291 Miles....

That's how many miles my car went from the last fill up until yesterday.

I try to track my mileage on my car. I like to know how efficient the gas is by how many miles I get before having to fill it because I live a half hour from downtown Cleveland, and the drive can be from a half hour to 40 minutes to get to school (or work when I'm done school).

Over the past couple months, Rob mentioned how he thought someone was siphoning the gas out of his tank. Well, about three weeks ago, I finally noticed it on my car. The door to my gas opening, the outside door, not the gas cap, was just slightly open. If you weren't looking, you wouldn't realize the tank door was actually open, not closed. Well, I'm anal about seeing things when they are out of place.

About two weeks ago, not this past week, the week before, we had to get gas for my car. I drive a 2004 Ford Focus. It was due for a refill. When I filled it, the gas cap was VERY difficult to open. This was because it was almost on empty. Just 2 days later, yep, 2 days after Rob drove the car to work, I drove it to school 3 times, I needed to fill it again on Thursday. It was in about the same position as Tuesday as far as where the gas gauge was. However, two things were different than when I got it Tuesday night. First, I was almost 40-50 miles short on the amount of gas I used on the tank, and second, the gas cap came right off. For that many miles, the amount of gas taken would have been about 2 gallons. So, I told this to Rob. He agreed that all of a sudden his gas mileage went back to normal.

Now, we both know that when it's time for an oil change, the gas mileage goes south, but this was even worse because my car is in need for an oil change but the weather has been too bad to do it. Rob does it himself.

Friday, we went and purchased 2 locking gas caps. I filled up my tank this past Sunday. It was at half a tank, but I had bonus money from a local grocery store. When you purchase from the grocery store, you get money off to purchase their gas. The regular price was $2.97, but I had 60 cents off a gallon. So, it behooved me to filler up. This was Sunday afternoon. I drove 5 round trips to Cleveland this week.

The total miles before filling up? 291. But, I also knew I could have gotten 20-30 miles more on that tank had I REALLY pushed it. But, I was satisfied that my gas cap is working to keep the area criminals out of my gas tank.

KMA (Kiss My Ass!)

Ok. Just wanted to share. With the economy the way it is, it's REALLY worth looking at, if the outer door of your gas tank doesn't lock. We'll definitely look at that for our next car.

Lots of love for now,
Cathy
8^ )

National Pancake Day

Happy National Pancake Day!

Make sure you go out and eat a pancake today!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Fun Weekend...

Cassi is definitely enjoying herself this weekend. Not because she's at Pa's like usual. She's with me.

Yesterday, I took her to the roll arena. I have LOTS of reading to finish this weekend for next week that I got a good chunk done. I read most of my magazine writing textbook. Today, on Sunday, as I write this, I am working on the written portions of my homework for Tuesday.

But, while we were at the rink, Cassi spent some time practicing skating backwards. And, they have lessons on Saturdays. She wants to try some lessons. We'll see. She does a wonderful job now. I know the lessons would be good for the harder stuff. She got to see 2 girls who were skate-dancing, like an ice skater would do.

Before skating, we went to Grandpa Dave's to look at his anti-virus. Turns out he really doesn't have an anti-virus program on his computer. He's been using the one that comes with AOL. I loaded an older one that I'll have to go back to remove because the definitions subscription expired. I'll remove it and see what happens. I'll do that Tuesday because Cassi is going to Pa's while I go to class.

Anyway, we went grocery shopping before skating. We REALLY needed meat for the next week or so. Plus, I needed something to cook for din din. Rob asked for flank steak. A really good, cheaper piece of meat. I bought a whole one and had it cut in half. Turns out I got two good size steaks for the three of us. But, I also picked up some fish, another steak, and sausage (for spaghetti).

Then, she skated and I read. It was hilarious. I took a photo of her and sent it to Marie. A little hard to pick out because she was so far away, but you can tell it's her by her white t-shirt.

In the evening, I cooked din din and we all ate. She ate eight pieces of steak and a whole baked potato. She's eating more of the foods we eat now, but in portions. In the evening, we watched one of the movies Marie sent Cassi, "Meet the Robinsons." Since we went to Pa's, we picked up the movies, iPod money, and Christmas ornament Marie sent. Luck dog that Cassi is, Aunt Marie sends her money for being good at school. For December, she got $10. This money is being saved by Pa for her to get Christmas gifts at the end of the year. Very good idea.

So, we watched the movie twice. The second time, she fell asleep. I let her sleep with me again as Rob is working this weekend.

Today, we planned on bowling. Cassi only bowled one game. The lanes Rob and I use send us coupons in the mail. Today, for the super bowl, the coupon was for 42 cents a game a person. To rent shoes for her, it was $2.75. Since she only wanted to play one game cause I offered her a better option, bowling was only a buck. I've got my own shoes and ball. Rob and I played more before I had Cassi.

Now, we're at McDonald's. She's playing with the kids. This McD's is pretty good in that they have wi-fi access. I've got my laptop and am working on homework (when not writing this post). She's having a good time. I'm keeping her out of the house so Rob can sleep. He's got to work again tonight.

In a while, we'll go to the grocery store. They're having a pot luck at his work tonight. He asked if I could pick up lunch meat and goodies for his offering. So, a small lunch meat tray it is, with lettuce, tomatoes, maybe some pickles, and toppings (small containers) and a loaf of bread.

OK. Gotta get some more work done.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

School = Ideas

I can't believe the amount of "stuff" that's coming out of my brain. I think it's because of the fact that I'm back in school. But it's also because of the fact that I've got to come up with ideas for topics for my two major projects. I've got a group paper for my Imaging Africa class. The paper is to be 25 pages long. Plus, we have to put together a presentation. No sweat. Last semester, I put together a 20-page paper by myself.

Now, I've also got a 15-page paper and presentation for my Senior Survey. For those of you who know education, this class is called a CAPSTONE class, meaning that you are doing profession-level stuff. Again, ok. Good for me. I can handle it!

But, it was like the floodgates have opened to overall ideas. When I drive, I think of topics to write here. The downside is that if I don't get them down on paper, I'll forget them because when I start thinking about a topic, I immediately mentally start writing it. So, satire and wit are "out the window" so to say as this happens mostly when I'm driving my car.

My brain is all aflutter!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Feeling Sorry...

I almost felt sorry.

Then reality set in.

I don't feel sorry anymore, just very upset. This person is getting away with far too much CRAP and putting my husband in the middle. I don't want him to get into trouble because of this person.

That's all I can say right now. There's bad feelings floating around right now. Saying more will just make it worse.

Feel for me!

Cathy
8^ (

The Sickness Has Passed (almost)

The update from the doctor's appt Friday and the weekend I lost.

Thursday. I ended up staying home because I just wasn't "feeling right." All afternoon, I needed to take a nap because I was so tired. And couldn't do it. So, Thursday's night class was out too. Good thing because I was slowly going downhill and couldn't fight it.

Friday. I woke up with a sore throat, itchy ears, cough that would wake the dead, and headache. At that point, I hadn't really checked my temp but knew I was running a fever. Cassi was still coughing but much better than you bought with the 102 fevers. We went to the doctor in the afternoon. This also meant no internship on Friday. I couldn't move and couldn't speak.

Bottom line. We both have a virus. Pretty much. Keep giving Cassi the Motrin for fever and the cough syrup to help supress the cough. The assistant checked my temp. I was 102.7 and she stopped. I even told her that I haven't had a fever like that in YEARS. Actually, when I get sick, even this sick, my temperature always goes down. The doctor could tell how I was hurting when I coughed. She gave me cough syrup with codeine. We went and filled it and went home.

Let me just say, Dad ROCKS! I called Rob to tell him what happened. I had all I could do to get us home; I felt to bad. Rob had to work and couldn't take us. I called Dad when I got home. He first said he would come get Cassi Saturday morning for sleep over. Then, he called back and said he could come get her Friday night.

As they were leaving, I asked them to lock the door on the way out. (forgot) I was unable to get up from the recliner to lock the door. All the lights were on in my living room. The front door was unlocked. I don't like the doors to be unlocked, especially when I'm alone.

I didn't get up to turn off lights and lock the door until 11pm. And, I slept pretty much from 6:30 Friday night until Sunday morning. In the recliner.

By Sunday morning, my fever finally broke. I started to feel better, just mainly stuffed and coughing. The first things I did Sunday morning (and does this sound familiar) dishes, laundry, garbage.

Cassi was off Monday and Rob kept her as he was off work. I went to my internship and class. I was so glad to be out of the house and feeling SO MUCH BETTER.

But, now, I'm still dealing with a sore throat, coughing, and a stuff nose.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

P.S. Cassi is still coughing too but better.

Small Blog Entries

OK. Because so much is going on in my life (and our lives) right now, I'm working to write smaller blog entries. I want you to be able to read what you want (even parts of everything). Sometimes the posts can be long. Right now, I've got 6 other entries that will go in below this entry.

Note to self: make sure I've got a small notepad on hand at ALL times! Ideas are bombarding me from everywhere now.

Sicky note: We're all home sick. I know a few girls in my classes have been out sick and came back still sick. Good note is, it's a weekend for me. I'll make up my internship hours next week with being there 3 days. As it stands, I'll take Cassi and myself to see the doctor tomorrow. My throat is REALLY sore right now, coughing and chest stress.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

P.S. Even though I'm sick, I'm still working on homework for classes!

Senior Survey Better

Post written on 2/2/2008!

It is DEFINITELY going better. Because I seem to be asking all of the right questions. When we started our first reading assignment, I emailed the professor. I said to her that I understand there's two different ways to read something. The first is to read for the pleasure of reading. The second is to read with the intention of understanding why it was written. So, my main question to her was what types of questions should I be thinking about when I'm reading, general questions that I could use for all reading.

