The brilliant Cynthia suggested that I make a list of what exactly I am looking for in a man.
She was told that the problem with North American Women is that they don't know what they are looking for.
This is the first edition of my "List"

1. family
2. laughter and smiles
3. social
4. spontaneous and flexible
5. financially sound
6. likes to travel
7. appreciates my independence and work schedule
8. ability to support me emotionally
9. positive thinker
10. thoughtful, selfless, and giving
11. my height, give or take an inch
12. educated (university degree plus)
13. active and adventurous
14. confident to express thoughts and feelings

So, there it is. Look into your black books and pull some bachelors for me ladies, and gents.

K

Believe it or not. I did not spend any money in London. I think that I now believe in miracles.
Had a lovely visit with my sister and company, and my cousins.
I will be returning again this weekend, and am bound to shop as I will not be back in London this summer.

Booked a flight to San Fran for the middle of next month, to the disgust of some I will be sailing around. It sounds like a great adventure. I wonder what we can purchase there.

Am enjoying the nice weather this week, and plan an afternoon of sun and music as the SARS concert is on today. Can you imagine 450 000 people. Fongers crossed that all will go well and be safe. Have sent my request for a t-shirt, as I dare not enter that madness.

K

I will be shopping in London at this time tommorow. London England that is.
School is out and I will be travelling this month.
Lots of Franfurt, if anyone out there is interested.

I also get to see my seestor, which is the most important thing.

And as a treat I will see my cousins out in BC.

Hope that all is well.

K

INSOMNIA

Where is my seestor?

One day left of school. (Good and Bad)

Wedding Hat?

No money.

15 days off next month.

Frankfurt anyone?

k

I am pleased to report that I am almost done school.
I have two days of classes left.

I am also happy to report that I will soon be in London Darling. I leave Toronto on Saturday night and will be sunning in London come Sunday morning. And then back in Toronto on Monday afternoon. Seestor is almost as excited as I am. I have not seen her since March 16th. (But oddly enough, I see her more often than my cousins who live 30-60 minutes away) We are all so busy!!

The good news is that I will be back again come Friday.

So as school ends, my travel schedule will pick up again. Hoping to rid myself of the dreadful turn arounds that I have been doing so far this month. (Not that they are that bad. It is always more fun to be on a layover.)

Look out Brighton, here I come.

K

Discussing something irrelevant in class today.

Me: I have very few recollections from elementry school. (god forbid that I don't remember what we were studying in Grade Four. That was only 20 years ago.)

Teacher: How interesting. (As she turns and walks away.)

I guess it was not really so interesting.

Teacher: "Bring something to class tommorow that will help you measure. It can not be a ruler."
Student: (Back facing me) shouts out "I've got something. Twelve Inches right here."

How fast did we turn to see what on earth he was talking about.
We were all very interested.

Alas, it was his foot.

k

I must be an English teacher. Either that or someone who has a great love for reading and writing.

I have three novels on the go this week, and each of them totally different novels. One is about a young liberated Chinese women. The book is banned in China, so it makes it that much more exciting to read. The second is a German translation called “In search of an impotent man”, and what an interesting read that is. (Weird to see the German names), and the third is called “Naked Sleeper.” I must confess that the first and last were purchased at Zeller’s, and they were marked down. Not that I am cheap, but at 2.99 a pop, I snatched them up.

I am an avid reader, but have not read much in the last few years. I have a rule. If my attention is not captured within the last three chapters, the book is dismissed until a time that I have NOTHING better to do but give it a second try. I think my last great conquest was the ridiulous series of Shopaholic books. There is something so fab about picking up those trashy beach novels at the airport in London. "I dream of Capri" was another one if I remember correctly.

I am particularly taken by passages from random pieces of literature. I am amazed that I can relate and feel so close to something written by someone that I do not even know, who comes from a different country or even lifestyle. I am anxious to share an extended excerpt with a near and dear.

I miss traveling quite a bit and am anxious to travel again in the next few weeks. Seestor is very excited that I will be in town in the next few weeks as there are some events that we will partake in. And I am busy working on my bid for next month. Somehow I want to make three different trips, Paris, London, and Vancouver. But I want to get a free weekend to go to Vancouver, and two other weekends for friend’s weddings. I am a perpetual dreamer.

Hugs and Kisses.

A list of things that you can do on a rainy day

1. Sleep in the afternoon.
2. Have a nice warm bath.
3. Work out at the gym.
4. Clean the bathroom
5. Clean my room.
6. Clean my house.
7. Have a cold beer, and put your feet up.
8. Sleep in
9. Stop for coffee
10. Spend some quality time with special people
11. Chat with an old friend
12. Update your blogger

I think that I over reacted.
I'm sorry.

I will never understand myself.
How do I ever expect others to understand me?

In a fit of depression I bought a new purse for myself.

It is fab howver, pale purple. And it has lots of space.

I always wanted to be an elementary school teacher.

I do not want to be one anymore.

There is such a difference in the way that elementary and secondary school teachers think and function.

Group work? What a challenge with 15 leaders in one group.

The best news of the day was that I got taken off my flight to Orlando tonight. Something to do with the new collective agreement that guaranteed days off mean just that.

Am sweating it out still as the temperature is still cooking.

K

Help!
I am stuck in a boring computer lab.

I am surfing instead of learning.

K

So summer vacation has started, which for people like me means that there is no time to do anything.
Whenl eaving Vancouver on Thursday and returning Monday night (late). Went back to work with the airline on Tuesday afternoon and got home late again Wednesday morning. Then off to school for me this morning. I am taking a course until the 25 of this month. I am strangely one of the more vocal people in the classroom. I guess that once everyone warms up things might get a little more interesting. I am a horrible student. I just cannot sit still.

You must look up Grouse Mountain. It is the obstacle that I overcame this weekend. I thought I was going to die. I dont think any one truly knows how great of an accomplishment this was for me. Pictures don't even do it justice.

Thanks to my cousin and his fab girlfriend for their company and support this weekend.

I want to move out to that fab city.

Off to bed as i am tired after a long day and a session at the gym.

K

Have gone and returned from Vancouver.
Was unable to post this weekend, but I am home now and reattatched.
And had a fab trip.
Details to follow.
I am sleepy and will share in the morning.

K

I decided on a whim last night that I want to go away for the weekend.
I do not have to work until the first of July.
So I want to go to Vancouver this evening.

Am just waiting for the confirmation from my cousin that he will be around.

Auntie Jean and Uncle Redge are out sailing, and I would love to make a voyage with them this weekend as well.

Just waiting for the confirmation and I will book my seat.

K

I think that I am dying.
It is soooooooooooo hot.
Last night I had to get up twice to shower myself down.
I had guests last night and was kind enough to lend out my fan.

I am not a big fan of air conditioning but with the weather pushing 40 with humidity, I turned it on this morning. The heat truly is unbearable.

We had our year end staff social yesterday and it could not have been a better day for hanging out in the sun, with beers, and thank God a pool. I think I would have not made it.

We played in a Bacci ball tournament, and Sonya and I were for sure the best 0-4 team. We were so close in every game but got to confident and got hammered in the end.

The night progressed into deeper intoxication, and we did not make it into work until 930 this morning.

I think that this is the safest place to be today. internet, cable, air conditioning.

I think I will camp out here for the day.

K

It is official.
Schools out for summer!!!!!

I can't believe that I got through the pile of stuff that I had to mark.
I wasted so much time over the last couple of days.

And then last night out of no where, I had this great flow of inspiration.
I had 30 exams left to mark and was dreading every secodnd of it.
And then, like a wave from down under I got this sudden burst of energy.

Early to school this morning to input the marks and then the comments, and then treated myself to a fab early morning work out.
What a treat. And I am not being sarcastic.

This afternoon I will be heading over to a staff memebers house to do some socializing, and tommorow morning will be heading off to the Toronto Islands so that we can compete in the dragon boat racing contest. It should be interesting to say the least.

I am going to try to hop into the van so that I don't have to drive into the big bad city. If anyone knows me and my driving abilities in the city....

Then on Sunday we are back to the Island for more racing, and then off to the annual Road Kill BBQ on Sunday.

Talk about busy. At least this way I should stay out of trouble.

Have a great weekend. Will fill you in on all the details.

K

One would think that I have been on vacation or travelling this week.
No such luck.
Final Exams started on Monday and finished this morning.

I am up to my eyeballs in marking, Is it possible to drown in paper work?
Cause at this point I think that I am doing just that.

I haven't been outside since Tuesday morning, and coming back into civilization is such an interesting treat.

Not to mention that the weather is gorgeous. Who can get motivated to do anything.
I want to have a nap.

Popping out for lunch which will probably mean that I won't get anything done again today.

Have no fear though. My page is still alive and kicking.

Although the weather is gross today.
There is much sunshine in my mind today.

Today is the last day of classes.
And that means that summer vacation is just around the corner.

And the last of the crusty behaviour of some of the staff will soon be a thing of the past.
It is so funny to see how adults behave.

Listened to a great reflection this morning. It made me cry.

This weekend is Fathers Day, so we will be paying Dad a visit on Sunday.
The cardinal is still a beautiful addition to the arrangement.

Brains are scattered this morning.

K

I wrote a poem today.
Something that I have been doing lately. (Secretly)
And it is not dedicated to anyone.

I just felt like writing this morning and before I knew it, it was on paper in front of me.

