Huh?!

Today we got an email at school about the presidential address that Obama will make to students on Tuesday. The email basically said that we were NOT to show this speech without parental consent from every student in our class.

HUH?!

Well, first of all, this was the first I had heard about the address. But apparently parents have been calling the school adamant that their child not watch the speech.

HUH?!

What in the world? So, I did a little research trying to find out what the big deal was. What I found was that the speech will be addressing the importance of education and doing your best in school. Seemed pretty harmless to me...now, I could be wrong, but I think that kids would think it would be pretty excited to know the PRESIDENT wanted to speak to THEM and I don't see what is so taboo about him telling kids to do well in school and graduate. Hmmm...what are your thoughts about this? I just don't see why some people have their panties in a wad about it.

Surviving the First Week

The first week of school is always the toughest. Not only are you exhausted from the long hours prepping your classroom and getting everything ready for the kids/parents, but you also forget just how adorable, small, and clueless they are when they first come to you. EVERYTHING has to be taught or retaught while fighting extreme wigglyness/hunger (on both the teacher AND student sides.) Do they remember how to line up and walk down the hall quietly? No. Do they know how to unpack their bookbags? No. Do they remember to get napkins, spoons, straws, and ketchup at lunch? No. Do they know what to do with all of those notebooks and folders? Of course not. But, however much I might feel like a broken record of a robot, it is always a good feeling to know that deep down you can't WAIT to get to know this new class of kids. Why? Because already you can tell it is going to be a great year.

Back to School

Monday starts the beginning of another school year! For the first time, I am completely ready for the first day. I repeat, I do not have to go into work this weekend! For those of you that know me (or any other teacher) well...this is quite an accomplishment. I got to meet my new students on Thursday. I think it is going to be an exciting year! More on this to come...for now, it's time to tackle the monstrous pile of laundry that is lurking in our bedroom.

Counter Surfing

Hank is a growing boy and needs his strength. What he does not need is his own bran muffin whenever he pleases off of the kitchen counter. Oh dear...I am saying goodbye to the days when we could place things out of our dog's reach, at least until we get this new "talent" under control.

Beach Reads

Ryan and I decided not to go on vacation this summer. We had elected to spend our "vacation money" for dog expenses. Now that Hank is a bona fide member of the Knapp family, I can't imagine spending this on anything more worth while. It has been a good summer, and I really have no reason to complain. But, as the summer comes to a close I have found that I am missing one thing: beach reads. My book club has read many great books over the course of this year. Many of them have been heavy topics or a little on the dark side. I felt better for have been challenged by their ideas, and great writing. Now, it is time to flip the switch and dedicate the rest of August to girly, fluffy, easy to read beach books. I put these types of books in a category all their own, because to me, they are just as important as the next Pulitzer prize winning fiction. So here's to chick-lit, and a fun last few weeks summer!

Anniversary Dinner

Ryan and I celebrated our 5th anniversary at Millstone Tea Room. We have been there a few times, but it has been at least a year and a half. For those of you that have never been, the drive out is amazing with views of the mountains all around you! We pulled up to the restaurant and deliciousness ensued. Rich, golden yellow walls with dark, rustic wood trim are accented by old sepia and black and white matted photographs. The restaurant is small, only allowing room for about 10 small copper topped tables. Fresh, spring flowers from their neighboring gardens decorated the tables. The garden is also where they grow seasonal produce to incorporate into their menu. Can we say YUM!? For an appetizer, we shared the shrimp tempura with Asian slaw and dipping sauces, one spicy and one soy sauce based. Then, came the Spanish Gazpacho soup with fresh tomatoes, cracked pepper, and garlic flavors exploding in your mouth as you ate it. I chose the crab cakes with creamed corn garnished with tomatoes and basil. Ryan had the ribeye with the three cheese macaroni and cheese on the side. Since I had passed on the wine, we ordered two deserts (yes!) strawberry shortcake with homemade whipped cream and cinnamon pecan bread pudding served warm with homemade vanilla ice cream. As we clinked our spoons to celebrate the last 5 years of marriage we knew the best was yet to come!

Work

Does anyone else out there like to wait until the last possible minute to get ready for work? I'm doing that now. Sometimes I feel that if I wait just one or two more minutes I can somehow cheat work. Thinking, "Hmm...I've never waited this long to get in the shower before. Wonder if I can make it?!" Weird, huh? Yeah, mostly I am just feeling that I should have gotten going about 10 minutes ago. Oops...

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Everyone can read the back of a book or find a synopsis, so I'm not going to summarize for you. I really liked Edgar and his dogs. One of my favorite parts had to be Edgar's time with Henry. I found this book interesting, although it left me feeling a little luke warm. I think the author's writing style is right up my alley - not overly flowery, but poignant all the same in its almost simplistic style. I loved how adept the author was at pinpointing human emotions. However, it left me feeling slightly blah - like I had expected it to turn out just the way it did. But, not in a relieved, that was great way. In more of a I spent too much time sifting through pages to find out what I already knew. I would really like to give this book 3.5 stars.


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Puppyhood

Having a puppy is like having a toddler, adorable, yet exhausting at times. Never having had a puppy before a lot of things are new to me. Frankly, I get a big kick out of having a dog. Here are some of the things I love about puppyhood:

*Being woken up off the couch to the sound of deep inhalations sniffing your head, begging you to get up.
*Walking around with his gigantic paws which are way to big for him right now
*Hank laying on his side, stretching his legs together in a pike position
*Floogers, it is quite amazing to see just how long his drool can get!
*Wagging tail - which starts up if you look at him, or talk to him, or love on him
*Running around the house with a toy in his mouth acting like he has the best thing in the world and that everyone should take notice - which of course, we could really care less about your disgusting rope thingy
*Hank hugs - sit down, open your arms, and you will see what I mean. How can a day be bad when you have a Cassanewfa around?

