Mulberry Summer

Too Funny!

2011-12-04T12:27:00.002-05:00

Okay, as an educator- 2nd grade teacher for years... I can soooo understand this and find it very funny! Anybody who is still with me, I hope you enjoy it....

The 'Middle Wife' by an Anonymous 2nd grade teacher

I've been teaching now for about fifteen years. I have two kids myself, but the best birth story I know is the one I saw in my own second grade classroom a few years back.

When I was a kid, I loved show-and-tell. So I always have a few sessions with my students. It helps them get over shyness and usually, show-and-tell is pretty tame. Kids bring in pet turtles, model airplanes, pictures of fish they catch, stuff like that. And I never, ever place any boundaries or limitations on them. If they want to lug it in to school and talk about it, they're welcome.

Well, one day this little girl, Emily, a very bright, very outgoing kid,takes her turn and waddles up to the front of the class with a pillow stuffed under her sweater.

She holds up a snapshot of an infant. 'This is Luke, my baby brother, and I'm going to tell you about his birthday.'

'First, Mom and Dad made him as a symbol of their love, and then Dad put a seed in my Mom's stomach, and Luke grew in there. He ate for nine months through an umbrella cord.'

She's standing there with her hands on the pillow, and I'm trying not to laugh and wishing I had my camcorder with me. The kids are watching her in amazement.

'Then, about two Saturdays ago, my Mom starts going, 'Oh, Oh, Oh, Oh!' Emily puts a hand behind her back and groans. 'She walked around the house for, like an hour, 'Oh, oh, oh!' (Now this kid is doing a hysterical duck walk and groaning.)

'My Dad called the middle wife. She delivers babies, but she doesn't have a sign on the car like the Domino's man. They got my Mom to lie down in bed like this.' (Then Emily lies down with her back against the wall.)

'And then, pop! My Mom had this bag of water she kept in there in case he got thirsty, and it just blew up and spilled all over the bed, like psshhheew!' (This kid has her legs spread with her little hands miming water flowing away. It was too much!)

'Then the middle wife starts saying 'push, push,' and 'breathe, breathe.
They started counting, but never even got past ten. Then, all of a sudden, out comes my brother. He was covered in yucky stuff that they all said it was from Mom's play-center, so there must be a lot of toys inside there. When he got out, the middle wife spanked him for crawling up in there in the first place.'

Then Emily stood up, took a big theatrical bow and returned to her seat.

I'm sure I applauded the loudest. Ever since then, when it's Show-and-tell day, I bring my camcorder, just in case another 'Middle Wife' comes along.

another month gone

2011-09-11T11:56:00.003-04:00

Well, it looks like another month gone. August has faded into the memory as an incredibly hot summer that ended way too early with back to school being a week earlier than usual. I still don't understand the logic of going back so early, but I guess NCLB crap is to blame partially.

I've started subbing again and am hoping for a lot of work. I need the work. Getting out of the house and money are wonderful motivators. I only wish that I could win the lottery. Things wouldn't be perfect, but they would be so much simpler if I didn't have to worry about the financial aspect of life every day.

Today, I suppose is a day of reflection for many. 9/11 altered life in these United States as no other tragedy has since Pearl Harbor in December of 1941. Remembering where I was on that day has me teaching in an inner-city school in Dallas. I had recently gotten a referral for my Pipsqueak whom I adopted from India. I remember thinking if my adoption would be delayed because of 9/11. (It was, but for other reasons). I remember my fellow teachers and I talking about the ramifications of that day and the fact that we were all in a type of shock that anyone would do that.... Ten years later I don't know if things are better or worse.

I refuse to fly now. It just isn't worth the cost to put myself through the abuse of the TSA. I look at countries such as Israel and how their airports are some of the safest in the world. I think we need to take lessons.

The Pipsqueak has been home since 2002 and I can't believe she's almost 11. I guess life goes on; as it should.

Happy to see this

2011-08-10T16:32:00.002-04:00

http://fwix.com/memphis/share/77761d1ea4/anna_mae_he_is_back_in_memphis

Anna Mae He has finally been allowed to visit the U.S. again. I am so happy for her and her American family.

a poem

2011-07-17T16:08:00.001-04:00

S my name is summer.
Summer at the lake
Summer with heat index
Summer with no a/c
F...faint
F...faint
F....faint

Anybody there?

2011-07-07T11:49:00.003-04:00

Hey all or to the one person that I know still checks this blog on a regular basis, Hello.

It's been a few months since the last post, okay 4 months, but what are you going to do when things seem to spin out of control with no hope of getting off the ride?

As a friend once said "stop the world, I want to get off"

Anyway-- we are into the full summer break now and still no f/t teaching jobs coming my way. I am now researching how to become a mediator for the union. I know I'd enjoy it and think I'd be pretty good at it. Always nice to have possibilities.

The Pipsqueak is growing up so fast. I can't believe she's 10 already. She recently got her hair cut and it's such a cute bob, but boy am I going to be beating the boys away in a few years. I told her she can't date until she's 30- but she's not buying that. Ah, a mother can hope, right?

Life with my almost deaf mother is status quo. Things are better, then worse, then better. I think after we can get a lot of junk cleaned out that we no longer need, things will be better. I wish I could restore some of her hearing though... it's hard living with an almost deaf individual with no way to talk. She never learned sign growing up and now is reluctant to try and start. I think the Pipsqueak and I should learn though. You never know what life might throw at you and if we could "speak" ASL it might help encourage my mom to learn it.

I'm also loving the new show "Switched at Birth"- a guilty pleasure I guess....as an adoptive mom, it makes you really think of a lot of stuff regarding your child.

Okay- gonna head off now as I have a lot of stuff to do around here. Heading to the lake next weekend, but not this one. Thought we'd give my mom a break and let her have some alone time.

Hopefully I'll be better about updating the blog. Maybe I can find my wonderful sarcastic wit once again in my writing.

I Read Banned Books

2011-03-10T18:48:00.002-05:00

I've just been looking at the top banned books from the 1990s-2000. The top 100 is quite the list and there are some books that I can't for the life of me even reason why they would be on the list.

The top 100 list can be found here Out of those- here are the ones I have read.
3. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
4. The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
5. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
6. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
7. Harry Potter (Series) by J.K. Rowling***
8. Forever by Judy Blume
9. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
11. Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman
12. My Brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier
16. Goosebumps (Series) by R.L. Stine
22. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle**
26. The Stupids (Series) by Harry Allard
27. The Witches by Roald Dahl
29. Anastasia Krupnik (Series) by Lois Lowry
32. Blubber by Judy Blume
37. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
38. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
40. What's Happening to my Body? Book for Girls: A Growing-Up Guide for Parents & Daughters by Lynda Madaras
41. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee*
43. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
46. Deenie by Judy Blume
47. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
51. A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein
56. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
62. Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
68. The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline Cooney
78. Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
84. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
88. Where's Waldo? by Martin Hanford
89. Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene
90. Little Black Sambo by Helen Bannerman
96. How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell

*This book is my favourite book of all time.
** I've read the entire series of the Murray family and love them all.
***I've read all the books from JK Rowling about the Harry Potter universe and love them as well.

So to all readers out there- if I have any left.... Go read a banned book and enjoy!

Life Sucks

2011-03-10T15:24:00.003-05:00

Life sucks.

I have a meeting tomorrow afternoon that I can't cancel. Due to this stupid meeting, I can't take a sub job that's open.

I really need the money- but nothing ever seems to go my way. Might as well scream now.

Let's just hope there are a ton of jobs open next week. I'd love to work as much as possible.

My the gods work with me.

Long overdue update

2011-03-09T16:44:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted here. I guess it's because I seem to be in a holding pattern. No job, no prospects, still circling the airport so to speak and nothing has changed.

Still worried about money- how to pay insurance- how to get the kid new clothes, etc... I know it could be worse- but it's amazing how one's self-worth can be tied up with your job or lack of one.

Maybe I'll start posting regularly.. just venting or trying to see things from a different vantage point would help.

Great meatballs

2010-12-07T17:12:00.002-05:00

These meatballs were great and so easy to make.

1 pound Italian turkey sausages casings removed
1 pound Italian chicken sausages (I used park farm brand) casings removed
2 cups Jiffy mix (Bisquik would probably work too)
2 cups Italian blend cheese

Mix together and bake at 350 until done.

We really enjoyed them and hopefully I can find the chicken sausage again before the holidays.

Hope?

2010-12-07T17:11:00.002-05:00

I had a job interview today. It was for a charter school and basically was an interview to see if I'd "fit in" to their school.

I passed the first hurdle and will be called soon about going back and meeting the sub coordinator. After that is done- I might be called to sub (yeah) or I might be called to fill in an available job (YEAH).

Wish me luck!

Horror in Oklahoma -if you're an older man & his dog

2010-10-25T19:44:00.002-04:00

A man in Hydro, OK broke his dog out of the pound using a riding lawn mower and a pair of bolt cutters. The 73 year old man decided to bust Buddy Tough out of the pound when the dog was picked up and a $100.00 fine was issued.

