot to follow up on it, and when I was waking him (10 minutes before bus arrived) I realized he didn't do his homework. The A-man woke me up only minutes before his bus arrived, and then I realized I didn't sign the forms he gave me last night.
On the upside, my new windows are in, and I am about 90% packed for Friday morning.
Onward, onward...
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Back to real life (?)
Boss and I arrived back to the office around 1pm yesterday. We unloaded the vehicle, check our emails, and after an hour, I deemed myself too tired to be of any more use, and came home. It actually worked out well for timing - hubby was still home, and we were able to do a brief update on the status of things before he went off to work for the night.
We are getting our new front windows today, so I am not going in to work. I still have to move things out of the way in both the dining room and the living room, but I thought I would take a bit of time to do a blog update first. I don't imagine the window guys will be here until at least 9:30.
S's laptop is suffering an 'error' again. It's been over a week, and it is still not fixed. This is crazy. The board needs to get more technicians for laptop repair, that much is obvious. It has been deemed essential, yet they just take their own sweet time in getting it fixed. Drives me crazy! I will be making a couple of phone calls today for sure.
Yesterday was the A-man's first day of his second semester. He has English, Math, Religion and Phys-ed. Two really tough subjects, followed by two with very little homework. A very nice mix, indeed. His religion teacher sounds like he is quite the character. I am interested to learn more about him as the days go by.
The A-man did not get his room cleaned last week. Apparently he was 'too busy' to complete the task. I told him I would do it today, and he got really upset with me. I have been assured that he will do nothing else tonight until it is done. I have agreed to stay out, at least until the end of today.
I was wrong about the timing of the window guys. They are here now. Went out to greet them, and to find out what I need to do to assist. My task - to created a two foot working space around each window. Should be interesting...
Will write more later...
We are getting our new front windows today, so I am not going in to work. I still have to move things out of the way in both the dining room and the living room, but I thought I would take a bit of time to do a blog update first. I don't imagine the window guys will be here until at least 9:30.
S's laptop is suffering an 'error' again. It's been over a week, and it is still not fixed. This is crazy. The board needs to get more technicians for laptop repair, that much is obvious. It has been deemed essential, yet they just take their own sweet time in getting it fixed. Drives me crazy! I will be making a couple of phone calls today for sure.
Yesterday was the A-man's first day of his second semester. He has English, Math, Religion and Phys-ed. Two really tough subjects, followed by two with very little homework. A very nice mix, indeed. His religion teacher sounds like he is quite the character. I am interested to learn more about him as the days go by.
The A-man did not get his room cleaned last week. Apparently he was 'too busy' to complete the task. I told him I would do it today, and he got really upset with me. I have been assured that he will do nothing else tonight until it is done. I have agreed to stay out, at least until the end of today.
I was wrong about the timing of the window guys. They are here now. Went out to greet them, and to find out what I need to do to assist. My task - to created a two foot working space around each window. Should be interesting...
Will write more later...
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Isn't it amazing??
Got a message on my cell phone today. It was from hubby, asking me if I had called in the necessary refill for S's medication. I had stayed in at the hotel last night, and had turned my phone off.
Anyway, by the time I reached hubby today, he had already called in the prescription, AND made arrangements for someone to pick up the meds for him. (Hubby and the boys were on their way to the R-man's house to pick up the pool table.) So, hu-RAY, hubby actually figured out a plan all by himself! (Yes, I am so proud... ;o) )
It's amazing what simply day to day things I do without thought, and when it needs to be done by hubby, he is always unsure of the steps to take. Does this mean I need to stop doing so many of these day-to-day activities? Nah, I didn't think so...
Show has gone well today. I'm tired, of course, with all the running around I did today, but it seemed to have gone well, which is very good. Going out to a steak house for dinner tonight, then one of our clients from South Carolina have made a 'date' to have a drink together once we leave the crowd. It's a tradition.
Anyway, time for a perrier...I'm off.
Anyway, by the time I reached hubby today, he had already called in the prescription, AND made arrangements for someone to pick up the meds for him. (Hubby and the boys were on their way to the R-man's house to pick up the pool table.) So, hu-RAY, hubby actually figured out a plan all by himself! (Yes, I am so proud... ;o) )
It's amazing what simply day to day things I do without thought, and when it needs to be done by hubby, he is always unsure of the steps to take. Does this mean I need to stop doing so many of these day-to-day activities? Nah, I didn't think so...
Show has gone well today. I'm tired, of course, with all the running around I did today, but it seemed to have gone well, which is very good. Going out to a steak house for dinner tonight, then one of our clients from South Carolina have made a 'date' to have a drink together once we leave the crowd. It's a tradition.
Anyway, time for a perrier...I'm off.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Feeling beat already...
still have another hour here for the move-in, and I must admit, I am very tired tonight. I don't think I am going to go out for dinner with the other staff members. I take out meal, up in my rooms is sounding very nice right now. I can put on my jammers, cuddle under the blankets, and just have a down evening. I've been here since 8 this morning, and I think, today, I have had enough.
A terrible winter storm has hit the region today. Everything here in the city is either cancelled or closed. Funny enough - people from Toronto (a close city) are calling and saying they can't make it until the morning, but people from Pennsylvania and Michigan hav already arrived and set up! Guess the difference if is y0u have the option, you will take it. If you don't, you just keep on going.
S had another snow day today. Probably just as well - he would have probably not had a good day. Never does when I am away. He did really well on his fMRI testing yesterday, apparently. He was able to lay still for the duration, and they were able to get all of the testing they wanted to do, done. Now I will just have to wait for the results, I guess.
That's all for now. I don't have free wireless in my hotel room, which is making me cranky, but I can access it here at the Convention Centre. I have a strategic plan I am working on for the ADHD association, so I think I will try to finalize that tonight, and then I can email my thought to the consultant in the morning when I get back here. See? Another good reason to stay in the room - so that I can get some 'other' work done!
A terrible winter storm has hit the region today. Everything here in the city is either cancelled or closed. Funny enough - people from Toronto (a close city) are calling and saying they can't make it until the morning, but people from Pennsylvania and Michigan hav already arrived and set up! Guess the difference if is y0u have the option, you will take it. If you don't, you just keep on going.
S had another snow day today. Probably just as well - he would have probably not had a good day. Never does when I am away. He did really well on his fMRI testing yesterday, apparently. He was able to lay still for the duration, and they were able to get all of the testing they wanted to do, done. Now I will just have to wait for the results, I guess.
That's all for now. I don't have free wireless in my hotel room, which is making me cranky, but I can access it here at the Convention Centre. I have a strategic plan I am working on for the ADHD association, so I think I will try to finalize that tonight, and then I can email my thought to the consultant in the morning when I get back here. See? Another good reason to stay in the room - so that I can get some 'other' work done!
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