Four Seasons

The traffic lights stand at attention
For all who pass to see
They do not waiver with the weather.
They are Four Seasons.
However, like the seasons
They change color.
And they give direction
We rely on them to maintain the flow
To ensure safe passing
To stagger the interchange
Red – Stop
Green – Go
Arrow- proceed
Flashing – advance
Yellow- proceed with caution.
And I think of you, and how you send me mixed signals
And how like the seasons, your colors change.


K

The weekend has come and gone. So quickly.
Friday was the Lobster fest. It was great fun. Nothing like eating with your hands and making a great big mess.
Saturday was another gathering, which led to many drinks. And what a blast from the past to catch up with people that I haven't seen in a few years. It is so nice to know that some people you can talk to once in a blue moon, and it is like you saw them just yesterday. That is truly amazing. Had some good laughs this morning, and a great breakfast.
This afternoon was the bridal shower for Cynthia. It was a great afternoon. No silly shower games, and the presents were held up and we didn't have to pass them around. The best bridal shower ever....
Unfortunatly one of the girls were wearing a pair of shoes that I raced out to buy after the shower.

It is amazing though. Many events were planned for outdoors this weekend. And by the grace of God the rain held off until later this evening. I think it the power of prayer. Everyone praying that the weather cooperates.

Five days left in the classroom. Then exams.

Where has the time gone.Mental note, remind the students that they only have five days left to buy me an end of the year present.

K

The end of the week again. And this month continues to be filled with activities.
I returned from Montreal last night and took some time to clean up the house. Tonight is the Lobster Fest at the school, and I am hosting the pre pint. I am making sangria, and sampled the merchandise last night. Very nice!!!!

I passed my annual exam in Montreal, and am still qualified to be a flight attendant. This was the easiest exam I have seen yet. I hate the drills in the simulator.
But on another note the new hotel that we stay at is in the city instead of out by Laval. It is very nice. It has a full kitchen, a separate bedroom, and a full sitting area and two large tv's. I am looking forward to returning soon.

A busy on the go weekend is approching, and wil surely have a few hangovers to deal with.

I can't wait.
It is 25 degrees and sunny. This is my kind of day.

Have a great weekend.

PS Seestor... where are you? I have been waiting to hear from you and your adventures.

This is the most interesting time of year for teachers.
We are very disliked at this time of year because summer vacation is on the way. People really hate that we have so much vacation time. Common misconception is that we have vacation. In all honesty, we do have time off. But it is not paid time off. Yes we do get a cheque at the end of the school year, but common unknown fact is that our nine month salary is prorated over the 12 month period. We are not truly paid over the summer.

Then there is the idea of next year. Course selection. Never will you see adults kick and scream like you will over the next two weeks. It is not pretty. Don't get me wrong, it is our sanity that is at stake. It is the difference between what we teach and what we struggle through next year. It is a very tricky science.

But I hesitate to even post this as I know that many people will get the wrong idea.

Each job has it challenges, and I respect that. I guess I assume that everyone will realize that unless they have experience in someone elses job that they should not comment on it. Is that me being too idealistic again?

I think so.

Off to Montreal for my annual exam with the airline. Fingers crossed......

Have a great one

K

On top of all the other excitement this weekend....
So I am pretty sure that I saw Danny Zucho yesterday. (John Travolta from Grease.)
I was driving to the mall complex and seemed to turn on to the world of wierd.
Within a 200m distance, this tow truck pulled over to help a car in distress, and out of the cab of the truck jumps this guy. Jeans tight and turned up revealing black dress shoes and sparkling new white sport socks. Hair greased back, and I swear that I saw him comb his hair back as he strutted to the car. WILD. I hesitate to admit that I had been watching Grease before I left the house so there may have been a bit of an influence there.

Then not a second after I clear that scene, I witnessed two older ladies walking their dogs. Literally, walking their dogs. I imagine that the little pups legs were to small to keep up the pace that the two ladies were taking. The ladies in true power walking style, arms swinging forward to back, each had a puppy tucked underneath their arms. Quite a sight. Might it be portable weights? A bit of an inconvenience as they would have to change sides regularly.

Strange... And then I pulled into the chaotic plaza..... YIKES

Spent the evening watching in amazement the "Spelling Bee" National Finals on TSN (Way to go, promoting spelling as a sport endeavor). WOW. Those kids can spell. I watched in awe. One kid, in grade three, nine years old.... WOW. What a genious. I think he finished in fourth place. Bless his soul. He was a crowd favorite for sure.

Have a Great Day.

I am going golfing on Sunday. YEAH!!!

Question of the day.

When something expires JUNE 2003, does that mean that it expires on the 1st of the month, or the 31 of the month?

K

KJ dit :
read my blog
KJ dit :
funny story
Sarrah dit :
okay!
Sarrah dit :
http://www.globeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20030528.wxcover28_art/BNStory/Front/ (HOOTERS OPENS AN AIRLINE)
KJ dit :
true story, they emailed me an application, as they are looking for flight attendants and knew that transat was laying people off
Sarrah dit :
lol
Sarrah dit :
you should have done it!

KJ dit :
they said they would provide me with my own set of socks
Sarrah dit :
lol

I had the funniest thing happen to me at the gym last night.
I had just hopped off the eliptical machine as it was making me mad.
It was like one of the those tables that has one leg longer than the other, and you have to hunt for a coaster or a pile of napkins that you can put under the stubby leg to balance it out. There are no coasters at my gym!!!

So I was standing waiting for the step class to finish, and the body pump to start. Standing in plain view of the entire gym. I took a swig from my water bottle, and had this crazy reflex, and let the water dribble down my chin onto my shirt. Why you ask? I do not know. I truly do not know.
And like one of those people who pretend that something is not happening, I tried to look as casual as possible.

Some crazy reflex. Which led to one of my co workers telling me that 3 years ago he found himself in the strange situation of kissing a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal. Fur in mouth, wondering what on earth he was doing.

Did you watch the Osbornes last night?
I was laughing my ass off. The dog attacked the cat.(And not in the normal sense of dog attacking cat.) Too funny, poor kitty. That dog is a hump machine!!! That show is so funny. I find myself laughing out loud, which I rarely do for a television show.

Back to my reality.
K

So, I am a very well travelled lady.
I have been to Paris, Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Porto, Athens etc. And never have I felt intimidated for a second.
I have no fear wandering the streets, in countries that I don't even speak the language.

But put me into the city of Toronto, a city that I live so close to, and I fall to pieces.
It is but so silly.

I guess that when I travel, I am a tourist and have no shame in not knowing where to turn, or where I am.
But because I live in this city, and know nothing about it, I am embarassed when I take a wrong turn.

How silly of me.
Note to self. Get out, and get to know the city.

K

It is a little after 4am. And I am in bed trying to make my heart slow down its racing pace.

Not 20 minutes ago I was awakened by a man's blood curdling scream "..... dead. .... dead. He's f**kin dead. What the hell just happened here, or How did this happen"

So hear I lie, thinking that at the end of my street someone is dead. And here is where my dilemna is. I don't know if her said "You're dead, or he's dead" Should I call the police over something I think I heard? I could be mistaken. But I might have been correct.

I watched from the window, in true Nancy Drew fashion, and watched one van followed soon after by a car quielty drive down the street. And made my best attempt at getting a description of the car and van driving off. Heaven forbid I ever witness a crime. I am so bad with details. But I did look for distinguishable marks on both.

The exchange was short, and no one else made a noise.
There have been no sirens screaming up the street.
So i will assume that all is well?

I went down to double check the deadbolt, and to see what time it was. 3:59 am. How very Drew of me. (Distracted once again by a car dring past, and what sounds like two bins banging into each other.)

But I've got to tell you. I feel like I witnessed a goverment conspiracy of an invasion of the body snatchers.The spead that the car and van left in, was very controlled. Not the tearing away from a crime scene that I would imagine. Not the speed that someone in an arguement would have. You could barely hear the acceleration.

So wide awake, I wait for the door bell to ring, and the door to door canvas to begin.

And try to settle my heart and my stomach.

k

Today is one year to the day that we buried Daddy, and I wonder if I subconsciously knew. That might explain my somber mood today.

I remember that it was Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Anne, Mum, and I. Father Tobin was there to preside. I had only ever been to one burial. Mum and I went together. We decided after that ceremony, that we did not to be buried. Winter is too cold for people to attend the burial. We both decided on cremation.

The man who worked for the cemetery pulled my aside to explain that the grave had some water in it. As it was spring, the ground thawed, it had not yet had a chance to absorb. He wanted to tell me so that I could tell everyone else as to not be shocked. It was so odd to bail water out before placing Daddy carefully inside. But the man said that it was normal, and us not knowing any better, trusted in him.

And I remember that as we put him in the dug out hole, we each put in a rose to surround the urn. And in the close background, the bulldozer hovered, ready to fill it in as we finished. I watched with curiosity the man in the hard hat, checkered shirt, and well worn jeans. And I wondered how many people he had seen in mourning. Had it lost meaning?

I remember that after the prayers were said, we lingered. I think we did not know what to do and we did not want to leave. And we waited until the ground had been filled in before we left. I think that we wanted to make sure that he was safe.

And then, it was over even though he had passed 15 weeks earlier. Long since gone, the reality like the earth had still to be absorbed.

Am feeling pretty down today, and cannot even begin to understand why.
It is Friday, the sun is almost out, and I have the whole weekend to play.
So why then am I so unhappy. There are so many people who have bigger and more serious problems than me. I acknowledge that, but still feel sorry for myself.