She apologized for not getting back to me as my email went to her spam. But, I had asked a very responsible question. I told her that was fine about not replying because my question had merit for the whole group.

And, up to now, it appears that I have taken lots of responsibility to ask questions that the whole group is probably thinking.

So, this class is going 100% better than I thought.

Then, I got sick. But, a nice classmate allowed me to take her notes home. Yeah! I was able to scan them in and have them for our first test. Because the test is open book/open notes, any notes I can get for the test will just help me more.

And, we're already thinking about our papers. We've got a smaller one due on the 19th, about 5 pages. This paper can be the jumping off point for the MAJOR project. I already know how I want to present my project, in costume!

OK. That's it for now. I've got lots of reading to do for this class for Tuesday. Want to get it done this weekend.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Internship

Written on 2/2/2008!

The internship is going AWESOME! I wish I can find a boss as good as Tina. The internship is very flexible. I've got to work 10 hours a week. As it stands, I'm scheduled on Monday's and Wednesday's for 5 hours each. If I have to leave early or just don't get my 5 hours in, I can make up the extra time on Friday's.

This was how my job was the last year before I was laid off. As long as I had my 40 hours a week, my boss didn't care when I worked, knowing that programmers keep weird hours.

Anyway, I've completed my first report. It was a weird research project, but allowed me to really look at the information from the foundations. Then, I wrote up the report, giving my suggestions for foundations and funding options for this project. Very easy, but detailed. I'll post my findings on my online writing portfolio soon.

My next project is the Research News newsletter for February. I should have the majority of it together this week.

That is all!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Follow-up to Last Post's Comment

Cassi ended up being sick today. Last night, when I got to Pa's, she was in jammies and ready to come home. Then, all of a sudden, she was on the pot. At the same time, her face was nasty flush red and her lips were red.

In 2-words, MINI ME!

When I was growing up, mom knew when I was faking because when I was REALLY sick, my lips looked like I had fire engine red lip stick on.

So, after deliberating between Dad and Rob (through text), Dad decided to take off work and keep her at his house. Today, I was downtown in Cleveland all day. My internship is for 5 hours, but, today I was there until 3. With her there and not home, I was able to stay for my break and go to class. This meant I was in Cleveland until after 6 pm. I haven't done long days like this in YEARS!

But, last night, Cassi was very sad and CRIED. First, she was upset because she was going to Dan's house. Dan said she could come over and play with Alexis. Then, I told her she could go roller skating Sunday (new fun thing to do on weekends and where I can get homework done at the same time). She was worried, even fretting that she would not be well to go. She listened to how I wouldn't make that decision until Friday. If she was still sick, she probably wouldn't go. Finally, she was utterly distraught that her teachers wouldn't know that she was sick. I told her I would call Mrs. Carey (secretary in office) who would tell her teachers she was sick.

After all that crying, fretting, and despair, she was fine with staying at Pa's. Then, she wanted to play, with her fever and all.

This morning, I told Mrs. Carey that I just HAD to call. She laughed and said that she would make sure her teachers knew she would be out.

As it stands at this point, she's feeling better but coughing. Rob has an appointment with the eye doctor in the am. We will determine if she is better to go. If not, she'll just have to stay home again. But, in the afternoon, she will go to Pa's as I have class from 6-8 pm.

It was just so hilarious to see her so worried. Once all her worries were handled, she was fine. OK, I'll stay.

And, as the comment said, she talked to Aunt 'Re today. With 'Re's schedule and mine being so screwy, it's been hard to get time for Cassi to talk with her. I've even had trouble finding time to even text. (sad face indeed)

So, I will work to make sure there's time for all of us to chat!

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

Internship Research and Findings...

Having nothing to do with my research, I came across an awesome poem. I know this specifically deals with early childhood education, but I like it. I think you will too.

Written by Naomi Drew (1987)

I Am an Individual

I am an individual.
I have dignity and worth.
I am unique.
I deserve respect and I respect others.
I am part of the human family.
I have something special to offer the world.
I am committed to a peaceful world for all of us.
I make a difference, and so do you.
I can accomplish whatever I set out to do, and so can you.
I am the key to peace.


It's too bad more people can't live by these words. I believe this everyday, especially because of Cassi.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

My Grandmother MUST Be Telling Me Something

I know you guys recall that I've talked about dreams of my grandmother. This grandmother is my dad's mom. When we were growing up, Dad would take Marie and I to Massachusetts to visit her. At that time, on Sunday's of the visit, family would show up "out of the woodwork." Each time, there would be cousins I hadn't seen the last time.

Anyway, over the past few years, I've had a few dreams about going to her house. I do recall seeing her once or twice. This dream was definitely the "after" dream. She passed away when I was in high school, which was WAY too long ago.

But, this dream starts out here in Ohio, with Mom and Cassi taking a road trip to her house. Basically, I remember talking about how to get there and we decided across Rt. 90, which takes you to the northern parts of PA.

Then, we got there.

The house looked about the same. We got to go inside because the family living there allowed us in. The rooms still looked the same except for a fridge in the front parlor. For those of you who don't know, the term parlor in New England is the same as the formal living room. The biggest change to me was the kitchen. I remember the kitchen being HUGE. As a footprint of the house, the kitchen was dead in the middle of the first floor, with the parlor in front and a family room flanking the back. Basically the house was divided into three downstairs. As I'm walking around, I notice that all of the door fronts have been glazed over with a black laminate or plastic type covering. But, everything again is still where it was when we were growing up.

I look out the window. The house had a garage, but down the hill and behind the house. Out this window, you're able to see a drive that 4 or 5 cars can park. I see what looks like a REALLY old car. The first person I think of is my step grandpa Freddie. Uh, oh! I thought he would have died by now! The family says the house was converted into a multi-family property and he lives downstairs, which figures because he loved being in the garage when we visited.

So, we try to make sure he doesn't see us. The family who lives there leaves the kitchen. I climb up onto the counter that shoots out from the stove area. Above the stove are cabinets. I open the cabinets to find all of these boxes of recipes. OH, MY, Gosh! These are the recipe boxes that are holding all my grandmother's recipes! I so try to snatch them. But, as soon as I find them, the family comes walking back in as I quickly get down from the counter.

I can't remember if I take one of the boxes, but I feel as if in my dream that I do. What the recipes were? Couldn't tell you at all. But, it was IMPORTANT that I get those boxes.

I then look out the window over the sink and see a lake has formed down the hill. I was told by the family the city turned the area into a lake. This was where the drive was to get to that garage. I go outside and down the back to see an apartment of sorts where the garage used to be. I also see the lake and how you can't drive to where the garage was either.

Then, I wake up from my dream. Something is definitely telling me I need to visit there. Maybe after my graduation and such, I'll take the trip.

I had this dream yesterday morning and still remember it now.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

A Funny Story...

As this JUST happened, I thought I would share.

Since Rob is working this evening, I told Cassi she could sleep with me. She came out and asked if she could have a snack of mini marshmallows. Sure, a small snack before bed.

I walked in with the mini's and she says to me, "Hi, marsh-mom!"

OK, so my kid decided she was going to call me marshmallows! I guess that's not a bad nickname since I'm kinda squeeshy and soft in the middle.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Film Screening Journal

OK. You guys will have to bear with me this semester. As part of my Imaging Africa class, I have to keep a movie journal. We will be screening movies in class and writing a journal. The professor doesn't want us to turn in an electronic journal. He just doesn't understand; my thoughts run wild and my hands on a computer work faster than a pen and paper.

So, I am going to use this blog to help with the notes from the movies. This is what I need to write about:

Title of film, Director, Main Characters, General Outline

Then, there's 5 questions I have to answer. Each writing will be a few pages in my journal. Ugh!

Questions:

1. What is your reaction to the content of the film?
2. What would you change in the film's content?
3. Iconography (use of symbols)
4. Ideology (collection of ideas)
5. Indigenous (maintaining values of the film's society)

OK. That's it for now. Gotta get ready for school.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

Why are you taking English?

This was what my professor asked me today. First, Rob had to drive me to school today. He's been off and being my chauffeur to class. Because my financial aid got screwed up this semester, I have been unable as of yet to pay for my parking. Unlike less urban colleges, my college is in the middle of the city of Cleveland. My parking has been costing me $141 every semester. And, this is still no guarantee that parking in available when I need it. Many times I have to sit and wait for someone to leave so I can park and go to class. Lately, though, this has not been a major issue.

But, for today, Rob drove me to school so I would not have to pay an exorbitant amount of money to park. (I'll have to pay tomorrow and Thursday.) But, today was a bad day for driving with the amount of snow that happened to come down since 4am this morning.

Today, specifically this morning, is my English Senior Survey class. This class is MANDATORY for graduation as an English major. AND, this is the only section being offered this semester. This class will be doing literary analysis on Medieval Pilgrimage.

OK. This will be my challenge course. AND, this is the first semester that I've had to do any literary analysis with readings other than poetry. But, she reads through the syllabus. Something I can do on my own. She talks about what's going to be due this semester: 1 5-page paper in about a month, 2 exams, 1 15-page research paper and presentation, and 1 final. Oh, and by the way, the final is on a Thursday morning from 8:30am - 10:30am. I will HAVE to have someone available to take Cassi to school that day as I will have to come to school at 7:30 in the morning.

She gets done with class in 30 minutes (out of a 2 hour class period). Good thing Rob didn't go to mom's to wait until class was done because it would have been a waste. Prior to leaving, I gave the professor a more direct email address. So far, all professors have asked to email to reach them the best. So, I mention to her that this class will be a challenge for me as this is the first real literary analysis class I'm in. She asks me what my major is which I tell her English. She asks me why am I pursuing an English degree? I told her to get back into Technical Writing where I was before coming back to school.