It seems to me that this man didn't have the $100.00 to pay the fine- was told his dog would be killed, and felt he had no choice.

What really, really bothers me about this- is that while Fry was in jail- they killed his dog. That's right- they killed a lap poodle. Because his owner screwed up- they punished the dog. Mr. Fry needed to post $100.00 of a $1000.00 bail and couldn't do it. If he couldn't pay his own bond, how did they expect him to pay that much to get his dog out of jail?

Please go and read the full article here; I wish I could do more than write a letter to the pound in Hydro (town of about 1060 people) and the officer that told Fry he would kill his dog.

What they did was wrong. Yes, Mr. Fry should have kept his dog on a leash- but to kill the dog for this is a bit too much.

Advice

2010-10-11T21:02:00.002-04:00

Okay- I just stumbled upon some pictures that a neighbour down the street posted of her family. My Pipsqueak is in a few of the photos because she is good friends with their daughter.

I don't really want Pipsqueak's image on the internet.... any ideas of how to tell her tactfully to take down the images of my kid?

It also makes me wonder if others have put photos of her up without telling me. I would never post a picture of someone else's kid (at least the face) without asking first.

Help!

WTF?

2010-09-19T16:02:00.001-04:00

Yet again- no job. I interviewed, did well. Got the phone call today- keep trying you did well, we could use you,... yada yada... Then why didn't you hire me?!

I'm so disappointed and pissed.

Life sucks. Everything sucks.

I hate it here

2010-09-18T14:59:00.002-04:00

I hate my living situation more than I can tell you. I want to move so badly.

My parents drive me nuts. My mother bitches contantly about how nobody does a damn thing around here or helps out. I'd like to ask her who the hell buys all the damn groceries and cooks in this place? I don't even have a job and waste my unemployment (which is over) on groceries for people who don't appreciate any of it.

We went to customer appreciation at a local meat market yesterday. I bought something just for me- pizza summer sausage. Even told my mother about it yesterday. I never get anything- no new clothes for I don't know how many years, no movies, no eating out, nothing. I do this one little thing for myself and she f*cking throws the summer sausage away today because she "didn't recognize" it in the meat drawer. WTF????

I am so angry! I snapped, screaming, yelling, crying. I know it wasn't done on purpose, but part of me feels like it was- maybe even subconsciously to get us to leave. Maybe the Pipsqueak and I do need to move away again- to where ever I can get a job. F*ck family at this point.

I am just so tired. Tired of no job. Tired of no income. Tired of everything.

And to top it off I'm so missing my grandmother right now. We were very close and I just wish she was around right now. She's the only one who ever made me feel safe and like I could do anything. I miss her more than anything and wish I could hug her one more time. No matter what she could make "it" better.

I want to be alone on a deserted island right now. Just me (and maybe the Pipsqueak) and nothing to deal with, no stress, nothing. Just relaxing time. That never happens anymore. Hell, I haven't been alone in almost 5 years. Try that on for size. I'm never alone here. Ever.

Okay- enough bitching. I just needed to vent. I think I'll go nurse this headache and be anti-social for a few days.

Deaf Rapper

2010-07-19T19:21:00.002-04:00

I just found out about this guy from Detroit. His name is Sean Forbes and he's a deaf rapper. He just signed a contract with Emin*ms label.

His website is here and you can see his rap- "I'm Deaf".

He's the first rapper after Queen Latifah that I've ever liked.

Enjoy.

Unemployment extention letter

2010-06-21T16:23:00.003-04:00

Here's a copy of a letter I sent to U.S. minority leader Mitch McConnell. I don't expect a response. I don't expect him to "get" my sarcasm or my feelings.

However, it made me feel better writing it and so I'm posting it here because it'll make me feel a tad better too.

Mr. McConnell,
I'd like to thank you for really showing our country the way. Today I'm trying to figure out how to pay my bills without unemployment benefits because you decided not to agree to extending them.

I am a highly qualified unemployed teacher in the state of _____. I have been trying in vain to find employment for an entire year.

I am also a single mother who has moved in with my parents because I can't live in this economy on my own anymore.

I would prefer to stay off of welfare. I was not raised to utilize the government in this way, but I am not going to have a choice if unemployment is not extended.

I am trying to figure out how to pay almost $500 a month in health insurance for myself and my daughter when I have no income anymore. How to help my parents pay for the extra groceries, how to pay for eye exams and dental bills, not to mention car insurance and just everyday costs of living.

What do you suggest I do Senator? There are hundreds of teachers out of work competing with me for jobs.

I am scared. Scared because I see no options. Our jobs have left the country, so we don't have as many students. I don't see the job situation getting better and moving is not what I want to do. My child is established here in school, my family is here, but I may not have a choice. The only problem is... there aren't enough jobs anywhere else in this country either and I'm only certified to teach in two states.

So- again, I'd like to thank you Senator. For not doing the right thing for people like me. For not caring that unemployed Americans vote. We do vote.

Maybe next election you'll become one of the unemployed- but then you still won't have the fear we "regular" people have. After all, you'll have all the perks from your career long after it's over.

Oh and Senator there may not be "Hoovervilles" anymore, but don't be surprised to see "McConnellvilles" coming to your nearest bridge sometime in the near future.

Life sucks

2010-06-15T00:30:00.002-04:00

What a day! Flag day and my bday. I'm in the most unbirthday mood of my entire life I believe.

I'm unemployed, broke, and have parents that will be tapped out by December. The economy has hit everyone hard and I really don't know what I will do if I don't get a job. I want to teach, good gods I want to teach! I can't even get an interview for the few openings there are. It's depressing to say the least.

I have no ideas for what to do at my age for a new career- I refuse to go back to school and garner any debt.... I don't know if I'm cut out to be an administrator... I feel confused and upset and really would love to turn back the hands of time so I could warn myself of this and give myself the winning lotto numbers or something.

Congress has no idea how normal people live anymore. They had enough time to talk about baseball when they were supposed to be debating unemployment extentions. It must be nice when you can ignore the people you are supposed to be working for to consider the wonders of a baseball prodigy that will never again have to worry about finances. How very nice for you. How very awful for me and the other 900,000 or so individuals who depend on that pittance of an unemployment check to feed our childern and pay our bills.

I am trying not to keep the anger and bitterness, but it is hard to let go. I don't know where to go and what to do with my emotions as I feel like a time bomb as of late. I just want to "go off" and make folks feel as bad as I do-- impress on them just how scary it is to be the working poor. Try telling your kid over and over and over again that we "can't" afford to much of anything... no zoo pass this year (we're both upset about that one), no trips to anyplace that require money getting in... art museum (which was promised), science museum, the mall (try taking a 9 year old to the mall and not spend money).

I am trying to stay positive and get myself in gear to fill out job applications for any district within an hour's drive. It's hard to be motivated to do so, but I must- for it's the only shot I have at maybe one day supporting my kid.

I don't want to move- I may not have a choice.

Wish me luck.

ARGH!

2010-04-24T19:46:00.001-04:00

Now she wants a port-a-potty so she doesn't have to go to the bathroom because 'it's too far'... omgosh I am so ready to take her back to the nurses.. this is nuts!

Finally Friday!

2010-04-23T18:53:00.003-04:00

Well- my week of running back and forth from home to hospital to school is finally over.

My mother came home yesterday and is still pretty weak. She's on a few meds- one for her heart, antibiotics too- oh and a pretty new nebulizer to help her breath.

I think we may make it.....

Monday, monday- can't trust that day......

2010-04-23T18:37:00.004-04:00

What a week! Let's see, where to begin....

First- Monday. More specifically Monday around 2:15 pm. My mother has been having trouble breathing all day- she finally relents to go to the ER. Trouble is it's time to pick up the Pipsqueak from school.

My father and I decide that I'll go with her and he can pick up the kid. I lost that round.

The ER
Let's discuss the ER shall we? First and foremost- why must one wait so long to be seen. Don't get me wrong- I'm in a small town and we were actually back in the ER part rather than the waiting room within 30 minutes. Thirty minutes where my mother sat in a wheelchair wheezing because she couldn't catch her breath.... but I digress.

It seemed to take forever for the doctor to see her and apparently 170-190 beats a minute is a tad fast for the heart... so, hooked up to heart monitors too.

The doc finally comes in (nice guy btw) and looks at her chart- asks what's been going on- finds out more drugs she can't take (side effects/allergies) and then goes to decide his course of treatment now that 95% of available drugs are off the table.

The nurse comes in to put in an I.V... my mother has very deep veins. Very hard to find... see where this is going?

Picture it- hospital ER, one ER nurse, IV equipment, and a wheezing woman on a hospital gurney who can't get comfortable. Then picture 3 jabs later and no I.V. attached yet.

Try 2- new nurse- other arm.... same results- blood everywhere- patient in major pain, no I.V.

Try 3- another nurse. She looks like she can't see well- coke bottle glasses, squinting, and hunched over. Great Quasimodo's cousin is going to try this. More pokes, yells, blood and no I.V.

Try 4- bring in the cute EMT guy- we'll call him "K". He tried, he tried so hard.. in the end- he too was defeated by my mother's veins...

