First day of school went well....30 fifth grade bodies take up ALOT of room! OMG! There is one student who will drive me batty and a few others who may help him....Generally a great group of kids....1/3 I know, having taught them in 3rd...It'll be an interesting year....and it was SWELTERING, I tells ya' SWELTERING in the classroom ( I was dripping by 8:00)....and it will only get worse the next couple of days.....Came home, made a sandwich...too hot to cook and took a nap...caught up on blogs....waiting for the Closer...5:45 am is too early for man or beast!!!!
Tomorrow lets see if we can actually get some academics in before our brains FRY in the SWELTERING weather....no we have no a/c and are upstairs facing WEST, so we get SUN full on ALL DAY until after 12:00...we are in school from 8:00 until 2:50...
Did I mention it was SWELTERING in my classroom today with 30 FIFTH grade bodies...
This post made me thirsty....gonna go hunt some ice tea down....
Monday, August 30, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Luscious Yarn
This is the lovely Malabrigo that I won from Yarn on the House. It is lovely stuff. The colors are just right for me (I said that as Golem in my head) It is the new line Rios and is 100% Merino. It's very soft..210 yarns, I'm thinking a fall hat......It's been sitting on my dining room table for a couple of days and I just unburied it....
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Balloons
The Hubs and I went to a hot air balloon festival today. This festival used to be held in my town, but was moved to the next town several years ago. I hadn't been since they moved. I didn't realize the Hubs had never been, he really enjoyed it! Picture heavy post....okay I tried loading the videos, but keep getting error messages, so gonna have a link to photobucket...
Video 1
Video 2
The videos show the balloons being raised and how surrounded we were by them...
The Hubs and the Hubs and my shadows on the balloon...
Video 1
Video 2
The videos show the balloons being raised and how surrounded we were by them...
The Hubs and the Hubs and my shadows on the balloon...
Friday, August 27, 2010
Flash Your Stash Friday
There is a meme over at TamisAmis (which by the way we have discovered we have alot in common besides our name, yes my name is Tammy - not Gracey)
Since it is "Flash Your Stash" I had to join this meme (although I still don't know what that word stands for)
This was my last purchase from this summer's LYS' hopping:
Another trip from this summer:
The majority of the summer trips:
Most of my stash is kept in tubs in three locations:
The storage bin (although two of these tubs have migrated back to the house)
The apartment:
There is more that cannot be seen in the picture, to the left about 16 more tubs...
And there are a few more tubs in the basement, that did not make it to storage yet.
Sorry some of the pictures are dark, the lighting in our apartment sucks...
Well that's my stash....I know it is quite large. I have achieved SABLE (Stash Acquisition Beyond Life Expectancy) several times over...can't help it...hmmm, now where are those coupons for Michael's and AC Moore...I do need a few colors for some ami's I am making....
Since it is "Flash Your Stash" I had to join this meme (although I still don't know what that word stands for)
This was my last purchase from this summer's LYS' hopping:
Another trip from this summer:
The majority of the summer trips:
Most of my stash is kept in tubs in three locations:
The storage bin (although two of these tubs have migrated back to the house)
The apartment:
There is more that cannot be seen in the picture, to the left about 16 more tubs...And there are a few more tubs in the basement, that did not make it to storage yet.
Sorry some of the pictures are dark, the lighting in our apartment sucks...
Well that's my stash....I know it is quite large. I have achieved SABLE (Stash Acquisition Beyond Life Expectancy) several times over...can't help it...hmmm, now where are those coupons for Michael's and AC Moore...I do need a few colors for some ami's I am making....
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Room is Practically Done...
My room is almost done, well it's done, but there is always something one can work on...
I'm trying to work out how to do an introduction activity. We have students coming to our school from two other schools. Plus it's 5th grade and I've had at least 11 of the students previously...so can't do my usual stuff...
So I'm thinking a puzzle....I'm going to write directions on a paper, cut it into 6 pieces. Have them chose from 3 piles (two piles labeled with last year's teacher names and 1 other school) Then they have to put puzzle together and do the activity on the front....This will also be their seating group for the day. Then change it up the next day...hmmm....have to think of a different activity...oh I know....factors...two people will have factors and they have to find the product....hmmm...or one group of 3 be the multiplication problem and other group be the division problem....lots to think about!
I'm trying to work out how to do an introduction activity. We have students coming to our school from two other schools. Plus it's 5th grade and I've had at least 11 of the students previously...so can't do my usual stuff...
So I'm thinking a puzzle....I'm going to write directions on a paper, cut it into 6 pieces. Have them chose from 3 piles (two piles labeled with last year's teacher names and 1 other school) Then they have to put puzzle together and do the activity on the front....This will also be their seating group for the day. Then change it up the next day...hmmm....have to think of a different activity...oh I know....factors...two people will have factors and they have to find the product....hmmm...or one group of 3 be the multiplication problem and other group be the division problem....lots to think about!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Anonymous Comments
Just and FYI, cuz I'm too tired for anything else. I will not approve any anonymous comments, as I'm getting spammed by them at the moment...Oh, headache coming on....