I woke this morning at 4am, and was quickly brought to tears.

What is going on in my brain?

Talked to my seestor today. It is so neat how we can talk daily from opposite sides of the ocean. It is truly amazing what technology allows us to do. I wish I had an infinite amount of time and money to travel the world.

I think that I am suffering from burn out. That paired with the fact that I have the travel bug that I have to wait another 6 weeks to feed.

A la prochaine.

k

Morning to all.
Am covering a class this morning and have nothing to do to occupy myself.

Slept a little better last night. My dream though is to make it through the night. Am looking forward to the end of the day so that I might indulge in a pint or two. How sad am I? Wishing my days away so that I can have pints.

Not much to report this morning. Am not really feeling 100% . My mind is racing with meaningless facts. I have this tendancy to think things through and plan out where there will be disruptions and problems, and then plan how I will get out of them. So much planning. But that is in my nature I guess.

Might I say that this week has yet to have a major incident?

It is however only Wednesday.

Feeling a little disappointed today.

I thought that I would make a list of things that my ex’s have left in my house upon their departure. (It is quite a spectacular list.)

1. A pipe
2. a funnel
3. an oil drip pan
4. a pair of pliers
5. a hammer
6. a pair of rubber boats
7. a subscription to a diving magazine
8. a mouth piece for diving
9. a pair of black dress pants
10. a dishwasher
11. an apron (my gift)
12. oven gloves
13. a cutting board
14. sweaters and t-shirts (multiple)
15. knives
16. underwear (tempted to cut holes in them)
17. an unlimited, and harassing amount of phone calls from a collection agency
18. And last but not least. A CAR!!! (What do you do with a car? He has ownership, and lives in South Africa) This is a story for another day. And soon.

K

So, my sister wants to know who I am seeing.
She thinks that he is a celebrity. That is why I won't talk about him.
She says that she would not put it past me.
What a compliment.
What celebrity would I ever come into contact with.
I used to argue that I should have a celebrity boyfriend. I am a teacher, and a flight attendant. I think that those women have a better ratio of celebrity to non celebrity relationships.

Until I realized the community that I teach in, and the company that I am a flight attendant with. HOLD EVERYTHING. This topic was soon dropped from my list.

I have had the worst week of non sleep ever. I am so frustrated. I just cannot sleep. I have tried everything, and with God as my witness, tonight I am going to have two glasses of red wine before I go to bed. It has become almost stupid. I almost got out of bed at 1am. I should have done some marking. That would have put me to sleep quickly.

I watched the finale of Mr Personality last night. Hosted by Monica Lewinski. (That is a conversation in itself) The motivational speaker who has been for the last few weeks trying to convince her with his "magical" powers dod not, thank goodness win. Anyway, he gave her this book, and I wish I knew the name of it. They read one passage that really stuck me.

I can't sleep when you aren't here, and I can't sleep when you are here. Thank God for the difference.

I think it starts with the letter R, Reim? I am not sure. If you know, let me know.

Took some fab pictures of my flowers in the garden. When I find the battery recharger I will post them. (SJ will have to show me how to do it)
The whole idea started with a trip to Home Depot, a sheet of plexiglass (which by the way does not bend vey nicely)

I must have ADD. This entry is as scrambeled as my brains are. Too much sun over the long weekend.

Have a great day.
(19 teaching days left, including today YIPEEEE)

k

Fresh from a night out on the town.
We all went to the Bier Market on Front Street.
Very nice place. They had a huge variety of beer to choose from. Too many choices.
They had a live band that played a variety of music. It was very nice.

Can I say how much fun it was to see all the ladies. I think the last time we were all together was at Lorina and Myles' wedding this summer. What a great bunch of people. Is it too late to make a New Year's Resolution, to keep in closer touch with them.

Also met Sarah's roomate Rohan (sorry if the name is spelt incorrectly.) What a fab guy.

The highlight of the night was Lorina asking where Mandy was, and joking that she had left already.
She had.

Left and headed to a live Reggae show. It is amazing how quickly pints and treats can creep up on you. Our stop at the show was very brief. VERY BRIEF and we cabbed it back. A little midnight snack and straight to bed. Imagine trying to put a bed sheet on a futon. It took us quite awhile to figure out which way it went.


On a completly unrelated topic, election time seems to be approching.
The Government is running on, among other things no lock out for teachers, no strike action, and making it illegal to work to rule.
That is just silly. How are they going to make it illegal for us to cancel EXTRA CURRICULAR activities? It just makes no sense.

"If you dont like your job. You don't go on strike. You go into work every day and do a half ass job. It is the American way." Homer Simpson

K

So, I don't want to do anything this morning.
There is no one on line for me to chat with.
I have payed all my bills, and the last thing I want to do is mark the little angel's essays.

It is a misearable day, a la London. Rainy, damp and not nice.

My bones are aching. I have been feeling like crap all week. I have no idea what kind of bug I have got, but it is not nice. Even Neo Citren will not put me out cold. (Truly disgusting stuff. They now make it in a variety of flavors. I am sorry, but no matter what you do it is still GROSS. I tried the honey lemon flavour. YUCK!!! )

I think that it is a combo of allergies, cold, and exhaustion.

I tried to explain last night that I didn't go to the walk in clinic because I wasn't feeling well. I just didn't feel like waiting. I know what they will give me. I am so not good with medecine. I take it when I want, for how long I want. Directions? No thanks.

So I sit here at my desk thinking of nothing and trying to see how fast I can make the day go bye.

I have plans with some friends from University tonight. I haven't seen them in quite awhile. It is always fun to see them. But I confess, I am also nervous because they are close friends with Ryan. That is an entry for another day.


I hesitate to add this unrelated comment, but I received the most beautiful reply to my post yesterday.

"A Captain may may venture onto uncharted waters, but never on a maiden that he does not know and trust"

Truly beautiful.

To sun, sun, and more sun this long weekend.

K

A special post for a special someone today.

Straight from Romeo and Juliet

He is the courageous captain of compliments (Act IV Sc II, ll 19-20)

So, I have come to the decision that going to the gym at 630pm and staying until 830 pm is not the best idea.
I did not sleep a wink last night. OK maybe 2 hours, but that is pushing it.
My mind and body were racing.... all night long.

I tried to do deep breathing. No luck.
I tried to write everything down that was on my mind. No luck.
I went to the bathroom. No luck.
I got a cup of tea. No luck.
I then had to go to the bathroom again. Still no luck.

My ceiling and I have gotten very well aquainted. I can make out shapes on the ceiling. I won't bore you with the details.

The crazy thing is that I feel great this morning. I can't believe how good I feel. Very strange.

We are Dragon Boat racing again this evening, and I have clean and matching underwear ready.
After that it will be a quick pint and change to go to the big Fashion Show. Tonight is the big night.
I am very excited, but have not yet decided what I am going to wear. Ah the dilemnas that I face. Do I wear the fab dress seestor bought me. A full length black dress (from London) with a plunging neckline, with my knee high stilletto boots or my lovely black pointy shoes? Or do I wear a summer oriented flower print dress that is very cool (from Dublin). This is how often I get to dress up. I am worried what I am wearing to the school fashion show tonight.

Check this site out www.expressionsofhope.com

it is quite a production, with a budget of a modest wedding.

Will share the details with you tommorow.

Have a fab day.

K

I am in one of those rare moods, where everything must be accomplished at once.
I am on fire. So much so that my wheels are spinning.
Another busy week ahead of me, but the count down is on for the end of the year.

Sarah is back safely and I can't wait for her to reveal her advemtures. Sounds like she has had a mind altering vacation.
Waiting for the details.

Am excited as tonight is another gym night and I will force myself to raise the weight on my bar. Have become stagnant as of late, but I am making this promise to raise it tonight.

Have a great day.

K

Ok. So last week when we were finished Dragon Boat racing I hopped onto the swing set. Wow. When was the last time you were on a swing? Well it was awesome.
I totally forgot what it was like. I was soaring on the weing with the wind whipping against my face. I even got an under dog. (Thanks Victor.) Again... so much fun. And then when i jumped off, I felt that familiar sharp pain on my feet. It brought so many memories back.

So this week, I hopped on again, and have officially made it part of my weekly routine. Will swing before each race (tee hee).

Fresh from my swing yesterday, I was feeling full of life. So I decided that I would continue on my quest to reclaim my youth. I decided that I should try a kart wheel. Wow. Long time since I tried that one. Gina went first (fab). And then it was my turn. I said, "I shouldn't do this... I will probably rip my pants." And then went into the kart wheel pose. Now. If I do say so myself... my kart wheel was pretty fantastic. But as I reached the full extention, I heard the dreaded RIP. Yes, I ripped my pants. As I predicted I would. So here I am in front of 15 co-workers, black tear aways (how ironic), and beautiful blue panties in almost plain view.

Immediatly, a vision of my Mother came to mind. "Always make sure that you wear clean underwear."

This could have only happened to me. And again, I usually wear shorts under my tear aways but I was distracted when i was getting dressed.

So picture me trying to sit, lady like in a boat and paddle up and down with nothing else on my mind that my merchandise is almost completly on display. And then we went to a pub for pints. Only me I tell you.

Needless to say, my night was a rousing success. And the festivities that ensued left me with wondeful sleep, only interupted twice in the night. That is good for me. I am afraid that I have been cursed with my Mothers sleeping patterns.)

Awaiting my next adventure, as I am sure that there is another one to come.