I know there are a lot of arguments floating around about why people study English. Every time I get asked what I am pursuing, I'm constantly getting people to say, "So, are you going to teach?" Just because I'm getting my degree in English doesn't mean I want to teach. Nor does it mean I want to pursue my Master's Degree (a goal of taking this class). It also doesn't mean that literature is my life and goal is analysis of such.

There are other pursuits that English fits right in. So, let me just say, I will definitely have trouble with this class because of this professor. But, who knows, maybe I'll do better than I think because of the challenge.

The positives to today:

1. I was recognized as being on the Dean's List for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for my GPA. At first I wondered, why was I all of a sudden recognized when I was getting above a 3.25 every semester since I started. Then, I realized, this was the first semester I had 12 credit hours. Makes a difference. OK. Cool for me. I got a 4.0.

2. My Tuesday night class will be easy and I'll get an A for sure. It's Feature Writing where my goal for the semester is to decide what I want to write about, research it and magazines I could submit it to, write it (3 versions with revisions), and then submit it for publishing. Who knows? I could have it published in a magazine that would want me to do more writing.

So, it's about 9:15pm now. I'm getting ready for bed. Because of this financial aid thing, I can't go to my internship tomorrow. Called Tina. She's cool about the whole thing. Because it's flexible, I can start next Wednesday. I'll have my refund check for sure and get my parking paid for (and my other bills waiting in the wings).

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

P.S. Sorry I had to vent. Got a headache right now, probably from my hair. It's REALLY getting heavy.

A Little Fodder To Ponder...

Because I'm very DISGRUNTLED right now about school and Financial Aid specifically, here's a little fodder to think about. I got this from mom as an email forward.

This speaks for itself!!!!!

A Washington , DC , airport ticket agent offers some examples of why our country is in trouble!

1. I had a New Hampshire Congresswoman ask for an aisle seat so that her hair wouldn't get messed up by being near the window. (On an Airplane!)

2. I got a call from a candidate's staffer, who wanted to go to Cape Town. I started to explain the length of the flight and the passport information. Then she interrupted me with, "I'm not trying to make you look stupid, but Cape Town is in Massachusetts." Without trying to make her look stupid, I calmly explained, "Cape Cod is in Massachusetts; Cape Town is in Africa."
Her response - click.

3. A senior Vermont Congressman called, furious about a Florida package we did. I asked what was wrong with the vacation in Orlando . He said he was expecting an ocean-view room. I tried to explain that's not possible, since Orlando is in the middle of the state. He replied, "Don't lie to me. I looked on the map and Florida is a very thin state!" (OMG)

4. I got a call from a lawmaker's wife who asked, "Is it possible to see England from Canada?" I said, "No." She said, "But they look so close on the map." (OMG, again!)

5. An aide for a cabinet member once called and asked if he could rent a car in Dallas. When I pulled up the reservation, I noticed he had only a 1-hour layover in Dallas. When I asked him why he wanted to rent a car he said, "I heard Dallas was a big airport, and we will need a car to drive between gates to save time." (Aghhhh!!)

6. An Illinois Congresswoman called last week. She needed to know how it was possible that her flight from Detroit left at 8:30 am and got to Chicago at 8:33 am. I explained that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but she couldn't understand the concept of time zones. Finally, I told her the plane went fast, and she bought that.

7. A New York lawmaker called and asked, "Do airlines put your physical description on your bag so they know whose luggage belongs to whom?" I said, "No, why do you ask?" She replied, "Well, when I checked in with the airline, they put a tag on my luggage that said 'FAT,' and I'm overweight I think that's very rude!" After putting her on hold for a minute while I looked into it (I was laughing). I came back and explained the city code for Fresno, CA is 'FAT' - (Fresno Air Terminal), and the airline was just putting a destination tag on her luggage.

8. A Senator's aide called to inquire about a trip package to Hawaii. After going over all the cost info, she asked, "Would it be cheaper to fly to California, and then take the train to Hawaii?"

9. I just got off the phone with a freshman Congressman who asked, "How do I know which plane to get on?" I asked him what exactly he meant, to which he replied, "I was told my flight number is 823, but none of these planes have numbers on them."

10. A lady Senator called and said, "I need to fly to Pepsi-Cola, Florida. Do I have to get on one of those little computer planes?" I asked if she meant fly to Pensacola, Florida on a commuter plane. She said, "Yeah, whatever, smarty!"

11. A senior Senator called and had a question about the documents he needed in order to fly to China. After a lengthy discussion about passports, I reminded him that he needed a visa. "Oh, no I don't. I've been to China many times and never had to have one of those." I double checked and sure enough, his stay required a visa. When I told him this he said, "Look, I've been to China four times and every time they have accepted my American Express!"

12. A New Mexico Congresswoman called to make reservations, "I want to go from Chicago to Rhino, New York." I was at a loss for words. Finally, I said, "Are you sure that's the name of the town?" "Yes, what flights do you have?" replied the lady. After some searching, I came back with, "I'm sorry, ma'am, I've looked up every airport code in the country and can't find a Rhino anywhere." The lady retorted, "Oh, don't be silly! Everyone knows where it is. Check your map!" So I scoured a map of the state of New York and finally offered, "You don't mean Buffalo, do you?" The reply? "Whatever! I knew it was a big animal."

Now you know why the Government is in the shape that it's in!

Cathy
8^ (

Vacation is Coming to an End...

I think my body is prepping me for the next 16 weeks. This week, I've been REALLY tired. In preparation of being tired, my body helped with bringing me my monthly "non" friend, which was REALLY bad this week. It started Friday with LOTS of sleep. If I wasn't down the street at Cassi's school, I was home sleeping. Once Cassi got home and I got Rob off to work, I was again back in bed. Saturday morning, after Rob came home from work, I got up, went out to the living room, sat on the recliner, and proceeded to go back to sleep until 12:30 pm.

I've also enjoyed a few migraines this week.

Rob and I went to CSU Monday morning and picked up my books. Good thing I went early. First, there was hardly anyone there buying books yet. Second, they had to manually put my information into the computer to allow me to buy my books with my scholarship. So far, my book cost is at $203. I'm still working on getting my other book, which is $125 by itself. We'll see. It would be a GREAT reference book once I'm done school.

But, this week has also been very productive for me. As you "read" me mention the other day, I've been posting stuff onto my online store. Since I decided my 4 classes (3 plus internship) was enough for me this semester, I would not do any craft shows and work on posting my products (and making new) for my online store. This week, I added the following: 2 items in chore charts under the main headings and tea bag envelopes in categories Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and Father's Day. Mother's Day should be updated tomorrow. As it stands right now, I've got over 400 products in the tea bag envelopes products alone. And, if you're wondering, yes, I designed each and every envelope.

A lot of stuff has been going on around here. Not really wanting to talk about them, or give these people their fame, I'll just say in short: 1. the bother in law has been arrested again and 2. I REALLY wish I could kick my step daughter in the ass!

OK. Enough said!

Cassi is now a tooth-less. Monday morning, she had daddy help her remove the tooth still hanging by a thread (small blood vessel). Daddy pulled it and she bawled! Because of that little blood vessel, she bled some. But that tooth REALLY needed to come out. More and more, she's a mini-me. Her teeth are taking forever to fall out. This tooth was actually bent sideways in her mouth. But, the tooth fairy brought her $2 for the tooth.

Tuesday, she went out with Dan and Alexis. Dan bought her a Build-a-Bear bear. The bear is light blue and her name is "Blue." She is wearing an angel's outfit. Now, all she talks about is getting more clothes for Blue from the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Oh, Joy! The bear and what she got for her gift was $57! I can't believe how expensive it is for this store. But, for those of you who know Cleveland, this store lives in the mall in Strongsville! Very swanky and VERY expensive.

And, you've heard about our beauty trip. That was on Monday. I'll post a new photo as soon as I take one. She looks adorable.

But, she's not the only one that will be sporting a new do. Next week, I'm planning on getting my hair cut. Because I had a perm last March, I'm working on getting all the hair still with curls cut off. My hair is EXCEPTIONALLY long now, longer than it has ever been. I'm going to cut it and see how it goes to grow it all straight. And, I'm planning on having it thinned again.

OK. It's almost 11 pm now. I've got to get to bed. I didn't get a chance to watch Ugly Betty tonight when it came on. Company came over. So, I'll watch it before bed.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Volunteering

Yep. Here's my public service announcement for the day!

After watching a commercial on TV this evening, I was informed about a Web site called VolunteerMatch.org. I'm currently looking at it right now.

If you have been wanting to volunteer but don't know if you can because of time or other commitments, this Web site will allow you the ability to find a volunteer situation that fits your time and lifestyle.

I would like to find a volunteer project to work with Cassi. We'll be able to do stuff together, to help other people.

That's it for tonight. I'm still putting more products out on my store. Since I'm not participating in craft shows this Spring, I'm going to put as much on my store as possible (and design new stuff at the same time).

Lots of love for now,
Cathy
8^ )

Graduation...

Yes, I know this is yet another post about graduation. I've been looking on the CSU Web site concerning information about graduation.

This semester graduation is scheduled for May 10, Saturday. Marie, please make sure you and Joe are available and can come. As it stands right now, I'm allowed 6 tickets for graduation. I will be planning on asking for 4 extra (cause I want VP and hubby to come too).

VP, if you can afford to come (with hubby of course), I would love to have you come, visit and come to graduation. If you cannot because of money, I completely understand. We'll talk more as the semester comes along.