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
It Has Begun....
Well I've had two days full of professional development. Convocation on Monday was torteous to say the least...
Tomorrow I have a half day of professional development on our new math program and the other half of the day going over state test scores.
I am pretty much done in my room, but there is always something that can be done...
Today left early to go to the dentist...I could have gone back, but came home and slept for 2 hours instead....
Now to catch up on reading blogs.....
Tomorrow I have a half day of professional development on our new math program and the other half of the day going over state test scores.
I am pretty much done in my room, but there is always something that can be done...
Today left early to go to the dentist...I could have gone back, but came home and slept for 2 hours instead....
Now to catch up on reading blogs.....
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Summer Summary
What did I get done this summer??? This was my list. How'd I do??
Summer Plans 2010:
1. Work out regularly - I know, I know, but at least 3-4 times a week. Nope, did once, too hot
2. Deep clean the house, including purging of much stuff. Did some
3. Clean out and file all paperwork. Did some
4. Visit Plymouth, Mass Didn't make it there
5. Read and complete several books (read an hour a day) YES
6. Complete, at least, 3 big WIP’s Yes
7. Update Ravelry stash and project pages. Almost done
8. Learn to knit Still learning
9. Finish several jewelry projects Made a few
So what else did I do?
19 local yarn stores visited (2 of them twice)
11 books finished
10 projects completed
5 states visited
5 Day Dates with the HUBS
3 Online friends met
2 new SnB groups visited
2 visits with friends, staying out in the woods
1 visit to an Amish Auction
1 aquarium visit
1 visit to a castle
1 visit to a museum
1 skein of yarn won online
and.....
140 skeins of yarn bought in LYS's with
11 skeins of yarn bought at AC Moore
Today is grey and rainy, my last day of vacation. I had a great summer....How was yours?
Summer Plans 2010:
1. Work out regularly - I know, I know, but at least 3-4 times a week. Nope, did once, too hot
2. Deep clean the house, including purging of much stuff. Did some
3. Clean out and file all paperwork. Did some
4. Visit Plymouth, Mass Didn't make it there
5. Read and complete several books (read an hour a day) YES
6. Complete, at least, 3 big WIP’s Yes
7. Update Ravelry stash and project pages. Almost done
8. Learn to knit Still learning
9. Finish several jewelry projects Made a few
So what else did I do?
19 local yarn stores visited (2 of them twice)
11 books finished
10 projects completed
5 states visited
5 Day Dates with the HUBS
3 Online friends met
2 new SnB groups visited
2 visits with friends, staying out in the woods
1 visit to an Amish Auction
1 aquarium visit
1 visit to a castle
1 visit to a museum
1 skein of yarn won online
and.....
140 skeins of yarn bought in LYS's with
11 skeins of yarn bought at AC Moore
Today is grey and rainy, my last day of vacation. I had a great summer....How was yours?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Last Yarn Excursion of the Summer
Yesterday turned into a long day. I got up pretty early, but went back to bed and slept until almost ten, so I got a late start...
I had the names of five LYS's along the coast of Connecticut. Some I'd heard about, some I just found online...
The first one was a bust, they had closed, but in looking for it, I stumbled on "Beads of Paradise" in North Branford (site is not up yet) and bought some beads to make two sets....
Then I headed into Branford to "The Yarn Basket." This was such a friendly store! I bought my swap partner her yarn here and some other yarn for a personal swap. I got myself some Noro (it was on sale) along with a shawl pattern, plus some Malabrigo lace....I would definitely make a trip to this store again. The owner said they have a policy, "You buy at the store, you buy us." Meaning that buying yarn at the store, you come in and can get help anytime....
Then I headed east toward New London. I was hoping to meet up with a friend there, but made several stops along the way...
The next stop was "Madison Wool." Loved this store too! Really friendly and the owner, Michelle and I talked for a bit. She tries to carry lesser known brands and indie type yarns. I first picked up a skein of grey/silver Aussi Sock. I just liked the colors. Michelle drew my attention to a box she was unpacking of yarn from an indie person, "Alpine Meadow Artisan Yarns" out of Colorado. I was drawn to this yarn
...what does it remind you of? (may be hard to see in the picture, there is a slight sparkle running through) Ruby Slippers! Well I had to get that yarn! She hadn't even priced them yet, was just taking them out of the box...Thinking of a scarf.....She also gave me a pattern that came with them...I also bought the Aussi Sock, as it was silver and the slippers were silver in the book....It was an Oz kinda day!
Moving on I went to Saybrook Yarn. Very nice store and friendly...Four people asked me if I needed any help....Got a skein of Cascade Yarns sock yarn and a skein of Plymouth Yarn Zino...The colors drew me and picked up something for my swapee...
.
It was a great yarn shopping day.
The last place I stopped was closed for some reason. There was no sign on the door, but noone was there...Ummm....