K

It is Wednesday again, and that means that it is time for Dragon Boat Racing tonight.
I am looking forward to it. The only bad news is that it is looking like it might rain this afternoon.
But as I said to one of the guys. Rain is rain. It is not like we are wicked witches and we wil melt. On second thought, I guess that truth will truly be revealed tonight. Who will be the first to melt?

Nothing much more exciting to report. I am waiting for the next challenge to surface but, knock on wood, things seem to have settled quite nicely. I have grand plans for the new spare room in my house. The Blue walls will quicly be replaced with something much more stylish and modern. Hmmmm the mind is racing.

Have missed reading what my sister is up to, but know that she will have lots to say when she returns.

We have five weeks (after this week) and then school is done. That is the best news that I can think of.

I am definatly as a crossroad in my life, and have made some big decisions.

1. Taking June off from Transat (that is if I am not layed off)
2. Will try to take July off as well so that I can do my AQ in Phys Ed, and get a nice raise from the School Board.
3. Come September, I am going to actively recruit a position for myself as on overseas teacher.
4. Am going to consider my masters in some aspect of education. The trick is to find one that can be completed by distance over the next few years.
5. And most important.... Actually get to doing at least 2 of the things I have mentionned. I can make great plans, but have great difficulty achieving them.

Wish me luck. I think that I have the perfect opportunity to reduce, and eliminate the trivial people and details from my life, and start on a new rewarding path.

Have a great day.

K

It amazes me how quickly things can change. Or on second thought how much they don’t change.

I got up early yesterday, and got a great start on the day. I went to church at the crack of dawn and then hit the gym. After my class, I did some cardio and then headed home. I started to make a fab breakfast. It was a gorgeous day. The sun was brilliant, and I think that there are a couple of blue jays building a nest in the tree in my backyard. There are also peace doves nesting in my oven vent. Well let’s just say that that was the calm before the storm.

I will not resort to name calling, and gossip. But the fact remains that I am now sans one room mate, and I have a broken door frame. I will leave the rest to your imagination. But I will say that the two incidents are not related. Would it not be more exciting if they were?

The school blessing was yesterday and it was really nice. The only sad thing is that there was a very poor turnout. The good news is that we got lunch today from the left overs, and it was very nice.

I had a great afternoon. I had the best time in the nice weather and with great company as well. I also touched base with the important, supportive people in my life. The thing that amazes me is that I have carelessly assumed much from my so called friends. It takes only one event to reprioritize everything and everyone.

And, when I went to bed, apart from the drama that occurred today, I felt peaceful. I think that true colors were revealed today. And that brings me great comfort to know that the doubts I was feeling were not only doubts. They were the truth.

So everything that the day started off with, it ended with. And even though on the surface everything has changed, nothing at all has changed.

K

I am happy to report that the warm weather has finally arrived. And I say that with almost enough confidence that it might last.
I have been enjoying the warmth of the sun of my body. And, yes.... I have been applying sunscreen. Last time was a terrific lesson.
Have spent lots of time woth Mum this weeked. It is the first time in awhile that I have not had to work on the weekend.

I had a great work out at the gym yesterday morning. And spent some additional time on the elliptical and the treadmill. Then risked the showers before I headed to Mum's. We are on a Sangria kick. But Mum only likes a little wine, where as I like lots. On that note, it is almost time to go and make another batch. I have about 15 bottles left, and summer is coming.

Having pleasant dreams as I sleep this week. Something about getting up in the morning after a great peaceful night of dreams. Puts you in the right frame of mind.

Hope your weekend has been as restful as mine.

K

I feel like the last two weeks of my life have flown by.
Partially because I was brain dead last week, and partially because this has been an insane week.
We have been so busy with the pavilion for Multi-Cultural Night. Serious overtime on this end.
I hesitate to even start to attempt to describe the evening. I could not even do it justice.
It was beyond anyone’s expectations. I would guess that there were close to 1300 people that attended. There was food galore, entertainment, costumes, music, dancing. The students, parents, and staff were excellent. The whole thing went off without a hitch. The most spectacular view was from the second floor looking down to see the scene. Wow is all I have to say.
I am so proud of everyone that participated. What a fabulous event to bring the community together. I am speechless.
I finished the night off with a well deserved night cap, and some fine dining. I needed that, and am refreshed because of it.
Looking forward to this weekend, as I am burnt out.
The good news is that I do not have to work at the airline next month. The ladies are looking at heading to Florida for May 24 weekend, but I hesitate to even sit in the sun ever again. Who am I kidding? I love the sun and will always be a sun worshipper.

Love to everyone special in my life today. (LR, SJ, and Mum) You all are in my thoughts as you influence me the most positively everyday.

I spent the night with Mum again last night.
I was awoken in the middle of the night.
Someone opened my bedroom door to check that I was safely tucked in (feet as well)
It was Daddy.
He was checking to make sure we were all safe.
I know that it was him.

I am safe, and very happy Pops.

Thought that I needed a little change to my change.
Therefore I have encorporated little kitties to my page.

Cool huh?

I need some technical advice on this page though. The layout is so boring.

The elephants are having their first recital of the spring. The media is also going crazy. The are taking pictures.
TEE HEE

(If you are unclear, there is a bit of a thunder storm... childhood images popping into my head.)

K

I am cursed. This is the second time that I have written a kick ass entry and then deleted it.

So again I delve into what I wanted to say. You will sense the impatience in my writing.

1. Work
*Yesterday was my last flight for a while. I am on vacation again. (Got to love this job)
*The planes are full of Americans who get great bang for their buck on the Canadian Dollar.
*I can spot an American a mile away. (That is terribly critical of me.) They all thought that I was French, as the company is French. Just imagine the broken American version of French that they were trying to speak to me.
*One lady was right into the wine. “Just keep the wine flowing until we get to Santo Domingo.” To which I replied, “Well, you will be drinking for quite some time as we are not heading to Santo Domingo. We are going to Punta Cana.” (Slight panic as I wonder is she is on the wrong plane. Silly me, she has just had too much to drink.)
*Tracy and her husband were on my flight. They are heading off on a well needed break. I hesitate to say this, but all I could think of was the last time that I saw her husband I was in a compromising position with one of his friends. Tracy and I laughed about that. How weird it was having someone I knew in my section. She was so cute, saying that she felt that she owed me for serving her. Please, I said. Your ticket is paying my wages. She is truly an awesome person.
*Arrived at Mum’s after 3:30 am. I did not beat the paper home. That is our joke from when I was younger. “You had better be home before the paper arrives.” And as sad as times are… I arrive home after the newspaper and with not a drop of alcohol in my blood.

2. Church
As it is Easter Sunday, the masses come out to attend. We call them holiday Catholics. They show up for Christmas and then again for Easter. We wanted to get seats so we raced off to church this morning at 9:30 am. Are we not troopers? I went to bed at 4am and was up, dressed, and seated in the church at 9:15. Pretty impressive! I must admit however that Father’s sermon in his dreary and paced voice was challenging me to stay awake.
On Easter Sunday we renew our baptismal vows, and then Father walks around to sprinkle holy water on all of us. It is so funny to see people who try to duck as to not get hit by the droplets of water. I joked to Mum that the water might burn through my skin if it touched my flesh, as I can sometimes be devilish. To my surprise the child behind us (14 years old) started to complain that the water was burning him. I guess the devil was truly among us. (too funny)
There was also this women who was at the wrong church. Now, our parish is quite modern, but not that modern. She had her hands waving, and she was shouting alleluia. It is quite interesting to watch. But it is distracting, as she is the only person in the church really feeling the power of the Lord.

3. Dinner. (This is classic)
It was just Mum and me for dinner this evening. We have had a relaxing afternoon. We broke in her new Easter Cups with home made Sangria. In true family style, we did not follow the recipe. We merely looked at it for guidance. Some Port to soak the fruit in, some red wine, some sprite, and some orange juice. (It was so tasty, that weather permitting, Friday afternoon, Sangria will be served on the patio at my house. 3pm if you are interested.) Mum just commented that she was looking at the recipe as she put the book away, and after having already finished her creation.
Mum wanted to have Turkey, but as it was just the two of us she bought a LARGE turkey breast. I said that it was the biggest boob that I had ever seen. Advice that she could have given to her son (if only she had one) and my favorite line of the whole day…..

Darling Breast does not only mean bosom. It also means the chest.

If I had of known that years ago, I may have stayed out of much trouble.


More break up news this afternoon. My heart goes out to people who are suffering, and on their way out of relationships. It is so hard to even think about trying to start a relationship when so many people are not having a good go at it. D and I joked and agreed that it would be much better if were interested in women. We have tried the man thing, with little luck. Maybe a woman would just do the trick. The only problem…. we am not interested in women.

And with that image firmly planted in your mind…..

Happy Easter All!!!

Watch out for little rabbits this weekend.

Greetings!
I have been busy the last few days.
Am having issues woth my internet provider, and am realizing that having the internet at home is something that I do enjoy.
I was thinking that I would cancel it, but the last few days have proven to me how essential it is.

Well so much to tell.
I went to work on Saturday. I had a much better offer, that I would have preferred to attended. But as situations unfolded... I went to work.I didn't really want to but thought that it was the responsible thing to do. I unpacked my sundress and my shoes as they were weighing down my case. Big mistake. Did we not go mechanical in Punta Cana. Did I not have no clothes to wear. Just a wool dress, a pair of nylons and a pair of dress shoes.

