Christmasness

Christmas eve day Jesse (my step-sister) and I made the best apple pies ever (well it's a really good recipe and super fun and easy to make!). The evil step-sister, Kate, flew in that day and pretty much made it awful for everyone (that's another story- but needless to say she's not invited for Christmas ever again). Our power went out for a few hours Christmas Eve- which was interesting being 'in the wilderness.' Christmas was lovely- if we block out Kate. My family is crazy. :) The step sisters left the 26th, not speaking to each other.

Saturday Dad, Gail, Jessica (my real sister), Zach (Jessica's boyfriend), and Tim (Zach's friend) all went to a ski lodge for the day. Jessica and I attempted snowboarding. We didn't do too shabby...except when I fell off the ski lift (getting off) and bruised my tailbone! ouch! I had a lot of nice people help me learn to snowboard. :) Dad and Gail were going to go cross-country skiing but they didn't. They hung out in the lodge all day. The boys did all the crazy runs. Jess and I stuck to the bunny hill. Then we went back to the cabin for my famous enchiladas and pool games. Jess and I beat the boys! I somehow got pretty good at pool. We had SO much fun and laughed SO much. It was a great day. I am super sore today, though! :)

I've been at my sister's for a couple days...then Gail and I get to go to the spa on Wednesday!

Oh I got an update from Lucki on Mac (she's watching him for me while I'm away)- apparently he's really mad! I hope he won't be mad at me when I get home! Jessica has two cute cats and the little one went in my suitcase the other day and peed on a shirt!!! He must have smelled my Mac!

Back in the Northwest.

I had a blast today! Gail and I took the truck out to cut our tree- she had a permit. We saw some wild turkeys! Did you know they roost in trees? We saw them sitting in trees! We tried to find the area where we could cut trees, however, the access road was full of snow and we didn't want to try that. So we went into town looking for the one tree farm and then to see if there were any trees in town (not Spokane--Newport, super tiny place). Nope. So we called my dad for directions to the tree farm, and it was where we thought it was (which we supposedly drove by). Then we got on the wrong highway and stopped at "the Gingerbread Farm," because it looked cozy, to ask for directions. Mrs. Clause opened the door (okay so she was wearing a red apron) and let us inside (it smelled so yummy in there!). She had no clue where the tree farm was but her husband did. Then on our way out she gave us the most delicious red velvet cookies! Apparently it's a goat farm! And they put out the extra vegetables/fruit they grow for free out in their lawn in summer! Cool.

Anyways, so back on our adventure we pass the place we think the tree farm is on again and then come up to Muffler Bob's Shop. We inquired there for the tree farm. He told us they picked up and left town! What? Lame. We told him we had a permit and he then offered his 16 acres for us to cut a tree! So we did! We found the perfect tree and shoveled away the snow and Gail did the saw-work... Success! We're going to decorate it tomorrow!

This whole process took like 4 hours or so! I got TONS of chat time with Gail! It was wonderful. Jesse, her step-daughter got in town yesterday but refused to come with us to cut the tree. Her loss! We had so much fun!

Then tonight we went to the gym (spin class is intense!) and then made homemade raviolis! So fun! I want a pasta maker! It's so easy!!!!

Breakfast at Tiffany's

That's what I'm watching right now. It's been a very girly, me-time week for me. My to-do list never ends (because I like crossing things off)...so I feel pretty accomplished. Not like I-won-the-Noble-Prize type of accomplished, just the hey-you-have-taken-care-of-a-lot-of-semi-important-things type productive. Such as make yams, clean kitchen (multiple times since I cooked a lot this week), do laundry, wrap Christmas gifts (yes I am ALL done with shopping!), buy an album on iTunes, put up Christmas decorations (how stinkin' fun!), bathe Mac, blog, go to Express to get new sweaters, organize closet, update my phone numbers and addresses, go to the library, file papers, make a work-out binder (from things from Self and Shape magazines) and a recipe binder (from Real Simple and Self) and a creative things binder (from Real Simple- a fabulous magazine), paint nails, watch Everybody Love Raymond, and so forth. Needless to say, semi-important. :) I also have a school-to-do list but I don't feel like thinking about that right now.

Turkey Day was fan-tabulous. There were a dozen of us who went to AJ's house and we all contributed. I made my grandma's famous yams and peaches. They were a hit! The food was all so good- we had so much! Then we 'watched' football and then we to see Bolt the new Disney-Pixar movie. That movie goes in my top three! It's SO funny and SO awesome! Rhino the hamster. Tee hee. I have great friends.

miss doe eyes

How does one bruise her lip? Huh. Guess I'm uber talented.

My glasses are so scratched that I think they are dirty 24/7. Not good. I don't get my new insurance until January.

This week has been eventful- ups and downs with my best friend- more ups and downs (of a different sort) with another. My life is never dull. Guess this week I have to learn forgiveness. And patience.

sleeping and smart girls

I feel like a different person from last week. More confident. More outgoing. Happier. And more rested---I have been off my sleeping pill for 4 nights now, going on 5! Amazing. Usually I cannot fall asleep at all without a pill, but now the 'study' shows that I can! That's great!

School this week was awesome. We launched bottle rockets (2L bottles with water in them and the pressurized with air (bike pump). They also attached an egg to it (as to use Newton's third log not to break it). It was quite adventurous- the first class was a trial run (I had never used it before). This poor kid got all wet and the rockets didn't really go far. Except at people for some reason...lol. It was pretty funny. Pretty funny.

I have finished my Gifted and Talented credit hour requirements. Remember that Smart Girl book I read? Yeah, well I'm putting it to action. I am making a Smart Girl club. Well, I haven't decided on a name. It's going to start with just my AP Physics C girls---sort of as a study group. Then I'll branch it out to other AP science classes and then to the PreAP girls I might have next year. The possibilities are endless--I want to boost their confidence in science and be a positive role model in their life. I want to encourage their goals and get to know them better, too. The Dean of Instruction, my department head, and science specialist think it's a fabulous idea! What a great feeling!

On Saturday, Lucki and I got to go to Teacher Day at the Zoo! We got in free, and we got free lunch (Chick-Fil-A), and we got to go to some fun workshops, and spent an hour in the gift shop. Oh Lucki. I was very fun!

Anyways, here are some fun pictures.

Lucki's Bday
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2223835&l=3f386&id=17825146

Other Fun-ness
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2223837&l=21bc3&id=17825146

Weird poem from a studen'ts dad.

You are a teacher right? We are getting Flu shots here at work so would please grade my poem, "on a professional level," I made while at the nurses office. Here it is.

Kisses are loved

And kisses are hated

Kisses are no good

Unless they are tasted

But kisses have koodies

And koodies are hated

So kiss me my love

I've been vaccinated

What do you think?

my eyes are brown AND green...