I did stop and visit with my friend for a bit. By this time, traffic would be a beast going home, so I stopped to grab a bit to eat. Would have loved to have looked at this view while eating
...However, I would have also seen a view of this:
so decided to face the other way....
Coming home, I missed my exit (it was karma) and went to the Outlets, got Hubs and myself new Fossils and got a new pocketbook for the fall....
All in all a good last day out....Today I am vegging, may not even get out of the pj's...
I had the names of five LYS's along the coast of Connecticut. Some I'd heard about, some I just found online...
The first one was a bust, they had closed, but in looking for it, I stumbled on "Beads of Paradise" in North Branford (site is not up yet) and bought some beads to make two sets....
Then I headed into Branford to "The Yarn Basket." This was such a friendly store! I bought my swap partner her yarn here and some other yarn for a personal swap. I got myself some Noro (it was on sale) along with a shawl pattern, plus some Malabrigo lace....I would definitely make a trip to this store again. The owner said they have a policy, "You buy at the store, you buy us." Meaning that buying yarn at the store, you come in and can get help anytime....
Then I headed east toward New London. I was hoping to meet up with a friend there, but made several stops along the way...
The next stop was "Madison Wool." Loved this store too! Really friendly and the owner, Michelle and I talked for a bit. She tries to carry lesser known brands and indie type yarns. I first picked up a skein of grey/silver Aussi Sock. I just liked the colors. Michelle drew my attention to a box she was unpacking of yarn from an indie person, "Alpine Meadow Artisan Yarns" out of Colorado. I was drawn to this yarn
...what does it remind you of? (may be hard to see in the picture, there is a slight sparkle running through) Ruby Slippers! Well I had to get that yarn! She hadn't even priced them yet, was just taking them out of the box...Thinking of a scarf.....She also gave me a pattern that came with them...I also bought the Aussi Sock, as it was silver and the slippers were silver in the book....It was an Oz kinda day!
Moving on I went to Saybrook Yarn. Very nice store and friendly...Four people asked me if I needed any help....Got a skein of Cascade Yarns sock yarn and a skein of Plymouth Yarn Zino...The colors drew me and picked up something for my swapee...
.It was a great yarn shopping day.
The last place I stopped was closed for some reason. There was no sign on the door, but noone was there...Ummm....I did stop and visit with my friend for a bit. By this time, traffic would be a beast going home, so I stopped to grab a bit to eat. Would have loved to have looked at this view while eating
...However, I would have also seen a view of this:
so decided to face the other way....Coming home, I missed my exit (it was karma) and went to the Outlets, got Hubs and myself new Fossils and got a new pocketbook for the fall....
All in all a good last day out....Today I am vegging, may not even get out of the pj's...
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
A Book Meme
First what does meme stand for? To me it's Meme, with the little accents - what I called my French grandmother.....
So I saw this on two blogs today: Nutmeg Knitter and wifemomknitter and decided I needed to join the fun...plus after working in my classroom again all day, I have nothing to blog today...Although I was organizing the classroom books....
1. Favorite childhood book?
"A Secret Garden" Frances Hodges Burnett
"Eight Cousins" and the "Little Women" series by Louisa May Alcott
"A Wrinkle in Time" series by Madeleine L'Engle
2. What are you reading right now?
"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak
"Married by Morning" Lisa Kleypas
and various others, but those are the two in heavy rotation at the moment
3. What books do you have on request at the library?
I tend to buy my books and don't use the library much anymore, need to get back to using it....
4. Bad book habit?
I do crack spines, if it doesn't stay open....
Starting LOTS of books....
5. What do you currently have checked out at the library?
Nada
6. Do you have an e-reader?
The HUBS has a Nook. I just finished "Sarah's Key" on it and downloaded "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"
7. Do you prefer to read one book at a time, or several at once?
I read a bunch, usually around 4 or 5 at a time, but will have a couple in heavy rotation.
8. Have your reading habits changed since starting a blog?
Not since the blog, but because I teach, I have more time to read in the summer. Oh I read during the school year, but tends to be YA literature or teaching books...
9. Least favorite book you read this year (so far?)
ummm, not sure....Probably "The Friday Night Knitting Club" cuz I could see where it was going....then "The Android's Dream" only because there was a bunch of typos and other mistakes in the book...it was annoying...
10. Favorite book you’ve read this year?
Easily, "The Forgotten Garden" I went out the next day and bought her other book. This has some connection to "The Secret Garden"
11. How often do you read out of your comfort zone?
I tend to read lots of different genres, so unless it was a book of math, probably not often...I am trying to get back into science fiction. I loved it as a kid, but stopped reading it as an adult...
12. What is your reading comfort zone?
Just about anything, as long as I am engaged in the writing....
13. Can you read on the bus?
Probably not....I do get carsick...
14. Favorite place to read?
In a rocking chair or on my bed...
15. What is your policy on book lending?
Pretty lenient, have actually been trying to de-stash the past year. The Hubs and I and the Hubs mom and sister are all readers and we have BOXES of books in our house....I'm just giving them away...
16. Do you ever dog-ear books?
No...and get mad when my students do it, and there are bookmarks available!