I had to wait until the morning to buy something to wear. There is something so liberating about sleeping in the nude, with the ocean crashing and the hot tropical breeze. But I was still very happy the next day to buy a bikini and a wrap and a pair of flip flops for $46 US. Then a bottle of sunscreen for $20US. There goes the perdiem that I made.

Well, to make a long story short. I will have a great tan in the mext few days. But for most of this week I have been battling a major sunburn. I had to go home from school on Monday as I could not even function. Thanks to my knight in shining armour for coming to my rescue and helping my put aloe where I just could not reach. I think I might have died without this help. For Real.

I came back to school on Tuesday, becuase we were taking a field trip with the students on Wednesday to Laser Quest. I feel that it is always better to be hear to go over how I expect them to behave. Well, that was to no use as the trip was cancelled at 1330. How disappointing for everyone involved. Apparantly we are not to do anything that is fun during Holy Week.

I can appreciate that fact, but I was unhappy at how the situation was handelled. The fact that it was a religion teacher who went off on a tyrant and told her class that she was going to get the trip cancelled. I just think that it is so unprofessional to make comments like that infront of the students. It leaves a poor impression on the two of us that planned the trip. Anyway, what can you do?

Well, the funniest thing is that in protest to the trip being cancelled, I decided to show a movie today. I chose to watch Chocolat. Well does that movie not deal with the issue of lent and giving up things that give us pleasure. What a crazy coincidence. I just started to laugh when the movie started. I t must be God's will.

Have a great day

It is the most beautiful day. The sun is shinning in the window, and I could not be happier.
My marks are entered and verified, I did a ton of marking. And I am feeling content.

I bought my favorite book the other day. I think it chnaged my life when I was in High School night school. That is a story for another day. It is called "The Road Less Travelled." by Scott Peck MD. It was on the best sellers list in New York for over ten years.

When I was little, I had a crazy, rageful temper. When Mum would send me to my room, I would scream so loud that she had to go outside. She thought that the neighbours would think that she was abusing me. When I was ready to come down, I would stand at the top of the stairs and ask Mum.. "Mummy, may I please come down now." She would say, "I'm not sure. Is it the good Kathryn or the bad Kathryn." Because I am also so stubourn, I was furious that she dared ask me if I was ready to come downstairs. Of course I was. That is why I asked. The whole idea of her questionning me, threw me back into a terrible rage. And I would have to go back into my room.

My sister on the other hand, was much more intelligent. When she got sent to her room, she would sit in her rocking chair and rock back and forth, back and forth. She then would change her clothes. (If I change my clothes, I have changed myself.)
"Mummy, can I come downstais now?"
"I don't know. Is it the good Sarah, or the bad Sarah."
She knew the right answer... "Oh Mummy. The Good Sarah."

Which again, would throw me into a rage, and I would have to stay in my room longer.

Another interesting fact. If you know me and my sister well, you know that one of us is much more dramatic than the other. Stramgely enough, it was me, the undramatic one that used to pick up the toaster when I was crying so I could watch the tears roll down my face.

There is a point to this tangent.
I credit the fact that I am no longer an angry person, with a terrible temper and am a positive, passive person to three things.
1. My mothers endless amount of patience with everyone that she has with everyone that she meets.
2. My unique music teacher, that made us see the importance of attracting positive things to our lives, and repelling the negative ones.
3. The book "The Road Less Travelled." that states that life is difficult, and once we accept this, it is no longer difficult.

And, a last minute thought.
I would like to go on the Concord. I heard today that they are being retired. I think it would be a thrill to be one of the last passengers. So if anyone has $10,000 to buy me a seat return to London. .... I would love you forever.

Have an awesome day.

K

It is amazing how fast a year can pass.
It is one year to this day that Daddy passed.
And although we all know that he is in a better place, we all still miss him terribly.
It is the dilemna of remebering him, celebrating his life, and continuing on with our own.

Mum and I went to visit today. But due to the ridiculous amount of ice underneath the snow, we could not even find the stone.
Mum had thought ahead and brought a thermos of boiling water in an attempt to melt the ice. We also brought a shovel to clear it off. It was so cold today that the water turned into thicker ice. Can you imagine the two of us trying to dig up the stone? I thought that some might think that we were trying to bring him back.
We had to settle for leaving the flowers in the snow.
But we did learn an important lesson. At the end of the snow season, we must turn the vase up so that we have a marker for the arrangement in the odd chance that we get another snow storm in April.

Also got to speak to Sarah today. Weepy, but in true style coping like a trooper. She is so strong.

We will celebrate mass tommorow morning at the school. The three generations of women that we are.

Grandpa's birthday is tommorow, and seeing as he pretty much missed his day last year I wanted him to have an extended celebration today. And he did. I occupied Grandma, and he got to have a super long nap today. He is so lovely. I love his sense of humour. It is dry and wicked, and lovely. I love him deeply.
Grandma as well. She is such a vibrant woman. Such zest, and energy.

On an unrelated note, had a surreal dream of a romantic italian dinner. Great company, wine, conversation, and dining. You can't imagine the feelings of contentment I felt. The meal being secondary to the company. (TY-LR)

Daddy... I love you and miss you, and know that you are watching over us. I know we will meet again. I Love you.
K.

Feeling very inspired by literature this evening. As much as I should be trying to go to sleep, have much on my mind.
If I get it out, then maybe I will sleep. I have another ear infection. It is so wierd. I have got one the last three times I have flown. Does this mean I can't travel anymore. Say it ain't so.

So I watched the movie "An Ideal Husband" an adaptation of the book by Oscar Wilde. I am going to buy the book. I loved the movie and know that the book will be soo much better. I truly believe that movies are only good if the novel is great.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes. They are so ironic to me. (I think)

An aquaintance that begins with a complement assures a life long frienship.

It is not my day for speaking seriusoly. I only do that on the first Tuesday of the month, and then only between noon and three pm.

I love you. And if you could love me only a little in return.

Life is not fair. Perhaps that is best for most of us.

To love one's self is the begining of life long romance.


Information is the only comodity that can change the world.

Love cannot be bought. It can only be given. To give and not to expect in return is what love is all about.

Never give a lady something that she cannot wear in the evening.

Always pass on good advice. It is the only sensible thing to do with it.


And on a tangent, adding to my insomnia might be that my afternoon flight turned into an overnight red eye, with for extra effect the clocks springing forward. Yeah.. I lost 9 hours yesterday.

Tucking my feet in and cuddling with my pillow.
Nite nite.

Apparantly some of Oscar Wilde's last words before he died were "Either this wall paper goes or I do."

Lessons that I have learnt today.

1. No matter how much the tempation, do not slide down the stairs from my house on your butt. You might think that because the stairs are covered in a thick sheet of ice that it might not be painful. NOT!! It was fun, but not recommended for all.

2. When trying to remove the ice and snow build up between the wheel well and the wheel, never use a sharp object. It might hit the tire and puncture it. Then you might have to race off to Goodyear to buy two new tires to replace the one that you pierced ($236 to be precise), because when you replace one whell you have to replace at least one other one. And then they might tell you that there is something else wrong with your car. Like you might need to replace the springs on the rear of your car, and pay for labour and reallignment and replacement strings ($400).

3. When reaching for a receipt after having your eyebrows waxed, make sure that you have a tip in your hand, as the hand reaching to give you the bill is ready to snatch up the money that you should offer them. Hmmm.

4. Snow storms cause big problems. For example when an airport runs out of de-ing fluid, it causes a huge backup.Take for instance my flight to PUJ tonight is delayed from 16h15 to 20h30, which means that my night of sleep is shot, as I will not even be back until 8h30 tommorow morning.

5. I take that back, about snow storms. They offer you the oportunity to spice up your normal routine. Can you think of anything better but being told that you have to go home. I had the BEST day ever. (TY.LR)

6. Forks are good, but chop sticks are better. That is why I bought four pairs today.

7. Large wine glasses are great. You know the ones that are so big that they can fit almost a whole bottle of wine in them. That is why I had to buy another set. Now I can have more people over for drinks.

K

Courtesy of colorgenics.com .... this is apparantly the person that I am.

What do you think?

You have always been on the move seeking affectionate, satisfying and harmonious relationships. Your ultimate goal has been the realization of an intimate union in which there could be love, self-sacrifice and mutual trust. It has often been said that 'True love is just around the corner' and - if you haven't found it as yet - you possibly soon will.

In the past there have been - and maybe there still are - many things that you have had to do without. You have now decided to set your sights on a position or situation that could give you greater prestige and which will afford you considerable self esteem.

Being a very proud individual, you tend to hold yourself aloof pretending that you are stoical - indifferent to pain and pleasure. This is not so, for in truth you are an extremely emotional individual, one that may make a hasty decision and perhaps regret it at leisure. It is time now to break the bond of detachment and be the 'you' that you would like to be - give vent to your emotions and enjoy yourself.

You are being unduly influenced by the situation that is all around you. You do not like the feeling of loneliness and whatever it is that seems to separate you from others. You know that life can be wonderful and you are anxious to experience life in all its aspects, to live it to the full. You therefore resent any restriction or limitations that are being imposed on you and you insist on going it alone.

You wish to be left in peace... no more conflict and no more differences of opinion. In fact you just don't want to be involved in arguments of any shape or form. All you want is for 'them' to get on with it - and to leave you alone.

So today is one of those days where everything has gone wrong.
I hate to think that I might be misinterpreting the nonsense going on around me.
I think it is the lack of sun.