But, I've been looking at grad levels and honors (cause I'm so neurotic). But, if I graduate with at least a 3.3, I'll graduate Cum Laude. As it stands, I've got a 3.66 GPA. This level would allow me to graduate with a Manga Cum Laude! My only concern is the Senior Survey. The other classes, I know I'll get A's in.

OK. That's it for now. Still looking at stuff for graduation so I know when I go to order my gown, etc.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

New Year's Resolutions...

Yep, like everyone else, I've got a few New Year's Resolutions! Here we go:

1. Add more stuff to my online store.
2. Get another 4.0 this semester.
3. Get that KILLER job. I will start applying for jobs this month as I am now within the 4 month time line before graduation.
4. Take Cassi roller skating more often (she really enjoys it).
5. Try roller skating again with Cassi.
6. Be more active (no, I'm just not active enough).
7. Keep my house REALLY clean, food cooked, etc.
8. Learn to say "No" when I'm too busy.
9. Other stuff as it comes.

So, as you're all probably wondering, I don't have a resolution to lose weight. Well, first, I figure since I'll probably break a resolution like that, I won't make one. However, if I can do numbers 5 and 6, it would help me get more in shape. Part of the more active is that I would like to go dancing more when I can.

With that, I'll close for now. I've got some stuff to do. Yep, it's Saturday night, almost 10pm, and I'm going to wash a load of laundry. I wasn't feeling well yesterday and today and did LOTS of sleeping (when Cassi wasn't here). So, I'm still awake for now.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

Mini-Me!

These photos were taken on 12/20 before her Christmas concert. The above picture shows her full dress. But this second picture really shows her face, which is a Mini-Me!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Things Past, Present, and Future

We had a very good holiday. Cassi was disappointed, though. The only thing she wanted for Christmas from Santa was a pogo stick. She was disappointed Santa didn't bring it. I explained how Santa felt since she couldn't use it inside cause of space issues and couldn't use it outside because of the cold, it would be better for mom and dad to get it once spring and summer arrive. I told her I agreed with Santa. We would revisit the issue when the weather got better.

Other than that, Christmas was just another day here. We went to mom's because our dining room table is being refinished. It will probably take until summer to get finished but that's okay. As much as I'm busy, Rob is even busier. He's involved with his lodge meetings, 2 classes and helping take care of Cassi while I'm at school when she doesn't go to Pa's.

She spent the weekend with them until Christmas Eve. Then, she came home for overnight. Christmas Day, we all went back to Pa's. She proceeded to stay until the 29th. She came home for her birthday. Our baby turned 8 on the 30th. (Yes, I didn't put a post out here to celebrate her birthday!) We had 2 friends over. The local roller skating rink gave out free passes to skate during break. Cassi and Alexis (who went) both had roller skates. She made a new friend. One of the nurses Rob works with has 2 girls. They came along too. I had 1 free pass and paid for her skates. Madison is her name. Her sister Cheyenne also came. Wendy is mom. Mom paid for herself and daughter Cheyenne. They all had a good time. I don't skate for anything. Have had too many problems with dizzy spells and vertigo (which I still believe is related to the fact that I'm losing my hearing, but that's another story).

While they were skating, I got to take some pictures. Rob zipped over to the local store to buy a small cake for after skating. Cassi had Madison and Alexis spend the night. They ate grilled cheese and fries. Then cake, then gummy life savers, then more cake. I have one of those elevated queen size air mattresses. At first, Cassi was on the couch with the other 2 girls laying normally. After Rob and I went to bed (and Rob zonked), I had to shush the girls to sleep. Come to find out, they rotated the other way on the bed and all 3 girls were couped up together on the mattress. A sight indeed! By morning, Alexis was in the dead center of the bed with the 2 other girls huddled at the end of the mattress. It's no wonder someone didn't fall off. But, I was awake until well after midnight. Come 7:30 the next morning, they were up. They ate pancakes for breakfast. Madison left about noon. But, Alexis and Cassi ate mac & cheese. Then, Alexis went home.

I hadn't ever been so TIRED!

After I got up and was "awake," Rob decided it was time to put up new smoke detectors (one decided to go off tonight when I made dindin). Plus, we'd been planning on moving around the bedroom. We hauled out 3 bags of CRAP! Some of the stuff was from the goods Rob got for Christmas. He finally went through his clothes and discarded the ones that really needed to go.

Then, we had to go to Lowe's. My cedar chest (the one I've had for almost 12 years now), moved from the bedroom to living room. I couldn't believe how open the space became from this small move. But, to move it, we needed felt pads for under the feet. No way was the chest going on the new hard wood floors without pads. Then, we stopped at Giant Eagle for snacks for the evening.

But, New Year's Eve. I napped so I would be awake for the ball drop. Well, Marie was an AWESOME sister. She bought us the Star Wars Lego's games for PS2. Rob and I are hooked on the Star Wars II and are currently on chapter 6 of Episode 4 (original Star Wars). I laugh every time I see Princess Leia as a Lego figure. And the way they have them TALK (without really talking).

Well, we played News Year's Eve. We missed the ball drop by 2 minutes that's how hooked we are on this game. And, Cassi is even more so now. I'm only hooked when I can play with Rob as a team. Cassi likes to play by herself. We have a game saved and she has her own.

We ended up not going to bed until 3:30 am (Cassi at 2am) and weren't up New Year's Day until almost noon. As soon as I got up, I was in the kitchen baking. We were going to Rob's friend's house in Nova, which is about an hour away. This is Wendy from work. Her and her husband, Allen, invited us to dinner at their place. They are so nice. I can't believe how far she lives and drives to Cleveland to go to work. She lives in Ashland County (Amish country). From my house it is about a 45-60 minute drive south west and we live 30-40 minutes from Downtown Cleveland. So, you can see why I say the distance.

The drive was slow as it was snowing and REALLY slow on the way back. Marie, DON'T BLAB TO DAD! You know how he is with bad weather and us driving in it. We were good. We had the station wagon that has been driving than the Focus because the center of gravity is lower to the ground. Although, we did see one nasty accident on the way home.

Yesterday, we also got up REALLY late. We went to Rob's school to pick up his books and had to go to JC Penney to exchange a clothing outfit. Rob's mother decides she's going to buy an outfit for Cassi for her birthday. We get it. It's too small. Not once has she called and asked what size does Cassi wear. Oh, yeah. That's right, she asked a year ago! Well, the last time I remember her asking, Cassi was wearing size 7 pants. She is now wearing a 10-12 pants. So, of course, the outfit doesn't fit.

She's Mini-Me! I'll post pics from the holiday concert she had in a few. She looks EXACTLY like me. And after we talk to her on the phone, she asks me what is Cassi's favorite color. Being that Cassi had red hair, what color. The outfit was brown, which isn't bad and actually looked nice on her. Her favorite colors are PINK and RED! So, the new outfit we got was red. OK. Now, I don't shop at JC Penney for ANY REASON. The price are OUTRAGEOUS! The tags were still on the original suit, which was good. Rob's mom said she paid 50% for the pieces. But, the jacket alone was $25 at full price. I still wouldn't have paid 50% of that price. But, we were able to make an exchange without any money exchanging hands. Good for us. Then, we left.

Ugh!

But, I'm in my last week before going back to school. I can't believe this is FINALLY it!

OK. I'm going to close for now.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

My Mom's Music...

For those of you who don't know, 70's musical artist, Dan Fogelberg passed away on December 16 this year. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and fans. He died from prostate cancer.

When I grew up, I enjoyed listening to my mom's music. For most kids, they consider it to be "uncool" to listen to the music their parents listened to. As I've always said, I'm weird. I really enjoyed listening to all the music, along with my music in the 80's.

I had 2 favorite songs from him, Leader of the Band and Same Old Lang Syne. Here are the lyrics to Leader of the Band. As a friend explained on his blog, this song is talking about Dan's father. I really enjoy his music. They have a meaning and the music is very nice. If you've never heard his music, you should try it. You might like it.

Leader of the Band

An only child alone and wild, a cabinet maker's son
His hands were meant for different work
And his heart was known to none
He left his home and went his lone and solitary way
And he gave to me a gift I know I never can repay
A quiet man of music denied a simpler fate
He tried to be a soldier once, but his music wouldn't wait
He earned his love through discipline-- a thundering, velvet hand
His gentle means of sculpting souls took me years to understand
(Chorus)
The leader of the band is tired and his eyes are growing old
But his blood runs through my instrument and his song is in my soul
My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man
I'm just a living legacy to the leader of the band

My brothers' lives were different for they heard another call
One went to Chicago and the other to St Paul
And I'm in Colorado when I'm not in some hotel
Living out this life I've chose and have come to know so well

I thank you for the music and your stories of the road
I thank you for the freedom when it came my time to go
I thank you for the kindness and the times when you got tough
And, papa, I don't think I said 'I love you' near enough
(Chorus)
I am a living legacy to the leader of the band

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

H.S. Foreign Language...

After 2 years of fighting with my transfer advisor (who by the way is no longer my advisor), graduation review had to pull my high school transcript from admissions & records to reveal I did indeed take 3 years of foreign language to enable me to graduate in May.

Duh!

I've been arguing that fact for 2 years now! But, it took one nice registrar to pull the information and prove what I've been saying. But, it also helped that I scanned and emailed my copy of the transcript for her to see it.

The problem was, I graduated high school in 1989. During that time, they didn't include socials with the transcript. So, being that I'm married now and using my married name, they couldn't put together the transcript with my college record.

So, when they degree my file in the spring, they'll use the paper application, with her updates. There's an online degree audit, but that doesn't have every piece from transferring, etc to show that I have everything to graduate, but it's all on paper.