17. Do you ever write in the margins of your books?
Occasionally, my "teacher" books and guides....
18. Not even with text books?
Oh, yeah!
19. What is your favorite language to read in?
English.
20. What makes you love a book?
The characters.....the setting....a good story, that's fresh and not a rehash of something else...
21. What will inspire you to recommend a book?
If I constantly reflect on it or talk about it....It stays on my mind...
22. Favorite genre?
I like most...I read the most historical romance, cuz they are my "book candy," but I'll read just about any genre....if I'm interested I'll read it. This stems from my childhood. We would watch tv and I'd ask questions about something I saw and my parents would tell me to look it up in the encyclopedia (yes we had a set). So now if I see something of interest, I'll pick up a book on it...
23. Genre you rarely read (but wish you did?)
Can't think of one, but am pushing myself back into science fiction...
24.Favorite biography?
"Band of Brothers" not technically a biography, "I'm With the Band" - all kinds of fun there, "The Love You Make: An Insider's Story of the Beatles" "To There and Back Again: A Hobbit's Tale" and several I read on Sacajawea and Catherine the Great - told ya' varied interests....
25. Have you ever read a self-help book?
Nope, can't say that I have...
26. Favorite cookbook?
Don't cook, if I can avoid it.. The Hubs has a lot of these books in that room called a kitchen...
27. Most inspirational book you’ve read this year (fiction or non-fiction)?
"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" my goodness, this book was great!
28. Favorite reading snack?
jelly beans, rice cakes, M&M's, Pepsi....
29. Name a case in which hype ruined your reading experience.
Ummm, I usually read the book before I see the movie...the hype about a book, umm don't really know...don't tend to follow the hype...
30. How often do you agree with critics about a book?
"I don't read too many book reviews, I don't care what the critics say" I agree with Nutmeg Knitter...although I will occasionally read a review in a magazine or paper, but just to see what is new out...
31. How do you feel about giving bad/negative reviews?
It's just my opinion, could be someone'e else's cup of tea...
32. If you could read in a foreign language, which language would you chose?
Spanish
33. Most intimidating book you’ve ever read?
Not intimidated by books, but have been bored to tears with books...and there are books I'd rather stick a hot poker in my eye then ever read again (The Great Gatsby, The Old Man and the Sea)
34. Most intimidating book you’re too nervous to begin?
I'll try anything...
35. Favorite Poet?
Shel Siverstein - me too! e.e. cummings and T.S Eliot's Book of Practical Cats...ah and Maya Angelou....
36. How many books do you usually have checked out of the library at any given time?
None
37. How often have you returned book to the library unread?
N/A
38. Favorite fictional character?
Elizabeth Bennett, Jo March, Mary Lennox, Remus Lupin
39. Favorite fictional villain?
Professor Snape
40. Books I’m most likely to bring on vacation?
historical romance, a biography or "chick lit"...
41. The longest I’ve gone without reading.
Couple of months when busy with school - "pleasure reading"
42. Name a book that you could/would not finish.
I've given up on books, but gone back and finished, except for "Wicked" have not gone back to that one yet....
43. What distracts you easily when you’re reading?
Hunger....
44. Favorite film adaptation of a novel?
Pride and Prejudice the BBC mini-series, cuz it introduced me to Colin Firth (knew I'd mention him somewhere!) Jaws was pretty good, too....
45. Most disappointing film adaptation?
The last Harry Potter movie. I literally yelled out in the theater, "That did not happen in the book!" I was incensed and HATED it! The Hubs bought it for me for Christmas and told to try it again. I did, I felt a little better, but am dreading the last two, as they are by the same director....
46. The most money I’ve ever spent in the bookstore at one time?
A couple hundred dollars, especially if the Hubs and I are together. Usually between $50 and $100...
47. How often do you skim a book before reading it?
I used to do this all the time, I've stopped myself...will do it once in awhile...
48. What would cause you to stop reading a book half-way through?
Bored....
49. Do you like to keep your books organized?
There is a pretense of order, but really isn't any...
50. Do you prefer to keep books or give them away once you’ve read them?
I keep certain books, by certain authors...but give the rest away...
51. Are there any books you’ve been avoiding?
I REFUSE to read the Twilight series...I saw the first movie and it was the worst waste of time...and I refuse to read the books...I've read other vampire stories...
52. Name a book that made you angry.
I'm sure there is one, but can't think of any...even went to look at bookcase. I do read alot set during WW2 and they can make me angry and sad....
53. A book you didn’t expect to like but did?
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. I bought it to have something to read on the train home. I had seen it mentioned in a review earlier that morning..Didn't know anything about it...and I loved it!
54. A book that you expected to like but didn’t?
Friday Night Knitting Club...just seemed same ole, same ole, and was disappointed in it...I bought it at a used store when dealing with a family emergency and figured lots of people were talking about it...
55. Favorite guilt-free, pleasure reading?
historical romances, craft books, trivia books, especially entertainment...I love trivia....
That took awhile.....