Here's a funny kid moment---

JJ says, "Whoa, Miss, your eyes are like two colors! Brown AND green!"
Emily says, "Wow, your eyes are pretty!"
Manny says, "Oh cool- you must be wearing those cool contacts."
JJ replies, "Uh, she's wearing glasses, dude."
Manny then realizes that his comment didn't make any sense, "Oh yeah."

haha

on the horizons

I am doing much better- emotionally and physically. I am still trying to catch up on some sleep, but I am healthy and back in the groove at school. School has been quite good, actually. Courtney observed my class and said she was very impressed with how I questioned the kids. I am actually seeing the impact I make in these kids' lives. This kid, we'll call him James, has had a rough time this week because his grandpa is sick. His mom emailed me about it and told me he really admires me and loves my class. James and I were going to talk about it Friday afterschool but we had a pep rally. Anyways, I remember when I was in high school and went to Mrs. Gray (my chem teacher) when I was having a rough time my senior year and it just made a world of difference that she cared so much about little old me. It's so neat to be on the other side of that. Another cool thing is this kid, "Mike" was talking to me about his mom and how awesome she is. I emailed her some of the sweet things he said and she really appreciated that. :) One student this week told me she's totally surprised that I'm not married because I am "so pretty and so nice"...lol. And in another class we were discussing weight versus mass and we were calculating our weight in Newtons, so I said I weighed 125 lbs (which I did that morning!) and this girl was like "no way! I totally thought you'd way more than that!" haha. She didn't mean it to be mean, but it was funny. And awkward. :) Giving tests was stressful this week, oh well. My AP kids get a guest speaker Tuesday to tell them about careers in physics. I'm excited for that!

Lucki had a birthday yesterday- she's 24. Can't believe she's younger than me. It's hard to feel younger than anyone who's married. I made the cutest cake for her- it was pink and had a purple high heel shoe decorated on it. I got a cake decorating starter kit and tried out my skills. She loved it. We all went out for yummy mexican food and played games at her house. Lenny was in town, too- he's Stephen's best friend. He's fun to be around. Hooray for Lucki!

Church today was amazing. I got to teach Relief Society- about Knowledge. They asked me yesterday to teach today, but I don't need much prep time. :) And yesterday I went to the temple with Sister Mechum (her husband is in the bishopric- they have kids about my age). It was so lovely to go with her. We sat in the celestial room for an hour! And then we went out for brunch. It was so nice. She's my Houston Mormon mom (speaking of which- Margo- I still need your phone number!). It's wonderful.

All in all, I have learned a lot this week about happiness. I have changed my perspective on a lot of things and have been dealing with things differently than before. I am relying on the Lord and having more faith in Him.

I am worried about Grandma, who got hit in a car accident and has a few broken ribs! She'll be back home tomorrow, thank goodness. And my dad hurt himself the other day. Gosh, I hope they don't get worse! I love them too much!

sick days

I took Thursday and Friday off from school. Too sick and I sounded like a frog. I still do, but I am better. I have another day to rest, so that's good. Being sick makes me wish I had a roommate (other than a cat) because I'm so alone and no one to take care of me. Or to keep me sane. I'm going a bit stir crazy. I'm all stressed out about school- missing two days is a lot!

how I conquered today

I was dreading today very much this weekend. First off, I knew I had to meet with my Assistant Principal about an 'issue' and I was stressed all weekend about it. But turns out she totally related to her early years as a teacher and I was not in trouble at all. She also said she's heard good things about my classroom this year- that I'm much more confidant and in control. Good!

I also had to meet with my department head today. That turned out to be very positive and helpful, too. I've now got my game plan for the next 9 weeks. Who hoo!

And I went to my doctor about my bruises. I may just have 'fragile capillaries'....she took a blood test for me. I might have to wear pressure-tights like old people to get circulation up. haha.

I'm grateful for my friends who care and knew about that this day might be really bad for me. I'm also grateful that a handsome boy asked me out. :)

And that, my friends, is how I conquered my day.

want somebody to love.

I do love my new phone, however. It's fun and exciting. It stressing me out getting everyone's numbers again, though.

So other things that stress me out- being too busy. My Nasa job keeps me going until 7pm most nights! And then I go see Lucki and Stephen. Thank heavens for them. I don't know what I'd do without them. I also did something stupid at school that I think I'm going to get in trouble for. I am trying to be the best darn teacher I can be but I make mistakes, okay. Like giving my AP kids a take home test. They did too well. Can't have that. Or being too nice. I am not being nice anymore. They have to suck it up.

Don't even get me started on boys. I have zero love interests. An 'adult' friend of mine said she was talking to her husband about me and they both agreed that it's crazy that no one has snatched me up. I don't know either. Aubrey and I were talking about how we just want someone to love, to hold at night, to come home to, someone to know our weaknesses and still think we're great, to support us. We want to fall in love. We just don't get how it happens. Or when it happens!

whoops!

I lost my phone today. I put it in my pocket on my way to school (yes- it's Saturday but I was teaching a TAKS things). Then once I got to school I couldn't find it. I looked for it back at home. And then I went back to school to look for it. Couldn't find it. Dang it. Lots of people have called it. No luck. Maybe- Maybe- it'll turn up Monday at school. :/

My date tonight was fun. Well, poor guy! He got lost and couldn't call me because I lost my phone. And then I had two Pyrex pans with enchiladas for dinner (we were going to Lucki and Stephen's place) and we set them on his car and he opened my door for me. Then we he shut the door, the enchilada's fell!!!!!!!!!!! He caught one pan of them but the other went splat. Then he tried to clean it up and I had to go find my broom....oh gosh. Dinner was good. Then we played Rock Band. And then we sold "shoe bags" (uhm for girls to put their purse and shoes in upstairs) at Homecoming and made sure people didn't use the wrong doors. We didn't get drowned out by the music because we were in the lobby, so we could actually socialize. The kids are crazy anyways. They sold giant pickles. Weird. :) We enjoyed people watching and sharing stories of high school.

Poor Mac. I think he has worms. And there is "pest control" people spraying in our apts on Monday so I have to lock him in the bathroom (which is the one place I don't like him) all day. And then take him to the vet. He has figured out how to open the cupboards- the ones where his treats are AND the ones in my bathroom to take out everything. Childproof the apt....

go go go

Okay, so this week I gave a super hard test to my AP kids. I gave a major curve, however, when I graded it. On the back I also asked for their feedback on three things- I wanted them to
1. tell me what they were understanding (specific)
2. tell me something they do not understand (specific)
3. tell me something I can do to help them in or outside of class (nicely...)

So I got really good feedback. Some fella on questions 3 wrote "you're nice". Others said "extra credit!" One said "I don't understand anything nor have I learned anything in your class" and replied with a "teach!" to number three. Ouch. But she's complained about this class to her AP before and I've talked with him about it. He says there will always be one kid like that. And he says I'll be even better a year from a now. Very positive. I meet with her mom on Tuesday, too (with him as well, thank goodness). But all the other 16 responses were helpful and positive. So our lesson on Friday was different than normal- and it was great for all. I changed things up a little and I think we all learned from it. So I'm not afraid of feedback (well, they are my AP kids so I trust them a bit more). I felt good about that.

I made a lot of phone calls to parents last night. Half to kids who are borderline failing...half to parents to just tell them I enjoy having their kid in my class. They really appreciated that.

This week has been non-stop. And it doesn't have a stop, either! I had Nasa Australian events Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Wednesday we also gave the PSAT. Thursday I had TAKS tutorials til 4:30 but then nothing (thank goodness) but calling parents and watching The Office. Then today was Homecoming! Carnival during lunch, pep rally, craziness. Mums. It's a southern thing but everyone had one. I'll get pictures tonight. We're going to the game. I got a group of about 8 to go. It'll be fun. they'll be here any minute now.

Then tomorrow I teach a TAKS camp til noon. Then in the evening I have a date! Gary and I are going to Lucki and Stephen's around 5:30. I am making enchiladas. Yum. Then we'll play games or whatnot then Gary and I are going to chaperone homecoming. It'll be interesting- the chaperoning! I hope Gary doesn't regret saying yes! haha.