Outlander

Outlander happens to be the first book in a series that tells the story of Claire, a woman sent back in time to Scotland circa 1745. It is there she meets Jamie, a beefy clansman, and well, you can probably see where this is going. Together, they face their share of adventure and romance. When I read the back of this book I thought there would be no way I would read all 627 pages. What I discovered was two characters I loved from the start (sorry Bella and Edward, you have nothing on Claire and Jamie) and a plot that takes you on quite a journey. Guess I am more of a historical fiction fan than I thought.

If you liked The Other Boelyn Girl you will love this book, too!

Headaches & Design Dilemmas

I have a headache today. Not a severe migraine or anything, just a little one. Enough to make me think about it. I'm thinking that the root of this headache might be because of my design dilemmas. As I have become quarantined to my own home this summer because of my bouncing, baby boy Hank, I have realized that we have come to a design standstill on a few projects. Just little things here and there that I have wanted to finish. Examples include, but are not limited to: finding drapes for our bedroom and dining room, finding a rug for the dining room, deciding on/framing/hanging Ryan's photography, and finally picking out the rest of our living room furniture. I have been lacking a little inspiration, but sometimes when I look around things don't seem as finished as they could. The good news is that I couldn't be happier with the things we have done so far - patience and not settling are key! So, like today, when I go out hoping to remedy all of my design dilemmas and come back with the letters E, A, and T to hang up in the kitchen. I should not feel stressed or overwhelmed by all of the things left to do, but happy about the small changes I did today. (I also got a cute wind chime for the back deck!)

Dog Days of Summer

I'm back in the blogosphere, and boy does it feel good! Lots of things have been going on at the Knapp house since I last posted. Most importantly, we have a new addition to our family, Hank the Newfoundland.

If I had to describe him in just a few words it would be: big, furry, cuddly, slobbery, happy, drool baby. Yes. That is what he is, and we love him for it!

So far, he sleeps, poops, pees, plays, eats, drinks, cuddles, repeat! The summer is flying by at an alarming rate, yet I continue to be amazed at my productiveness. Usually by this point teachers are planted firmly on the couch, eating popcorn, drinking Ginger Ale, and watching all 6 seasons of Sex in the City. Oh wait, that was me last summer. (It was delicious!)

This summer is quite different. I spend my days alternating between taking care of my Newfbaby, appeasing and stroking my cat's ego, and running around like a crazy woman trying to get all of the laundry, housework, and errands done before the beast awakens. Did I mention that now things like vacuuming and mopping are no longer optional tasks for the week? Yes, mopping is a must once a week (see drool and slobber above) and where I used to get away with picking up large dust bunnies in the hope that I could wait to vacuum until next week I am now vacuuming at least once a week as having two furbabies keep the dust bunnies tumbling by at an alarming rate.
Oh, and did I mention that owning a newf means that jeans you would normally wear three, four, or ten times in a row (oh stop making that face, we all do it) must be washed after every use. Sigh, I guess I'm growing up. Having this dog has made me start accepting the responsibilities I should have accepted 5 years ago when I graduated from college. So for all of you who are rolling your eyes and patting yourself on the back thinking that you have always had these things under control and your house and laundry are always perfect...newsflash...I just got out of 5 years of housework while you were slaving away! *wink*

Yes, these are the dog days of summer, just not quite in the way I anticipated.

The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
The author's voice is developed and strong. The perspective changes from the naivety of childhood, to the questioning and anger of adolescence, and finally to the compassion and introspection of adulthood. As I read about what could be described as "horrors" of her childhood, I never felt that she used it as an excuse to feel sorry for herself. The inner strength that is required to break away from a situation like she had is incredible. I also found the juxtaposition of her parents' irresponsibility and brilliance frustrating, yet fascinating. A story worth reading.


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Springing Back Into Piano

Happy Spring Break to me! I bought a keyboard last night, which might be totally 80's of me, but I so excited. More on this later....must run to meet Ryan for lunch.

Update:
Yes, I have been practicing EVERYday so far! From my "Easiest Book of Piano Favorites" I have mastered Minuet in D, but I think my brain remembered most of it from my youth so that doesn't really count. I am also getting quite proficient at Musetta's Waltz!

Thai Me!

The hidden gem that is Thai '99 in Lynchburg continues to make me dream about Thai food. Seriously. Once I get it in my mind that I want Thai food for dinner I will not stop until I get my way. Luckily, I have a husband who fully supports this. A craving for Masaman Curry is not to be taken lightly. (If you have never been to Thai' 99 - please go. You will love it. If you have never gotten the Masaman Curry, you will not be disappointed. If you have never been to Thai' 99 and have never eaten Masaman Curry - you are really missing out! GEEZ! What are you waiting for?)

Tonight we went out for Thai, but having just made burgers on Sunday we didn't want to overdo the red meat so Ryan and I took the waitress's recommendation for the daily special. I was excited to try something new, but still mourning my Masaman Curry (it's a beef curry so I had to pass tonight) when the new dish arrived. I wish I knew the name. Ryan kept saying cow poot san, and I kept laughing knowing that was definitely not what she said...anyway...it was a tastebud sensation! They were these lettuce wraps with pork, rice, cilantro, lime, lemongrass, and many more flavors tucked inside. It sounds crazy, but I could not even believe my mouth. YUM! Then, just when I thought it couldn't get any better we had a traditional Thai dessert of fresh mangos and sweet, sticky rice. It was perfection. It even made me forget about my irritated, allergic, itchy eye....or maybe it was the Singha beer....either way I'm one happy camper!