So I saw this on two blogs today: Nutmeg Knitter and wifemomknitter and decided I needed to join the fun...plus after working in my classroom again all day, I have nothing to blog today...Although I was organizing the classroom books....
1. Favorite childhood book?
"A Secret Garden" Frances Hodges Burnett
"Eight Cousins" and the "Little Women" series by Louisa May Alcott
"A Wrinkle in Time" series by Madeleine L'Engle
2. What are you reading right now?
"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak
"Married by Morning" Lisa Kleypas
and various others, but those are the two in heavy rotation at the moment
3. What books do you have on request at the library?
I tend to buy my books and don't use the library much anymore, need to get back to using it....
4. Bad book habit?
I do crack spines, if it doesn't stay open....
Starting LOTS of books....
5. What do you currently have checked out at the library?
Nada
6. Do you have an e-reader?
The HUBS has a Nook. I just finished "Sarah's Key" on it and downloaded "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"
7. Do you prefer to read one book at a time, or several at once?
I read a bunch, usually around 4 or 5 at a time, but will have a couple in heavy rotation.
8. Have your reading habits changed since starting a blog?
Not since the blog, but because I teach, I have more time to read in the summer. Oh I read during the school year, but tends to be YA literature or teaching books...
9. Least favorite book you read this year (so far?)
ummm, not sure....Probably "The Friday Night Knitting Club" cuz I could see where it was going....then "The Android's Dream" only because there was a bunch of typos and other mistakes in the book...it was annoying...
10. Favorite book you’ve read this year?
Easily, "The Forgotten Garden" I went out the next day and bought her other book. This has some connection to "The Secret Garden"
11. How often do you read out of your comfort zone?
I tend to read lots of different genres, so unless it was a book of math, probably not often...I am trying to get back into science fiction. I loved it as a kid, but stopped reading it as an adult...
12. What is your reading comfort zone?
Just about anything, as long as I am engaged in the writing....
13. Can you read on the bus?
Probably not....I do get carsick...
14. Favorite place to read?
In a rocking chair or on my bed...
15. What is your policy on book lending?
Pretty lenient, have actually been trying to de-stash the past year. The Hubs and I and the Hubs mom and sister are all readers and we have BOXES of books in our house....I'm just giving them away...
16. Do you ever dog-ear books?
No...and get mad when my students do it, and there are bookmarks available!
17. Do you ever write in the margins of your books?
Occasionally, my "teacher" books and guides....
18. Not even with text books?
Oh, yeah!
19. What is your favorite language to read in?
English.
20. What makes you love a book?
The characters.....the setting....a good story, that's fresh and not a rehash of something else...
21. What will inspire you to recommend a book?
If I constantly reflect on it or talk about it....It stays on my mind...
22. Favorite genre?
I like most...I read the most historical romance, cuz they are my "book candy," but I'll read just about any genre....if I'm interested I'll read it. This stems from my childhood. We would watch tv and I'd ask questions about something I saw and my parents would tell me to look it up in the encyclopedia (yes we had a set). So now if I see something of interest, I'll pick up a book on it...
23. Genre you rarely read (but wish you did?)
Can't think of one, but am pushing myself back into science fiction...
24.Favorite biography?
"Band of Brothers" not technically a biography, "I'm With the Band" - all kinds of fun there, "The Love You Make: An Insider's Story of the Beatles" "To There and Back Again: A Hobbit's Tale" and several I read on Sacajawea and Catherine the Great - told ya' varied interests....
25. Have you ever read a self-help book?
Nope, can't say that I have...
26. Favorite cookbook?
Don't cook, if I can avoid it.. The Hubs has a lot of these books in that room called a kitchen...
27. Most inspirational book you’ve read this year (fiction or non-fiction)?
"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" my goodness, this book was great!
28. Favorite reading snack?
jelly beans, rice cakes, M&M's, Pepsi....
29. Name a case in which hype ruined your reading experience.
Ummm, I usually read the book before I see the movie...the hype about a book, umm don't really know...don't tend to follow the hype...
30. How often do you agree with critics about a book?
"I don't read too many book reviews, I don't care what the critics say" I agree with Nutmeg Knitter...although I will occasionally read a review in a magazine or paper, but just to see what is new out...
31. How do you feel about giving bad/negative reviews?
It's just my opinion, could be someone'e else's cup of tea...
32. If you could read in a foreign language, which language would you chose?
Spanish
33. Most intimidating book you’ve ever read?
Not intimidated by books, but have been bored to tears with books...and there are books I'd rather stick a hot poker in my eye then ever read again (The Great Gatsby, The Old Man and the Sea)
34. Most intimidating book you’re too nervous to begin?
I'll try anything...
35. Favorite Poet?
Shel Siverstein - me too! e.e. cummings and T.S Eliot's Book of Practical Cats...ah and Maya Angelou....
36. How many books do you usually have checked out of the library at any given time?
None
37. How often have you returned book to the library unread?
N/A
38. Favorite fictional character?
Elizabeth Bennett, Jo March, Mary Lennox, Remus Lupin
39. Favorite fictional villain?
Professor Snape
40. Books I’m most likely to bring on vacation?
historical romance, a biography or "chick lit"...