Wait, I'm not done. On Sunday I have to teach a Relief Society lesson. Have I read it yet? No. Whoops. Guess I can't sleep til 11 on Sunday like I'll want to because I'll have to prepare it. Dang.

I wish I had time this week to go shopping. I got some gift cards (because I've spent money on credit cards, rewards....and one from Victoria Secret for panties, haha). I have 3 more Australian events next week and I need to get my oil changed....oh yeah, and grade labs and whatnot.

Funny mail- I have a good friend named Daniel Jennejohn who lived in my DC apt complex. I got mail today forwarded to me but it has his name on it! haha. (see how our names are like backwards?). I also got some CDs from my old friend Melissa from when we used to paint for Mead. She found our CD case and sent it to me! good times.

Smart Dads

My dad read my blog on Smart Girls and we chatted about it this evening- he brought it up. Now he's not one to open up, but he said that I do have so much potential to be able to do whatever I want. But as long as teaching makes me happy and that I am helping kids (which I am), then that's the most important he said. He also watched the Debates and said Obama talked about the importance of science and Math teaching (which means higher pay raises...) to prepare the future generations. So my field is important. But I think I go outside of teaching to work at NASA to gain other experience and opportunities that otherwise I wouldn't have.

Who knows. Thanks, Dad, for being sweet and proud of me. :) I love you.

Smart Girls

So I just read most of this book entitled "Smart Girls" by Barbara Kerr, PhD. She studied gifted girls from her 'special gifted class' from elementary school and then saw where they ended up at their 10 year high school reunion. Here are some things that got me thinking---

Okay, so I was a Smart Girl. I was Valedictorian and was always the best (except at english papers). The book says Smart Girls (or SGs) begin to doubt their smartness once in their sophomore year of college. Check. That's what I did. I don't really consider myself smart anymore. So what if I teach physics, why does that make me smart? A quarter of the girls Dr. Kerr went to school became teachers or at least majored in education then became mothers, one or the other. Is teaching a cop out? I mean, I went to UW in lure of a Chem. Eng. degree. I even had scholarships because I was a girl interested in Chem Eng! But I changed to teaching because I felt that was more of my calling in life- I wanted to affect students/people. Not deal with lab work or an office. But is that my potential?!?!

SGs need mentors. I can be that to my SGs that I teach (in AP...). Gosh. I don't know what I'm thinking. That book got me thinking....

Feelings

school=good
boys=retarded
health=moderate
friends=awesome
finances=fine
Mac=great (still a spaz)
stress level=changes daily
spirituality=fine
service=I suck
confidence=fine
car=going strong
apartment=cozy
family=super close
busy?=yes

Hope

Just got back from Conference weekend. The talk that impacted me the most was Pres. Uchtdorf's talk on Hope. That I need to have patience perseverance. Hope that things with happen. Hope for the future, that my life will fulfill its many purposes. Hope for now, that I'm doing right things. Still, it's a lot to absorb and think about.

I have a lot of random things to share from the last few weeks, so bare with me. First off, I have some great friends. I am so glad I have Lucki and Stephen. Stephen and I went bike riding last week and I got a flat tire (on my bike!). So then we went on a 3 mile jog. Go us! Lucki never works out (and stays skinnier than a stick). I am staying pretty fit and thin. Not that I eat like a health nut, but I'm trying. Aubrey and I have spent a lot of time together, too. We went to Space Center Houston before we had to go back to school, we've had a couple sleepovers and whatnot. It's interesting to see how my friends have changed since I got here. When I moved here in January I had my roommate and then all the "friendswood" church people. Now I'm not really good friends with many of them. Only one came to my bday party. Now all my friends are in the singles ward. Granted, they live at least 30 minutes from me, but I also have Lucki and Stephen who live only 5 minutes from me. And Matt my physics teacher friend who lives in my building.

Just fyi, Jessica and I are best friends! We talk every day. I love the pictures she sends me over the phone. We have become super close. For her bday present from her boyfriend, Zach, she asked me to get her a coach purse from the Coach Outlet here in Houston. So I did and I just sent it too her. How funny. :) I can't wait to go home for Christmas! Mike is going to come visit me up there, too. I'm done with my Christmas shopping- jealous? :) Gail just had her birthday, too. She enjoyed the socks and earrings I got her (hey, that's what she asked for!).

Mac has a girlfriend now. Just kidding. But my friend Celeste has a pretty orange girl cat named Chanel. Mac and Chanel are both makeup brands! So we're saying that Mac is about to propose...and then they can have pretty kitties named Dolce & Gabbana. lol. (they are both spayed/neutered). Mac is currently sporting a bandana that is black with orange BOO words all over it. He has a ghost one, too. :) And I found the cutest welcome sign that says "Black Cat Crossing" all orange and black and semi-sparkly. Other changes to my apartment are cute flower arrangements. Dee says I could be an interior designer. That'd be fun! :)

So speaking of my real job. We didn't go back until Sept 26th. Then the kids came back that last Monday. We've been busy. But I feel on top of the world when it comes to school. I am done with grades, have called more than enough parents of kids with bad grades, have my lesson plans done for the next 3 weeks, am challenging my AP class... I am actually feeling like an awesome teacher. Don't worry, I will be humbled soon I'm sure. But I feel like I'm doing what I should. One of my kids from last year dropped out and I'm trying to help get him back. He was one of those chem-chommers (the class of 5 that drove me crazy). But I was his favorite teacher. I mean, he didn't skip my class and would skip other classes just to say hi. And now he's not in school. I want so badly to help him. So I've been talking with his AP and the attendance officer. I am also earning extra bucks doing TAKS tutorials. And the Australian NASA events have been quiet lately but starting next week I have like 3 a week!

Tomorrow I shall get my hair cut, bring my new beta fish to school, replace my left brake light, try to act smart for my AP kids, and who knows what else. I like riding my bike to school, too (but not with my fish).

Mac says hello. or meow. Here's a link for pictures.
The last Couple weeks in photos

I am a quarter of a century old!

Well, I had a fabulous 25th birthday! First, Lucki and I went shopping and I got a new fossil watch (from my parents!).

Then Lucki, Stephen, Matt, Lisa, Manny, Aubrey, Julie, Andrew, Sondra, Lisa, Rachelle all came out for dinner. We were going to go to the Olive Garden but the wait was so long so we went to a Thai place. It was sooooooooooo yummy!

Then Lucki, Stephen, Matt, Lisa, Manny, Aubrey, and Julie all came over to my place and we played this awesome game - Pop 5- it's from Cranium and much like it but way cooler and 80s/90s based. SO fun!

Then Courtney, Manny, AJ, Steve, Alina, Taylor, and Kristin joined our party and we had cake (which I made) and ice cream. Half of them were allergic to Mac, unfortunately. So they didn't stay too long.

Then that crew left and the original 8 got back to our hard core game playing. :) They discovered I have a weird super human trick- I can hold my nostrils together (without hands)----as I was acting out "Cabbage patch dolls" haha. they have funny scrunched nose! And people sure got a kick out of the dynamic Lucki and I have! We are so much alike and we are SO funny together.

The whole night was a blast!!!!

Lucki got me a Vanilla Cupcake Yankee Candle, a cute purse mirror, a cute manicure set, and a GlamGirl frame. :) Matt and Lisa got me the cutest pink cake holder (you know, the stand type!). And Aubrey got me a cute vase with flowers. Courtney got me a pretty scarf from Lous (uhm not sure how to spell it). My folks got me iWork and the fossil watch. Call me spoiled. :)


Here's Manny and Mac- the stare down! :)











Birthday Photos.... click here
More Ike Photos....click here

Tweeny Bopper

Andrew said I must use that as my next Blog title because I like the Jonas Brothers. So sue me.