Discouraged

Here I am, less than a week before my race. The 10K that I have been preparing for since Christmas is almost here. I now have excruciating pain shooting down from my hip through my knee every time I try and run. Couldn't this have waited until after the race? It is so frustrating to work so hard and be so excited for something only to realize that it probably won't happen. I know there will be other races. I know I will recover...again. But, I don't want to take time off. I don't want to miss out. It's just not fair. It's not like I signed up, fooled around, and then thought. "Oops! Better start running since the race is almost here." No, I have worked my butt off for this. Gradually building miles and speed so that not only would I not get injured, but I could also run this 10K faster than my other one. I am pissed. My sister said it sounds like my sacrum is injured. Everything I have been reading online says runners have to take months off to fully recover. I could just cry.

Busted!

I cannot even begin to explain how entertaining a pet can be. Those of you who have one know exactly what I am talking about. It is especially hilarious when they do something completely different from the norm. Molly is no exception. She is quirky, and I have no idea what Ryan and I ever did without that little furball. She is so precious to us! Anyway, you can expect Molly to be in one of a few different places. Here are the places that I look first and in this order:

1. On our bed - especially if you have left a shirt or a pair of pants laying on the bed
2. Under our bed on Ryan's black suitcase
3. In the basement on the papasan chair
4. Upstairs on either bed
5. In the sunroom, in the sun

Of course she will be other places, but not typically. One of the places she sometimes likes to lounge is beside us on the couch. However, she does not like the feel of the leather and will only get up if first, she is invited (by tapping the couch with your hand) and second, if you have spread a blanket out for her. She is a diva. She has NEVER just gotten up there on her own. So imagine our surprise when arriving home from grocery shopping, there she sits. It was so bizarre! Writing this down sounds so stupid, but I could not stop laughing! It was so random.

Occupational Hazards

Everyone who works anywhere has them. Well, I am the lucky winner of a weekend full of pink eye. Mmmm! Delish! As my doctor said today, "Second grade, huh? Yeah, that's a petri dish!" I couldn't have said it better myself. At least it inspired me to do tons of cleaning - even wiping down door knobs, computers, & remotes with clorox wipes. I also did 5 loads of laundry. Sometimes pink eye might be a blessing in disguise! On second thought, it's just a pain in the butt.

The Next Thing On My List

The Next Thing on My List by Jill Smolinski

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is like a strawberry smoothie - a delightful, sweet treat. It doesn't pack a whole lot of substance, but I was still satisfied! It was a quick read. A perfect vacation book! The characters were entertaining, the plot moved along quickly, and it finished appropriately. And who doesn't like a book that makes you laugh out loud! I haven't had that since Bridget Jones!


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Tricky Treats

I love the unsung holiday heros of elementary school: Groundhog's Day & St. Patrick's Day.

There is no hype, no pressure.

I love surprising my class on St. Patrick's Day. It is so unexpected! That is why I look forward to it every year.

During lunch I will sneak away and put one of these little green cupcakes on their desks.
When they return they always say, "MRS. KNAPP! We know it was you!"

I always reply, "Not me! Must have been a leprechaun..."

*wink*

Treadmill Rules

Yesterday's visit to the Y inspired this friendly little blog about treadmill etiquette.

Rule #1 - Do not slap your feet as if you are a thundering elephant when you are running. It is very distracting. When this happens instead of hearing my happy running music, all I hear are your loud feet next to me.

Rule #2 - If you have been walking at a mile pace of 3.0 or lower for more than 30 minutes and you see people pacing about because there are no open treadmills, kindly get off and let the next person get on. That turtle pace isn't helping your exercise effort anyway.

Rule #3 - Try not to gasp and breathe heavily in excess. I mean, I know we are all working out, and we are going to be breathing a little hard. But, when I look over and it sounds like you are about to keel over any minute...that worries me, and then I can't concentrate on anything but being ready to call 911 at a moment's notice.

Rule #4 - Do not read and run on a treadmill. That is extremely dangerous and makes me feel nauseous just thinking about it. If you want to read, just walk please.

Rule #5 - Do not talk loudly on your cell phone. Working out on a treadmill already means we are stuck with you. We don't want to be stuck in the middle of your one sided phone conversation, too. If you are going to talk loudly on the phone at least put it on speaker so we can get both sides of the story.

Rule #6 - If you see someone's stuff on the treadmill (i.e. water bottle, iPod, phone, keys, jacket) do not get on. That person probably had a bathroom emergency, and will be right back.

Breaking Dawn

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

My review

rating: 2 of 5 stars
OK, I know I will probably be ripped limb by limb and thrown into a burning fire by all of the die-hard Twilight fans out there. However, I am entitled to my own opinion. Hooray for America! The fourth book of this series starts off as predictable, slow moving, and redundant as all of the other books. I wasn't surprised by this. After reading the other 3 I knew it was coming. But, after reading about 500 pages and realizing that only about 2 or 3 major things had happened, I had to stop. I found myself very frustrated. I would read 20 pages at a time, get annoyed, and take a break. Finally I approached page 630, and things started moving faster. (Thank God!) It was as if the author thought, "OOPS! Nothing has happened and I guess I should get on with it. Rush, Rush, Rush, The End!" I will admit that the last 100 pages were much more interesting, and I was satisfied with the ending. However, a good ending does not a good book make. Everyone loves a good ending, but had I known that all I needed to read was the last 150 pages I would not have wasted my time with this rubbish.



So, in conclusion here are my thoughts about the series overall....



#1 - I think the concept of this book is fun. I think the execution stunk.

#2 - Yes, I think Edward Cullen is dreamy.

#3 - Bella, while being a very flat character in books 1-3, makes some changes for the better in book 4.

#4 - There were some characters I did always like: Charlie, Jacob, & Alice

#5 - Obviously I read all of these books, so I will give the author credit that she did make me want to find out what happened in the end.