41. The longest I’ve gone without reading.
Couple of months when busy with school - "pleasure reading"
42. Name a book that you could/would not finish.
I've given up on books, but gone back and finished, except for "Wicked" have not gone back to that one yet....
43. What distracts you easily when you’re reading?
Hunger....
44. Favorite film adaptation of a novel?
Pride and Prejudice the BBC mini-series, cuz it introduced me to Colin Firth (knew I'd mention him somewhere!) Jaws was pretty good, too....
45. Most disappointing film adaptation?
The last Harry Potter movie. I literally yelled out in the theater, "That did not happen in the book!" I was incensed and HATED it! The Hubs bought it for me for Christmas and told to try it again. I did, I felt a little better, but am dreading the last two, as they are by the same director....
46. The most money I’ve ever spent in the bookstore at one time?
A couple hundred dollars, especially if the Hubs and I are together. Usually between $50 and $100...
47. How often do you skim a book before reading it?
I used to do this all the time, I've stopped myself...will do it once in awhile...
48. What would cause you to stop reading a book half-way through?
Bored....
49. Do you like to keep your books organized?
There is a pretense of order, but really isn't any...
50. Do you prefer to keep books or give them away once you’ve read them?
I keep certain books, by certain authors...but give the rest away...
51. Are there any books you’ve been avoiding?
I REFUSE to read the Twilight series...I saw the first movie and it was the worst waste of time...and I refuse to read the books...I've read other vampire stories...
52. Name a book that made you angry.
I'm sure there is one, but can't think of any...even went to look at bookcase. I do read alot set during WW2 and they can make me angry and sad....
53. A book you didn’t expect to like but did?
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. I bought it to have something to read on the train home. I had seen it mentioned in a review earlier that morning..Didn't know anything about it...and I loved it!
54. A book that you expected to like but didn’t?
Friday Night Knitting Club...just seemed same ole, same ole, and was disappointed in it...I bought it at a used store when dealing with a family emergency and figured lots of people were talking about it...
55. Favorite guilt-free, pleasure reading?
historical romances, craft books, trivia books, especially entertainment...I love trivia....
That took awhile.....
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Catching Up On The LYS'ssssss
It is almost the end of my summer, so the weekly visits to LYS' around Connecticut will come to a screeching halt! I plan on going on Friday to a couple down by the shore, but then school kicks in and I may visit a few here and there, but nothing like this summer....
The last one I visited was Mystic River Yarns in Mystic, CT. This is the second time I have been there. The last time was several years ago and I had my niece and nephews with me. So it was a rushed visit....It seemed smaller this time. It definitely had been changed around....It is a cute shop and they were very friendly. Nice selection of yarn. I bought a new one called Peace of Fleece. It's not Peace Fleece Which I've heard of from another blogger and so have my eye on some of their colors... There is not much information on the tag of this Peace of Fleece, so I'm thinking it's an indie person, possibly local..It's not listed on their website...Anyway the color is Peridot, which is my birthstone, so just hadda get it..
Then I got a new Regia called a "World Ball" I've never seen it before, but it looks like a Zauberball. Not sure why I got it, just because...
And last I picked up Opal Masked Ball, because of the colors - they called to me.....Which is funny cuz it's very pinkish and I am usually deaf to pink....
I did stop by AC Moore on the way home and pick up some Naturally Caron Country and some Patons SWS, because I heard it was on clearance......
The last one I visited was Mystic River Yarns in Mystic, CT. This is the second time I have been there. The last time was several years ago and I had my niece and nephews with me. So it was a rushed visit....It seemed smaller this time. It definitely had been changed around....It is a cute shop and they were very friendly. Nice selection of yarn. I bought a new one called Peace of Fleece. It's not Peace Fleece Which I've heard of from another blogger and so have my eye on some of their colors... There is not much information on the tag of this Peace of Fleece, so I'm thinking it's an indie person, possibly local..It's not listed on their website...Anyway the color is Peridot, which is my birthstone, so just hadda get it..
Then I got a new Regia called a "World Ball" I've never seen it before, but it looks like a Zauberball. Not sure why I got it, just because...
And last I picked up Opal Masked Ball, because of the colors - they called to me.....Which is funny cuz it's very pinkish and I am usually deaf to pink....
I did stop by AC Moore on the way home and pick up some Naturally Caron Country and some Patons SWS, because I heard it was on clearance......
Exhausted, Sore and I won!
My body is so sore from moving boxes and unpacking. I finally have all the furniture in my classroom, minus 3 desks.
Yesterday I spent an hour moving the previous teacher's stuff out of my room, as the custodians had not done it yet. They also just cut down on our custodians, two will be at other schools this week.
I am exhausted and still have a ton to do, but I won my first giveaway!! Woohoo!! You can see the yarn here
What a great thing to wake up to this morning!