Yesterday was fun- Aubrey and I did damage at Costco and had fun with some friends. Today I organized and re-organized everything in my apartment. Goodness gracious it's clean and organized.

I'm not looking forward to my birthday. It should be a cool one- I mean- I am turning 25. But I just feel like it's going to be dull.

Tomorrow I must work on AP Physics stuff. I've been avoiding it.

A glimpse at Jenn's life

20 years ago....
~I was about to turn 5
~I was starting kindergarten
~I had a new baby sister, Jessica

10 years ago....
~I was a bassoon player
~I was not LDS
~I was big on school dances and dates
~I was a big nerd (math, science, 4.0)

5 years ago....
~I was in my second year at the University of Washington
~I was planning on a mission in a year- I spent so much time with the missionaries!
~I loved being an RA in the dorms

3 years ago....
~I was walking in the cold, rainy streets of Chile! Yeah!
~I was struggling with insomnia (and still am)
~I was about to have my first birthday on the mission

This year....
~I student taught in DC then graduated from BYU
~I moved to Houston to start teaching Chemistry....then they changed me over to Physics and AP Physics C
~I started working part time for NASA Space Center Houston
~I got a cat, Mac
~I have my own awesome apartment
~I have had way too many boyfriends...nothing ever works out
~I have read dozens of books
~I am closer with my sister than ever before
~I survived Hurricane Ike!

Yesterday....
~I was happy to see my cat after the hurricane
~I got power back in my apartment
~I hung out with Lucki and Stephen
~I caught up with a bunch of friends

Today....
~I rode my bike and worked out
~I worked on lesson plans
~I just relaxed...Jenn-time

Tomorrow....
~I have no clue

In the next year....
~I will pay off all of my student loans and credit cards
~I will maybe find someone to date...or marry...
~I will be the best teacher I can be
~I will try to understand better what Heavenly Father's plan for me is and have faith

All is well

I came home today to my apartment. Mac greeted me, glad to be home. He seemed a little freaked out, but it did run to me before telling me he was out of food... He probably isn't happy I'm back because I gave him a bath today!

I got power back just an hour or so after I got home. Hooray! And the only damage to my apt is a few spots of water on the ceiling. Some, just a little, hit my sofa. Gross. But it's a slip cover...and that couch will one day be a 'basement couch'.... So they're going to check out the damage soon- I called my apt complex.

Lucki has power, too, so we'll get together. No school for the week. I'm going to see if they're cleanup stuff I can help out with tomorrow.

All is well.

http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2008/09/the_short_but_eventful_life_of.html

Funny Hurricane News Reporter Comments

They were talking about what there is left in the grocery stores....and someone said that there were many people with cases of beer in their carts. The news reporters said "Every one is getting beer and alcohol! Folks, you don't want to be intoxicated/out of it during a disaster!"

Another lady reporter said that lots of people were asking if this is the worst it's going to get (the storm is like 150 miles away) and she frankly said "Guys, it's still 150 miles away, of course it's going to get worse!

On the radio they asked that we limit water use and thus limit shower usage...and I quote "get used to your own aromatic essence."

Top Ten Reasons Hurricane Season Is Like Christmas

#10: Decorating the house (with plywood)
#9: Dragging out boxes that haven't been used since last season
#8: Last minute shopping in crowded stores
#7: Regular TV shows pre-empted for 'Specials'
#6: Family coming to stay with you
#5: Family and friends from out of state calling you
#4: Buying food you don't normally buy and in LARGE quantities
#3: Days off from work (YIPPEE)
#2: Candles (this could be romantic lol)

And the Number One reason Hurricane Season is like Christmas: At some
point you're probably going to have a tree in your house!

Gail's email

Subject: jennifer has evacuated from her apartment, and is staying with friends' family north of Houston

Message:
To all,

Just in case anybody is wondering how close Jennifer is to hurricane Ike, her place is right in the path, and right on a bay of the Gulf of Mexico. She evacuated last night, and is staying with her friends family in a town called Spring, north of Houston. Her school has been shut down.

Love, gail

Don't Trip.

So we've gotten through two weeks of school. And now it's the end of the third week. We just had school canceled Thursday and Friday for Hurricane Ike. So just FYI...it's going to be over Saturday and I am up north with my best bud Aubrey at her Aunt's house. I did leave Mac alone (partially because the aunt can't handle cats, second because he'll really be fine). Anyways, it's going to all be okay.

School. so far so good. yesterday's AP class was CRAZY. I think I scared them to death. First, I handed back lab reports and I think they were disappointed. I graded hard (which I didn't think I did). Then I gave them a quiz- open note/book- just a problem from the book and over half of them got like 3/15 right (we graded it like an AP free response question). So they were probably upset by that. And then I tried teaching them about how the integral of velocity is displacement----and so I tried teaching them HOW to do integrals...and they haven't 'learned it ' yet in Calculus...so I tried and easy approach...and some got it. So I think I stressed them out big time. BUT they got some comic relief, unintentionally. This was my finest teaching moment....you ready....brace yourself...I tripped over this kid's backpack and then fell on top of a pile of meter sticks. Yup. I pile of meter sticks. I fell. completely. It took me a few minutes to regain composure.

We had a fun lab this week- rolly ball lab- trying to take the velocity of different balls in the hallway.

I've had a lot of fun lately with Aubrey, Lucki, Matt (my teacher friend who keeps me sane), Derek, Andrew, and everyone. Life is pretty dang good. (Granted that the hurricane doesn't destroy my stuff and kill my cat. I pray that won't happen.) Well, on that note I'm going to go....

A New Start

This was the first week of school. I love my classes. They're already at different paces- some classes are way more smart than others. And my AP kids do not intimidate me! I AM smarter than them. I was scared of that. But I have total control- it's a good feeling. I can challenge them! And I had a really neat lab for them this week on relativity. I feel really good about what I'm doing. And I'm very grateful for my friend Matt, the other Physics teacher. He is such a good friend and we keep each other sane. On the flipside, there's always meetings, messed up schedules, and other annoyances that get in the way of teaching. Eh. Matt helps me get through it.

Don't worry- the hurricane is now a Category 2 and doesn't seem to be coming our way anymore. :)

Mac says hello. He's still the same spaz as last week.

I'll write more later, okay!

The First Day

So today was the first day of school. It was quite an interesting day. First we had homeroom to hand out schedules. Borrrrring. Then I had first period conference...then advisory. We had advisory for like 1.5 hours! Way too much time. I entertained them with making them get to know each other (which for 10th graders is quite uncomfortable for them). I had fun. My 2nd period physics class was very nice. 3rd period was a little hyper- they're going to be interesting. A handful. And my AP Physics C kids....oh goodness. I was telling them about my Nasa job...and then as I was handing stuff out and this kid who I was near had the nerve to say this to me "Oh, sorry we weren't impressed about your Nasa experience. Like 8 of us our on the Robonaut team and two of our dads are astronaut's." (one being his dad.). Matt said I should have said "Well what have YOU done" because he doesn't like kids who think they're all that because their parents are accomplished. Good point. And the science dept head said that was typical of that certain kid and next time I should just turn it into an assignment (say, write a paper on what it's like to be an astronaut's kid) and he'll never talk again. Brainiacs. Total 180 from my other classes. Oh, and I have a couple of my fav students from last year!