Try 5- 30 minutes into the I.V. debacle- bring in the mad scientist otherwise known as the anesthesiologist. I kid you not he reminded me of the guy on the pictures of those science kits- Einstein hair, etc....

Success at last- only took 35 minutes, 3 nurses, one EMT, and the anesthesiologist.

Lovely. I can tell what's going to happen from here on out.

There were Xrays- they bring the machine to you now buy the way- kinda cool...

Diagnosis- pneumonia and rapid heart rate. Joy and rapture. (read sarcasm there)

We've waited about 90 minutes by this point- doc finally comes in and says he's waiting for all the blood work to come back.

Two minutes later we are visited by the blood fairy. Only instead of giving you something- she takes something. She took one look at mom's arms and hands (I.V. was in low wrist) and turns white. I ask for "L". A wonderful lady who can draw blood from my mother and me on the first try- with little pain.

20 minutes later L comes down and does her thing- takes about 5 vials of blood and then we wait 60 more minutes for all blood results to come in.

Doc finally tells us mom is being admitted into ICU for the night. Goes to right order. We wait again.

Another 20 minutes or so and she's finally moved upstairs to ICU and I head home to fill everyone in.

Home

The Pipsqueak was upset, but okay in the long run. I was exhausted. My father went to the hospital with some of my mother's stuff that she wanted and the dog was confused.

Thank the gods for pizza delivery.

Sunday in the Park with Nobody

2010-04-11T18:25:00.004-04:00

After watching Julie & Julia last night I decided that I could totally relate to both women on different levels. Julie because she was bored with her life and it hadn't turned out the way she always envisioned and Julia because she wanted more than was thought able by a woman in her time.

Both managed to do something pretty neat. Julia- introduce generations of Americans to French cooking, and Julie- meet her own goal. Both admirable and both hard to attain.

I also would love to know why I can't do that? Why can't I set some type of goal and reach it? Why is everything so hard? Is it me self-sabotaging or is it some reaching arm of the cosmos telling me that I've really pissed somebody off somewhere- though who and where are unknown as of now.

The job prospect looks very bleak at this time and I'm actually considering moving again. I moved back to this area to be close to family, though right now, we're a bit too close by being in the same home. However, I can't not work for another year. I love teaching and just can't fathom another career. What does an almost 40 year old do for a new career? Ideas? I'll take any suggestions.

Any suggestions are also welcome so I can deal with my mother and her negative attitude, constant nagging, and complaining. I don't know what her problem is lately- but I'm ready to snap. And not in a good way.

Anyway- maybe my goal can be lose a pound a week for the next 15 weeks or cook only "healthy" meals for the next 2 weeks, figure out my role in the "food revolution" proposed by Jamie Oliver....Maybe turn my notes on my daughter's adoption into a cohesive read? I guess there are possibilities out there if I can figure out what I can really do and perhaps really attain it. I guess only time will tell.

Awful

2010-04-09T18:53:00.003-04:00

This makes me sick: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36322282/ns/world_news-europe

A woman who adopted a 7 year old boy from Russia in September put him on a plane and sent him back to Moscow. She says he had turned violent. However, this behavior didn't happen until after a January visit by a social worker who said there were no issues.

Hey lady! He's legally adopted- he's a U.S. citizen now.... get help for him in this country or turn him over to child services if you no longer want him.

I'm not saying he didn't have problems- more than likely he did. He's a post institutionalized kid. I don't think the parent was prepared for this or for parenting an older child from an orphanage. Makes me sick that folks like this are able to adopt then do something like this to the child.

Though it's not the first time or the first country it's happened to.

Even Dutch diplomats do it: http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1695735,00.html

at least she has a happy ending:
http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2896289

ARGH!

2010-03-28T10:16:00.000-04:00

Email not working on this end! Trying to fix. If not- will have to go it alone.

How?

2010-03-01T23:36:00.002-05:00

How can congress justify not passing unemployment extention benefits?? How??

I had about 6 weeks left and was planning to put most of that money back. I am now screwed. I thought I'd at least get this week's benefits. I don't think it's going to happen.

What am I supposed to do now? There are no jobs. I have tried to sub, but again- no jobs. Teachers aren't taking off.

I'm panicked. Totally panicked.

I honestly don't know what to do to support my child.

I wish I could tell you what I'd like to do to that Republican filibuster though.

Bittersweet

2010-02-19T17:22:00.003-05:00

A recent update on Anna Mae He. My heart breaks for this family.

I would also like to slap her "father" Jack He upside his head. He seems to be a cruel man- abusing his wife and denying Anna her passport. I would also like to know why the state dept. won't issue Anna Mae a new one.

I am glad the Bakers are still in her life and Casey wants to send Anna Mae back for visits. I wonder if Anna will move back to the states when she is 18. Maybe the state dept. will issue her another passport by then. It's ridiculous that they won't do it now.

Meat Loaf

2010-02-18T19:07:00.004-05:00

Meat Loaf. Not the singer. The food. I made a great meatloaf tonight based on a recipe from *The Pioneer Woman.

Feel free to try it out if you like. If you do try it- post and let me know if you liked it.

For the Meatloaf
1 1/2 lb. ground hamburger

4 slices of bread

3/4 cup milk

3/4 - 1 cup Parmesan cheese (I used K*aft brand)

salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and onion powder to taste. I probably used about 1/4 tsp. of salt and 1/2 tsp. to 1 tsp. of the others

2 eggs, beaten

thin strips of bacon

1. Tear up bread and soak in milk for few minutes in a small bowl
2. Put hamburger and all other ingredients in a large bowl together
3. Pour eggs over hamburger mixture and mix together well with your hands.
4. Spray a 9 x 14 pan
5. Pour meat mixture into the pan and shape into a loaf.
6. Put sauce on meatloaf
7. Lay bacon on top of meatloaf (you can wrap it under if you like)
8. Put more sauce on bacon
9. Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees F

For the sauce
1. Ketchup
2. Dry mustard
3. Light soy sauce
4. Hot Sauce
5. Worcestershire sauce
6. BBQ Sauce (K*raft original brand was used)

To make the sauce- just mix the above ingredients to taste. I used more ketchup/bbq sauce, a dash of light soy sauce, and worcestershire sauce, a few drops of hot sauce, and just about 1/2 tsp. of dry mustard.

Enjoy!

Simply Tired

2010-02-08T11:28:00.002-05:00

Dear Mr. Obama,

I am tired. Tired of being tired. Tired of watching you campaign when you are already in the White House. I am tired of hearing empty promises that you have no idea how to keep- let alone any chance of keeping them. Please, go back to the White House. Start your job already.

I am a highly qualified teacher under the rules of NCLB, yet I can't get a teaching job for anything. I'm trying. I have a child to support and no income. Why? I chose to teach. A profession that I thought would never have such layoffs.

We, as a country, are suffering from the worst economy since the great depression, unemployment rates are reminiscent of the 70s recession, I can barely afford health care for myself and my child, and your number in the polls are slipping. Democrats still outnumber Republicans 3 to 1 in Massachusetts, yet a Republican won the Senate seat. Are you paying attention yet?

No. You focus on your numbers in the polls. Stop campaigning. Please.

How about health care reform... couldn't we just start slow? Let's reform what is already in place. Make it illegal for insurance companies to deny benefits based on pre-existing conditions-- my brother for example can't get insurance because he's a diabetic. This is wrong. Make it illegal for them to gouge the prices of insurance for few benefits.... I pay almost $500 a month for insurance and have a deductible so high I'd almost clean out my little savings if something horrible happened. Then, only 80% of my bills would be paid.

How about education reform? I have so much to say on this and a lot of it isn't for public reading. Let's open up jobs for teachers again. I want to work. I love teaching. However, no teacher can do their job when all that is expected are high test scores. Children are variables, not robots. They are "more than a test score". Politicians need to remember that. We are doing the best we can with what we have. Budgets are cut, we are not getting money for programs, layoffs loom, classroom sizes are getting bigger.... but still- perform miracles. It doesn't matter that little Johnny spent last night sleeping in the bathtub because of the drive by shootings in his neighborhood or that little Molly went to bed hungry and came to school hungry because her parents lost their jobs. Perform miracles. Let teachers teach. Teach basic skills, teach children how to think for themselves, not "how to answer questions on a test".

Here's another novel idea.... How about bringing jobs back to the U.S.? Hasn't China screwed up enough- between lead, other poisonous metals, and killing our pets with tainted dog food- isn't enough enough? Stop trying to be friends and bring those manufacturing jobs back to our country. Our citizens need work. Let's have U.S. car makers actually make all our car parts in the U.S.

Let's not bail out the banks. Let's bail out the folks who are losing their homes because all the jobs are gone. Let's bail out education without so many strings attached so teachers can go back to work and teach.

Let's take a look at FDR and maybe create 'green jobs' similar to the WPA program. Look at the future- green may be our best bet. Let's teach people how to make green cars, wind turbines, solar panels.... just an idea.