Yesterday I spent an hour moving the previous teacher's stuff out of my room, as the custodians had not done it yet. They also just cut down on our custodians, two will be at other schools this week.
I am exhausted and still have a ton to do, but I won my first giveaway!! Woohoo!! You can see the yarn here
What a great thing to wake up to this morning!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Mystic Outdoor Art Show
Today the Hubs and I went on our last "day date." I will now be busy getting ready for the start of school and he starts working his second job. He manages a Halloween store for the next 2 months. This is the third year he has done it. It's good money and he loves Halloween...
So we went to the Mystic Art Show today. Our first date 21 years ago was to the art show. We try to go every year, but have missed a few. We didn't go last year. It's a great day down by the shore.
A couple of years ago, we picked up a beautiful photograph that is above our couch. Both of us tend to be drawn to the photographs over painted pieces. This year we really liked a painted piece, but it's almost $1000! So although we have talked about it, I doubt we will be getting it.....
I did pick up some smaller prints. One of a cat licking it's lip. It made me laugh every time I saw it. I also picked up a print of flowers in a windowsill. She is very talented and I liked her bigger photos too...She travels alot, but I did not get any of her travel photos. She is here
I also picked up a print by Greg Stones called "Goodbye Sheep" It's a watercolor of a spaceship sucking up a sheep, called "Goodbye Sheep. How perfect is that! I love sci-fi and really, wool on the hoof! Check out his site, some of them are really funny! He a;sp has some with sock monkeys...
I also got a couple of bracelets, one made from a fork!
Of course, I did visit Mystic River Yarns also...and You've Got to be Beading, which was having a 50% off sale....The Hubs?? He got Kettle Corn and Fudge.....
The Wall of Fudge:
Some random pics of Mystic: The Hubs walking away (he hates having his picture taken), replica of The Amistad - not sure if they used it in the film, but they did film the movie in the area......
So we went to the Mystic Art Show today. Our first date 21 years ago was to the art show. We try to go every year, but have missed a few. We didn't go last year. It's a great day down by the shore.
A couple of years ago, we picked up a beautiful photograph that is above our couch. Both of us tend to be drawn to the photographs over painted pieces. This year we really liked a painted piece, but it's almost $1000! So although we have talked about it, I doubt we will be getting it.....
I did pick up some smaller prints. One of a cat licking it's lip. It made me laugh every time I saw it. I also picked up a print of flowers in a windowsill. She is very talented and I liked her bigger photos too...She travels alot, but I did not get any of her travel photos. She is here
I also picked up a print by Greg Stones called "Goodbye Sheep" It's a watercolor of a spaceship sucking up a sheep, called "Goodbye Sheep. How perfect is that! I love sci-fi and really, wool on the hoof! Check out his site, some of them are really funny! He a;sp has some with sock monkeys...
I also got a couple of bracelets, one made from a fork!
Of course, I did visit Mystic River Yarns also...and You've Got to be Beading, which was having a 50% off sale....The Hubs?? He got Kettle Corn and Fudge.....
The Wall of Fudge:
Some random pics of Mystic: The Hubs walking away (he hates having his picture taken), replica of The Amistad - not sure if they used it in the film, but they did film the movie in the area......
Friday, August 13, 2010
First Knitted Project
is finished and is a square....I am following this book:
here is more information. I just finished the first square of 63.
There are several mistakes, especially with carrying the yarn up the side. The yarn split in several places, too....I finally got the hang of the stitch which is just knit or the garter stitch...
I had two instances of this:
Using the wrong color and having to rip out a row (or two). Not sure what this is called in knitting, but it's a PITA and much easier in crochet....I used my split stitch markers to help me.....
My fingers hurt, but it did get easier as I went along....I just cast on the second square which is stockinette and boy is the purl stitch gonna kill me...I am knitting "continental" or trying anyway....We'll see how it all turns out....
here is more information. I just finished the first square of 63. 
There are several mistakes, especially with carrying the yarn up the side. The yarn split in several places, too....I finally got the hang of the stitch which is just knit or the garter stitch...I had two instances of this:
Using the wrong color and having to rip out a row (or two). Not sure what this is called in knitting, but it's a PITA and much easier in crochet....I used my split stitch markers to help me.....My fingers hurt, but it did get easier as I went along....I just cast on the second square which is stockinette and boy is the purl stitch gonna kill me...I am knitting "continental" or trying anyway....We'll see how it all turns out....
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Another Day and a New Lunch Box
Although I have missed a few days this summer, I have tried to blog daily...Once school starts, I doubt that will happen...
Today it was confirmed that I will be staying in 5th, after a mysterious email yesterday...hallelujah!
I have a TON of unpacking to do...
All the stuff at the back is mine to unpack...I think I got through 10 boxes today...
The stuff at the front of the room (and some you can't see) is from the last teacher...her stuff will finally be moved on Monday to her new room...
It's alot of work...I'll be there all next week working on it...although Fridays the school is closed...
One of the fun things for the beginning of the school year is buying new stuff...I don't really need much this year, as I have bought tons in the past on sale and still have lots of supplies...