It's going to be an interesting year! Tomorrow is the second first day (block) and we shall see what's in store...crazy....

Jenn's got her groove back

I do. I've been in the mindset that I shouldn't and can't date for awhile. But then I went and talked to the Bishop on the stand before Church and we just talked. I said I wasn't going to date boys for a while- then he jokingly said that I should say I'm not going to date anymore (so it doesn't sound like I'm dating girls instead, haha). But he said there were lots of guys in our ward who speak spanish. . Oh, okay. And he said there are a lot of great guys in our ward (as he looked out amongst the group).

Not only that, but I am SO ready for school to start. I'm excited for my new classes- to see what this year brings. I'm excited for the challenges, for the triumphs, for the new people in my life, for everything Heavenly Father has in store for me. I have a feeling it's going to be AMAZING. I'm going to grow a lot and have a lot of awesome experiences. I feel it.

ready for school!

I think I am ready for school. We had some awful training this week, but not all awful. The day with just physics -AP- was the best. I feel pretty excited to teach these kids. Even the AP class. And of course my room is super cute and happy, and I will be really really busy!

My cell phone has been annoying me all summer. It broke June 29th and then was on 'back order' so they gave me a 'backup' and each week they still said it was on back order then a month later they said oh, actually we don't make that phone anymore...so they said send it in to samsung and get it fixed. So I did. Then it was freaking out (the phone) the other day so I bought a new one (what's up with stupid upgrade fees?!?!) and it had a music player but those phones don't work with Macs so I took it back today. My old phone did turn on...and I have an iPhone on the way (it's unlocked so I can use with with T-Mobile still).

Mac has been driving me bonkers. He ATE all the hair off of a new make-up brush! He runs around like a crazy person. He gets all his play toys stuck under the sofa, fridge, and stove. He bites my ankles lots at night and in the morning in bed. He knocks over my vases and frames. And annoys company. He's like a dog. and he's been eating a lot!!! I'm trying to monitor it. But I hope he won't be a stupid fat cat.

School starts Monday. Wonder what the year holds...

let it rain

it rained pretty hard today. Well, that's just Houston. But my thoughts...well, I miss my sister. At least she kept me busy and occupied. Before her it was Sam that kept me busy and occupied. Why am I letting him get to me so much? I have NO appetite. Nothing sounds good. I don't want to go out. I'm sick of driving downtown (I did a ton this last week with my sister and then also before with Sam). I'm not ready for school to start. Yes, my classroom looks great. But I have no lesson plans ready. I don't know. I'm not looking forward to teaching again. Yet I know it's what I'm supposed to do. And I took up the extra NASA job...is that too much for me? Pretty much I've been a lazy bum the last two days. I can't even concentrate enough to prepare my lesson for RS tomorrow. Crap. I never procrastinate. I don't know what's wrong with me. I even went to the Temple Thursday. I did a session and sealings (mainly as a child). I just bawled in the celestial room. Why did there have to be so many hispanic temple workers there to remind me of Sam and what we could have had? To remind me how badly I wanted to serve 'his people'...as I loved them so much from the mission. So I didn't exactly feel peace there. I felt confusion. Although I know I love the temple and still felt good about going there, but I really feel that He's leading me in the dark for a bit.

Sisterhood of the Traveling Sister

So Jessica came to visit! Hooray!

Friday we went to Space Center Houston- I had to work. But she got to meet all of my cool India kids! It was pretty fun. She got to see and experience all I do there! And the banquet was nice as well.

Saturday we went to the Zoo- it was SO hot and all the animals were so sleepy! And the otters were hiding. :( haha. We also went to the Museum of Fine Arts...then we met up with Lucki at the Cypress Outlet Mall. We found some GREAT deals! How fun! My new signature scent is Burberry London. ooh lala. Then we went to the Luau up in the cypress area (church event). We ate, watched the dancing, and left. We had a long day...and I felt bad making my sister hang out with church friends. haha.

Sunday we slept in and then went to Church. I talked to the Bishop about Sam...and while that was going on Sam found Jessica and talked with her (it wasn't bad, she just didn't really want to talk with him because he broke my heart, but they were very very nice to each other nonetheless). The Bishop has no clue what's wrong with Sam. Me either. He wants to be my friend but I'm finding that VERY hard to do. He's frustrating me. No comment.

So after Church my sister and I wandered- and got lost- in the Galleria mall. What a ridiculous mall! So many expensive stores! I found a couple jeans (on sale of course). We ate at the Cheesecake Factory and then the mall closed and we got lost getting back to our car! We walked sooooo much! It was kind of annoying. but funny.

So Monday was a nice day- Jessica was kind enough to help me set up my classroom- mainly all the posters. It took a lot of work so I really appreciated her help! Then after we went to Galveston with Lucki! We got some sun...and then Lucki got heat rash so we had to get her home. At least we got an hour at the beach....her rash was SO bad! poor thing! My sister still insisted that we go to the pool when we got back, so we did. Then we wandered around Kemah and ate at Joe's Crab Shack and then went to Lucki's and watched their wedding video! It was funny! (because of their comments!) I also asked why Stephen's nickname is Stevebob...Lucki said that some friend called him that like sponge bob...then I said but what about the steve part? haha. I really didn't think about the connection! Stephen is such a Stephen to me, not Steve!!!! haha

Tuesday was full of craziness. We went to the Aquarium (SO lame- it took like 5-10 minutes to walk through. Don't ever go there). Then we went to the Museum of Natural Science. The Chemistry part was really cool- but everything cost more- like to go to the IMAX (which we did) or the Rock museum (which was funny- my sister thought it was a Hard Rock and Roll museum not just a rock museum!). Then we went to the coolest museum- the health museum. It was SO fun and interactive. You have to go to that one! We also went out to eat at Rice Village at my fav thai place. Then we ran into traffic on the way home. I also embarrassed Jessica by asking someone where the restroom was at Academy (a sports store)...and well that person clearly didn't work there. It was awkward. whoops. We went to the Bay Area Mall and Jessica got a few things. And the infamous Plato's closet. haha. Then we watched Hitch. Every night was a different movie...she can't fall alseep without that. Oh, and we went to the pool again that night.

Our last day was pretty chill- we went back to Nasa with my friend Sean and took the tour of Mission Control, ISS Mock up, and Rocket Park. And souvenirs...haha. Then we went to the pool all afternoon. I got a little burnt. Then Andrew took us out to dinner at a fun Hibachi grill and then we went hottubbing. Then my sister made me watch From G's to Gents. haha.

We cried saying goodbye today. I'm really proud of who she is. I really care about what she thinks of me and we are really close for being sisters. We don't always see eye to eye but we really do love and care about one another- and love so many things about each other. I learned a lot about her this week. She's grown up so much and she's just such a sweet, wonderful person. She cares so much. She's funny and beautiful. Gosh, she's so pretty. She's also not afraid to put me in my place. Sometimes I can be a bit selfish or thoughtless. She's strong and confident, yet has such a soft side. I love her so much. I already miss her. I wish I could put into words how much I love her and adore her for who she is. Love you, Boo!

More priceless words from Brother Holliday

This is from my favorite institute teacher ever. He always knows what to say.

Jenn,

I am sorry to hear about your latest disappointment. I know it is discouraging.

One of your many strengths is that you are cheery by nature and never stay down for long. Its is one of the things that makes you attractive to a wide variety of people. Even losers are attracted by individuals with your level of attributes.