#6 - This series is incredibly over-hyped. Very much a "bandwagon" book. USA Today said, "Move over Harry Potter!" - um, no.

#7 - These books suffered from a case of poor editing.

#8 - Thank goodness it's over.


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New Shoes!

Hip Hip Hooray it was new running shoes day! I won a silent auction item (after much hovering and an extra $2 on my bid "just to be safe" as Amanda said) at Mardi Gras for a pair of running shoes from Riverside Runners. Today Heather was working and I was really impressed with all of her running shoe knowledge - she is quite a delightful shoe seller and you should go visit her if you need shoes. ANYWAY, I decided to try the Brooks shoes instead of Mizunos this time. I will keep you posted on how they work for me. I am SUPER excited to try them after work tomorrow, even if it has to be on the treadmill....


OH! And they are Hokie colors, too! BUT, I did NOT buy them just for that because you should never buy shoes just because you like the colors! Right, Heather!?! They really do feel awesome!

The Friday Night Knitting Club

The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is like a bowl of chicken soup. It warms your soul and is delicious to read! USA Today remarked that it is like Steel Magnolias set in Manhattan. I will have to agree. I loved this book. As a knitter (although a relatively new one still) - I found myself smiling in agreement at the descriptions of each step at the section beginnings. I could see how the steps involved with making a hand-knit creation mirrors the things we often go through in life. The metaphor was just beautiful to me. But one of the best things about this book is that you don't have to be a knitter to appreciate it.


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How well do you know your hubby?

Ok, so here is another Facebook note that I was tagged in....I have looked over the questions and I'm surprised that I really am stumped by some. But, here is my best shot! Ryan, tell me what you think!

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?
Football game - live or recorded
Yes, we watch football games over and over again at my house!

2. You're out to eat/what kind of dressing on his salad?
Vinegrette

3. What's one food he doesn't like?
Kidney Beans - he hates the texture

4. You go out to eat and have a drink. What does he order?
Depends on where we go, what we're eating, and if we're celebrating
Examples:
Cav - beer
La Cart - jumbo margarita
Bull Branch - red wine

5. Where did he go to high school?
Fairhope High?!

6. What size shoe does he wear?
10

7. What is his favorite type of sandwich?
Roast beef with horseradish, lettuce, tomato, cheese

8. What would this person eat every day if he could?
Steak

9. What is his favorite cereal?
Hmmm...he doesn't like much because he eats slowly and he doesn't like it soggy. I would say....Golden Grahams?

10. What would he never wear?
Lots of layers...the boy is always hot!

11. What is his favorite sports team?
Virginia Tech Hokies

12. Who did he vote for?
McCain

13. Who is his best friend?
Me :o)

14. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?
leave my cereal bowl around...i get distracted... :o(

15. What is his heritage?
Irish/German

16. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind of cake?
probably a yellow cake, but ryan loves to mix it up so he wouldn't want the same kind of cake every year.

17 Did he play sports in high school?
golf, soccer

18 What could he spend hours doing?
reading about photography or on the tech sports message boards

19 What is one talent he has?
juggling

20 What's his favorite color?
blue?

I love Ryan! I could write about him all day! :o)

Crankypants Magee

I live with an elusive, wild beast named Molly. Ryan and I have managed to tame her when it is just the two of us. She also responds well to Emily, my parents, and most recently, Jimmy. But for the rest of the world, it is as if she doesn't exist. Well, she might be hard to get to know, but she really is a very lovely cat. Always running to the door when you get home and acting cuddly and being just a precious purrbaby. In the last week or so, I have noticed a change. She has turned into Crankypants Magee. Example: She will run to the door when you come home, but when you touch her she runs away. Instead of being her normally cuddly self in the mornings, she is a little demon - wild eyes and attack mode. So, last night I think I figured out what is going on. She is nothing but a big ball of static electricity. You don't even have to touch her back and her fur starts standing up every which way. Her little paws and nose give her an electric shock on every blanket, carpet, or article of clothing. No wonder she is so moody! POOR BABY! I want my old cat back....should I rub a dryer sheet on her?

Excuses

Why I haven't been blogging...the cold, hard facts:

Reason #1 - I've been very stressed at work lately. It's as simple as that. Not sure how much longer I can keep up this pace. I continue to forget that I am only one person, and some things are out of my control. Breathe and let it go.

Reason #2 - The one thing that I really want to write about ... I am banned from writing about by Ryan until it is definite. That's an engineer for you! No, I am not pregnant.

Reason #3 - Every time I get a minute to sit down and relax, I immediately seem to fall asleep on the couch or go into a zombie like state. Thus the lack of reading & knitting.

Reason #4 - If I do have energy, I am running. In fact, I did my best 5K time on Monday - 30:10. Yay!

Well, tomorrow morning I'm up early for a 4 mile run at the Y. See you next time...and hopefully, it won't be so long.

Heather Saves the Day

Everyone in the world needs a Heather in their life. Someone who (at 6:15 AM) will say - "You don't have power? Come on over and get ready here. Don't bring anything, just come." I sometimes don't know what I would do without her...oh and did I mention I can't wait to be a part of her wedding day, too!!! :o)

I Hate Atlanta

OK, I really don't hate it. Actually, I really liked it when I went down there, but still, Ryan is heading down there for another week of training. Booooo! This makes me sad. He has two more sessions left of this big, fancy training so the end is near - YAY! But that means that I still have two weeks left to freak out while I'm home alone - getting a mini heart attack at every sound and having minor insomnia. Seriously. Luckily, I have my big bad guard cat to keep me company. Right. I think this week will go by surprisingly fast considering all of the super fun things in store this week:

Today - shopping & working out with Heather (yay!)
Monday - nothing :o(
Tuesday - Em comes for pedi's and that means dinner & sleepover
Wednesday - dinner with Colleen & Peggy
Thursday - book club
Friday - Ryan returns!