1. So here I am juggling so much stuff this morning, and I kick on the door (as my hands are full) hoping that someone will open it for me. Oh no. So I struggle to get my keys free. A fantastic student offers to help. (What a darling) So what do my wandering eyes reveal but three of my coworkers in the office. Thanks for answering the door!!! The kicker, I was juggling some baking for them. (Which I kindly have given to another department, cause I am so mature)

2. I have hall duty this week, which means that I am policing the hallways. What makes this so frustrating is that certain people do not let their 30 kids into the classroom until the final bell has rung. How can I clear the halls when there are 90 kids mulling around the outside of their classroom.

3. Halfway through the painful announcements (20 minutes today) two girls come wandering out of the bathroom, and are continuing an intense conversation. On e thing leds to another and I have to ask them several times to stop talking. The roll there eyes at me, and whisper under their breath. Nothing new. Been there, done that.
Now here is the kicker... one of the girls comes to drop me off a letter at the end of first period. She prefaces it by saying that when people are rude to them she writes them a letter. As my blood pressure is already soaring, I make the decision to not read the letter. As it might just send me over the top. And stupid me, I thought for a split second that she might have been apologizing for rolling her eyes at me.

That, my firends was my morning. What a horrible start to the day. And now here I am trying to salvage it. And, it is only 11am.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So out of the blue, we have a little snow storm this morning, which amuses me because there are thousands of accidents. I wonder how we all forgot so quickly to drive in the snow. The rumors are that people have changed the tires on their cars, (I don’t know anyone who has snow tires, I think that most people stick with the all weather tires.) that the city did not put any salt down, and my personal opinion that people just don’t think (OK, there is snow on the ground, should I drive 70 km an hour? Should I run a red light? Should I not bother to stop at a stop sign? Brains people…..)

Anyway, I could be biased as I only have a very short commute to work. Thank God. I am an excellent candidate for road rage. Let’s leave it at that.

Went to the Jays home opener last night where they lost. But the seats were pretty good, and a reasonable price as well. I guess they give you a deal on the tickets so that they can gauge you on the food. $13 for two bottles of beer, 1 big ass beer ($11.50) parking… hold onto your seats THIRTY BUCKS. (Truth be told, it was damn cold last night. Had it been summer, not a chance.)

I am up to my arm pits in things to do, but am still finding ways to procrastinate. God I am talented.

The good news is that the snow should melt by this afternoon. Spring is coming… I hope.

I need some sun, and heat. (Ask me what I have planned for this evening…..)

On another note, what a relief it is to realize that some people are just meant to be friends. And wow... what an amazing job rebound relationships can do at making you someone that you don't even want to be.

K

So, another excitng week begins.
And the stress continues to build.
Report Cards are next week and I am struggling to get my marking done.
I am so distracted, and need to refocus. (I guess there are certain things that are preoccuping my time.)

Had a very relaxing weekend. Went to the gym on Saturday morning and then spent some time with Mum. Then I went home as I was not feeling well. Tried to sleep it off. Was surprised with a nice phone call that night. Still cannot sleep though. I think I have spring fever.

Sunday brought the church thing, and more time with Mum. We had sushi for lunch and then did some light shopping.
Sarah rang to tell me that she had purchased me an original piece of art that she had seen. Perfect to complement my red dining room. Much more affordable that my choice of a flamenco dancer for 800 pounds.

I also bought some other prints, which I swear are portraits of me. A lady surrounded by her shopping and sipping on a glass of red wine. I swear it is me. Now... to choose the perfect place to hang it.

I still want to have a tasteful nude done. But that should remain confidential.

The weather has taken another turn for the cold. I was shocked to see that there was a dusting of snow on the ground for the last two days. I am so over winter. I actually had to put socks on this morning. It was -8 this morning.

Am looking forward to a busy week and am heading back to work with the airline again this weekend. I need a little push on my income.

K

OK Where did this week go?
I was at a very interesting seminar yesterday, and have had some great insight into what people think of me.
I have spent the morning looking for personality tests to find out what type of person I am.

I was told yesterday that I was a TYPE A, which blew my mind. I am sure that I am a type B.

I will keep you posted on my research.

Popped in for a few drinks with the staff last night and then hit the gym.

Can I have a more exciting life.

Meetings all this afternoon, which stress me out. I am so not a politicla person so when we start to talk nonsense, It drives me up the wall.

Again, I am sure that I will have much more to say.

The weekend, here again already.

YEAHHHHH!!!

So, here it is Tuesday already.
I could just not drag myself out of bed this morning. I was so cozy, and hate such a great sleep last night. I have been fighting a bout of insomnia, and hope that it may have broken last night.

I had an excellent visit last night, and a superior heart to heart. I think it put my heart and mind in a great state, and thus I slept well. I have been making an extra effort to share my feelings. It is hard to do when you have been burned so many times. But it is my new life resolution. And I think I am moving towards this quite nicely.

Have planned to go and visit Dad this afternoon. I will see how the weather holds up.

Had the best lunch today. More sushi. And ran into a friend from the past. She has jsut returned from four months in Africa and was telling me all about her adventures. I so long to travel and teach. I am stongly considering taking a year to travel.

Thought of the day.
Does the fact that you know something is going to hurt, make it hurt more or less when the time comes?
Let's imagine a band-aid. I mean we all know the purpose that it serves, but we also all know that when the time comes for you to remove it, it hurts. But I wonder...
do we psych ourselves out at the thought of the pain that will come, that when we rip it off that it hurts more ot less?

I am not sure that I have a good answer for this question. But wouldn't mind some insight.

K
(Feeling the warmth of a stray sun beam)

Why is it than on Monday's I can never get my act together. I swear I spent the whole morning running around. I can't even tell you what I did but from the moment that I walked in the door to the time that I started to teach my class today, I have been a woman on a mission. I guess the fact that my office is on the third floor, and I had many things to do in the office on the third floor, in addition to the fact that I had to run back and forth. AAAHHAHHAHHHH!!!!

Anyway, the big haircut yesterday did not happen. By the time we raced all the way there, they were running over an hour late and I could not believe it. I refused to wait, as I thought that they should have at least made an attempt to call me to alert me. I have been a faothful customer for four years. NO LONGER. I drop some good cash in there as well. I guess I will have to drop it somewhere else.

Have had a great conversation with the monsters this morning. One of the girls brough in an article that discussed research that suggested that Men listened with only half their brain. DO NOT GET EXICTED. That is not what I was teaching them. We were examining Media Literacy strategies, as this is the most crucial thing that we need to be doing at this time.

(I swear to you that one of the hosts on CNN yesterday commented on how interesting it was to see propaganda developping on the part of the Iraq government. I mean of all people to be commenting on propaganda. How ironinc is that.)

Anyway, back to the conversation with the kids. They really had great comments, and we concluded that the real purpose of the research was to examine the rebuilding of language aquisition of men vs women after a stroke. The title was misleading. It was a great activity and hopefully they will start to look at what the media presents to them and question the validity of the arguement.

Enjoying the sun today (+14 I believe), and have a worn a skirt for the first time in a long time. Man my legs are white. I can't wait for soccer season to start. I need my daily tanning session.

k

Have had the most pleasant weekend, and it is not yet over.
I went back to the gym yesterday, and realized ho wmuch I have missed being there. I was glad to have a break as I have been religious since the middle of Septmeber. It was a great recovery session for me. But again, glad to be back.
I dropped in to visit Mum as well. I haven't seen her much this week, We made plans to spend this afternoon to get our hair cut. We are going to Fiorio. It is one of few places that I trust to cut my hair. Mom has opted to come with me.

I spent the afternoon with Lisa yesterday and it was full of excitement. I don't see her very often so it is great to have some time to catch up with her. Ashley is a litlle angel. Once she warms up to you she is soooo cute. Lisa and I had lunch and did some power shopping. It was a really nice girlie afternoon.

I also stayed for dinner, as Dave's parents were bringing sushi over. I love sushi. And I am eagerly trying to learn how to use chopsticks. I am not horrible, but I need practice. I wonder why I can pick up a grain of rice with less effort than a piece of chicken. Dave and his family were great and showed me the most efficient way to operate the chopsticks. I must admit that I have to keep my other hand under the table as I have the urge at times to grab with that hand. And, secret about to be revealed., I also do the little temper tantrum dance under the table when I am unsuccessful. I will master them. I swear.

Got a lovely unexpected phone call last night. Pleasant conversation as usual. :) Made my drive home very enjoyable.

K

I have a confession to make.
I have planned to win the lottery tonight. It is $19 million.
And then you might never hear from me again.
Actually, on second thought.
I might just turn into a professional blogger and bombard people wiht my deep thoughts. (Do you remember that segement from Saturday Night Live?)
Deep Thoughts.... Am trying to remember my favorite motivational quote. I actually think that I had a book at one time. Strange tangent....

So I asked the kids what they suggested I do. Remember they are 14. (I am so proud of them)
1. Go to visit my sister (because I love her so much)
2. Go shopping (because we know that you love to shop)
3. Travel More (Although you have already been everywhere) AS IF
4. Give money to the school and the Church
5. Buy myself a car and a house
6. Give money to all my family and friends who are having financial problems
7. DO NOT QUIT YOUR JOB (Because you are a great teacher, and I am not saying that because I want you to share your winnings with me)
8. To give to charity
9. You will not win, because I will win. (Although my firend, you are too young to play.)
10. Have surgery to fix my voice. (How cute!!)