So use your strength. Get the tears out if necessary and then cinch up and move on. The Lord knows your heart and will still lead you. After all He just eliminated another loser from your life and prevented you from making learning about it after it was too late to easily back out. See that as a sign that He knows your heart and is watching out for you. In time you will look back and be so grateful.

Consider getting a blessing from your bishop and listen carefully to what is said. Then go forward with faith and let the Spirit help you discern the losers before you invest too much of your heart.

You are a wonderful and beautiful person and I am proud to know you.

David Holliday

Mac Takes a Dip

I was being mean and dipped Mac in the tub.

New Flip Video Camera

So I just got this neat little Flip Video camera. It holds up to an hour worth of video with sound...and has a USB on the side that 'flips' out for super each hook up to your computer. I took some videos this week, of mac and of space school with Taiwan.

random stress

Drama drama drama. Not exactly...but life has been a bit stressful.

-stupid TeXes Teacher certification tests in chem/physics (one test) and pedagogy. Done. Good. Hope to never have to deal with that again.

-I am so not ready for school to start. Was I supposed to do lesson plans or something? I mean, I've been studying physics, but I feel utterly under prepared. And my classroom isn't even set up yet.

-My doctor keeps inspiring me to be better and healthier. I've been doing by best to conform.

Space School this week was amazing. Taiwan. The best group of kids ever. I loved them. They did so well and it was just an amazing week. I'll try to post some videos- I have a cool new video camera with a usb hook up. :) The banquet last night was so fun. I loved Allie- the interpreter they had. Just awesomeness.

Jessica comes to visit me- she arrives next Thursday night. We'll go to Space School that Friday ...and then the Zoo and the Aquarium, a couple museums, Galveston beach, the Galleria (fancy mall), and wherever else we feel like. She'll be with me until the following Thursday morning. Hope we have fun!

until I write again I send you my love

Joshua Radin Concert

So last night Christian, Sam, me (in one car), and Jacob, Magnolia, Rudy, and Brittany (in the other car) drove up to Austin to see Vanessa Carlton and Joshua Radin! It was a sweet concert! We especially loved Joshua Radin! (we, uh, never heard him before...but he rocks.) Sam and I ate at the coolest Thai restaurant (they're going to sell him, maybe, their paintings of New York that Sam loves...hahaha). We didn't get home until 4am! But it was a fun trip! We got a picture with Joshua! how cool is that.

Using My Talents...

SO I am SO glad that I stood up for myself and professionally dealt with Ally about my concerns and inputs about what has happened to Lucki and I this summer...

Today Ally met with me to tell me she apologizes for John's actions. She also told me she wants to keep me around- doing Space School next year (if we find someone good for me to work with...) and also she would like to use my talents for the Video-Casts they do with Australia. This girl is in charge of that and they teach an hour long class live to kids in Australia, so it takes place in the evening on a sparatic basis. It's growing so she said I seem like the type who would be perfect in front of a camera teaching! How neat is that!?! And it's not 'working for John'...haha. She also changed John's schedule so I don't have to work a full week of Space School with him- only a day or two! Sweeeet! Then it's Don. And Don is easy to work with. So with the VideoCast it looks like I'll have stuff to do during the school year, to stick around! Sweeeet. Looks like I've won over Ally, just for communicating professionally!

Miss Girly Enjoys Time Off

I love my life. It's always an adventure!! So I'm definitely learning patience with the stupid NASA job. Apparently, John (our male boss) is a super jerk and is known for that throughout the whole Space Center Houston. I will meet, calmly, with his boss this week to discuss my issues (uh, lack of training and communication!! Instead of saying the screwed us over, which is true as well). I work part time next week (what the heck?) and then the next week I'll be at Rice University for an AP Physics C training! I'm excited for that. I've been studying my physics- I have my teacher test August 2nd. Then Jessica comes the next week! I'm stoked. I need to hide my credit cards till then. haha.

Fun things I did this week because I didn't work---
1. went to the beach with friends, it's like 30 min away. Fabulous warm, yet salty water.
2. Shopping. Duh.
3. Reading a ton. Right now I'm reading PS, I love you. MUCH better than the movie. My other recommendations are anything by Sophie Kinsella- she write the Shopaholic series- Confessions of a Shopaholic, Shopaholic Takes Manhattan and three more in that series. I just found out she has a new book! Can't wait to read it. I relate to her characters very much. Except I'm not in debt like that! haha. They're british authors. awesome.
4. Music! Pandora.com is amazing. My new favorite artist, kinda quirky, is Kate Nash. Such great funny, British songs.
5. Moving things to my classroom. My classroom, the new one, is being used until the 24th, but everything is at least in the store room. So soon I can set up my new room. Can't wait!
6. Uh, studying physics. nerd.
7. Exercising a lot! (hooray!) I'm working on my abs. They are rather soft. haha. Sam thinks it's cute. Like I'm skinny but my abs just don't exist. working on it...
8. Eating tons of veggies and fruits. I'm proud of myself. I am loving this great new habit.
9. Swap Meet with girls from church- we brought all our old clothes and swapped clothes! I got some dang cute stuff and cleaned out my closet!
10. Played with Mac. He loves company and loves playing
11. Got lots of sleep
12. Dates!
13. Contemplating quitting. If things don't go well with Allison this week I totally will.
14. Enjoying not having stresses of work!
15. Getting pulled over. It was just a warning. I was late to my derm. appointment and my doctor said that cop pulls everyone over! haha. Oh well. I got microdermabrasion treatment for my scars on my chin. So my skin is reallllly dry right now, but it'll get better...


So Danielle, Luke, and Danielle's roommate Rory are on this crazy long road trip throughout the country! They called me Thursday morning to say they're in Austin and were headed to Houston! So I got to see them Thursday night! They crashed at my place for a couple days, even though I already had made plans to go to Dallas Friday for the weekend... so random. They had a blast with my Macster, too. I left them fun things/places to do... And at least I got to see them and let them use my apartment! Danielle gave me the prettiest earrings she made! :) How sweet. I hope they had fun!

I had a blast in Dallas! Tammy lives there with her hubby. And she's in beauty school. So I went and got a pedicure (with cute flower art on my toes) and a french manicure and such! We went and got cute earrings, I bought a really cool hair extension that's all cute and curly...will show pictures...we're such girly girls. And we LOVE laughing about the mission. We were the funniest companions. She's the one who peed her pants, and the one I was with when I ate too many beets and had 'issues', and also when I got my arm stuck in the bus door, or when we had ants all over our valentine cookies and still gave them out....man we were so funny. So it's been priceless girl time together. Totally awesome.

Whew.

cat bandanas, doctors, and dates

I should patent cat bandannas. For around their neck, like a collar. Mac is sporting a japanese one yesterday. As in japanese print. I have a couple other fabrics, too. He's one good-looking cat, if I say so myself.

My new doctor rocks. I'm supposed to work out 1 hr every day and eat tons of fruits and veggies... she's going to get me off of my sleeping medicine! and maybe my anxiety meds, too. She has a real different view of medicine. It's awesome. I really hope I can change my habits for the better! I already feel better...and could take a nap today (that never happens). And I have lots of healthy food to eat!

The fourth of July was a blast! I made burgers for a few of my friends (Stan, Dan, and Matt...yes, all boys I know). Then we headed up to Virginia's apartment downtown to play water games with a bunch of folks. It was a blast. Then we got to watch the downtown fireworks from up top a parking complex. It was a pretty impressive show. Then we went and played games at another gals' super fancy apartment...and stayed out late...(again...)

Today I went to the temple. Gosh it was so amazing. I felt such happiness and peace. I really need to go more! I am excited to fast tonight/tomorrow, too. I am going to make steaks for dinner tomorrow (but I can't find the yoshiba marinade my dad always uses for flank steaks...).

Funny Jenn moments-
At Office Depot I was at the cash register. I apparently was singing along to whatever song was playing in the store because the clerk stated that I must like that song. Gosh, i didn't realize! haha

Sam also noted that I sing to songs I don't even know the words to. He thought it was cute. haha.

I told Sam how clumsy I was, right...and I did totally trip and fall on our date. haha. good laughs!

I watched Milo and Otis today. how silly.

I think I'm going to go to Dallas this next weekend to see Tammy (and get some beauty school pampering...). I have the week off. I'm also going to change my classrooms at the high school and get that all set up for next year. :)

okay, that's all the randomness on my mind.

Houston, we have a problem

A week in India

Well, not actually a week in India, but rather a week with high schoolers from India! This week at Nasa Space School our group was full of 17 kids from Punjab, India. They speak Hindi and Punjabi. About half speak decent english, about half don't speak or understand a word of english. This is their first time in the US- and they came specifically for Space School! well, they are going to Disney World next week...

They are great kids. I've learned a lot about their religions and culture- I didn't realize how much we really DON"T know about other cultures. I want to go to India someday! Most of the kids are Sikhs. All male seeks have the same last name. They took us out to real indian cusine on wednesday night- that was so sweet of them. I really did like it. Still not my preferred choice (thai, chinese...haha). These kiddos took tons of photos! And well, they kind of smell bad. just their culture thing- but man, the b.o. was bad sometimes. They did think Lucki and I were beautiful. haha. And occasionally they would way the S-word. Oh s. Their main chaperone Abhishek is super cool- he's 24 and an entrepreneur of space sorts- he's worth millions with the business he started! He is fun to get to know- he keeps in touch with us! In fact he invited me to
canada this weekend...but gosh I don't know!

Houston, we have a problem.

So Lucki and I work amazingly well together. Unfortunately our bosses think that's a bad thing. They pretty much cut us out of half the summer and we won't be working a space school TOGETHER at all. We now have to be teamed up with one of the 'bosses'. Utterly ridiculous. Which means we get cut out of hours. I didn't know I wasn't going to work this week or next! They told us today! How awful of them! We cried. What they did to us is not fair at all. They are the worst bosses ever. I'd quit except even the two measly weeks of space camp money is needed to achieve my lofty financial goals. It just irks me that they think they can get away with treating us like that.

Meanwhile I got my phone turned back on. It's still 'broken' but at least the numbers are salvaged now. My new phone should come in the next day or two. And I've been having to deal with a canceled payment that still went through on my student loans (super annoying!!!).

So I'm actually kind of bored. I can read a lot. But I hate not having something to do all day! Okay positives- I can study physics, I can get my classroom ready for next year, I can hang out with friends. I have Lucki as a dear dear friend.

Gosh. enough for now.

One Crazy Day

Such is my life. Full of craziness and adventure. Did I ever say my life was boring? Well, I take that back. I guess it NEVER is boring!

So today I knew Lucki wasn't going to make it to work- she was really sick last night and her hubby called me this morning. So I headed to work just a tad early because I knew I'd have to do a lot to get ready for the day without her. And uhm, so I'm in the turn lane almost to work and I hit something and my tire goes flat. My front left tire, just fyi. I try to call Jamie, my boss, and have to leave a message. I call poor sick Lucki. I call my dad (who thinks I can change a tire on my own...thanks for having faith in me but I'm just not able to do that). I call Geico only to find out it'd cost me $65 for someone to come help me. So I get out of my car and immediately this nice latin dad and son stop their produce truck to help me change my tire muy rapido! They were awesome.

Spares are supposed to get you about 50 miles, right? Well I turn into the parking lot and the spare dies on me. I'm no where even near where I need to, but at least my car is in a parking lot. So I make the trek to work and tell the secretary, Toni, what happened. Mind you, I'm a half hour late and no one has even noticed. Why? Because Jamie is sick, too! And Dave, the other Space School 'boss' is also sick! It's JUST me today. So Toni got my credit card and some nice people who work somewhere in the building towed my car to a safer place, inspected the dead tire, BOUGHT a new tire, and replaced it so I can get home tonight. WOW. That all happened while I was at work this morning.

I had so much to do this morning to prep for space schoolers...I managed all right. Thank goodness for helpful people. And patient kiddos. Too bad it rained on our rocket launch. :(

So we have a graduation banquet for them- and I'm the only one who will be there- so I'm in charge! Crazy. That's about a 12 hour day. Goodness. Luckily I called my friend Ryan and he was free tonight so he can come to the banquet with me. That'll be nice. I'm almost space-schooled-out. But I love these kids, and I've had a smile on my face all day. Life is funny. But I am proud of myself for handling this craziness so well. sigh. We're all ready for next week because of me, too. busy little me. I missed my cat today. Can't wait to see him.

such is the life of Jenn. thanks for being avid readers of mi vida loca. :) I love you all!

ten four?

So Lucki and I are barely getting the walkie-talkie talk. It's quite funny the things we say. Like we know what to do!?!?!

Systems- "What's your 20?"
Lucki- "well we need to get our computers up"
Jenn (whispering to Lucki) "He means what's your location. silly"

Jenn- "Jenn to Lucki"
Lucki- "okay"
Jenn- "so they think it's eleven minutes not eight..."
Lucki- "What?"
Jenn- "so they think it's eleven minutes not eight..."
Lucki- "What?"
Jenn- "Oh, you have no clue what I'm talking about do you?"
Lucki- "no."

everyone can hear us, mind you. they hear our walkie-talkie talk and exclaim, "oh they're so sweet." Then our boss Jamie tried to teach us the proper language. But we still make comments like that of the light....see below. hah.

instead of 10-4 we have been known to say "Thanks!" "oh great!" or other non-10-4 communications.

We needed lights on in the theater area.
Jenn- "Jenn to systems"
no response.
Jenn- "Jenn to information?"
no response.
Jenn- "Jenn to someone who can turn on lights?"
Systems- "What's your twenty"
(ooh I got this one!) Jenn- "the theater area"
Systems- "oh. I can't turn on lights there."
Facilities- "Will be right there."

they thought that was super funny. Who can turn on lights? apparently not many of us.

so much for that

Mac is doing great. He cuddles with me quite often- he'd be a decent boyfriend...haha. I took him to the vet this week. He is relaly healthy and everyone just thought he was the most handsome cat. I felt like I proud parent. I even called Dad and Gail to let them know that their grand-cat had a good vet appointment. haha. He was such a good sport- with his shots and blood-prick. And he travelled all cute in his Nicole Miller Pet Carrier Purse (green and white). haha. He did pee in it on the way home, but I'll forgive him for that, poor thing was scared! He has cat herpes. Which isn't like normal people herpes- it just is why he'd have weepy eyes and sneezes when he's stressed out. But he's all fun around the house- playing cat-soccer with a little pingpong sized ball. So cute. I love Mac!

Chao from the newly single and newly converted cat-lover,

Lucki, Zac, and Mac

Sorry it's been a few weeks!