Like I said Mr. Obama, I'm tired. Tired of being tired. Tired of being unemployed. Tired of watching you campaign. Simply tired.

Enfuriating

2010-01-18T09:42:00.002-05:00

Read this story: http://www.postchronicle.com/news/breakingnews/article_212278781.shtml

Okay, back? I am furious that this woman- who did not refuse orders- she asked for more time is being prosecuted and her poor child put into foster care. The thing she was trying to avoid.

Can you imagine her grief, anger, and anxiety at not knowing what is happening to her child?

There is no excuse for this in our country. Does the army fancy itself a communist Russia? Do what we say or suffer?

Why not give this woman more time to find appropriate child care? What commanding officer in their right mind tells a single parent to show up for duty so we can put your kid in foster care.

Yeah- I want my kid put in one of the most screwed up systems in this country. It's nuts.

I have no respect for the army. I commend the men and women who are doing their jobs in the army- but the entity itself has no cause to ask for my respect. It has not earned my respect for certain.

I can only hope that all the publicity this situation garners will help Spc. Hutchinson's case. We can all see who the enemy is here- and it's not Spc. Hutchinson.... it's the army.

Today

2010-01-09T13:04:00.003-05:00

Today is so much better. I realized yesterday that I had a lump the size of a golf ball on my head, above my eye. It was also black and blue. I had hit it on the car frame the day before and am thinking maybe I had a slight concussion which made me feel so crappy... not sure- but after a good sleep I'm much better.

Making beef stock and vegetable beef soup today (if I have any frozen veggies in the house).

Saw the 20/20 show on David Goldman last night. It was a good update.

Okay- I'd better head off, a lot of stuff to catch up on today.

Does anyone even care?

2010-01-08T11:21:00.003-05:00

I, personally don't give a sh*t about this. Do you?

Peter Orszag, the budget director of the White House has declared that he is the father of Tatiana Zoe, the daughter of Claire Milonas, the Greek shipping tycoon. This Read more: http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/world/peter-orszag-admits-having-a-daughter-with-ex_100300906.html#ixzz0c2RxNeOl

Why the f*ck should I care if he knocked somebody up? Why should anybody care if this kid is his daughter?

Yes, I'm in a pissed a** mood today.

The fact that it's 11:22 and I haven't eaten since getting up might be part of it. The fact that the stupid chicken is in a pot ready to boil for soup is the rest of it. I'm not planning on eating it though. I just couldn't figure out what else to do with the stupid chicken. I feel like I've wasted a cut up bird in soup.

Oh, and to top off my morning- I had to stop my laundry so somebody else could take a shower. I hate living here.

Wish this was newer

2010-01-08T10:53:00.003-05:00

I recently found this article http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/12/18/anna.he.adoption/

about Anna Mae He. It's from last year and I only wish I could find a newer update.

After watching the drama unfolding for David and Sean Goldman, I started thinking of this little girl again and hope that she's doing a little better than she was last year at this time.

Taken out by a chicken

2010-01-08T10:30:00.002-05:00

This morning has to be one that makes no sense. Despite the fact that we have new snowfall out the wazzu- there was only a 2hr school delay. Okay- I can live with that considering my Pipsqueak doesn't have to ride the bus.

However, after she left (my dad takes her to school) for some reason my world collapsed. Over a chicken. Yup, a chicken.

I had put in the first load of laundry and was getting the soup pot ready for the chicken. My plans had been to make chicken noodle soup today. Easy, simple, and perfect for this weather.

I bought 3 chickens yesterday at the butcher. Two were cut up and 1 was a small, whole (under 3 lbs) bird perfect for soup. Somehow I managed to thaw out one of the cut up chickens.

The thing is my mother noticed I had this cut up bird thawing- why didn't she say something to me? I'm really bothered by this for some reason.

Why is it such a big deal you ask? I don't like to use cut up chicken for soup. I know, technically, it's the same as a whole chicken- but I just don't like to do it. I won't do it. Therefore, I have no idea what to do for dinner or with this stupid cut up thawed chicken. We had baked chicken for dinner 2 nights ago- I'm thinking nobody wants it again.

That's when I lost it. I mean lost it... tears, anger, wanting to throw the daggum chicken out the window. I'm not sure what's wrong- but I am certain most of this emotion really isn't about the stupid chicken. It's about the fact that I still haven't found a job, that I feel trapped, and that my poor kid is growing up this way.

Yes, extended family can be a good thing. But we aren't the Waltons and I don't want to live here anymore. I want out. I want a job. I want my life back. I want my kid not to have memories only of what she was never able to do, but of fun things too. Right now, I don't know how many of those 'fun' memories she has that will include me.

She told me the other day that I never smile anymore. She's right. It takes a lot to make me smile and I am having a hard time not being serious all the time. Part is my personality, part is the overwhelming feelings of not having my life where I want it.

Anyway, if anyone still reads here- any chicken ideas will be welcome since I don't have a flipping clue what to do with this one except to cry about it.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T09:30:00.000-05:00

From our family to yours... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

From Ben Stein

2009-12-16T14:22:00.003-05:00

The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary. (I am putting it here because I think it has merit).

My confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.

It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period.. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.

Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.

In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.

Billy Graham 's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Hurricane Katrina ).. Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?'

In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.

Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem ( Dr. Spock 's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said okay.

Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.

Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace. Are you laughing yet? Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.

Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.

Pass it on if you think it has merit.

If not, then just discard it.... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.
My Best Regards, Honestly and respectfully,

Ben Stein

oh the joy

2009-12-15T08:44:00.002-05:00

Well- looks like I need to find $446.00 a month for insurance. They won't cover me.

Just another perk of life right now.

I'm glad I have coverage- just sucks that you must pretty much lie or twist the truth (see I learned) to the insurance company to get better coverage.

On the upside- my kid is healthy and I am too. I just need to figure out how to pay for the insurance this month, along with all my other bills.

Guess I'll figure it out- but good grief- the stress levels....

When it rains it pours

2009-12-14T14:12:00.002-05:00

Well, first, no word on the job I interview for last Monday. She seemed very impressed with me and I really thought I had a chance. She said she'd get back to me probably at the end of last week. Nothing heard yet.

Second, I got a bill for blood work at the hospital totalling almost $700.00. Luckily they were able to modify it to $260.00- the downside- I have to pay it by the end of the month. Tough, but I can do it.

Third, car insurance. 1996 piece of crap car with over 130,000 miles costs $254.00 to insure for 6 months. Oh boy! Let's get into that nest egg you managed to save last year and spend even more.

The piece de resistance though- I tried to upgrade insurance and they say they'll cover the Pipsqueak- but won't cover me. If I can't get it resolved - I need to come up with $446.00 a month to keep my current insurance.

That's a week of subbing (in the highest paying district) And since you're paid bi-monthly as a sub I'd have one check and less than half of the other to live on.

ARGH! Stop the world I want to get off!

I'm sure it could be worse- though I don't want it to be. I'd just like it to not be so damned hard all the time.

Clarification

2009-11-20T16:09:00.002-05:00

As for the previous post... I posted it only because I don't feel the government has the right to tell women (or anyone) what they can or cannot do in regards to their own bodies (health care).

It doesn't matter what I would do or what my beliefs are- what does matter is that the Stupak Admendment is trying to take away my right and the right of every other woman in this country on what they could do if faced with perhaps the most difficult decision of their lives.

Protect Women's Reproductive Rights: Strike Down Stupak!

2009-11-20T16:02:00.002-05:00

Note: As I am putting this post together, I am getting news that the new senate bill doesn't include Stupak language.That could change any moment. We need to keep up the pressure.

Just as the country is on the brink of making a crucial and historic overhaul of our health care system, Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Michigan) forced a poison pill into the House health care reform bill. The Stupak amendment would bar coverage for abortion under any plans that use federal funding. It would be the most far-reaching abortion restriction in decades – more severe than the Hyde Amendment.

Millions of women who have access to abortion services would no longer have it. Women receiving tax subsidies could not even use their own money to purchase private insurance that covers abortion. In most cases, low-income women would have NO ACCESS AT ALL to abortion services.

If the bill passes with the Stupak amendment, it would break President Obama’s promise that women would not be harmed by health care reform. Women would be worse off than they are today.

We cannot let this stand, and our window to do anything about it is closing fast:

Please call Senators Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer and let them know you want the anti-choice Stupak amendment stripped from the health care reform bill!

1) Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s office: 202-224-3841 (To e-mail Sen. Feinstein, follow this link: http://feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactUs.Home )

2) Sen. Barbara Boxer’s office: 202-224-3553 (To e-mail Sen. Boxer, follow this link http://boxer.senate.gov/contact/ )For more information about the Stupak amendment, go to: http://www.prochoicepower.org/get-involved/

Please help us save health care reform and make sure women are not left out! Your calls are what make the difference!

Note: This post was written by CityMama's friend Sue Hutchison, Communications Director/Writing Specialist at Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, San Jose CA.
She has graciously allowed CityMama to reprint it and hopes that YOU WILL, TOO. If you've wanted to blog about this important issue but haven't had the time to put your thoughts down--here you go! Please cut, copy, and paste the above post into your emails, Facebook notes, and blog posts. Tell all your like-minded friends to do the same. We must strike down the Stupak Amendment and its anti-women's reproductive rights language.