Congratulate me. All I need are the grades in spring to graduate in May. And, I'll get a grade from my internship. So, again, the geeky overachiever is working toward 4 A's and another 4.0, which could allow me to graduate with a 3.75 GPA and possibly graduate with honors.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Today, I've already done:

1. took Cassi to school and picked up cell phone Dan lost last night at the holiday program (more on this to follow).
2. went to Wal-Mart and picked up colored undies for Rob from Cassi for Xmas, along with frosting for Cassi's bday cake. Also picked up lunch for Cassi and got gas for Rob.
3. frosted Cassi's bday cake for Xmas party.
4. took Cassi lunch and hung out.

To do:

1. Xmas parties at school.
2. Get Cassi ready and off to Pa's for the weekend (remember, I still need to have phone conference with Santa this weekend before Xmas).
3. Make couple dozen oatmeal raisin cookies for Rob to take to work.
4. Get Rob ready and off to work.
5. Wrap presents and call Santa.

That's it.

It's Official....

Well, by 11:30 pm last night, my grades had not been completely posted. Oh, the grant class submitted the grade almost 2 weeks ago. But nothing from Professor Chris or Professor Mary.

OK. Just checked. And the drumroll please.......

........................


Straight A's.

Yes, I knew that's what my grades were going to be, but until they are on "paper," you just have to hold your tongue.

So, my GPA for the semester is a 4.0 and my overall cumulative is a 3.66. Hmmm, I could graduate with a 3.75.

Cool!

Lots of love,

Cathy
8^ )

Gotta Vent... (and other things)

OK. This semester was REALLY good for me. Today, when we finished class, I got to chat with Professor Mary before leaving. We didn't have a final. She gave us 3 exams over the semester. And, to top it off, so we could spend more time in discussion of the topics for the class, she allowed us TAKE HOME exams. This last test, I completed on Tuesday. With my schedule, Tuesday morning was the best. And, that was good because it took me almost 4 hours to complete. It was a 5-question essay test.

But, as you may recall earlier, we also had a research paper and a book review. Well, for the book review, I got an A (shh! I didn't finish reading the book, but would love to take it out from my library and read it again!).

For the research paper, of course, being a RESEARCH paper, you are SUPPOSED to research information for your paper. Mary said this evening that 4 of my classmates didn't even research AT ALL! And, one person failed the research paper with a 48%.

Now, COME ON! This class was filled with upper level undergrads and grads. AND, the class was Composition Theory for English Teachers. How are these guys going to function in the real world, wanting to be ENGLISH Teachers, if they don't do the work themselves. Well, I did. Even though I might not have had enough information to begin with, I still got an A for my paper.

AND, I didn't take the class because I want to go be an English Teacher. Originally, it fit my schedule; Mary was teaching and wanted her for a professor again, and 3. if I decide to go back for my Secondary English Teaching Certificate, this class qualifies.

Oh, wait! I keep forgetting. This is a phrase that keeps bopping around when I talk with the secretary at Cassi's school. I'm RESPONSIBLE!

As I've told Mrs. Carey (at Cassi's school). Because I worked in an Audit firm, I learned how to be responsible and do what was necessary. (Although I was once told that I grew up too fast when I was 26 and that I lost my innocence! Well, that's what happens when you get a job and become a responsible adult!)

But, here's a good laugh for you! Yesterday, I actually had a Grammar final. Yep, an in-class, SUPPOSED TO BE, 2 hour final. I got there early. Last week, Professor Chris gave us an extra credit sheet. We had to diagram 12 sentences and had to be done 100% correct for each sentence or no credit. I could get up to 4 extra points ON MY FINAL GRADE! So, as I said, I arrived for the final early. The girl who sits next to me (damn! never got her name, but was always so nice) asked if I could look at her work. Well, damn! I forgot the subordinating clause in diagram 1. Great start for me! But, sentence #7 most people won't get. I got it right cause I checked when he came in because I opened the book and looked where the word AS would go in a diagram. He told us "OPEN BOOK" which meant, if you didn't know it, the entire book was there for us to use. That was the only sentence I had to use the book for and got the entire sheet done in 30 mins. But, I digress. He got there, and we were chatting about the exam. He said the exam was thicker than usual, but shouldn't take much longer than a regular exam. Again, we were able to use our notes. Everything but the book.

I opened my mouth and said, "So, Chris. This exam is worth 20% of our grade, right?"
Chris, "Yes."
Me, "So, if I was to walk out of the exam RIGHT NOW, I would still get a B, right?"
Chris, "Yep."

See, he knew me WELL as I'm the GEEK who sits in the front row and ALWAYS knows all the answers. Let me just say there were DISGRUNTLED classmates. They shouted they wanted to choke me. But, I think most of my classmates knew I was getting an A anyway. But, all I could do was laugh.

All in all, that exam went GREAT! I had to look up 1 thing. It was a definition and example. The last thing on the test, but I wanted to get the wording right for the exam.

And, I took 10 minutes longer than a regular test.

With that, I've got to go for the evening. I need to get up at 7am. Cassi and I are going walking at her school in the morning. They have a walking club Friday mornings. I was sick last week and couldn't go.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

P.S. That 4.0 for the semester is in site. My first A has been recorded, but only took my GPA so far up to 3.58. OK. So I'm a grade hog. Shoot me!

Spring Semester Will Be CRAZY!!!!!

Ok. This spring semester, I won't know if I'm coming or going until May 10 when I walk down the asile for commencement.

Not only will I be in school this spring, but Rob will also be starting school. He's starting back to school, to complete his RN license. He will be taking 2 classes, English Comp 2 (yep, I'll be helpin him on this one) and Introduction to Sociology (I'll probably be helping him on this one too).

The positive on this comes in the form of financial aid. When Rob filled out his fafsa, it said his expected contribution per year is 1895 because there will be 2 adults in school this year (yes, this year goes through summer semester). I turned around and updated my fafsa for 2 adults. After reviewing the updates, from my original submission yielded 31## for the family contribution, my contribution went down to 1892. Hmmmm? Could this mean more for the grants? Possibly. I figured with 2 adults in school the financial aid will go up. Also, because he'll be in school, his student loan that he has from the LPN schooling will be deferred until he his finished. And, he shouldn't be finished school until Summer 2009. But, he knows that he still has to be working. There's ABSOLUTELY no way he can take any time off.

Down the road, he'll become an RN and get a promotion at work. Whooo! Hooooo!

This week is pretty calm. Rob and I have eye doctor appointments tomorrow. Oooh! Don't forget to get all my glasses out for the appt. Cassi has an appointment on Tuesday. We've decided to get her just one pair this year and see how it goes. We can always get a second pair if needed.

I have my Grammar final on Wednesday. This past Friday, he gave us a take-home extra credit portion. However, unlike just giving points on the test, this extra credit is for extra points on the FINAL GRADE! How about that? I could actually average above a 100% for my final grade. It's done today. We had 12 sentences to diagram. They have to be done completely correct or no partial points. OK. I think I did them correctly.

My Grant class is completely done. I received a 98% on the class. This means that I aced the class.

My Composition Theory class? I've got a take-home test due on Thursday. Am I done yet? Heck no! Too many other good things going on for that yet. I'll do it Tuesday morning while Rob is sanding on the dining room table (refinishing the table that came with the house).

The good things, Marie came and visited. I just LOVE when she comes. Cassi is also so VERY excited. They had a good weekend together, skating, girl stuff, etc. Marie helped us out by grocery shopping for us. She was going to buy some clothes for me for my internship. I figured I could wait to get them until next month before I start the semester. We needed groceries first. So, my present was actually turned into a family gift.

MARIE ROCKS!

Cassi is ready for bed. We're going to try something new. Come 8pm every night, it doesn't matter what she is doing, everything gets turned off, tv, computer, ps2. She has to be showered and dressed for bed. Then, she can watch tv until 9 when the tv goes off. She enjoyed showering by herself tonight. She washed her body and hair, but needed help rinsing everything out of her hair. So, I think she did pretty well.

I worked on Rob's phone data. Since we both have the same phones, we're going to have the same data on both phones. Like yesterday, Rob didn't have his phone, but I did. If I'd had his data, he would have been able to use my phone to make a call. He ended up not being able to make a call until we got home. Oh, well! But, come tomorrow, we'll have the same information.

Now, I'm just be-bopping around the net. I've got one more load of laundry to wash. Tomorrow I'll fold everything that came upstairs. Before bed, I'll put on hangars what needs to go there.

OK. That's it for now. I want to be in bed by 10pm myself and up by 7am. Trying to setup an earlier schedule so I'm ready for spring semester (yes, I know that is over a month away).

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

P.S. If you got a Christmas card from us and expected a photo, I apologize. I was printing pics and doing cards at the same time. I forgot about the pics and started closing cards. So, I'll be sending them separately in another envelope.

Professional Networking Site...

Have you ever wanted to reconnect with past co-workers? Trying to get a new job and need connections. Look no further. After listening to a John Tesh radio show, I came across the following site:

LinkedIn

This is a professional site for people wanting to network with other professionals. Remember, as the old saying goes, it's not what you know but who you know.

I've been enjoying the site, finding past co-workers that I haven't spoken with in 10 years.

So, try the site. You might like it. You can also view my profile here:

Lots of love to everyone!

Cathy

8^ )

The Most Commented Blog Entry... (and Product Endorsement)

As of this posting, this post: http://mfrost.typepad.com/cute_overload/2007/11/lets-name-this.html has gotten

412 comments!

If you have never seen CuteOverload.com, you should try it. It's very calming and enjoyable. I go there almost every day. I don't comment much, but I love seeing the photos and videos and reading the comments.

And, yes, they use cutsie baby language! It works and people keep coming back in droves.

Why? Because of posts like the one shown above. Last night, when I saw it, there was almost 350 comments. So, over 50 since last night until now.

Well done, Meg!

CuteOverload.com

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Things...