But I did buy my new lunch box, and a new purple water bottle to go in it!
I do need to get some things that will go along with 5th grade, but I really have so much, it'll be minimum...I need name tags, but I think I have some packed away...and I lost 2 students, so now have 30...yeah!!!
Today it was confirmed that I will be staying in 5th, after a mysterious email yesterday...hallelujah!
I have a TON of unpacking to do...
All the stuff at the back is mine to unpack...I think I got through 10 boxes today...
The stuff at the front of the room (and some you can't see) is from the last teacher...her stuff will finally be moved on Monday to her new room...
It's alot of work...I'll be there all next week working on it...although Fridays the school is closed...
One of the fun things for the beginning of the school year is buying new stuff...I don't really need much this year, as I have bought tons in the past on sale and still have lots of supplies...
But I did buy my new lunch box, and a new purple water bottle to go in it!
I do need to get some things that will go along with 5th grade, but I really have so much, it'll be minimum...I need name tags, but I think I have some packed away...and I lost 2 students, so now have 30...yeah!!!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Tired, hot, cranky and in pain....
Today I started working on my classroom...it's a mess...I'm moving into a new classroom/grade level...
However things are still up in the air about teachers, so all moving has come to a stop. However school starts in a couple of weeks. Next week is the only week we have to work on our rooms, as the follwing week we have professional development....And we only have 4 days, as the schools are closed on Fridays in the summer....
SO I have half the stuff from the last teacher still in my room, al the grade stuff was moved with my stuff, so I have to seperate it and sending back to grade 3, plus I have two or more sets of all language arts stuff that I need to seperate....I'm never going to be done!!!!!!
Then I had my gums scraped at dentist, the Novacaine is wearing off....
But I have a great new book, I'm almost done with: "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel PPie Society." I bought it at Grand Central to read on the way back....EXCELLENT book and fast read, almost done.....
However things are still up in the air about teachers, so all moving has come to a stop. However school starts in a couple of weeks. Next week is the only week we have to work on our rooms, as the follwing week we have professional development....And we only have 4 days, as the schools are closed on Fridays in the summer....
SO I have half the stuff from the last teacher still in my room, al the grade stuff was moved with my stuff, so I have to seperate it and sending back to grade 3, plus I have two or more sets of all language arts stuff that I need to seperate....I'm never going to be done!!!!!!
Then I had my gums scraped at dentist, the Novacaine is wearing off....
But I have a great new book, I'm almost done with: "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel PPie Society." I bought it at Grand Central to read on the way back....EXCELLENT book and fast read, almost done.....
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Day Date in NYC
Today was possibly the last "day date" for the Hubs and I for awhile. He will be working two jobs for a couple of months. I start back to school in a little over a week. I am moving to a new grade level, so will be spending lots of time learning curriculum and writing new lesson plans for my 32 students!
Today we ventured to NYC. The Hubs is NOT a fan of the city and the last time he was there was YEARS ago when my Aunt Kathy still lived there....
But a friend told us about The Tenement Museum a couple years ago and we have talked about going...he suggested it this time...
I found it very interesting, but after a while, the Hubs said it was "blah, blah, blah" to him....It was hot and he does not do well in the heat either...he is a furnace on regular days, so when it is a hot, he is just miserable...
It was an hour long tour and we saw two examples of tenement apartments. We went on the "Getting By" tour. I love this stuff and have traced my own ancestry..so I did enjoy it....He enjoyed it, but would have liked to have seen more...
When we arrived at Grand Central, something was being filmed...the actress was mouthing words as if singing. I did not recognize her. All the times I've been to New York, I think this is the first time I saw something being filmed...Lots of people were standing around watching and taking pics/videos...
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The last couple of pictures were taken in subway stations. The Hubs trying to run away from a picture...and some artwork that we spotted.....I had to take a picture of the monkeys for Mimi of Eskimimiknits I thought of her when I saw them...I love the birds!
Today we ventured to NYC. The Hubs is NOT a fan of the city and the last time he was there was YEARS ago when my Aunt Kathy still lived there....
But a friend told us about The Tenement Museum a couple years ago and we have talked about going...he suggested it this time...
I found it very interesting, but after a while, the Hubs said it was "blah, blah, blah" to him....It was hot and he does not do well in the heat either...he is a furnace on regular days, so when it is a hot, he is just miserable...
It was an hour long tour and we saw two examples of tenement apartments. We went on the "Getting By" tour. I love this stuff and have traced my own ancestry..so I did enjoy it....He enjoyed it, but would have liked to have seen more...
When we arrived at Grand Central, something was being filmed...the actress was mouthing words as if singing. I did not recognize her. All the times I've been to New York, I think this is the first time I saw something being filmed...Lots of people were standing around watching and taking pics/videos...
/>The last couple of pictures were taken in subway stations. The Hubs trying to run away from a picture...and some artwork that we spotted.....I had to take a picture of the monkeys for Mimi of Eskimimiknits I thought of her when I saw them...I love the birds!
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