Life Sucks

2009-09-01T18:39:00.001-04:00

No job yet. My old job opened up and she gave it to a guy. Yup- a student teacher last year... but he can pee standing up so therefore he must the right candidate for the job. Talk about being ticked off.

Right now I'm on almost every subbing list in the area and will be on every subbing list come Friday I hope.

No jobs yet- but hopefully the swine flu will hit and I'll be busy busy. Or maybe some pregnant lady will decide to take all year off and I can be a long term sub. Anything to bring money in.

Other than that I'm trying recipes out of the book "Cook yourself Thin". The show is on Lifetime-an import from England and so far I've liked everything I've tried- as has most of the family.

The biggest hit was sweet and sour pork. Making it this week with beef. We had crunchy chicken fingers tonight, and spaghetti carbonara last night. Even has recipes for deserts and breakfasts. All recipes are easy and fast. My kind of recipe.

Nothing much happening here. Better head out though- I'm going to try and post again on a more regular basis.

July Already?

2009-07-06T00:04:00.002-04:00

Sheesh. I can't seem to get this blogging thing going. We spent the 4th weekend at the lake and except for the last day- it wasn't too much fun. Cold, rainy, icky.

The Pipsqueak has a loose tooth that is really causing her pain, and we were up a lot last night because of it.

Nothing on the job front yet. I'm scared and know I need to fill out aps in other districts- but just don't want to. Guess I need to do that this week and just get stuff in order. Let's hope I'm able to be called back.

My tomato and pepper plants seem okay for now. Not sure how they'll do in the end- but there is one teeny tiny pepper on the plant. Hopefully, more will follow as will the tomatoes.

Better head out and am going to try to get the blog posts from my head onto the computer from now on.

June Already?

2009-06-09T17:33:00.003-04:00

F0r the one or two readers I may or may no longer have... Sheesh- it's been a rough month or so.

Still no job, but I have a few leads in another district- but pay is much lower and not sure if it's enough to live on.

Meanwhile, the Pipsqueak and I went to the zoo recently and saw some amazing animals. Including lions, zebras, and hyenas... Oh my!

I'm still trying to be optimistic- so I am house hunting... Let's just hope I am able to find one and purchase before the new year. I want that tax credit!

More Pink

2009-04-12T16:57:00.001-04:00

Looks like I was wrong about the call back list. With the type of contract I had- I'm basically on the bottom of pond and let's "Hope to goodness" you get called back.

I was so angry last week- to the point of spitting nails. My administrator should have known this- but she seemed as shocked as I was. Meanwhile, I've submitted my letter of interest, gone to the union rep, and will be trying to get in touch with HR head until I do reach her. I have a few questions.

Why can't it ever be easy?

Feeling Pink

2009-03-31T18:05:00.002-04:00

Yup. I've been pink slipped. Ugh! I'm on the recall list though- so I'm hoping an ESL job will become available next year and I can do that. I love teaching ESL and really want to stay in that area.

If not, well- I'll teach anything for a year just to stay in the district.

I was out car hunting recently as I desperately need a new vehicle and think I've found what I want- I'm just afraid to buy without the contract.

Why can't life ever be simple?

On the upside- we went to the Indian restaurant last weekend to celebrate the Pipsqueak's homecoming and adoption day. Her homecoming day and adoption day are on the same day- but a year apart.

My mother went with us- only the 2nd time she's had Indian food (and a diff. place). She seemed to like what she had. We got the buffet and my child again gorged on chicken tikka masala, lamb gorma, tandori chicken, chickeny birayni, rice, and naan. She couldn't even finish her desert. She loves the golub ?? (can't remember name or spelling) but only could manage a bite. The desert looks like donut holes- but they are soaked in rose water I think.

All in all it was a great day.

Now- let's just hope I've got that contract in May.

Indian night

2009-03-07T20:14:00.003-05:00

Well, it finally happened. I managed to cook an Indian dish that tasted "right" and didn't cause us to run from the kitchen and immediately order pizza.

Using a paste from Sukhi brand, I made Chicken Tikka Masala. The Pipsqueak loved it and is looking forward to the leftovers tomorrow. We couldn't find Naan bread so we used pita bread that I heated in the pan and had rice to finish the meal.

Finally- a hit from my daughter's birth heritage. Makes me feel better knowing I can cook at least 1 Indian dish as easily as I can cook German, Japanese, Italian, and Mexican food.

One more thing

2009-01-20T20:52:00.003-05:00

Why oh why did they let Aretha ruin such a beautiful song in that way?

She has a great voice- use it- don't screech it.

No words

2009-01-20T17:40:00.002-05:00

Okay- we got a new President today. I'm not overexcited by any means. Yes, I'm still holding a Hillary grudge.

Also- is anyone else bothered by the fact that everywhere we look it's "The first black president"? Wrong! He is bi-racial. Is this not denying that his mother is white? Aren't we "forgetting" that half of him that isn't African?

With all that is said for children (especially transracially adopted kids) to come to terms with their ethnic identities -especially when raised by white people- I would think that O*bama would want to acknowledge all of himself. Not just the half that got him elected.

Yup- Hillary grudge still intact.

Arrgh!

2009-01-17T19:19:00.003-05:00

I really hate dealing with people sometimes. I hate living in a house that also houses my parents and my sibling.

When ordering pizza and garlic bread from a local establishment you expect your order. Nope- brought garlic sticks. My kid wanted a garlic stick, badly. We called to get the bread and our change (the sticks cost more) and asked what to do with the sticks. The kid answering the phone said- keep them, I guess. The manager said- no- they have to give them back.

Hello! They can't resell the food- it was their mistake... but give them back. What are they going to do with them? Toss them or more than likely eat the sticks themselves.

Poor customer service and they wonder why I don't order from them much. Meanwhile the bread/sticks debaucle cause a huge uproar because my 8 year old really wanted the sticks and the bread was ordered for an adult (my sibling) who needed it because of his medical status.

What a suck a** night. And to top it off- my kid got her feelings hurt and wouldn't eat the pizza my mom ordered for her- so my mom gets ticked off about "wasting money".

ARGH!

Update

2009-01-16T21:22:00.003-05:00

Anna Mae He Update
For anyone interested- there is the latest news involving the Chinese-American child who was raised by one family for almost 8 years before courts made her to live with her bio-family whom she barely knew.

Bad situation on all sides- and it seems not much better now, almost a year after having to move to China. The only upshot is that her bio-mother allows a once a week phone call from her other family. I'm sure that helps Anna feel a bit better- knowing that they still love her and want what is best for her- just as her bio-mother does.

On the homefront- it's COLD here. Minus 18 F before winchill factor is figured in this morning. Cold, cold, cold. Brrrr...

Okay- I'm heading off and trying to keep warm.

Chicken Perloo

2009-01-01T18:51:00.002-05:00

I found this recipe in a wonderful murder/mystery book by Laura Childs. I hope she doesn't mind my sharing it here. We made it the other night and it was a hit with all... including the Pipsqueak.

Give it a try- and also try reading the Tea Shop Mystery Books. They're a wonderful read.

Chicken Perloo
1 tsp. olive oil (I used Safflower- it's what I had on hand)
4-5 pieces of chicken- skin removed
2 slices bacon (cut in 1/4" pieces) or 2 oz. diced salt pork (we used bacon)
1 large onion sliced (we diced it as well)
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1 cup long grain rice (not instant)
1 can chicken broth (1 3/4 cups)-- I used chicken stock
1/2 cup water
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 TBS. minced parsley

-- we didn't have the parsley on hand-- and added garlic powder as well.

Heat oil over medium-high heat using nonstick fry pan (12 inch). Add chicken and cook about 8 minutes or until golden, turning over once. Put chicken on a plate. Reduce heat to medium and add bacon, cooking for 4 minutes until browned. Remove bacon with slotted spoon to small bowl. Discard all but 2 tsp. of back fat from skillet.

Add onion and green pepper to same skillet and cook, covered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add rice and stir until evenly coated. Stir in bacon, broth, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup water. Return chicken to pan; heat to boiling over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, 10-25 minutes. (We cooked it 25 minutes). Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Serves 4.

2008-12-25T00:09:00.001-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Fiestaware

2008-12-20T11:38:00.001-05:00

Please go here and enter the Fiestaware give-a-way. A great way to get some cool dishes.

Winter Blahs

2008-12-16T17:04:00.006-05:00

I haven't seen the sun in days. Stuck here in the midwest I see snow. I see ice. I see clouds. I see no sun.

One of my school kids asked me today, "The sun is red right?"

"No! It's yellow!" Shouted another.

"Orange! The sun is orange!" offered yet another student.

*Sigh*

The lack of sunlight has effected the young too. Not being able to colour something as simple as the sun. So, so sad.

Let us hope the ice on the ground, the snow now falling leads us to a 2 hour delay in the 'morrow. That would make this weather worth it... well, almost.