Ok. It's after midnight on Wednesday night. I'm still up! Why?

1. Just finished editing and adding to my research paper. It is due at 3pm today (since it is now Thursday). Nothing like waiting until the LAST MINUTE to get this writing done. Well, I have always said that writing under pressure is the best way for me to write. I had all 4's and 5's on my writing as it was. You could really tell I had the flu when I was writing it with all the grammar errors.
2. I turned in my print versions of my grant proposal this evening. Yeah! I'm completely done with the class. It was EASY for me. I think it was equally as easy as my grammar analysis class. I'm such a GEEK (but cute). I just know I'm getting an A in this class.
3. I napped for about an hour this evening. With EVERYTHING I did today, I needed some rest time. When I got home from grant class, I immediately made dindin for us all, got Cassi to finish her homework, and had us be quiet. Rob worked tonight and needed a short nap before work.

Well, I FINALLY got approval of my internship. YEAH! The professor who will be my anchor professor told me (and you didn't hear it from me) that the department head is retiring this year and is taking his time approving anything. But, I sent my professor the information he needs to get that book ordered for me to buy through the bookstore. And, I have a meeting Monday with my supervisor of the internship. Can you believe that I'll get a grade for this internship? I just know I'll get an A. Hmmm? Is it too early to expect a 4.0 for spring semester. I could actually graduate with a 3.75 overall GPA.

OOOH!

But, yesterday, I got an interesting phone call. At the beginning of the month, there was a career fair at CSU. One of the employers there was Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). They are hiring. But, I've known from experience, they are only looking to hire people in this area who in school for accounting. My mom and dad are both employed here. But, because of the fact they use technology heavily in their jobs, they have a whole IT function.

So, when I was there, I stopped, as a last minute idea to the table. Talking with the recruiters, I explained how my mom and dad work at DFAS and I've got technology experience. They took my resume and said they would forward it to the technology recruiters as they were both accounting recruiters.

Yesterday, I received a phone call and email. The IT department is based in Columbus, with support to the Cleveland office. They wanted my current GPA and unofficial transcript.

Oh, but if I could get hired there... My last semester of school would get broken up into 2 semester, taking 2 classes each semester and pushing my grad date to fall 2008. But, I would be working too. And, yes, I would have daycare for Cassi in the morning before her schooling starts and in the afternoon. I would love this option to happen as I REALLY need to work. But, I don't want to think about it right now. I'll start to obsess.

And, if I stay with my original plan, I will have access to research EVERYTHING grants. I may be able to find foundations willing to give me money to pay back my student loan bills (and Rob's), along with funding for my business stuff. That would be nice.

With all this said, I'm finally starting to get tired. The next few days will be CRAZY. Later today, after we get up, I will be at Cassi's school til 12:30. This week, there is a book fair. I volunteered to help the kids pick books and things they want. Cassi got 3 books (plus a couple other things nI bought her for Christmas). Friday morning, we're walking in the school's walking club before school starts, then heading to our church to help pack food gift baskets, then off to school for my grammar exam. After the exam, I've just got my final.

I'll be tired come Friday afternoon.

Pray for me!

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

10 Things I Can't Live Without...

OK. From VegasPrincess (VP), my sister-by-proxy, who's home recovering from whatever she ate to make her sick, I'm following up with my list of

10 Things I Can't Live Without...

Anyhoo, my list of 10 (in no particular order):

1. My hubby Rob (oops, started to say Marie's Joe)
2. My CHILD Cassi (is she just one kid or a crowd?)
3. My family (including Marie and sister-by-proxy VP)
4. My computer (yep, I'm a geek, but cute!)
5. My cat (Dina, pronounced Deena)
6. My cell with text messaging (can't get enough, but only if you're IN)
7. Dr. Pepper (but only 1 can a day please)
8. My home
9. Notepads that are small enough to carry in my purse (to remind of me all the stuff I need to remember)
10. My car (because we live in the boonies - west burbs of Cleveland and need to drive to get ANYWHERE!)

OK. That's my 10. Typically, I don't get a chance to do tags when they come in email, but like to do them when I can. Not emailed but suggested by VP.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Numbers...

My daughter is OBSESSED with numbers. When she asks "when are we going to the store?" and I say "later" that isn't good enough. You can't tell her words like, later, soon, a few, etc.; words that aren't exact numbers, she gets mad.

She wants EXACT times, EXACT amounts, EXACT EXACT EXACT when it comes to numbers.

So, yesterday, dad called, letting me know Cassi was ready to come home. He would bring her home at 2.

"Pa! Not at 2, at 1:55!" she shouted.

Dad says to me that NO, we're not leaving at 2. We're leaving at 1:55 pm.

Next thing we know, they get here at 3pm. Cassi decided she was watching a TV show. At 1:55 pm, Pa says to her it's time to go.

"No, when this show's over. I'm watching it," she says. When that show was over she wanted to watch the next show.

We thought they stopped on the way. But, it's just hilarious how she's so obsessed with numbers.

Thought I'd share!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Wanting to Write...

Have you ever...

Done something?
Wanted to write about it on your blog?
Thought about it all the way home from where you were about what you wanted to say?
Got home?
And those thoughts left you?

That happened to me yesterday. I tried to boot up my laptop but had trouble with my internet connection. Rob played with it while I was at my last craft show and couldn't get hooked at home.

So, my WONDERFUL thoughts vanished. When I think of new ones, I'll write.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

The Paper (an Update)

As I thought, I just met with my professor about my paper. Besides having the flu while writing the paper, I felt there just wasn't enough "stuff" in the paper. My professor thought so too. But, she pointed me in the right direction for additional information.

While working with her this morning, I've got the notes on what needs to be added and where it should be added. I asked her if she wanted to see it before I turn in the final draft. Only if I want her to see it.

So, I'm going to try to work on it tomorrow. Even if I don't get her to see it, at least it will be done.

Otherwise, even though there's not enough "stuff" the five major components to the paper are 4's and 5's, dealing with focus, etc.

In my grammar class, I missed last Wednesday because I just needed that EXTRA day of rest after being sick. Definitely helped. But, while I was gone, the professor gave back our grammar exams from the Friday before. Even sick and the fact that I missed 2 days didn't drop my average. I figured if I was going to bomb a test from this class this would be it because I was sick and missed important class days.

I got a 95%. Only because 2 of the problems were stupid errors, plus I had a 1% point bonus from an exercise a few weeks back. Because this class deals with detailed analyization of grammar, we diagram out sentences as part of our process. There was this sentence that he told us if we got it right, we would get a bonus point for the exam.

Well, no one got it right but me, but because everyone tried, everyone got the point. Kinda made me feel crappy because I was the only person to get it right.

OK. That's about it for now. I'm feeling the need for a snack. And, I want to look at moving my car to my "good" parking lot before class. I've got class today and Wednesday. Off Tuesday.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

My Research Paper - Fears

OK. As I was just saying, tomorrow is my Composition Theory class. For tomorrow's class, I have to have completed my rough draft of my paper completed. The paper has to be 10 pages typed and double-spaced. I've got about four of those pages done. Plus, the inclusion of the cover, table of contents, works cited, and appendices.

Because I think and write segmented, I figured my best bet would be to write my paper segmented. And, as I thought, the paper is working out that way. I've been be-bopping around my paper, typing stuff where it belongs in the order.

Here's my fears. I've had this professor before. This is my professor from my Technical Writing class. Yep, if you're remembering, I had to do a segmented research paper there as well. So, my professor knows how well I can research and how well I can write. Because this paper deals with some topics that I'm not completely familar with, I feel that when she reads the paper, she might become disappointed. That disappointment will be because she knows how well I write and I don't think this paper will be as good. Yes, I understand each paper has its own differences, but I have a reputation to uphold.

But, also as I said, I've been sick since Thursday. Yesterday and today have been the worst of the days, the flu or at least a sinus infection. But, I feel like I'm getting better today.

As it stands, I've still got about 6 pages left to write for this paper.

Oh, wonder what I'm writing about? My question is: How do I teach writing to children with learning disabilities?

It's very close to my heart as my child has a learning disability. This LD gives her trouble in every aspect of her school life. As she grows older and goes into the higher grades, that trouble will continue. I want to be able to stay current with the teachers to be able to help her at home. I figured it was a good topic to write my research paper about.

And, my other classes? Grant class - 2 points less than acing the class, Grammar analysis - 94% on all tests.

Ok. Gonna go. I've got to start working on dinner as Rob will be going to work tonight at his part-time job.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

The Spring Schedule (And Books)

So, I've been able to register for everything but my internship. As it stands, I have to wait for final approval and a specific section to be created for me to register.

Here is what my schedule will look like in the spring:

Monday: Imaging Africa (non-western class for gen ed requirement) 4-6 pm
Tuesday: English Senior Survey (my only lit analysis since my first semester) 10am-noon
Magazine Writing 6-8 pm
Wednesday: Imaging Africa
Thursday: English Senior Survey and Magazine Writing

Now somewhere in between there, I have to come up with 10 hours a week for the internship. Plus, Cassi and Rob and the house and PTO,...............

As far as my books are considered, I've got the open-ended book scholarship. I've talked with my anchor professor regarding my internship. Basically, there is no book required for the internship. After explaining the scholarship to the professor and suggesting a book that would be good for me to have, he agreed we could get the book required through the bookstore. Once the spring semester starts, I'll be able to get the book with my scholarship.

Cool!

Ok. I'm sitting here with Cassi, helping her get her homework done (yep it's Monday night). I'm also trying to complete my research paper that's due tomorrow. ACK!