I wonder, and am actually sure that I have a fantastic ability to go off on a zillion tangents.
I think that there are very few people that can keep up with my leaping from one topic to another. I laugh to think of how many times I have to stop and rewind (insert rewind sound here) to catch people up.

Thinking of Evy at this moment. When the two of us get started, no one can keep up.

Belated congrats to her for being admitted to Vet School. You deserve it girl!!!!

Am looking forward to my visit with Lisa and Ashley this weekend. I see them so rarely.
Tangent.. SJ and I were just discussing how I see her, who lives in London more often than I see people who live down the road.

Have to fly. And not literally.
K

So... for some strange reason, I was still awake at 12:30 last night.
My big mission yesterday was to clean up around the house.
I went to Canadian Tire and bought some new supplies, and a new mop.
I also decided that I would do some baking. Anything in an attempt to avoid the bombardment (and yes that is an ironic choice of words). I was crazving pizza and decided that I would make my own, as it would occupy me for longer.
I knew, that I was too scatter brained to leave it in the oven. I knew that I would forget. I thought about setting a timer. But I didn't. I should have known better.

Well one thing lead to another and I was puttering around the house. And when my roomie made her weekly appearance, and out of the kindness of her heart she attempted to do the car shuffle. In the shuffle my car died. So here we are two women in the middle of the street trying to jump a car, with the cables :) I was so proud of us. For a moment I was wishing that I had those idiot proof cables. But I didn't. Seems to be the thought of the day. Anyway, I figured that the wires must just have been wet as it has been raining. But I called for an expert opinion. Which confirmed my thoughts.

Anyway, so here I am lying in bed and then I remember..... THE PIZZA. Did I turn it off? I don't remember. So I try to sniff and see if I can smell it burning. Can't smell it. Can't remember turing it off. So I leap out of bed and race to the kitchen.

Yup, the oven is still on, and my lovely pizza is now a large charcoal lump.

What is the moral of the story?
Don't bake when you are scooters.
The end.
K

Here it is Wednesday already.
It is funny to see how quickly you can get back into your routines.
Having a week away from here definatly cleared my head. Still working to get back on the marking train.

Have had an ecellent week with the kids. It is so nice to say that. Some weeks are really rough. This has however been realy great.

What do you think? Is your happiness or the happiness of people around you the most important?
We have been discussing this over the last few days.

That damn scale/ balance is occuring again. It seems to be the solution to all my moral and ethical decsions. The proper balance of everything sure would reduce any issues.

Was a little under the weather yesterday, had one of my angels tell me that he could see the dark circles under my eyes. But with a great night of sleep that St Patricks Day Mahem has gotten out of my system. Had a fab night. Followed by a not so fab hang over.

In the infamous words of a tshirt I once saw.
"How can I be so thirsty today, when I drank so much last night?"

Happy belated birthday to my little sister. Was thinking of you much this week as we have suddenly become separated again. Will see you again soon bella!!!!

So this should have been posted on Monday, but the server was being picky.
Here it is anyway.

Ok. So how bad have I been with this blog.
Very bad.

But I promise this week will be better.
Something about being on vacation made me not want to write at all.

Returned from London yesterday, and what a treat my return flight was.
We checked in at Paddington Station. What a great idea. No lines, no crowds… It was great. The flight was full so they bumped me into World Travaller Plus. Then when I went to board the plane, they bumped me into Business Class. What a treat. That is truly the way to travel. Champagne, wine, chocolates. It was great.
It made the eight hour flight a dream. Thanks BA for the special treatment. In addition from the time that I left the flight, went through customs, and picked up my bag only 25 minutes had passed. That in itself was a miracle.

And even better was to come home to a clean house. I must have been thinking before I left. I quickly put an end to that as I unpacked to show off all my new purchases.

Nice to be at home in my own bed, but sad to say good bye to my sister. Although I do see her more often than I do my cousins who live only hour(s) away by car. Strange how that is.

Promise to be more pensive this afternoon. Just trying to avoid the marking that I should be doing. (YUCK)

Greetings from London.
When Sarah started her blogspot, I was amazed at all of the content that she managed to find to write about.
I now know that it is all about London. It could also be because I have time to observe what is happening around me.

Anyway, here are some of the adventures that I encountered yesterday.

1. You won’t believe it. I can hardly believe it myself.
I have seen the future of fashion and am very afraid.
FLOURESCENT EIGHTIES STYLES ARE BACK.
Have taken pictures as proof because I know that it is hard to believe.
2. Bus Behavior. Strange to watch people play musical chairs on the bus. I understand the idea of wanting to ultimately end up sitting by yourself, but got the greatest satisfaction out of watching this women yesterday clutching her LV purse bouncing from seat to seat as we traveled through Hackney and Dolston.
3. Walking down Oxford Street amidst a shower of bubbles. (And in my try style, being the only one to crack a smile.) Like it wasn’t an interesting sight.
4. Bought a travel journal to track my adventures this summer. (Because this might be my last one, AS IF!!! I have been saying that for five years.) Very handy! But the most hilarious is the section dedicated to a budget. I can tell you already that section will never be used. At the bottom of the budget page there is a place to check off if you are over or under budget. Sarah says that I should just check OVER BUDGET on every page.
5. We briefly discussed heading to Sainsbury’s for Singles. (A grocery store just for singles, and single servings. I see a great business opportuniy.

Am going to head in to visit Sarah for lunch again today and will attack the other side of the Oxford today.

The best thing about a long visit (which I never, ever have) Is that there is no race to hit all the shops in a concentrated time.

And I have been very good. Minimal expenses to date.

K

330 pm london time
am know 6 pints in and still have not slept.
feeling good.

wanted to post quickly.
arrived in london with little excitement.
poor girls have slept les than I have.
seems the new neighbours have been on a bender since friday night.
the rave continues.

it is so wild to be on a patio haveing pints, as oppsed to being stuck indoors.
will come home with a tan I am sure.

thanks to all who helped me celebrate my special day.

And a super thanks to those who made it super special,

Will be much better at the updates this week.

Much to comment on.

In the interest of being multilingual, here is what I have been thinking about today.
Can you guess what it is?

Dutch: boezemvriend (m) , de boezemvriendin (f) (de)
French: âme (f) sœur
German: Gesinnungsgenosse (m)
Italian: anima gemella
Spanish: alma gemela

I’ll give you another clue:
1. who shares the same feelings, thoughts, ideas, outlook, tastes, etc as someone else.
2. One of two persons compatible with each other in disposition, point of view, or
sensitivity.


I must say that these definitions just don’t cut it for me. They lack something fundamental that I can’t even put my finger on.
It amuses me that there are no numerical limitations on the number of soul mates that you can have. I guess I have always thought that you will ever have one in your life.
There must be a limit of how many people share your vision, or point of view. I would like to think that many people share some of my thoughts, and that somewhere (very close by) is a person who can fully understand me.
Compatible: also an interesting content of the definition. I truly don’t think that it fits. Just because you tolerate and are able to get along, does not make you a soul mate. I think that it is much deeper than that.

I wonder if Chad realizes that he labelled himself as a women on the guest map.
Should I tell him?

Why you should not drink on airplanes.
So... get this one.
I am on the plane on Saturday night. It has been a long night. Lots of turbulence. Lots of people starting the party on the plane. Not to mention (this will sound snobby) that I have not worked in the cabin in.... a very long time. I have been living the sheltered life of Club (First Class).

I go to the front of the plane and there is this women talking to one of the Flight Attendants.
She has had a few glasses (too many of wine)

She looks at me and says. "I remember you from last week." And then reaches for my stomach and pats it. "How is the baby?"

Instant terror and shock.

"I'm not pregnant." I reply.

"Yes you are!" she says

"No... You must have me confused with someone else."

"No, I am sure that it is you. If it isn't it is someone who looks just like you. She even has BIG FLUFFY hair. Just like yours."

I looked at her and said "I am leaving. I can't take any more of this."

Moral of the story.

Don't drink (too much) on the airplane. Who knows how you embarass yourself or others.

She did tell the other girls that she was terribly upset. Then I felt like I should tell her that I wasn't upset.

BUT......

In the interest of being true to myslefd and not doing things to please other people, I stood my ground. (That was a big ordeal for me.)
K

Having another wave of inspiration.
And this is directed to a certain someone.

Forgive and Forget.

One of the most valuable lessons I have learnt from my students, is just that.

I can have a horrible scene with a child, and be really upset about it, go home and continue to be upset about it. The next day, still bothered by the event, I see the student again. It is so amazing.
"Hi Miss! How are you today?"

No anger, that I was upset with them yesterday.

They have accepted our conflict, and have moved on. They have forgiven and forgotten.

Why is it so difficult for adults to do this?
Why do we hold grudges for so long?

K

What is the most powerful tool that you posess?
Is it your actions or your words?

I have been thinking about this, this week.
Words are so powerful. They can make people feel like a million dollars. But on the flipside, they can so easily be sharp and hurt so deeply. And more amazing is that sometimes peoples intentions get so horribly misconstrued.

Your actions can also have the same strength.

I guess I am sensitive to this issue this week.

I think one of the worst feelings for me, and something that I try diligently not to do is hurt my friends, family, and in reality, everyone that I meet.

I guess that is why it hurts so much, when people say or do hurtful things to me.

Is their a moral to this story.
I wonder if we all took a moment to think about what we do or say will affect the people before we spoke or acted....