Scattagories fun

2008-11-24T19:29:00.002-05:00

WHAT IS YOUR "Blog' NAME: Kikilia
BOY NAME: Kieran
4 LETTER WORD: Kelp
GIRL NAME: Keiko
OCCUPATION: Knight
A COLOR: Kelly Green
SOMETHING YOU WEAR: Kilt
BEVERAGE: Kahlua or even Kool-Aid (ick)
FOOD: Kiwi
SOMETHING FOUND IN A BATHROOM: Kaopectate
A PLACE : Keikionga
REASON FOR BEING LATE: Kids
SOMETHING YOU SHOUT: Kowabunga!

Barley Soup

2008-11-23T15:54:00.003-05:00

It's cold here. Cold. Light dusting of snow on the ground. Time for Oma's Barley soup. Oma is would be my great- grandmother whom I've never met except through her barley soup.

Hope you enjoy too.

1 pounds beef short ribs or soup bone with lots of meat
1-Tbs shortening -brown ribs on both sides- so meat is brown
When meat is brown add 1 qt liquid-- Water or beef stock/broth. I prefer broth/stock.
Add salt and pepper & garlic clove
Cook until meet is tender 1-1 1/2 hours
When meat is done- remove from broth and take off bones- add back to soup
Add 1/4 cup shredded carrots (or cut fine)
1/4 cup onions cut fine
1/4 cup celery diced very fine
1 potato diced fine
1 Tbs. ketchup
1/4 cup barley

You can also add green beans- though I never have

It takes about 20-25 minutes for barley to cook.

This soup is great the next day.

Hope anyone who tries it enjoys it.

Monday

2008-11-17T21:37:00.002-05:00

Can't believe how long it's been since I've posted. Not a whole lot to blog about actually- everyone around here is beyond sick and I'm just getting over it. The child is just getting it, and my mother is in the middle of it.

If awards were given for hacking coughs- I'd say we'd be contenders.

Anyway- hope to post more soon.

I think I've been inspired by the first snow of the season. Yup, snow. It even stuck to the ground. :-)

Trick or Treat and other Halloween things

2008-10-30T19:45:00.006-04:00

Our small town decided to have trick or treat tonight, October 30 rather than on Halloween due to the local football sectional. I am miffed to say the least, but Pipsqueak had a good time being a vampire witch this year.

My letter to the town Halloween committee will get done and maybe will have some bearing on next year. I won't hold my breath, but one never knows.

The pictures are this year's Jack O' Lantern and one I call "Thank you- thank you very much"....

Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!

Oh- and btw- the car- not mine. It's my folks.

Indian clothes!

2008-10-25T15:01:00.004-04:00

This is just a touch of the embroidery on Pipsqueak's newest bday gift. A traditional Indian outfit. She looks lovely in it. New outfit and bangles- what a great way to extend the bday.

8!

2008-10-12T22:00:00.002-04:00

Good grief! I can't believe it's been near on a month since I've posted. I guess life has been getting away from me and the blog or lack thereof as the case may be has suffered.

Today the Pipsqueak turned 8. Yup, 8. I still can't believe it. Seems like just yesterday this small creature came into my life. She totally turned my world upside down and it's been great (for the most part).

She woke up and celebrated with cake for breakfast, a brand new Nin*tendo DS and accessories a la Hello K*itty... plus a game.

We then went to the zoo (met her G*dmother there), Indian restaurant for lunch- the food was divine, and to wrap it up we hit the mall where a "new furry friend" was made thanks to Build a B*ear. She chose an elephant whom she named Elly. Elly is of course an Asian elephant.

All in all it was a great day and I hope she has many more great days to come.

I'd love to do a thought provoking post on the last 6 years with my child but am too tired. Maybe later this week.

Until then- Happy Birthday Pipsqueak!

More zoo pictures

2008-09-20T18:24:00.003-04:00

The first picture is of course, the sea lion balancing her ball while doing a handstand. The second is just a neat photo (I thought) of the Black footed penguins from Africa.

Feeding time at the Zoo

2008-09-20T17:55:00.002-04:00

The Pipsqueak and I spent the afternoon at the zoo. We signed up for a program and for a nominal fee were able to prepare lunch for 2 zoo animals. In our case the Red Panda and a Tortise.

The zoo kitchen smelled awful- but it was neat making the food. The other class participants made food for animals like River Otters and Bobcats to Scarlet Macaws and Rabbits.

After making the food we got to walk around part of the zoo to feed our animals. Feeding the Red Panda had to be one of the neatest experiences ever. The Pipsqueak got to hand feed her and I was able to get one good picture of the event.

We also saw the Sea Lion feeding/show and I have a great picture of a Sea Lion balancing a ball on her nose while doing a handstand. Was great and hopefully I'll get it posted later.

Anyway- after the zoo we grabbed a late lunch and headed home via the country roads in order to stop and pick our pumpkins from some kind farmers front yard.

All in all, a great day.

School and Sickness

2008-09-07T10:07:00.002-04:00

New school, new kids, new germs = me having my first major cold of the season. It turned into some type of sinus/allergy thing too- so this past week has been rough. I feel a bit better today and hope this week will go much better breathing wise.

I'm enjoying the new job. I have kids from grades 1-5 and am enjoying them as well. Never was sure if I'd do okay with the bigger kids- but they are a lot of fun too.

Spent part of the day at the zoo yesterday for a class for the Pipsqueak in horse care. She even made the local news for another zoo event and was thrilled to see herself on TV last night.

I can't believe it's a little over a month before she turns 8. Seems like yesterday I was celebrating her 2nd bday (1st party) a few months after she came home. She wants a 'real' party this year- so we're going to have it a week early so it can be outside.

I think some sort of 'pin the hat on the witch' or the 'mole on the troll' depending on the poster I can find, decorating small pumpkins with markers, ice cream and cupcakes and we'll be finished. Oh and gift opening of course. She won't let me forget that.

She wants a cake on her actual bday- so that will be a family party and I think will be very low-keyed and laid back.

Best get going - am going to make jalapeno poppers and then must find bread and soup for my lunches for school this week.

A break

2008-08-10T13:14:00.002-04:00

Okay- I'm needing to take a small break from the blog... nothing major just a week or so.

I start a new F/T job this next week and need to get my head wrapped around teaching f/t again.

I'm thrilled, but nervous too. It seems so long ago that I had my own room. That, coupled with the fact that this is a situation I've never taught before - a pull out program- I really need my focus to be at school.

Okay- gotta run- many errands to run today.

Be back soon.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-30T12:29:00.002-04:00

Untitled

2008-07-12T17:47:00.002-04:00

Summer is flying by way to fast for my liking. I haven't been doing too much. The lake, the zoo, a promising job interview, laundry, bike riding, and the usual stuff.

Still- I can't believe we're already mid-July and I must start back to school shopping soon.

The Pipsqueak has outgrown all her long pants. Not around the waist- length wise. Ugh. Ah well- let's hope I find some great sales.

Not much to report- just thought I'd post since it's been awhile.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-02T19:04:00.002-04:00

Ode to Sliders

2008-06-21T20:36:00.007-04:00

First is this

Then this

Finally- there is this

We don't have a White C*astle near where I live. The closest one is 90 minutes or so away. We went to a cousin's baby shower 2 hours away today. There was a White C*astle. The lovely Slider establishment. We saw. We ordered. We brought the goods home and were hailed as heros. Alas the feast ended.

Until next time my friend, until next time.

Now- if I can only find a Church*s Chicken less than 2 hours away......or a W*ing Stop.......

Hungry?

2008-06-13T15:35:00.002-04:00

Another web site got me thinking of a family favorite, beef stroganoff. We usually had it at Christmas at my grandma's house. Brings back lots of memories. Think I may have to make it sometime soon.

We usually double this recipe and serve over white rice. It's an easy recipe to double or even triple.

Enjoy.

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless beef sirloin tip, cut into strips
stick of butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 sliced green onions (white part only)
5 TBS flour
1 can condensed beef broth
1 tsp Dijon mustard
6-8 oz of sliced mushrooms (canned is fine)
1/3 C sour cream
1/3 C red wine
salt/pepper/garlic to taste

What to do:

1. Remove fat and gristle from sirloin and sprinkle with the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper.

2. Heat skillet and add the stick of butter. When butter is melted add the mean and saute quickly, browning the meat evenly.

3. Push meat to one side and add the green onions and cook slowly until transparent.

4. Push onions aside and stir flour into drippings.

5. Add the beef broth. Bring to boiling then turn heat down, stir in the mustard and cover pan. Simmer for about 1 hour or until meat is tender.

6. Five minutes before serving add the mushrooms, sour cream and red wine. Heat through and season to taste with salt/pepper/garlic.

7. Serve over steamed rice (or noodles)

Let's Pretend

2008-06-04T09:37:00.005-04:00

Let's pretend shall we?

Let's pretend that there's a woman who has spent 8 years in a Midwestern senate. She's of mixed race. Seen as black by this country. She has two small children and seems to have a ton of charisma and personality. Would she be your pick for president? Would she have enough experience in your eyes to be able to hold the job?