So, in conclusion, I think that although I will be sad, I will have lots of distractions to make the week go by quickly. Hooray!

Oh Happy Day....

The fish tank is officially gone! It has been washed, rinsed, and put in it's new home down in the dungeon where it belongs. For anyone that has never been in my house it's what we call the unfinished basement because it is a little creepy. It is now waiting patiently for the next time any of our friends or family get the hankering for some aquatic life. Any takers?!

Now there is a big, empty space in our living room. Oh the possibilities!! WOO HOO!

Spring Feverrrrrrr!

I know it is way too early to be having a case of spring fever. But with the 63 degree weather and sun shining in the clear, blue sky. How can you not? My running shoes have been itching to hit the pavement, and today we went happily for a run on Rivermont and around Riverside Park. I even conquered all of the terrible hills in that pesky park. Ryan even came along for a part of the run, which was a fun treat. To make it even sweeter I got to see my long lost pal, Heather, for a minute at the running store where she works. (OK, she's not really long lost - but if I don't get to see her all work week, I consider it to be so...) Life is good!

PS: I know I am totally sending mixed messages allowing Molly on the table, but how can I deny her a taste of this fabulous day right in the middle of winter? Plus, she's a spoiled baby and does whatever she wants anyway.

Nonsense

So, whoever made dimes smaller than nickels obviously never taught 2nd grade....more on this later.

The Grapes of Wrath

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
It took me a long time to read this book. I chose it for my book club's "American Classic" month. Although I found myself counting pages at times, plugging along at my own little turtle pace, and even getting frustrated and wanting to give up - I couldn't. So I think that says something about this book. If you are looking for a book that whisks you away and is full of action, this is not the book for you. However, the writing really is great. For a classic, the writing is quite modern, the dialect terrific, and the characterization phenomenal. The depth and range of the people you meet is, to me, what makes this book have staying power. I'm sure many people read this with a bleeding heart - much to my suprise, I didn't. The family in this book, the Joads, was not about self-pity, but more about strength. It showed a period in our country's history in a new light for me. On one side, you read about the Californians who were ruthless in wanting to exploit or drive out the migrant workers. On the other hand, you read about the migrant workers, who were extremely poor & hungry, yet still managed to be generous. What I will remember most about this book is Ma telling Rose of Sharon that "it isn't all about you, all the time." Touche'


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25 Random Things About Me

UPDATED!
*I thought of a few more interesting things....so I had to tweak the first one.

25 Random Things About Me


1.I once got my head stuck in between two banister posts at Sunday School.
2.I am a big fan of library books. Geeky, I know.
3.Which brings me to #3 – I worked at the Colonial Heights Public Library in high school and as a result memorized ridiculous amounts of Dewey Decimal Numbers (which I have since forgotten.)
4.I chew every hard candy I eat.
5.I had a gray tooth for a while when I was a toddler from hitting it on my tricycle's handlebars.
6.My swim coach growing up was the scariest woman I have ever met. I still have flashbacks of her deep, booming voice yelling, “SA-RAH”
7.My cat comes running if I sing loud enough. She especially loves Rent, Wicked, and Stevie Wonder songs.
8.I have really terrible eyesight.....really, really terrible. We're talking about a -8.50 prescription people.
9.I am knitting a sock. If it goes well, I might just knit another one. But, if you see me with only one sock on you'll know what happened.
10.I've been told I'm really good at tuning people out...some like to call it selective listening. I like to call it focusing.
11.I like to fall asleep during movies – which is why I really don't like to go to the movie theater.
12.I love Indian food.
13.Abraham Lincoln is my favorite U.S. President.
14.I am afraid of sharks (seriously) and will only swim in the ocean if I can see the bottom. I try to go out there, but it usually ends in me feeling panicky and having to come back in....sigh. I happen to be a really good swimmer, isn't it ironic...
15.I can't stand riding in a car, but love traveling.
16.I don't know how to whistle or roll my r's. Sad.
17.I make my bed everyday, even if it is after work occasionally.
18.I can't stand stacks of papers, but can't seem to avoid this at work.
19.I am married to a really smart guy, who also happens to be pretty humble – which I love.
20.I have all of my old koala bears. I keep them in my classroom, and my favorite ones are the ones my 2nd graders have given me.
21.I was born 3 weeks early, and my mom said my ears were like tissue paper. My ears are just fine now thank you very much. Oh, and I share a birthday with Prince or the artist formerly known as prince or that symbol or whatever it is he is using these days.
22.I overslept for a college English final once....oops!
23.If you get a belated birthday wish/card/present from me, don't take it personally I'm terrible at mailing things.
24.I never wear a watch.
25.I don't drink caffeine, and haven't in 8 years.

Superman, Fuzzy Socks, and Curling Up with a Cat

My dad had back surgery on Monday. No one likes it when people they love are hurt - especially if it is your dad. For those of you who don't know my dad he is Superman. I have always thought of him that way, and I always will. I'm sure my sisters can back me up on this. He can fix anything (no job is too big or small) and puts other people before himself. Going to visit him last night in the hospital I didn't know how he would be feeling. I knew that he had been in excruciating pain for at least a month and all we wanted was for him to feel better. Superman was down, and it was very sad. Much to my surprise, upon arriving in Richmond, I found Dad to be back to his old self again even mentioning a couple of projects he needed to come to Lynchburg to complete....oh geez....I'm not sure about that, but I'm happy to say that Superman is back! Hooray!