She's 23, a chemistry teacher at a nearby school near my district, and recently married. She's super awesome. We have a lot of fun together- we've hung out SO much in the week we've known each other! Playing Wii, double dates, and shopping...oh how fun! We are theI am the happiest I've been in a while! Life is wonderful. School got over- I ended fairly strong. haha. I was ready for it to be over. Space school has started. The girl I work with is name Lucki. only to Space School gals so we're very lucky, no pun intended. :)

Another happy thing is that I got a cat! I adopted him last Saturday from the League City Animal Shelter. I named him Mac. He is all black and is about a year old. I fell in love with him at the shelter and took him home the next day. He's so loving! He sleeps in my bed with me, loves the shower (the tub I guess....), eats a lot, knows how to stay clean, and loves to cuddle and be spoiled. I love having him here- it makes me so happy to come home! Oh Mac. What a cat. :)

Church has been great- I'm teaching Relief Society now (the all-ladies class...). I taught today, it was a blast. And now I hang out at FHE longer...my friends tease me because I never stay long to play volleyball or soccer, but I have lately because of a boy...lol.

Photo links! ;)
Lucki, Me, and Space School ( a couple with Zac, too)
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2187478&l=20cf9&id=17825146

Mac the cat and Zac
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2187476&l=357fa&id=17825146

uhm, is school over yet?

Memorial weekend- Friday night was a dance in Galveston (beach area). Way fun. Saturday was working 12 hours at Babin's. Not that much fun. Monday was gator-hiking with Jonathan. There's a state park that has a ton of gators (we saw about 6 in the wild). We walked about 5 miles in the sun and enjoyed spotting gators. Way fun.

I have so much stress.

The stupid Texas Teacher association- for certification (since I'm out state), has screwed me over royally- totally bad record keeping (I paid, then they said I didn't and then that I paid twice so they refunded me, and then 5 months later say they're not doing anything with my certification because I haven't paid...and what? Talk about confusing). Oh my gosh, it made me so mad. So mad. So stressed.

So now I have less time to worry about and take the TeXes teacher exam- one for 'pedagogy' and one for 'chemistry and physics' ... I thought I was done with tests- that I only give them. Guess not. Grrr. I have to take them in August. And they cost mega bucks, too. Grrr.

I had some kid- well two- YELL at me about stupid final exam exceptions. NOT cool.

And because of STUPID teachers we have to back-track something that was VERY clear on the exemption list. We have to exempt kids that shouldn't be exempt because of this messup. grrr.

Oh, and apparently I could've gotten assaulted today. I was walking from lunch back to my room and saw this kid pacing in circles near the stairs- kids aren't supposed to be in this area at that time. So I asked why he was there, who his teacher was, why he was walking in circles...and he was rude and angry. So I just went to my room and called administration to let them know. Then I called his teacher- who knew exactly who it was and told me to call admin because he could physically assault someone. Creepy. She was a 'special needs' teacher...so I don't know if that explains his behavior. The hobbit (that's the admin's nickname) came and talked to the kid...I overheard him saying I 'the teacher' was unprofessional and the hobbit said "well, she was probably scared! this is unusual!!!!!" haha? yeah.

And I have to change classrooms this summer- not fun. Summer school is using my room so I can't move yet. grr. And we can't find the cabinet key- which is necessary when I have a sub to lock all my drawers. grr.

What else is annoying? Oh yeah, my bike basket completely fell off while I was riding yesterday. Talk about annoying. And it was really awkward getting it back home with me... don't ask. So I returned it today and instead got a back-rack... only to get home and find out it's the part that hooks to the bike is a little too big- so it could circle around me on my bike. Dang it. So that's three times going to the same store in one week? Grrr.

At least I got cute workout clothes and regular clothes at Old Navy.

At least I read a good book this week- Marley and Me.

The comcast guy better come tomorrow. Or I might throw something.

Looking Older. New Bike, Turkey Ducks

I am trying to look older. I went to Sephora (a makeup store) and asked what I could do. Here is their advice- get my brows waxed and shaped to a classic thin arch (apparently only older ladies do this). Went and had meticulous chinese lady wax by brows, check. I also got my lip waxed. haha. Second advice was to wear eyeliner. I never do. But it does make a difference. like it, check. And lastly to wear bright lip colors. Bought some new colors, check. At least half a dozen gals (students) noticed the difference and said I looked very pretty today. WOW! Guess it does work.

So I rode my bike to school today! I just bought a new bike- a northstar La Luna road/hybrid bike. It's got 24 gears and neat fenders. It's dark grey. My helmut has pink accents, however. I bought it at a nice bike shop, it was almost half off. I love it. It's a great bike!
I only live .6 miles away from school- so that's perfect. I keep it inside at my apartment and at school for safety.

On Saturday I went to a crawfish boil and got to go canoeing. I saw a gator! Yeah, when we were out on the canoe he was on the side. Awesomeness! There are the weirdest wildlife here in Texas. I saw buzzards, vultures, geese, ducks, a gator, and these weird things that look like a hybrid of turkeys and ducks. Ugly little things. A goose tried to attack my shoe. scary. But the parks here are really really pretty!

ups and downs

The move was last Friday, the 10th. My friend John helped from 11:00 am on! I took a half day (which is 10:30!!!) to start moving. We got a lot of the boxes out by the time 5 other boys (jonathan, jacob, sean, richard, and james) came to help out. We moved all my big stuff (bed/dresser/bookshelf) and then put together all the other stuff (table, chairs, sofas, end table, coffee table, tv stand)... It got all done that evening! Amazing! It looks more than fabulous. I love it. And the carpet is SO soft! It was fairly painless!

The grand tour:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2181551&l=6687c&id=17825146

My friends are great. They make me laugh so much. And they help make life bearable. I went to Dallas last Saturday with 5 other chruch friends- we went to the Dallas temple and then toured downtown- like where JFK got shot... neat little day trip. Lots of driving, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.

I made it through Mother's Day okay. I never like it though. I miss my mom so much. So much. I did go to Church and then Jonathan came over in the evening for dinner. (we've decided to be just friends- which is the best for both of us- and we still see a lot of each other)

Did I tell you about the progress with my Chem Com class? The delinquents? Well we started growing some sunflower seeds- they have a science fair-ish type project due...we put different acids and phosphates in the soil to see if it'll affect the growth. It's growing a lot in just a week!!! They still swear a lot and it almost made me so annoyed I was about in tears yesterday. I need to call their parents. It's REALLY hard to teach them. And my normal classes are getting restless- we only have two weeks of instruction then finals week. But I have so much to teach them until the end and they always whine. It's getting annoying. I want to do my job, goodness. The Nasa thing for the summer will be good- as long as I start getting stuff ready for next year in the mean time. Man. So much to think about. I might explode.

I have an annoying neighbor girl. Well, I shouldn't say that- but she's 14 and asked me the other day if I had a phone charger, which I had one that fit her phone, so I let her borrow it. Then Monica asked me to teach her how to park (her mom has a disability so she can get her license early)... and I couldn't say no so the next day I did. Then she asked what I was doing that evening, and I was going to a play with my friend at school because I had a couple students in it...and she asked if she could come. So I said yes. Then the next day she came over again! I think she went out of town- hence why she hasn't been over. I am not her parent! Nor should I feel like I have to hang out with a 14 year old who has a really weird life. Ack!

I had an open house party last night- that was fun. I'm currently waiting for the cable guy- who's an hour and a half late from his 'window time'.... and they lost my last order...so it's really annoying as well. I need to leave my apartment to do stuff, peoples!

So that's my life. Full of imperfections. I am really trying to keep positive, but I just need school to be out.