What about a white man with the same qualifications. Eight years in the senate, seems to be able to hold a crowd. Can give a great speech. Would you want him- with that lack of experience in the white house?

If you answered no- you wouldn't be alone. So why is it that Barak Obama is now the Democratic nominee for president?

Is it because sexism is still more prevalent in this country than we like to believe? Is it because folks were afraid of being called racist if they pointed out Obama's shortfalls?

If a white man or a woman of any race had tried to run with the experience Obama brings, they would have been laughed out of the race before it even began. Why the difference for Obama?

Don't get me wrong- I would like to feel as if the Democrats can clean up the mess left in the white house under the Bush administration. I just don't think the presidential nominee has the experience to get the things done that he can so wonderfully speak of doing.

So, come election time, I'll be one of "those" people that chooses not to vote. I'll choose not to vote because I can not, in good conscious back either presidential candidate.

Why??

2008-05-29T11:04:00.001-04:00

80 applications for four job openings. I guess this is why I don't yet have a teaching job in my home state.

I know it could be worse- but allow me a moment to pity myself as I know I'm a damned good teacher who can't even get an interview!

Yesterday was Zoo Day Field Trip

2008-05-28T16:41:00.003-04:00

Mr. Peacock strutting his stuff for the local ladies.

Easiest White Chili Ever

2008-05-25T17:52:00.002-04:00

Today is the first time I've tried to make or have eaten white chili. Typically made from chicken or turkey and white beans it never seemed all that appetizing to me.

Today has changed that. I made what had to be the easiest white chili and it was also very tasty. Let me know if anyone out there tries this and enjoys it.

1 lbs. cooked chicken shredded- I used a rotisserie chicken

48 oz of white beans. I used a combo of cannelloni and navy beans- but feel free to use northern beans, all cannelloni, all navy, etc... whatever you like best

1 jar of salsa mild - I used P*ace. Again use what you like

1 small can mild green chilies

80z Mexican blend shredded cheese- I used Sar*gento's. Feel free to use all Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack or whatever you like

1 TBS. cumin

6 small shakes Texas*Pete hot sauce

Put all ingredients in your pan. Heat through on the stove.

Everyone enjoyed this chili. I was amazed.

This is a very mild chili so if you want it with a bit more of a kick use medium or hot salsa &/or add hotter peppers.

Enjoy.

He Mei

2008-05-22T23:02:00.002-04:00

It seems that Anna Mae He (Baker) is now being called He Mei in her school in China. I can't imagine having my name taken away after losing so much already. I suppose it may be easier for her to blend in this way. Or perhaps the Chinese teachers will only call her by her Chinese name. Still, it must be hard.

The article states that at home she is probably still being called Anna Mae and spoken to in English. However, I guess folks wouldn't know this for certain unless they were there.

Just wondering

2008-05-20T12:35:00.004-04:00

After reading about the earthquake in China I began to wonder if Anna Mae He (Baker) was okay. If she was touched by the earthquake, if she's in school yet. Last I read, she couldn't go to school because it was too expensive. I believe she is living in Changsha w/Jack & Casey He her biological parents.

I still find myself thinking of this child I've never met at times simply due to the circumstances surrounding her adoption and then being returned to her biological family.

I hope she is doing well and can one day understand all the fuss which surrounds her.

Humanity

2008-05-13T17:11:00.002-04:00

Irena Sendler managed to keep her humanity during a time when man's humanity to man was forgotten has died in Poland. Her life is documented in the play "Life in a Jar".

Please take a moment to read about this remarkable woman.

What a Sunday/Mother's Day

2008-05-11T09:07:00.003-04:00

I've discovered an interesting way to loose weight before the summer fully hits us. The steps are listed below for those who want to read them. I've lost 5 pounds in 3 days thus far.

1. Get a deep tissue massage on Wednesday.
2. Wake up on Thursday with flu like soreness and symptoms.
3. Decide you're too nausious to really eat on Thursday, so you lay around most of the day sleeping.
4. Wake up Friday feeling a bit better. Try a touch of egg drop soup. Realize anything that goes in comes out rather quickly. In a not so pleasant way.
5. Decide eating isn't worth the outcome (literally) and stick to water and bouillon.
6. Wake up hungry on Saturday. Think the worst of the stomach issues are over. Drink a lot of water.
7. Continue feeling good. Try bouillon. Success! Decide you can now try "real" food.
8. Try "real" food. Two bites or three bites of boiled chicken fill you up and you decide goldfish crackers are great.
9. Have a pretty nice day. Eat a goldfish cracker here or there. Some more egg drop soup.
10. Think the worst of it's over. Head to bed.
11. Wake up at 3:30 a.m. remain in bathroom until 4:30 a.m. due to stomach doing loopty loops.
12. Again decide eating isn't worth it.
13. Go back to bed.
14. Wake up.
15. Have child wish you a Happy Mother's Day with a homemade card.
16. Hug child.
17. Head to kitchen to find rice and bouillon.
18. Bribe somebody to go buy a sports drink.
19. Lay down on couch with small child- not even caring that said child is watching SpongeBob Stupid Pants.
20. Hopefully end cycle on Sunday as the week begins again on Monday.

Ouch!

2008-05-09T18:27:00.002-04:00

Okay- I love massages. Usually. They get out the knots, get the blood flowing, and followed by an adjustment from the chiropractor- are usually very helpful.

Not the one I had Wednesday though. OMG! Deep tissue massage is deep tissue massage no matter how lightly it's done or how little it hurt at the time. I feel a bit better today than yesterday.... but still feel like I could sleep another two days straight through.

Have felt achy, nauseous and like I was hit by a truck.... am hoping it's over tomorrow. Who knew getting one's blood flowing could be such an ordeal?

Politics

2008-05-03T17:48:00.003-04:00

I rarely discuss politics with anyone. I find that I don't enjoy the eventual hurt feelings and disbelief that seem to come from both sides when folks "debate" opposite candidates.

A lot of shouting has been heard recently about the Democratic Superdelegates giving Clinton the nomitation even if Obama wins popular vote. Me, I'm fine with that if it happens. What? Some may say. How can you be okay with that? Well, there are a couple of reasons.

First, anyone remember Al Gore? Yup. The man won the popular vote for President, but not enough in the electorial college. Ooops. I voted for Gore. I was one of the voters who was ignored.

Secondly, I don't want McCain in the White House. Excuse me if I think that our current economic condition and the war in Iraq are reasons to vote for something a bit new.

I think if the superdelegates hand the nomination to Clinton, they do so because they feel that she can win the White House. Not because of some 'race baiting' that folks see in this campaign.

I have seen many problems with Obama as well. Things that he has said about folks in my part of the country, not seeming to care that he's no longer mixed race in this election process, playing campaign ads that make it seem like he's not "in" with the oil companies. It is against the law for candidates to take any money from oil companies. However, both camps have taken contributions from folks in the oil industry.

When my vote is counted, it will be for the person who I think has the experience and background to get things done. A person who doesn't support the current No Child Left Behind laws, someone who supports a woman's choice over what happens to her body, a person who has played hardball in Washington before- as a senator and a first lady. Yup. I'm in the Clinton camp.

I only hope she gets a chance to prove that she can change things for the better in this country. That we aren't left with McCain in office, or floundering with someone who is marvelous at speaking, but has no idea on how to get things accomplished.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-30T07:46:00.005-04:00

Alone

2008-04-29T21:24:00.003-04:00

I would love some alone time right about now.

Am still sick and would like one day just to sleep allllll day.

Ah- to be on that deserted island-

Finished!

2008-04-24T22:23:00.002-04:00

The Pipsqueak is officially done with Vision Therapy! Yeah! She really worked her tail off this past year and the progress is amazing.

We go back for a recheck in 3 months. If that's okay- we're done.

Amazing what VT can do for a kid and their learning.

Story-courtesy of Pipsqueak

2008-04-20T18:02:00.002-04:00

Once their was a woman who was getting married. Her sister married her husband though and it made the woman very mad. She put on her wedding dress and headed upstairs to where her sister was with a knife.

Suddenly there was a "thud!"

The police came. The woman was rocking in her rocking chair and jumped out the window.

Now, every April 19th she comes back to haunt the people that made her mad.

It's the Ghost of the Bride who's sister married her boyfriend.

You do believe in her, don't you?

Ugh

2008-04-20T18:00:00.001-04:00

Woke up with sore throat and sneezes. Lousy cold &/or allergies. Am taking it easy and have eaten quite a bit of egg drop soup.

I work tomorrow and hope I'll survive. It's kindergarten and they have too much energy for someone fighting a cold. I hope the air*orne and other cold type products work.

I stand corrected

2008-04-12T14:42:00.001-04:00

"You get more love in a heart than with bees."

That is the Pipsqueak's most recent expression.

Poet Laureate?

2008-04-06T17:37:00.005-04:00

"You can get more love with a heart than with bees." so has the Pipsqueak been saying all weekend.

She loves to make up stories and sayings and songs. Now that reading and writing have really "clicked" with her, I love imagining where she'll be able to take her talents.