Maybe too idealistic... but a challenge to everyone none the less.
K

Stop Everything.
I am going to London.
Am soooo excited.
What a great birthday present for me and my sister.

Must lock up my credit card.

Look for me on Oxford Street.
Think that my suitcase will make the weight restriction?

I hope so.

Any requests?

OK. True sign of my age.
My students have never seen a one dollar bill.
I have promised to bring one in for them to see.
I wonder what else they have no idea ever existed?
Any suggestions.

Was also thinking of my cousin Sasha. She once asked Grandpa if she could play some of his big cd's. Poor thing... she has no idea what a record is.

Sarah is sick. Wish that I was there to make her feel better.
Strange, she has an ear infection. I had one last week.
We must be related.

Haven't spoke to her in a few days as well. Missing our morning chats.

Having been without my computer all weekend, was so excited to come to work this morning. I showered and primped and then made a b-line to work.
Only to get here and find out that the server was down.
I was devastated, and even tried to hook up a land line to the computer. Desperation!!
Thank goodness, when I tried a few hours later it was back up and running.
Thank you to everyone who filled up my inbox. And my particular to those lovely people who keep sending me invites to sample products to make my penis longer and stronger.

I have been discussing with the kids today the traditions that they and their family share. Interesting that most of them revolved around religion. At a stage in life where they start to revolt against the ideas that go with religion, it is interesting to see that default to religion when they can think of nothing else. Also, ironic as well, they identify these traditions around commercial events (that are as well religious events.) Interesting!!!

I was thinking about traditions this weekend as well. My favorite one that my family has, revolves around the Hail Mary Medallion. Somewhere in the past the idea of pinning a Hail Mary Medallion to your pillow case would keep you safe at night. It then progressed to giving a Hail Mary Medallion to all of my friends to pin on the inside of their wedding dress, to be transferred to their pillow case after.
And in a further extension, when my Father passed away, we left him with a Hail Mary Medallion for his travels so that he would travel safely. From that day, I have worn my Mothers necklace and medallion, and she has kept his necklace and medallion for herself. I feel such a connection with my family. As all of us women wear one. Even as I write this I smile as I think of the connection that we share.

Chad has requested that I post, he is responsible when it somes to phone calls.
What a gentleman to call and cancel dinner plans.
Nice Job buddy.
And a curse on Dexter and Alfredo for the no show.
(Just kidding)
Maybe
K

Pondering this morning the mystery of our memories.
Have been talking to the kids this week about how the brain works, and it truly is fascinating.
And was thinking how crazy it is that our memories can trigger such emotion in us.
Tears and happiness.

Have been thinking about Daddy this week and today especially. Great memories that make me laugh and cry.
And feeling guilty that I have not visited in awhile. I will go tonight.

K

Sun... Finally.... At last.
I can't believe it. The cold has finally broken.
My poor body unaware of what the sun is, is in shock.
I felt like it was one of those mornings when you had too much to drink last night, and feel the need to put on your sunglasses becuase you feel that it will hide from everyone how much daylight hurts your eyes.
I LOVE THE SUN.
And it is +4.
I am sure that this means that spring is on the way.
And if I continue to dream like this, I am sure that it will come true.

K

Back from another weekend of travelling.
Had a mind blowing experience.
Don't think I have had an ear infection in a long time.
Well I have one, with a vengance.
My only hope is that spring will finally make an appearance. I am desperate for warm weather.
Until then, I hide in my classroom. I get a peak at the sun every afternoon, and I can fool myself that is actually is warm out there.
I must confess, I have not shovelled any snow this year. I refuse. Unless I get a couple of good inches. It is not worth it. It just blows back onto the driveway.
Pitty those poor kids who keep trying to convinve me to let the shovel the driveway.

I think I will take the cold over the mountains of snow that they are getting in the States. No thanks.

Had a flight out of Buffalo this weekend. It was not so bad. I was amused however at the amount of people who found it necessary to stand up in the aisles. There is nothing worse than trying to serve 300 people with 50 people standing in your way. Very apologetic, but they didn't get the clue. Sit down Already.

Off to vent on the tread mill.
K

Witnessed the most beautiful sunrise this morning.
I was in my office and watched as the sun creeped over the houses.
This office is the best. The windows are 15 feet high and let so much sunlight in.
The funniest thing is to watch people walk in, and be blinded by the sun. "Oh it is sooo sunny in here."
Then there are the people who shut the blinds so that the sun can't come in.
I love the sun.
It is the constant battle of the shades.

I think that I live in a sheltered world. I avoid the outside, and delusionaly think that because the sun is beaming in on me that is actually +28 instead of -28.
Got to love a dreamer.

What is with Global Warming?
I think I misunderstood that expression. I can't remember a colder winter.
It is soooo cold today. This morning, -28 with the wind. That is insane.

You know it is cold when people actually wear hats and scarves. I however have mastered the winter sprint, and am lucky to not to have to spend more than 30 seconds at a time out side. Pretty sad though. The beautiful nature that we can't even appreciate.

I actually do a check for my hat, scraf and mitts before I go outside. What has become of me?

And to tell you the truth, I like to read the dictionnary.

I am losing control here.

HELP!!!!

Understatement of the day:

Define the purpose of a concluding statement.

The purpose of a concluding statement is to end the paragraph off, like an OUTRODUCTION.

I have not abandoned this site.
Ahh.. you thought, one week is all she would last.
Hardly.
I will prove the critics wrong.

My life is as occupied as ever. Been busy at the gym and at the airline this weekend. Slept in on Sunday. What a rare treat.

Have been busy coining new phrases. It is a wonder what boys can do for the modern English language. N and I have a couple new additions.

1. The Ashmore
He says “Hey, I had a great time. We have to do this again.”
(Doesn’t call for 2 weeks)

2. The Blackwood/ Ionni
Disappear off the face of the earth. Don’t bother to call things off, because avoiding someone is much easier.

And as bitter as I sound, I really am not. I just have the ability to find humor in many obscure places. (Like my relationships)

Irony is my muse.

K

List of Expressions that the students think have lost all meaning.
Very insightful for fourteen year olds.

Sorry
Uh hum
Shut up
stupid
oops
Loser
My bad
Like
Hello
Later
Excuse me
F***
Hate
How are you?

All I have to say... I must have the curse. And I am not talking about my period, or that I am pregnant.

The most interesting thing happened today. I was thinking about what I was going to ask the kids to write about tommorow in their journal. I decided that we would write about expressions that we use everyday that have lost all meaning. I was thinking about "SORRY" I hear it a hundred times a day and am convinced that people default to sorry. Not that they really mean that they are sorry, but they say it anyway. Anyway, I was thinking abbout that this morning.

This afternoon the kids were doing some work, when louder than all the other conversations, I heard a student say... "You've said it so much that it has lost all meaning." I couldn't believe it. Of all the strange coincidences. So I quickly wrote it on the white board so that I could use his expression as an intro tommorow.

I am anxious to see the list that the kids generate tommorow. I will keep you posted.
K

Let's talk about "How to make friends and influence people."

How adults speak to each other is amazing. What makes people think that shouting at each other will make situations better.
I file it away as "Things people do to each other that I will never do to others." I won'' t even go into details on the exact situation. But I am sure that most people know at least of one situation that I am refering to.

And why is it that the most intelligent thing to do is often the most difficult to do?

Have we as humans taken the decision to do the easy thing over the right thing?

I sound far to philosophical. On to a different topic.

What is with men? Or at least the men that I stupidly choose to date. I can not understand how stupid they can be. You would think that by their 30's they would understand the value of a phone call. How difficult is it to pick up the phone and call someone. I mean, if you are busy and can't talk at least leave a message. For real...

Guys... FYI..... Girls place much more value on a phone call than you apparently realize.

Is it that I am so independant, that they feel that they do not need to make any effort towards the relationship? I am sorry, but I refuse to be a chick that hunts down and tracks her boyfriend. That does not mean that I am not interested in what you are up to. It just means that I expect that you are willing to share details with me.

And what ever happened to courting a girl, and making her feel wanted. I don't require this non-stop. But an occasional gesture of affection might be nice.

On that venting note, I am off to the gym. I now have fuel to run a mile.

Columbia is lost. There are no survivors. G. Bush

Very rare that a statement is made that you know will be historical.

I want to remember this one.

I was flying to Cancun, and we underwent some turbulence. Some kind of poetic justice.

So I braved the first weekend back at the airline. And am reminded how interesting passengers can be. Inspriring me to tell you the top things that make me crige on a plane. (I also saw the LA Clippers at T3 on Toronto. Tall Guys.)

1. People who walk to the front of the plane and try to go into the cockpit, thinking that the cockpit door is the bathroom door.
2. Flight Attendant: Would you like something to drink?
Passenger: Yes I would. (Followed by a blank stare)
Flight Attendant: What would you like?
3. Flight Attendant: What is the policy on men taking off their shirts?
4. Passenger: (4:15pm) Are we leaving early?
Flight Attendant : No sir, our departure time is 5pm.
Passenger: Well why are we boarding so early?
Flight Attendant: (to self) Well sir, either you board before we depart or you can run along behind the plane and if you grab in and get a good grip you can still come home with us.
5. Do you have rootbeer? No. Cranberry Juice? No. Lemonade? No. Ice tea? No.
6. Passanger: Where exactly are we right now?
Flight Attendant (to self) In a plane, at 35 000 feet.

List to be revised and updated as I feel inspired.

Second semester starts tommorow. New Kids, and I am sure new adventures.