Wish me luck! I've been sick this weekend too. So, I slept for a while this evening while Cassi played on her computer and watched some TV.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Blonde Hair

This is a funny story. I had a craft show on the 3rd of November. A vendor from another table came over and saw my chore charts. She thought they were so adorable. But, she has 2 little girls, one girl with blonde hair and one girl with brunette hair. The chore chart I had was for a brunette-haired girl. She asked me if she purchased that one could I also alter the hair for a blonde.

Sure, why not? I'll give it a try and print it out. I saw her on the 10th at another craft show we were both doing.

So, while I was at the first show, I had my laptop and worked on the hair. Now, how do I come up with blonde hair? Rob happened to be around at the time and started looking through my photos for someone with blonde hair.

And, who did I find?

My old supervisor from Ernst & Young, Barb. I have a photo of her with Cassi at 5 years old. I copied pixels of her hair and pasted them into the chore chart. With manipulation of those pixels, I was able to come up with a blonde-haired little girl's chore chart.

She was so happy at the result. She told me how she talked to her girls about getting the chore charts. She said how they were excited to be able to start using them.

I'm glad too!

Just another way I can use photos for graphic manipulation!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

Even George Carlin Grows Up, Sort of...

Ok. This one is a forward from my mom. Real hilarious, but has some vulgarity. If you don't want to read, I would stop now.....


New Rule: No more gift registries. You know, it used to be just for weddings. Now it's for babies and new homes and graduations from rehab.
Picking out the stuff you want and having other people buy it for you isn't gift giving, it's the white people version of looting.

New Rule: Stop giving me that pop-up ad for classmates.com! There's a reason you don't talk to people for 25 years. Because you don't particularly like them! Besides, I already know what the captain of the football team is doing these days --- mowing my lawn.

New Rule: Don't eat anything that's served to you out a window unless you're a seagull. People are acting all shocked that a human finger was found in a bowl of Wendy's chili. Hey, it cost less than a dollar. What did you expect it to contain? Lobster?

New Rule: Stop saying that teenage boys who have sex with their hot, blonde teachers are permanently damaged. I have a better description for these kids: "Lucky bastards."

New Rule: If you need to shave and you still collect baseball cards, you're a dope. If you're a kid, the cards are keep sakes of your idols.
If you're a grown man, they're pictures of men.

New Rule: Ladies, leave your damn eyebrows alone. Here's how much men care about your eyebrows: Do you have two of them? Good, we're done.

New Rule: There's no such thing as flavored water. There's a whole aisle of this crap at the supermarket, water, but, without that watery taste.
Sorry, but flavored water is called a soft drink. You want flavored water? Pour some scotch over ice and let it melt. THAT'S your flavored water.

New Rule: Stop screwing with old people. Target is introducing a redesigned pill bottle that's square, with a bigger label. And the top is now the bottom. And by the time grandpa figures out how to open it,
his ass will be in the morgue. Congratulations, Target, you just
solved the Social Security crisis.

New Rule: The more complicated the Starbucks order, the bigger the asshole. If you walk into a Starbucks and order a 'decaf grandee, half-soy, half-low fat, iced vanilla, double-shot, gingerbread cappuccino, extra dry, light ice, with one Sweet-n'-Low, and One NutraSweet,' oooooooohhh, you're a huge asshole.

New Rule: I'm not the cashier! By the time I look up from sliding my
card, entering My PIN number, pressing 'Enter,' verifying the amount, deciding, 'No, I don't want Cash back', and pressing 'Enter' again, the kid who is supposed to be ringing me up is standing there eating my Almond Joy.

New Rule: Just because your tattoo has Chinese characters in it doesn't make you Spiritual. It's right above the crack of your ass. And it translates to 'beef with broccoli.' The last time you did anything spiritual, you were praying to God you weren't pregnant. You're not spiritual. You're just high.

New Rule: Competitive eating isn't a sport. It's one of the seven deadly sins. ESPN Recently televised the U.S. Open of Competitive Eating, because watching those athletes at the poker table was just too damned exciting. What's next, competitive farting? Oh wait, they're already doing that. It's called 'The Howard Stern Show.'

New Rule: I don't need a bigger mega M&Ms. If I'm extra hungry for M&Ms, I'll go nuts and eat two.

New Rule: If you're going to insist on making movies based on crappy old television shows, then you have to give everyone in the Cineplex a remote so we can see what's playing on the other screens. Let's remember the reason something was a television show in the first place is that the idea wasn't good enough to be a movie.

New Rule: And this one is long overdue: No more bathroom attendants.
After I zip up, some guy is offering me a towel and a mint like I just had sex with George Michael. I can't even tell If he's supposed to be there, or just some freak with a fetish. I don't want to be on your webcam, Dude. I just want to wash my hands.

New Rule: When I ask how old your toddler is, I don't need to hear '27 months.' 'He's two' will do just fine. He's not a cheese. And I didn't really care in the first place.

New Rule: If you ever hope to be a credible adult and want a job that pays better than Minimum wage, then for God's sake don't pierce or tattoo every available piece of flesh. If so, then plan your future around saying, 'Do you want fries with that?'



This last rule is PERFECT! I am very old-fashioned and once worked in the corporate world. They DO NOT want to see that you're pierced or tattooed. If you have a tattoo, that's your business, but make sure it can be hidden!

That is all.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

The Halloween Picture

It's a little blurry because this comes from my cell phone. She REALLY had a good time. I had someone explain to me that she looked like the snow queen from The Chronicles of Narnia movie. That sounds good to me.

But, I promised. So, here she is!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

The Halloween Experience...

So, Marie got suckered into buying Cassi ANOTHER halloween costume. However, we were in luck. NO ONE else in the neighborhood was dressed like Cassi. She was dressed like a snow princess. PROMISE, I will post pictures. They're on my camera that isn't easy to access through the laptop, which is where I'm typing this. The other costume she would have worn was a witch costume. And, there were LOTS of witches.

The temperature was pretty nice. The change of the "time change" came at a good time. If we had turned the clocks back last weekend, it would have been dark when we went out. But, because the time change is this Saturday, we had almost an hour of light for walking. We didn't start using the flashlight until about 7pm. Trick or Treating ran from 6-7:30 pm. Because Rob had to work tonight, we didn't give any candy out. To tell you the truth, we haven't given out candy here at all. Because we've either gone as a group or Rob's worked, no one has been home.

This year has been the worst for people giving. I think it will only get worse. It doesn't help that the economy SUCKS. Ok. Not going there on this one right now.

But, we probably walked about 2 miles, 3 streets worth, each street about 3 blocks each.

A funny thing happened. One of the girls from my grammar class ran into us about half way through. Come to find out that she lives in the apartment complex right behind my housing development. COOL! Since we both didn't go to class today, we're getting together to study for the next test. She has a little one. Really cute. Her name is Lilly. Cassi and Lilly hugged. Cassi immediately asked if they could come over to play. Well, I've got a friend who lives near by now and a friend for Cassi to play with. We can even walk over to their house too.

Cassi is in bed now, watching some TV before bed. The candy and stuff was good. Daddy told her to make sure she got lots of candy for him. Since he's been working on quitting smoking, he has been eating, AND EATING, AND EATING! We've got candy bars from last Easter, but they're almost gone now.

Some of the weird stuff Cassi got? A juice box. A small container of PlayDough. Other than that, the usual. She did get the opportunity to stop at our neighbor's across the street 3 (yes, three) times. At the end, she says, "Nah, I don't need to go there. I went there twice already." You could see her think. She says, "Yeah. I'll go again." It was fine with them. They are very fond of Cassi. The couple's daughter/husband/grandson had to move in with them (husband lost job). But, the grandson is getting so big. It's fun to see the area toddlers getting bigger without actually having to have one in the house. About a month or so ago, I had a long conversation with Rob through the text messaging about this little boy. He's getting so big. He thought I was oohing and ahhing because I wanted another kid. NOPE! My pregnancy with Cassi was more than I could handle again. I'll live through everyone else.

But, I'm sitting here right now, watching and recording Ghost Hunters. Say what you will of SciFi Channel, but I LOVE this show. It's a live show at the Waverly Sanitorium. At this site, more than 63,000 people have died. The show will run until 3am. No, I'm not going to stay up until 3. But, it's recording. I'll be able to watch it at leisure.

On the other fronts, this next month will be HELL for me. Here's a quick run down:

1. Research paper in the composition theory class due on the 13th (finishing research to write first draft).
2. Book review due in same class (done). Yeah!
3. The final 2 writing pieces due for my grant class the next 2 wednesday's. Then, all of the individual pieces put together for a final proposal.
4. Two grammar exams over the same time period.
5. Three craft shows. I'm at the St. John Lutheran Church on West River Road in Elyria this Saturday from 9-4. I'm at Elryia Catholic High School on Saturday, Nov. 10 from 9-4. Finally, Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend, I'm at Cornerstone Methodist Church up West River Road. Hopefully I do well at these shows.

House, Cassi, schedule, etc.

Good news. This Friday is a Career Fair at CSU. There currently is 185 employers registered for the fair. As soon as I drop Cassi off at school, I'll be going to the fair. It would be nice to interview with a few companies for a job in May.

Plus, for now, I received an email today, offering me a job as a tutor. Sounded like a good opportunity. I applied for it. Would come in nice right now. We'll see how it goes.

OK. That's it for now. I wanted to update everyone. My online store is moving now. I'm getting as many items uploaded as I can. And, today, we had our first prospective customer to register.

I'll chat again after I have my craft show Saturday.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

The Craft Show Experience...

OK. So today went pretty well. I flew out to the place last night to drop off my stuff at the spot. Come to find out at 6:30 that the placed closed to drop off and setup at 6.

Ack!

But, luckily, one of the coordinators was still there. She let me drop stuff off, because I wasn't setting up til this morning.