Her best friend, Shortstuff came over today and they played all day. From about 11:20-4pm. Most of the time outside. Thank the weather for spring! At least for today. It was sunny, and warm and a great day for chalk pictures on the driveway. They had a blast and it was a nice day.

Now, to get ready for the week.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Anniversary

2008-03-28T20:01:00.003-04:00

Today marks the 6th anniversary of the Pipsqueak coming home. Today also marks the 5th anniversary of the Pipsqueak's adoption becoming finalized. March 28th is a big day in our family. I can't believe my 7 1/2 year old has been home that long.

We celebrated by going out for Indian food. Is there something wrong in that my Indian born child would rather eat American, Mexican, Italian, or Chinese food than Indian? She ate rice, cantaloupe, lettuce, 1/2 a piece of naan, one bite of tandoori chicken, and 2 bites of chicken curry.

My veggie loving kid wouldn't touch the spinich, chickpeas, eggplant, or veggie mix (normally she'd try all of them) due to the sauces they were in. I, on the other hand, enjoyed the restaurant and ate enough Saag Paneer (Spinich w/cheese) for both of us.

The Pipsqueak has always avoided beans and lentils of any type as well as anything of an oatmeal or pudding texture. While other kids adopted at her age (17 months) seemed to enjoy eating familiar foods- she has always avoided anything similiar to what she was fed in the orphange. I hope that as she gets older, she may develop a taste for Indian cuisine.

Looking back on the past 6 years, I can't believe how time has flown. The 25" tall and 17 1/2 lbs toddler has grown into a 50lb/50in little girl. She has gone from speaking only Marathi to baby sign to English with a rapidness that I didn't know possible. She is reading. She is forever writing and creating books. She loves to make up songs and write the music for them.

I have been challenged in ways never imagined by becoming this little girl's mother. There are more challenges to come. Of that I am certain. I will do the best I can with the challenges and love the child all the more.

As the Pipsqueak has taken to saying before leaving a room "I haven't heard an 'I love you Pipsqueak".... It always causes a grin, and yes, "I love you Pipsqueak".

Unbelievable

2008-03-27T18:38:00.004-04:00

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-ap-wi-prayerdeath,0,5766258.story

These "parents" let their daughter 11 year old daughter die of diabetes because they wanted to pray instead of giving her insulin.

Faith is one thing. Stupidity is another. For whatever you may believe- God, Allah, The Creator- made people smart enough to become doctors and scientists to create medications for illnesses such as this. Faith with treatment. Not Faith AS treatment. Not in the case of diabetes.

I can't even imagine watching as my child suffered in such a death. Parents should protect their kids. Not kill them.

I hope these folks are charged with involuntary manslaughter. There is absolutely no reason to allow anyone- let alone their 11 year old die such a horrible death.

My younger sibling has Type 1 or Juvenile Diabetes. He's had to give shots since age 3. Not once, did my folks say- oh let's not give the insulin and see what happens. They knew what would happen. He would die. Slowly and painfully.

This, to me, is just unf*ckingbelievable. Insulin is readily and easily available. To know that this poor girl lay in a coma for who knows how long and was allowed to die that way- it's just awful.

Even better- the "parents" aren't the ones who called 911- it was friends of the family who had the sense to call when they realized the girl wasn't breathing. Even the aunt who lived in another state called police to report the girl was in a coma and needed help.

Unbelievable.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-25T23:59:00.001-04:00

Spring Break

2008-03-24T18:26:00.005-04:00

As you can see, Easter was enjoyed by all.

Today was the first day of spring break and we decided to go for it full force. The Pipsqueak had 10 inches cut from her hair. Yup. Ten. Inches.

The ponytail was kept and will be sent to Locks of Love to help make a wig for a child with cancer. Still, I'm in shock to see the Pipsqueak's hair so short. So. Short.

She loves it of course. It is a cute cut. She still looks adorable. I just know that I will miss braiding it and pulling it up, etc. So. Short.

Ah well, it's just hair- it will grow back.

Back... I think

2008-03-22T14:21:00.004-04:00

Well, after about 2 weeks of computer issues, I think I'm back to being able to post and check email. The internet provider has been changed and all problems seem to have stopped.

The Pipsqueak and I enjoyed colouring eggs today and I am trying to get things ready before the Easter Bunny comes by tonight.

Hope everyone has a Happy Easter weekend.

Easy Peasy Trifle

2008-03-15T12:51:00.002-04:00

This recipe was brought into our family by an in law whose mother happens to be British. This has become a family favourite desert at gatherings. If you try it, let me know if you like it too.

Trifle
- 1 frozen Sara Lee pound cake (16 oz)
- 2 cans of strawberry or raspberry pie filling
- 2 cans of Devon custard
-2 jars of clotted cream
- 1 container of cool whip (medium or small size should do)
- 1/2 or 3/4 cup of sherry (this is optional,)
- fresh strawberries, raspberries, or mixed berries

- let the pound cake thaw out enough to cut it into finger size strips

-use a deep container or bowl to layer everything

- 1st layer is the pound cake strips (just pack them in close together) then drizzle sherry over the pound cake if you include it

- 2nd layer is one can of your pie filling spread on top of the pound cake

- 3rd layer spread the 2 jars of clotted cream on top

- 4th layer pour the Devon cream on top of the clotted cream

- repeat all the layers except the clotted cream

- spread the cool whip on the very top

- put fresh strawberries or raspberries (or mixed berries) on top of the cool whip - I usually go with strawberries

- cover with some plastic wrap and refrigerate

Enjoy!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-12T12:56:00.000-04:00

FAME

2008-03-09T15:22:00.007-04:00

The Pipsqueak had a painting chosen to be in the annual Arts and Music Elementary Festival in our neck of the woods. About 6 kids per grade level are chosen and about 10 school districts are involved so it's a big deal to get chosen.

We went to the "big city" to look at her painting today and had a great time seeing all the arts our local community has to offer. Here are a couple photos of her painting. Not bad for a first grader.

Women's History Month

2008-03-06T12:38:00.003-05:00

In honour of women's history month- please check out this site 10 amazing women you've never heard of. They are truly remarkable.

Wordless Wednesday-Snowday Again

2008-03-05T17:07:00.003-05:00

Do we see a pattern here? Another snowday.

Wordless Wednesday-Snowday

2008-02-27T17:32:00.001-05:00

Not so wordless Wednesday

2008-02-20T11:09:00.001-05:00

The Pipsqueak is still sick. She didn't go to school again today- though I thought she might try this afternoon. Lunch buddies are there today and she still didn't go. I know she's sick when this happens as she doesn't ever want to miss her lunch buddy.

Okay- off to check on the Pipsqueak.

Jump Start on Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-19T19:56:00.003-05:00

Illness

2008-02-19T19:54:00.001-05:00

The Pipsqueak has been out of school since last Friday. She also missed Wednesday last week, but went Thursday because of V-Day. Not sure if she'll make it all day tomorrow. Am thinking of sending her in the afternoon only.

Let's hope she's feeling better soon. This is her first 'big' illness ever. The kid has had about 3 colds in her entire life- nothing else.

Dog Diary vs. Cat Diary

2008-02-14T19:58:00.004-05:00

I got this in an email today and decided to post it tonight. It is so true....

DOG DIARY

8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!

9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!

9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!

10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!

11:45 - Milk bones! My favorite thing!

1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!

3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!

5:30 pm - Dinner! My favorite thing!

7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!

8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!

11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

CAT DIARY

Day 983 of my captivity.

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomited on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am. Bastards!

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, Icould hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the Guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now...

Anna Mae Custody update

2008-02-12T23:19:00.004-05:00

http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/story?id=4269986&page=1

I just read a news article that said Anna Mae Baker/He has returned to China with her biological family. Seeing as she was born in the U.S. and is a U.S. citizen, I don't know how the press are seeing her as returning to a country she's never been to.

My heart goes out to this little girl. I can't imagine trying to adjust to school life in a country so different than the U.S. Her biological parents have said they want her to go to an international school, but the fact is, they don't have the money to send her to one.

As a U.S. citizen, what will happen to her? Will she be treated differently because of this?

So many questions and an innocent little girl in the middle of the mess.

Here's hoping Anna Mae is able to grow into a productive adult despite her childhood traumas.

EDITED TO ADD:

I just looked at the photos of Anna through the years from the link above... There is one photo that stands out for me. It's of Jack He, her bio siblings, Louise Baker, and her adopted sister Aimee Baker. Anna is on Louise's lap and all body language is clearly indicating where she would like to be. Anna is leaning toward her sister Aimee, leaned into Louise and not even close to being with her biosiblings.

Another photo- this one of Anna on Mrs. He's lap at her 9th bday party at their church. It's so different. Anna isn't relaxed into Mrs. He, rather she's leaning forward onto the table and does not look comfortable at all.

Maybe it's just the way I'm "reading" the pictures, but after reading Anna Mae's answers to news media when she landed in China, my heart breaks for her again. I hope she can adapt to China. However, if she can't adapt, I hope the Hes will do what is best for her.