It was a good thing that I had a snow day today because I was quite exhausted after our turn around trip. (I'm still not sure how Ryan has made it through the day...) However, I didn't have too much time to mope around before I was off to meet Heather at the Y for a quick workout before she headed to work. This gave me a little jump start to my day. A day I am proud to say without TV. My book club is reading The Last Lecture this month and I was determined to finish it so Colleen could borrow it. So I put on my favorite (and only) pair of green fuzzy socks and curled up in a chair and started to read. Molly decided that she wanted to join me so she jumped up and read with me too. I can't even tell you what a treat it was. Complete peace and quiet with my furry friend and fuzzy socks.

After I got up she decided that Ryan's vest was the perfect rainy day spot - and that is why I love her.
Shortly after I realized that I never pressed start on the washing machine so the 4 loads of laundry I was going to brag about quickly went down to only 3. *Sigh* Back to reality!

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
A great read, I loved the way his stories were tied up into these tiny bundles - it felt like I was sitting at the kitchen table talking with family. So many things in this book echo lessons my parents have taught me through their own words and actions. I was worried that after reading I would feel depressed, but this book was quite the opposite. I loved his humor and his occasional in your face attitude. What a gift not only for his children, but for all of us as well.


View all my reviews.

A Week in Retrospect

Watching this inauguration through the eyes of my 2nd graders was really hilarious. Our country's important day was very impressive. Everywhere I went, I was bombarded with reminders the historical significance this day held. It was a very powerful moment, and it was hard not to be awash in emotion. For me, it was a reminder that no matter what you believe in the end - we can come together when it really counts as a peaceful nation. But, you can only take so much of that kind of blubbering on before you need a catharsis. Luckily, I had a bunch of kids around me. Most of the teachers around the school were tuned in the the inauguration at some point or another. We turned it on around 11, and watched it through lunch. It was very exciting to watch, but I could only be so invested with every 2 seconds a student shouting:

Student "Who's that old guy?"
Me "That's George and Barbara Bush"
Student "Why are there two George Bushes?"
Me "They are father and son."
Student "Who is that guy with Hillary?"
Me "That is Bill Clinton. He was the president before George Bush."
Student "Well, who is THAT guy?"
Me "That is Jimmy Carter - he also used to be president"
Student "Oh - how much longer are we going to watch this?"
Me "Well, Barak and his family will be coming soon. Then, he will make a promise to be the best president he can."
Student "Oh. Mrs. Knapp, do you want to be the president?"
Me "No"
Student "Why? You are really smart."
Me "Well, I like being a teacher. Besides it's too stressful being the president."
Student "But you could live in the White House"
Me "That would be pretty awesome."
Student "Yeah, and you would have a bowling lane AND a movie theater."

At this point the Obamas arrived and all of the kids were silent watching the First Kids. That is when it hit me that what is real to them is a couple of kids getting to move into the White House. I loved that this day represented something different to me than to my students. This day means something different to our parents and grandparents than it might have to us. But what we need is everybody's experience blended together to make a complete experience. You don't realize that you are a part of history until you look back and realize that you have stories to tell about things that have happened in the world. You were there. I think it is a gift to have been an American alive to see the swearing in of our first African American president.

Student "Who is that lady singing?"
Me "That is Aretha Franklin. She is a really famous singer."
Student "Why is she wearing that big bow on her head."
Me "I have no idea."

Surprises

I love surprises - especially being in on a surprise for someone else. Usually I am very bad at keeping surprises. I get so excited inside that I just feel like I'm going to bubble over. I will drop hints like, "Boy do I have a surprise for you." OR "I can't wait until your surprise comes." Ryan is very hard to surprise, probably because he is always around. Because I have to be so sneaky with him it makes it even more fun. Well, for his 28th birthday he already had his present picked out. What fun is that? So, my amazing friend, Heather, helped me pull off the surprise for him. Well, I take that back - I basically did nothing. She did all of the work, so she gets full credit on this one!

Heather is a fabulous baker. Back when we used to teach together I would get really excited when she would bring me her homemade banana & chocolate chip muffins or brownies. YUM! Lately she has gotten the fancy, theme cake making bug - and let me tell you. She is really good. So, I had asked her if she would make a camera cake for Ryan's birthday. When I saw this thing, I could not believe my eyes. It was PERFECT...down to the tiniest detail. I loved it so much and couldn't wait for her to show it to Ryan. When it was time for the cake, Heather brought it in to him and the smile on his face was perfect! He loved it! I was so sad to have to cut into it...but it was really delicious, and even had TWO layers - yellow & chocolate.

More than the cake, or suprising Ryan, though I felt very lucky to have a friend like Heather. A friend that I can call anytime and will help me out with anything. She is the best surprise that happened to me in Lynchburg - a kindred spirit and a lifelong friend. :o) Thanks Heather! You ROCK!

Totally Tubular!

Those double pointed needles can haunt me no more! Call me the knitting ninja because I knitted in the round last night. I made a tube, and I want to add that I used 4 double pointed needles to do it. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities. I am no longer limited to flat pieces. I'm well on my way to hats, mittens, socks, and even sleeves. Hooray!

Unfortunately, my first attempt at a sock didn't fair so well. I got messed up somewhere along the way, but I saved my first tube and decided that a failed sock was no reason to be down because a successful tube complete with ribbing was exciting enough for one evening.

Suzanne's Knitting Shoppee

Those of you that know me are aware of my new love: knitting. I haven't been doing it for long, but I am very drawn to this relaxing hobby. I love that you can take it anywhere. I love that there is always something new to learn. I love that it brings people together. And, I love the feeling of accomplishment you get from completing a project.

My good friend, Ashley, happened to mention this article about a local knitting business. She was getting excited about learning to knit herself, and liked the idea of having a place you could go for help if you needed it!

I was out shopping today feeling kind of sorry for myself after I learned that not only had one of my favorite Lynchburg restaurants officially closed, but also a cute boutique as well. MAN! I decided that I would go home empty handed, not wanting to go to the mall only to be disappointed when I was reminded that the Gap had closed, too.

That's when I passed the shopping center where Suzanne's Knitting Shoppee was. I quickly turned into the parking lot, and followed the signs to the side of a strip of shops. I parked and ran in. The article mentioned above did not do this place justice. I looked around, noting the floor to ceiling shelves & racks that held some of the most interesting and most colorful yarn I had ever seen. Prices and labels were handwritten. Completed and partially completed projects were tucked around the store. "Isn't this beautiful?" an elderly woman asked me from her seat on a small bench. I would come to learn that it was knit by Suzanne herself as well. The two women continued to chat quietly about what they had been up to and what everyone was working on in the knitting class. A cup of tea aromatically sat perched on a small table.

I continued to admire all of the different yarns. "Now this is really something," the same woman commented now admiring a shawl, which was very cool. I said that I didn't think I was ready for projects like that yet, being that I was a beginner. That's when Suzanne got up and said, "Oh there's nothing to this!" I laughed and told her that I had just taught myself the knit and purl stitches before Christmas. I felt like I had stepped into a hidden treasure. Suzanne and I continued to talk about what I had knitted, and even gave me a few tips for next time. And there we were two strangers from two very different generations sharing something. There was no pressure to buy, no rush to get in and out, just the murmur of a quiet, first conversation. I pointed out a couple of yarns that interested me and she would comment that this one was hand dyed or these had the richest colors. I told her that I loved her shop and couldn't wait to come back to pick out supplies for my next project. She smiled a deep smile and said, "It was so nice meeting you."

I can't wait to go back, and maybe next time I will bring along a project so I can stay awhile.

School Closings

Why is it that no matter how stressed you get at work, if you get a snow day it makes everything worth it?

I think all jobs should get snow days! They are like little presents all wrapped up with fun! Yay!

Flambe

OMG! I just had a mini heart attack. So Ryan is making "Boeuf Bourguignon" for dinner tonight. No, not BEEF borguignon...BOEUF bourguignon. What is the difference you ask? Fancy French Spelling, of course!

Ina Garten (who I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE) states in her Barefoot in Paris cookbook:

"I never really liked beef bourguignon. After cooking for three hours, the meat was stringy and dry and the vegetables were overcooked. So, I tried to solve the problem and came up with a delicious stew that cooks in an hour and a half. The good news is that it's even better the second day, so it's great for entertaining."

Well, that sounds easy enough. But, when she says it cooks in an hour and a half she really means it has to cook for an hour and a half AFTER you complete steps 1 - 20 all of which say, "add this and cook for a minute, add this and cook for 10 minutes, add this and this and simmer for 5 minutes"...you get the idea. 1.5 hours would not be the total cooking time, more like 3.5 - 4 hours from start to finish.

Don't ask me why on a Tuesday night he wants to make a meal that takes a good 4 hours to prepare. Sometimes he just gets these wild ideas and after 4+ years of marriage, I just run with it because there is no stopping him. I think maybe this time he is celebrating the arrival of his new telephoto camera lens - early birthday/anniversary/'09 christmas present. And might I add that he is whistling as he cleans up the dishes now that the stew is in the oven. That is sick.

But, I'm sure you are wondering where the mini heart attack comes in. Enter step 15ish "Add the Cognac, stand back (yes, it was also in italics in the book), and ignite with a match. AKA - FLAMBE

Now, we have flambeed in our house several times. No big deal. It is fun and festive and makes a delicious bananas foster. However we have never flambeed with this intensity. I have no idea how someone would do this with a match because as soon as the flame ignited the alcohol a gigantic flame shot up to the microwave that was over the stove. I just knew for sure that it was going to ignite the kitchen cabinets. Usually, you get a big flame and then very rapidly the flame extinguishes. Well, not this flame - it must have been working out because I swear this thing kept going. Ryan then decides it will be a great idea to stir it with the wooden spoon. Um, okay. But, like I mentioned before, after 4+ years of marriage, I know that there are some arguments not worth having - besides a pot bursting into flames with Ryan holding the accompanying ignited spoon would have made a great shot with the new telephoto lens.

To ease your mind, the flames did eventually retreat, and no spoon ever caught fire. But Ryan did look back at me with that mischievious smile and say, "maybe next time we will do that outside."

Goodbye T-Rex...

Disclaimer: I could have included this into the previous blog, but I really think that this deserves a blog of its own.

Saturday afternoon was the last day of the Knapp Aquarium as we know it. For four years, Ryan and I have lovingly and more recently grudgingly taken care of a 30 gallon freshwater tropical fish tank. We started out with one little sprig of java fern (a low light, natural plant) and ended up with a java fern that is covering half of the tank. We've had danios, tetras, gobies, barbs, platys, an upside down catfish, and a lovely, sweet, perfect algae eater named T-Rex.

Back when we were first married and in our apartment, we thought it would be fun to have a fish tank, and it was! We didn't even mind scrubbing the obscene amounts of algae that coated the sides of the tank relentlessly. But, then we got Molly, and let's just say a cat is a lot more fun than fish. We didn't neglect the fish, but they just became an afterthought. Then, we bought a house, and by the time we were ready to move we were so over being fish owners.

Not wanting to be unnecessarily cruel, we decided to try and move the fish, water, & tank to the new house. It was only across town after all. Secretly, I knew that the chances of the fish surviving the move or surviving for very long after the move were slim to none. I did an inner evil laugh (Muwahaha!) thinking that it wouldn't be long until we were fish free! We decided that we wouldn't buy any more fish, but instead just let the tank run its course. Well, apparently Ryan and I have blue thumbs because flash forward two and a half years and here we are with a THRIVING fish community.

There was only one fish that I really loved, T-Rex. He had grown from a mere 1 inch back in our apartment to a good 3 1/2 inches. He was awesome. Always moving around working hard to keep our tank clean. He was the perfect fish. We didn't even bother naming the other fish because we just didn't care about them....until one tetra got an air bubble in his stomach & swam vertically (we called him Verti). T-Rex was definitely the Danny Zuko of our tank - very cool! Well, T had rocking health and wasn't going anywhere. And saying this out loud (or in writing) seems very harsh. But, Ryan and I were just spent. Now, I know that in life, you can't just give back your children or even your cats and dogs just because you are sick of them. But it was a bunch of fish. So we did the right thing and called our local fish store (which is really amazing)! They said that they would take back the fish. YAY! So we fished them out, said our goodbyes to T, and headed to the store. I will admit that I was a little sad, maybe even a little guilty, but I was so freaking happy to be getting rid of the eye sore of a fish tank in our living room! Ryan took in the fish, and the guy working there was even like, "Cool fish! We need fish to put in with our live plants. We won't sell them, but leave them in the tank to help the plants grow." So, Ryan and I breathed a sigh of relief knowing that T would be living out the rest of his life in a posh fish retirement - surrounded by tons of live plants and being taken care of by people that love fish. That makes me happy, and I hope it makes T happy too!

So, goodbye T, you were one heck of a fish! MWAH!

What a Week!

Well, my first week back from vacation was very eventful. It is always hard to come back from 2 weeks off. I had gotten used to staying up late and sleeping in. It was great, although very difficult once my alarm rang on Monday. It seemed I didn't have a minute to spare with work meetings or social meetings of some kind or another. With two meetings on Tuesday, one on Wednesday, and two more on Thursday, all I did was race from one place to another, barely having time to sit down. Things will slow down this week (thank goodness)! I really don't know how people keep up this kind of schedule all the time. As much as I love being out and about & socializing, there was nothing that I wanted to do more than curl up on the couch with Ryan (and Molly) on Friday. That's exactly what we did. I think I was asleep by 9:30. It was amazing! After a pretty restful and low key weekend, I feel ready to face this week with a little more energy. Plus, I need to rest up for Ryan's big birthday celebration on Saturday! Yay!

Across the Universe

Ryan and I have had this movie from Netflix since late August and while at one time I was really excited about seeing it, I just couldn't bring myself to sit down and watch it. We had been really bad about watching movies this fall both too busy or just too tired to actually enjoy one. Finally biting the bullet on Saturday we put it in the DVD player. I knew it was going to be an "artsy" one. But, other than that, I really had no expectations. I really just wanted to see it because of the Beatles music. My girlfriends in I back in high school loved the Beatles and because of that I have a ton of their albums and know many songs by heart. I still have a soft spot for them. I don't know if it is good memories or good music and in all honesty it probably is a little of both. I am always quick to defend the Fab Four to anyone who pokes fun, but that's nothing new as I am quite used to people making fun of my choices in music mostly because of my Rob Stewart devotion and vast knowledge of Broadway music. (What can I say? I'm a little dorky, but I've never denied it.)

But back to the movie...

I was a little skeptical at first - I thought incorporating all of those songs might be a tad forced and a little cheesy. But, it was surprising how naturally all of the songs fit into the fabric of the story (which wasn't a very intricate one, but a sweet one regardless). I could have done without all of the psychedelic dream sequences, but hey, I understand, the Beatles were quite psychedelic themselves as witnessed on many of their later albums -- most of which had strange songs or lyrics..."I am the eggman....I am the walrus..." (which even John Lennon admits to writing while tripping on acid so I rest my case). BUT, let's put the drugs aside and get back to the heart of what I am trying to say.

The Beatles spoke so clearly and honestly through their music that it helped to define two important decades. That is why this movie is so cool. Do I think the writer should take credit for having the brains to put it all together? Sure! But, I think the real credit should go to the Beatles, themselves. It was almost as if without knowing it, they were telling the story of a whole generation. The other part of this movie that was so fantastic was the new arrangements of the music. It was as if I was hearing some of the songs for the first time and understanding the emotions in a fresh and sometimes different way. So, kudos to the actors for their performances and the musicians for the arranging. Other than those two things I could really take it or leave it. But, if you are a Beatles fan or Beatles newbie, you should at least give it a shot if for no other reason than to experience the music.

Pennies for Peace

During December it came up in my 2nd grade classroom that I was reading Three Cups of Tea. My students wanted to know if I liked to read nonfiction and I mentioned that I was in the middle of reading a nonfiction book. Well, of course they had more questions, most importantly: What was it about? I started telling them it was about a mountain climber named Greg. He had tried to climb a really big mountain, but got sick on the way up and couldn't make it to the top. I told them how a family in Pakistan had helped him get better. I went on to tell them how Greg made a promise to come back and build them a school (since they didn't have one). We looked on the map and talked about what it would be like to not have a school. Well, my class was hooked. It seemed like every couple of days they wanted to know about Greg and his school. "How did he get money?" "Did he really sleep in his car?" "How did he get to Pakistan?" "Did he have enough money to build that bridge?" "How did he get his supplies out of that locked building?" If I didn't read enough to give them an update they would scold me and say that I wasn't doing my 20 minutes of reading homework and wouldn't be getting my free pizza! I couldn't believe how taken they were with this stranger's mission. I wanted to do more with them. That's when I talked to my principal about setting up a Pennies for Peace campaign at our school. Pennies for Peace is a fundraiser aimed at getting schools involved in Greg's cause. You can find more detailed information at the following link: Pennies for Peace. I'm excited to take on this project with my second graders and my school in the upcoming months. These are the small things that make happy I can make a difference through teaching.