And, it was a good thing I didn't setup.

Come to find out at 6:30 this morning....

I was in the WRONG spot. Okay. Gotta rush, get dressed, get din din started for tonight, get the last small things in the car and go.

Now, where's that letter I just found with my CORRECT space number? Go to the car, not there. Go back in the house, TWICE. Can't find it. Turn lights on. OK. Found it. Right where I was to begin with. At the kitchen sink.

Fly to show! Grab stuff and move to correct space.

BIATCH! Sucky spot...

As I thought. But, I was right near the bakery. The show was pretty busy all day, till about 3.

So, how did I do? Not too bad. Tuesday this week, I quickly put togther coloring books that could be bought by people with kids, or those people who know kids. They ended up, in conversation, that they were the perfect size for traveling. They are 5.5" by 8.5" sized books and bound.

I made 12 at the last minute to see how they would do.

THEY SOLD OUT!

So, I know what to make extra of for the next show.

The tea bag envelopes sold. I call them my "different" gifts. Luch box notes sold, book marks, and magnets also sold.

The lady next to me, come to find out, has started making sterling silver wire jewelry and uses gem stones and things of that sort. I happened to have a ruler in my purse from my grandpa's shop. He makes and repairs jewelry and also has silver wire and stuff, like she uses. I referred her to him for supplies.

She had a little girl there, age 5. She was SO good over the course of the day. I just know Cassi would have been bored out of her mind. I gave her one of my chore charts. I got some stickers. I put the stickers on my name tag.

A few people asked about designing tea bag envelopes and business cards. A few people I knew came by. One teacher from Cassi's school came by and said I should box up some of the stuff and leave it in the teacher's lounge for them to buy. I think I will.

I came out pretty well. I know I would have done better in another part of the school. The show is HUGE! About 200 vendors. But, a lot of the spaces were empty. I could have gone into another space easily and have more room.

I made back what I paid for the spot and some more. But, today was sweetest day. I did spend some money. Bought: baguette bread for din din, a pumpkin pie, a sandwich for lunch, chocolate covered strawberries, and a baby blanket (so mom doesn't have to make one for me for a gift).

Not a bad day. I know what few things I do have to make for my next show in 2 weeks, Christmas tea bag envelopes, business cards, and coloring books.

I did pick a sampling of all my goodies to send as a gift to a friend. I hope she'll like them when she gets them.

Ok. That's it for now. I've got a headache, am doing dishes and laundry tonight.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

The Good News is...

...

"Lisa and I (Tina) were able to hook up late yesterday afternoon and we are happy to offer the internship to you. It will comprise a position of 10 hours per week unpaid. The job description which I gave you in the interview (and which is attached here) is pretty much what you will be doing. Lisa and I hope to be able to offer you an opportunity to work on actual grant applications so that you have real experience developing one. In addition, I am going to involve you in the monthly production of Research News as well as other Pre-Awards projects, so that by the time you leave your internship, you should have a fairly full understanding of the grantwriter's world.

Please let us know, once you have everything nailed down, when you will be able to start and what hours work for you.

Welcome to Office of Sponsored Programs and Research. We are happy to have you with us."


What this means to me? I get my internship.

And the Bad News... The one class I need that would handle, general education requirement/ English upper level requirement/overall upper level requirement...

Isn't being taught next semester. Instead of being able to take just 10 credit hours, I will have to take 14 credit hours. The one class I have to take now becomes 2 (two). But, on the bright side, one class I took last spring, Advanced Composition, has another concentration of Magazine Writing that I'm confirming to be able to take in the spring.

I haven't even registered for my classes yet, and I'm already seeing the classes as being a BITCH!

So, my schedule?

M-W-F from 12:15 to 1:20 is a Non-Western gen ed class
T-Th from 10-12 is my English Senior Survey
T-Th from 6-8 is my Magazine Writing class

T-Th from 1-5 will be internship, then make up of 2-4 extra hours some time during the week. The bonus with the Magazine Writing class is that, once finished, I will have News Writing, Magazine Writing, Technical Writing, and Grant Writing school-related experience.

Whoo! Hoo!

Okay. Gotta go. Wanted to write REAL quick. I'm finishing up my craft items for my Craft Show this Saturday.

By the way, if you're reading this and in the Cleveland, OH area, I'll be showing my "stuff" at the Lorain County JVS. The show is located at the JVS at Rts. 58 and 20 in Oberlin, OH. The show runs from 9-4. If you're in the area/state, come visit!

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

EXCITEMENT over phone message...

Okay. It's after midnight on Wednesday night, here in chilly Cleveland-area (in Elyria).

I'm wide-butt awake. Why you might wonder?

Well, first, I got a 90% on my last test in Grammar class. Not the grade I was expecting, but I didn't really study for it. I'll do better on next week's test. Tomorrow I get my second take-home test for Mary. I know by Tuesday everyone will want to evacuate the premises over my rants.

I had an interview this morning regarding an English internship for spring semester. I would be working with the woman who helps professors write grants for research money. I will also work with the university's grant writer. I will learn from them how to work with the constituents (my clients) and get grants written. I might even be able to help write specific portions of grants. After submitting the internship requirements to my advisor, he thinks it will be approved once I get my "we want you" call or email from the department.

But, my final reason for staying up? I got a call from someone looking for a professional to print envelopes for an affair they are having. I won't get into too many details now. But, it's a job for 1000 envelopes. (I can do!) The person doesn't remember me, but I interviewed with him for a job a few years ago. Hmmm? I wonder how this will play out. Initially, I don't think I'll tell him who I am. Since that interview, I moved to a new location. So, he may not have recognized me.

But, I've got my font samples ready. And, because he's in Cleveland, I can drop off samples right to his office.

So, I was going to bake apple bread this evening. We juiced apples on Sunday (homemade apple cider). Because of this call, I canned my wanting to bake. I'll bake in the morning instead. I've got an audiologist's appt (hearing aid doctor). But, I should have them ready in time because I want to take a bread to my doctor.

Ok. I'm going to close this now.

I've been reading my usual blogs. Everyone seems "blah" when it comes to blogging. Everyone has their down time. Remember, the seasons are changing right now. Your priorities might not be to "blog" right now. You might just not have the desire to write.

When the thoughts come, even if you're writing what you want to write in a notebook, that's great. You can then come back to your thoughts later on the blog - or not. Your blog is your own. Make of it what you will. Your friends will understand if you've been gone for a while. They will welcome you with open arms when you return.

Shew! I just got a lot off my chest.

With that, I'm be-bopping around the net until I get tired enough to go to bed. The next month will be HELL: (just my to-do's)

1. 4 craft shows in the next month (until turkey-day weekend)
2. 1 book review
3. 1 research paper (How do I teach writing to children with learning disabilities?)
4. 1 grant
5. proposal for spring internship
6. tests!
7. envelope job (if they want me)

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

New Template

Okay. Just made a new template. Hope everyone likes it. I wanted something that says "fall" but will last until after Thanksgiving. Not that I didn't like my American Pride, but it was time for a change.

Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )

New Link on Left Navigation

Ok. If I didn't have enough to do. Some of you know that I sell Watkins Products. For those of you who don't know what Watkins Corporation is, the company is THE first direct-selling business. Rob and I have been selling and using the products 4 years now. In the past, I sold Tupperware. Believe me, this has been the best business to be in. Because the products are consumable, the customer will be back for more.

Ok. With that said, I've added a link on the left navigation under my blogs. I will be adding information as much as possible to get the word out about Watkins Products. This is holiday time and baking galore is going on.

Everyone should at least try the products. Let me know if you want a catalog and I can mail one to you. Also, you can view the products online at the company's Web site: www.watkinsonline.com.

My only request is that if you look to order anything, they will ask you who sent you to their site. Our associate number is 342297. You'll be setup with a customer ID (like my associate ID). Your order will be credited to us as your associates.

Lots of love for now. I'm working on continuing to post my tea bag envelopes on my Cathy's Bargains Web site. Take a look now! I've got lots of products out there for sale and more being added daily. Yep, I'm working on the Web site, along with my school, Cassi's school, etc.

And the beat goes on!

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )

Congratulate Me!

So far, this semester, I am getting A's in all THREE (3) of my classes. I wasn't sure if I would be able to pull it off, but I have.

Now, this does come with a price. I think I've had a stomach flu this week.

This plus:

1. Helping Cassi make sure her homework is done EVERY night.
2. Running the PTO, which, by the way, is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization (yep, I'm runnin' a business)
3. Getting my Products together for my fall craft shows (yep, I'm runnin' a business)
4. Keeping our schedules sane
5. Keeping our house SANE
6. Having fun time with the kid and hubby
7. My fall tv watching schedule

Now, you might wonder when I sleep with all this stuff? A good example, when I get done on the computer, I will complete #5 and #7 at the same time. I'll go to the bedroom, fold the laundry and watch my DVR'd TV shows, while at the same time, starting a load of laundry to be washed. In the morning, while I'm getting Cassi ready for school, I'll unload the dishwasher and load it for another washing.

But, for those of you wondering, Cassi is doing MUCH better at school. We had a rough month at school. Marie, the GODDESS that she is, gives Cassi a dollar each day she's good at school. While Cassi could have had 19 dollars, she will only get 13. Six of those days she was bad and got warnings. One day, it really wasn't her fault. The boys in class cut in front of her in line when going to lunch. Instead of telling the teacher, she took matters into her own hands and whacked them on the ass with her lunchbox. Bad. The other days, she talked with her deskmate too much. That problem has since been alleviated. The other girl was moved to another desk. But, so far, she's 4-4 this week. I told her if she's good all month, mom and dad will give her a bonus. So, we'll see.

With that, I'll close for now. I've got TV and laundry to do.

Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )