Sunday, September 14, 2008
a double major??? college diaries 3 Category: Life
Wow,...............so off the phone with my son, and he tells his papa he is thinking of trying to test out of two classes and take up another major. Did I miss something? I mean, proud as I am, yeah, I missed something!
"Hold up,..take this stuff in stride", is what I wanna say. But I did tell him to dream big and go for it, now didn't I?
And with $2 to his name,....ha, ha, ha,....hack!,...ha, ha, ha,.. *worried,..... he is definitely living. He's got his savings, university debit card,....and other reserves, so technically he's still in really good standing. The whole $2 in his wallet just kills me. Good thing we paid for him to eat 24/7 in the university cafeteria. BTW, their food is pretty good. I know, because we ate there on both trips to ERAU, and had too many choices of all you can eat entrees, that sadly, made me realize my son would not be missing my homecooking right away.
Tonight was "Anime Club" nite with an anime film marathon of some sort. Needless to say, he is in a happy space with others that are a lot like himself.
*pondering,...........................I asked him, jokingly, if I was suffocating him and if I was bugging him to keep in touch. He responded with "No, you're being good. I've got space." Good. Like I told him, I love to hear from him, even if its only for 5 min. or one line of text. I just need to know he's fine, happy, and doing well. Bugging and suffocating him, I definitely don't want to do. So for now, I guess I'm good. Whew!.................................like it matters! LOL
Anyhow, just researched some flights for xmas. I don't think its too early to check how much it will be as well as availability. Do you?
And back to that double major? Hmmmm,...it seems as though designing spaceships may be something he wants to do instead.......................
Currently listening : Warning By Green Day Release date: 2000-10-03
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
college diaries 2
This whole new side of parenting is really something. I mean, one minute, they depend on you, the next the need you,..... then they go to "I really am fine without you being by my side every waking moment of the day,....but stay close"..........to "Huh? Email? Snail mail? Uh, I've got ping pong to play, and trekking around town to do." Duh. Yeah, YOU left me at DUH!
I really have no complaints. This whole "letting go business" has either eluded me or just didn't happen like everyone warned me about. No crying episodes,..........yet. Only have sent cookies once. I try to send him something via "snail mail" so he has something to look forward to and open. I've been in touch with my college student as much as possible without suffocating him. See, the deal with that is simply this; give him enough space and hopefully he will want to keep in contact on his own terms because he wants to, misses all of us,....is a GOOD SON,...yadda yadda yadda. And if all else fails, I work with two sets of slippers, and ain't afraid to use 'em! *rethinking all of this,..............to myself, I think "Damnit! I better have raised a good son! And good kids for that matter!" LOL....................but yeah,....I really hope I have.
Reading his blog keeps me in touch with his young self. Its amazing that everything concerning him now is not contained into one lumped conversation starting with "How was your day at school today?" And if I'm lucky, I get to focus in on what he has to say at that point, but really, with 4 in your crew, everyone is fighting to get something in, making conversation feeling like your in a room full of stockbrokers. "Say what? No, really I was listening but Jo hurt his knee, Ash didn't do well on a test, and that boy said what? to you?,... and when is that money due again? Just tell me again please, and now everyone,....please be quiet so I can get all of this." In fact, our conversations (Gigi and mine) are like piecing together an interesting puzzle, that never really gets solved. I gather info from cell phone conversations, texting, home phone calls, actual "snail mail", email,....facebook.... his blog,... and in the future, maybe his friends. His brother is usually first in finding out info since they text back and forth everyday. I love that. I know he misses his big brother a lot, and knowing they're in touch makes everyone feel like there's still "4" when infact there are now "3". All in all, keeping in touch is okay right now. I do wish there was more going on, but that's not what's supposed to be happening right now. And I'm okay with it.
And talk about adventures! He's had a few already! And thank goodness, its not much to worry about...................yet! Well, I sure hope not. I mean, the trek downhill by bike going 40mph+ in the dark on the highway made me nervous, but he's fine. And he had a wild time experiencing it. Sure, I would have told him, "I rather you wouldn't. And If you do, please go SLOW, and remember, it only takes on little blip on the highway for you to either get hit, face plant and break your face, or drop of the side of that there mountain." But never got the chance. And he knew this would come out of my mouth. And I know he thought about it. But again, he was fine. *whew!,............thank you, God............
Every day, I check email, text, voice mess, mailbox,.... and hope I hear something. I'm extremely proud and happy when I do, and okay when I don't "hear" anything. He's living. And every nite,...well...until just recently, I text him with "good nite". But I think it and pray every nite as I go into his brothers and sister's rooms. That's something that will never change.
hmmmmmmmmm....its almost time for dinner and then relaxing with the crew before bed. Its Friday nite, and I really doubt I'll hear from him tonight. That's okay. There's always Sunday. Can't wait to "hear" what he's up to now. But for me, now, its time to spend it with the crew. Two of them are in the "I'm fine without you, but stay close phase"... and one is still "I need you just to see how goofy I really am".................I love that latter stage!
I really have no complaints. This whole "letting go business" has either eluded me or just didn't happen like everyone warned me about. No crying episodes,..........yet. Only have sent cookies once. I try to send him something via "snail mail" so he has something to look forward to and open. I've been in touch with my college student as much as possible without suffocating him. See, the deal with that is simply this; give him enough space and hopefully he will want to keep in contact on his own terms because he wants to, misses all of us,....is a GOOD SON,...yadda yadda yadda. And if all else fails, I work with two sets of slippers, and ain't afraid to use 'em! *rethinking all of this,..............to myself, I think "Damnit! I better have raised a good son! And good kids for that matter!" LOL....................but yeah,....I really hope I have.
Reading his blog keeps me in touch with his young self. Its amazing that everything concerning him now is not contained into one lumped conversation starting with "How was your day at school today?" And if I'm lucky, I get to focus in on what he has to say at that point, but really, with 4 in your crew, everyone is fighting to get something in, making conversation feeling like your in a room full of stockbrokers. "Say what? No, really I was listening but Jo hurt his knee, Ash didn't do well on a test, and that boy said what? to you?,... and when is that money due again? Just tell me again please, and now everyone,....please be quiet so I can get all of this." In fact, our conversations (Gigi and mine) are like piecing together an interesting puzzle, that never really gets solved. I gather info from cell phone conversations, texting, home phone calls, actual "snail mail", email,....facebook.... his blog,... and in the future, maybe his friends. His brother is usually first in finding out info since they text back and forth everyday. I love that. I know he misses his big brother a lot, and knowing they're in touch makes everyone feel like there's still "4" when infact there are now "3". All in all, keeping in touch is okay right now. I do wish there was more going on, but that's not what's supposed to be happening right now. And I'm okay with it.
And talk about adventures! He's had a few already! And thank goodness, its not much to worry about...................yet! Well, I sure hope not. I mean, the trek downhill by bike going 40mph+ in the dark on the highway made me nervous, but he's fine. And he had a wild time experiencing it. Sure, I would have told him, "I rather you wouldn't. And If you do, please go SLOW, and remember, it only takes on little blip on the highway for you to either get hit, face plant and break your face, or drop of the side of that there mountain." But never got the chance. And he knew this would come out of my mouth. And I know he thought about it. But again, he was fine. *whew!,............thank you, God............
Every day, I check email, text, voice mess, mailbox,.... and hope I hear something. I'm extremely proud and happy when I do, and okay when I don't "hear" anything. He's living. And every nite,...well...until just recently, I text him with "good nite". But I think it and pray every nite as I go into his brothers and sister's rooms. That's something that will never change.
hmmmmmmmmm....its almost time for dinner and then relaxing with the crew before bed. Its Friday nite, and I really doubt I'll hear from him tonight. That's okay. There's always Sunday. Can't wait to "hear" what he's up to now. But for me, now, its time to spend it with the crew. Two of them are in the "I'm fine without you, but stay close phase"... and one is still "I need you just to see how goofy I really am".................I love that latter stage!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
college weekend
Saturday, August 30, 2008
the college diaries... Category: Life
And so? It has been a week since we said "See you soon" to the oldest of my crew. He was officially on his own and would officially become a college student that following Monday. In some ways its hard to express what I am feeling, and yet, when given the opportunity, the words and thoughts are fused together following with great eloquence. duh...who am i kidding,....
This has been a hallmark year of many. Seems as though every year is because there is always something new, some new adventure, some new hardship, ...always something. But this year, I'd have to say was different in many ways. Not only for me, not only for my son, but also for my family.
James is the oldest of four and is the first to trek outta state for university. A proud moment, indeed. And with it, comes expectations. Most of those expectations should just be thrown out the window so he can just live and experience his next chapter in life. Some of those expectations won't matter in a little while, but some will hold dear, as they should. He should know, that no matter what, I'm already more proud than I can possibly express.
My crew had no idea what to expect with his college trip coming up. Of course, they new that money would be spent, and not at all on them. They knew that tempers would be short and time would fly by. They walked on tip toes around me, waiting for me to burst into tears at the mere thought of one of my "ducks" gone.....................which never really happened. But what they did not know and did not really expect was how much they would miss him as well. They did not know how close knit we really were until this past week. Wait till the year really starts. They did not realize the expectations and the worth of all his and all of our (as a family) hard work. It gave my crew something more about family values, expectations, their own expectations, and a start at trying to understand an important life lesson not to be written but by themselves alone.
I do miss him.
The first nite there, he stayed with us in the hotel room cramped with anticipation for registration and orientation the following day. After breakfast, the whole crew trekked out to the university to start our busy day with other anxious freshman and parents. I have to say, the day went very smoothly. No big issues, everything was in order and very easy to understand. Over all, people were friendly, helpful, and excited for all the new incoming students. I'll tell you, it did my heart good knowing I was leaving my son in a good place with great people.
The rest of the day was spent agonizing over what to buy, what he needed, where to shop, and thinking about "good-byes". Thank goodness the area had every store imaginable within a 5mile radius that we were familiar with! Hello! Target!!!! But alas,..the husband and crew found Walmart.....gggrrrrrrr! Shopping ensued,............arguments followed with silent frustration towards the middle of the whole darn shopping trip....................so glad its over! The result was over $300 and James was ready to finish moving into his dorm room. BTW, the shower tote is mighty handy....
Back to the dorm, make the bed, put things away, miss his roommate once again,...... find a spot for "Chuck Norris",..... and well, off to dinner! He ended up spending his first nite there, in the dorm. When we dropped him off after 9pm, he woke his roommate up and ended up spending the rest of the evening getting to know him. I hear it was "good times". They seem to get along really well. *thanx....................
The next morning, Friday, was spent trying to tie up any loose ends, and I'll tell you,...you could already see in his face the excitement of being on campus, meeting people, and "I'm ready for you to go,now". *sniff But I couldn't even shed a tear here, because he was happy! And I was so damn happy and excited for him as well.
When we finally did show up on Saturday morning for our farewells, it was a different story. He did admit to being a little "lost and lonely" the nite before at the social but it was short lived because people found him and they all got along really well. I told him to expect it, and know that it may happen from time to time. But, all he has to do is call, text, write, email...... I'm here,.............we're all here for him. He admitted also that he was growing tired of farewells, and that he just didn't want to go through them again. Not because he'd miss us right away. I think its because he didn't know exactly how to react and what to say. This is new for him. First time away by himself for an long expected stay. He chatted about some goals he thought of after talking with many other students. He talked of doing so much that would take him away even further. Summer vacations in Havasu with the family and upcoming graduations of his siblings were on his mind, because his plans might make it difficult for him to be there. I told him, "Take everything in stride. I'm glad you are thinking ahead and making plans. We had a great family vacation before college, and we'll have more. If you can't make it, we'll see you another time. It'll be okay. As far as graduation? One day at a time. You know family is very important to me, and I've raised all of you in that manner. We will figure it out when the time comes. But you need to live now. Go after your dreams, and dream big. You only have so many opportunities to what you'll be able to do here. So go after them and do them now. Don't wait. And if you have to choose over making a middle school graduation or a high school one, try for the latter. And hopefully, it'll all work out. We're here for you. Just don't stay away too long and definitely keep in touch. Family is important. Remember that." *thinking,...........
And so,...............the time came. We walked outside and of course, I started singing to him. I started singing "My Hometown" by Bowling For Soup. Weird choice? Maybe. But the idea is what I wanted him to "get". You see, he is "getting out of our hometown". And that is what I wanted for him. I wanted him to see it, dream it and do it. You get a different perspective when you leave home. You grow up.
This song made him laugh. It'll definitely be a better memory than all of us breaking down crying. All of us took turns hugging him and saying many different things. What surprised me most was Papa's show of emotion. He sure is proud of his first born. He truly is going to miss him. His crew just hugged and tried to make light of the situation,...I think for him,............and for me. Then, it was "Leaving On A Jet Plane" by Justin, my turn. I hugged him forever,..I really tried. I told him ,....."dont' loose sight of who you truly are"................I just can't repeat right now....anyhow..................and then I prayed with him, in my mind, for peace, for him to continue on a good path, to seek his dreams,...to never forget himself, his true self, and never forget where he came from,..to be proud.........I asked God to take care of him, because with His help,................I've been blessed to have him, love him, raise him, teach him, laugh with him, enjoy him,...cry with him,..... learn from him...so much,.............and now he's in His hands. He always has been. All of them. But I was able to be a big part of all of that; with him and his siblings. No regrets. And I'm not totally letting go. I am still holding on and taking my place along side of him. I'll still be here, but its his turn to grow and learn some of what life has to offer on his own. I can't wait to hear his adventures and where his dreams will take him. A parent I will be always,..... but I want to be able to give him space, without totally letting go. Make sense?
After prayer, after more hugs and some tears........"Not goodbye. Just 'We'll see you real soon'. Love you sooooo much. And really going to miss you"*take your vitamins,... do laundry...... drink water,......
Did you know that he watched our car, all of us, leave campus until he possibly couldn't? I know. Cuz I was watching too.
Currently listening : A Hangover You Don't Deserve By Bowling for Soup Release date: 2004-09-14
the college diaries... Category: Life
And so? It has been a week since we said "See you soon" to the oldest of my crew. He was officially on his own and would officially become a college student that following Monday. In some ways its hard to express what I am feeling, and yet, when given the opportunity, the words and thoughts are fused together following with great eloquence. duh...who am i kidding,....
This has been a hallmark year of many. Seems as though every year is because there is always something new, some new adventure, some new hardship, ...always something. But this year, I'd have to say was different in many ways. Not only for me, not only for my son, but also for my family.
James is the oldest of four and is the first to trek outta state for university. A proud moment, indeed. And with it, comes expectations. Most of those expectations should just be thrown out the window so he can just live and experience his next chapter in life. Some of those expectations won't matter in a little while, but some will hold dear, as they should. He should know, that no matter what, I'm already more proud than I can possibly express.
My crew had no idea what to expect with his college trip coming up. Of course, they new that money would be spent, and not at all on them. They knew that tempers would be short and time would fly by. They walked on tip toes around me, waiting for me to burst into tears at the mere thought of one of my "ducks" gone.....................which never really happened. But what they did not know and did not really expect was how much they would miss him as well. They did not know how close knit we really were until this past week. Wait till the year really starts. They did not realize the expectations and the worth of all his and all of our (as a family) hard work. It gave my crew something more about family values, expectations, their own expectations, and a start at trying to understand an important life lesson not to be written but by themselves alone.
I do miss him.
The first nite there, he stayed with us in the hotel room cramped with anticipation for registration and orientation the following day. After breakfast, the whole crew trekked out to the university to start our busy day with other anxious freshman and parents. I have to say, the day went very smoothly. No big issues, everything was in order and very easy to understand. Over all, people were friendly, helpful, and excited for all the new incoming students. I'll tell you, it did my heart good knowing I was leaving my son in a good place with great people.
The rest of the day was spent agonizing over what to buy, what he needed, where to shop, and thinking about "good-byes". Thank goodness the area had every store imaginable within a 5mile radius that we were familiar with! Hello! Target!!!! But alas,..the husband and crew found Walmart.....gggrrrrrrr! Shopping ensued,............arguments followed with silent frustration towards the middle of the whole darn shopping trip....................so glad its over! The result was over $300 and James was ready to finish moving into his dorm room. BTW, the shower tote is mighty handy....
Back to the dorm, make the bed, put things away, miss his roommate once again,...... find a spot for "Chuck Norris",..... and well, off to dinner! He ended up spending his first nite there, in the dorm. When we dropped him off after 9pm, he woke his roommate up and ended up spending the rest of the evening getting to know him. I hear it was "good times". They seem to get along really well. *thanx....................
The next morning, Friday, was spent trying to tie up any loose ends, and I'll tell you,...you could already see in his face the excitement of being on campus, meeting people, and "I'm ready for you to go,now". *sniff But I couldn't even shed a tear here, because he was happy! And I was so damn happy and excited for him as well.
When we finally did show up on Saturday morning for our farewells, it was a different story. He did admit to being a little "lost and lonely" the nite before at the social but it was short lived because people found him and they all got along really well. I told him to expect it, and know that it may happen from time to time. But, all he has to do is call, text, write, email...... I'm here,.............we're all here for him. He admitted also that he was growing tired of farewells, and that he just didn't want to go through them again. Not because he'd miss us right away. I think its because he didn't know exactly how to react and what to say. This is new for him. First time away by himself for an long expected stay. He chatted about some goals he thought of after talking with many other students. He talked of doing so much that would take him away even further. Summer vacations in Havasu with the family and upcoming graduations of his siblings were on his mind, because his plans might make it difficult for him to be there. I told him, "Take everything in stride. I'm glad you are thinking ahead and making plans. We had a great family vacation before college, and we'll have more. If you can't make it, we'll see you another time. It'll be okay. As far as graduation? One day at a time. You know family is very important to me, and I've raised all of you in that manner. We will figure it out when the time comes. But you need to live now. Go after your dreams, and dream big. You only have so many opportunities to what you'll be able to do here. So go after them and do them now. Don't wait. And if you have to choose over making a middle school graduation or a high school one, try for the latter. And hopefully, it'll all work out. We're here for you. Just don't stay away too long and definitely keep in touch. Family is important. Remember that." *thinking,...........
And so,...............the time came. We walked outside and of course, I started singing to him. I started singing "My Hometown" by Bowling For Soup. Weird choice? Maybe. But the idea is what I wanted him to "get". You see, he is "getting out of our hometown". And that is what I wanted for him. I wanted him to see it, dream it and do it. You get a different perspective when you leave home. You grow up.
This song made him laugh. It'll definitely be a better memory than all of us breaking down crying. All of us took turns hugging him and saying many different things. What surprised me most was Papa's show of emotion. He sure is proud of his first born. He truly is going to miss him. His crew just hugged and tried to make light of the situation,...I think for him,............and for me. Then, it was "Leaving On A Jet Plane" by Justin, my turn. I hugged him forever,..I really tried. I told him ,....."dont' loose sight of who you truly are"................I just can't repeat right now....anyhow..................and then I prayed with him, in my mind, for peace, for him to continue on a good path, to seek his dreams,...to never forget himself, his true self, and never forget where he came from,..to be proud.........I asked God to take care of him, because with His help,................I've been blessed to have him, love him, raise him, teach him, laugh with him, enjoy him,...cry with him,..... learn from him...so much,.............and now he's in His hands. He always has been. All of them. But I was able to be a big part of all of that; with him and his siblings. No regrets. And I'm not totally letting go. I am still holding on and taking my place along side of him. I'll still be here, but its his turn to grow and learn some of what life has to offer on his own. I can't wait to hear his adventures and where his dreams will take him. A parent I will be always,..... but I want to be able to give him space, without totally letting go. Make sense?
After prayer, after more hugs and some tears........"Not goodbye. Just 'We'll see you real soon'. Love you sooooo much. And really going to miss you"*take your vitamins,... do laundry...... drink water,......
Did you know that he watched our car, all of us, leave campus until he possibly couldn't? I know. Cuz I was watching too.
Currently listening : A Hangover You Don't Deserve By Bowling for Soup Release date: 2004-09-14
pomp and circumstance?
Saturday, June 28, 2008
outta here,....for now Category: Life
Amazingly, I thought I was going to be met with a chorus of trumpets and drums, signaling rather loudly my time was up, my time has passed. Time to pass the torch to some other newbie, oblivious to all the duties that come with first time parents entering into pre-k. Let the games begin! (didn't know about the room mom's unspoken duties, did ya?...hee, hee, hee,...)
But, alas, to my dismay, I did not hear trumpets, drums, nor bells,..or anything. Just the constant chatter from other anxious parents awaiting "pomp and circumstance" to signal the end of 7 years of elementary education (if that's what ya wanna call it) and the beginning of a new chapter of parenting, education,...hence, growing up. And let's just say graduation, or rather "culmination" was just not what it was supposed to be either!
Now, *scratching head,...I'm really going to start complaining. And I don't mean to, but c'mon! Graduation is graduation, and with it come 'expectations', now, right? Such as music, music 'you can hear', um,.... announcements, awards, pauses for applause and appreciation,.....can you tell where I'm going with all of this? *hands up in the air now in frustration
At this particular graduation, there was no music for the children to come in on, making it very uncomfortable and confusing for them, because they didn't know what to expect. As for all the parents, friends, and guests, they were left wondering if the first few children made a mistake by coming in too early? Or not on cue? And praying it wasn't their child in this predicament. * sigh * But, smart parents and relatives that we are, we caught on, immediately understood something was quite wrong with the audio equipment, and applauded our 5th graders while they entered. What else could we do?
Instead of it getting better, it just got worse. How can it get any worse, you ask? Oh,.....let me continue,..........
Principal tried to recite a poem that could not be heard, which, by the way, didn't seem as heartfelt as it should, and few awards were given out with little explanation as to why they were being awarded and as to why the recipient was chosen ( we barely heard names!). Infact, awards seemed to be something they (their 5th grade teachers) breezed right on through, showing little importance! How sad! Graduation certificates were given out rather rapidly, and again, one whole class' parents, friends, and guests could not even hear their childrens' names being called. And this is after many loud outburst from irritated (but patient) parents yelling "Please speak up! We can't hear you!"
And the kicker for me, after hearing my oldest and first born's name pronounced wrong was,......................................................................................... ..................................................are you ready?..............................................
.................................................Jo was third from the last in his class by alphabetical order. And,.................he..................was.................skipped,...... .................................over,..............................................
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhggggggggggggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!!!
yeah, imagine the "smile" on my face! LOL Hey, at this point, you just have to laugh, and I did. We did. He had a huge cheering section that made up for being skipped and then remembered. Funny, up until he was "skipped", he was waiting just like all the other kids, and kinda dancing in his spot, enjoying the whole thing,...biding his time until he had to stand up. So laugh, we did, all of us together, WITH Jo.
I feel bad for the parents where this was the first graduation they've ever experienced for their own child. It should have been more wonderful and memorable. I have been fortunate enough to have seen three of my own kids' elementary graduations before Jo's and have great memories. This will be a great one to remember as well. Who else will be able to say they went to both their oldest and youngest sons' graduation in the same year, only to have their child's name mispronounced as well as skipped over? *pondering,..............
Anyhow, I just chalk it up as another experience to remember. I wish it was more memorable, and infact, I guess it will be. Its kinda sad to think I am actually done with elementary school now. No more field trips, volunteering, Halloween parades, cheesy christmas programs,..,....no more parent conferences in little chairs, finger painting activities, handball,...hoola hoops for recess..*sniff,.... wow, I guess I will miss it! *looking into the crowd of internet faces now,... "Anyone got a pre-k child in need of a room mommy?" LOL
Miss it yes, but ready for the next few chapters? Oh yeah,....*looking blindly into the wonderful sunset laid out in front of me,.....................Oh yes, I am,........
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22
outta here,....for now Category: Life
Amazingly, I thought I was going to be met with a chorus of trumpets and drums, signaling rather loudly my time was up, my time has passed. Time to pass the torch to some other newbie, oblivious to all the duties that come with first time parents entering into pre-k. Let the games begin! (didn't know about the room mom's unspoken duties, did ya?...hee, hee, hee,...)
But, alas, to my dismay, I did not hear trumpets, drums, nor bells,..or anything. Just the constant chatter from other anxious parents awaiting "pomp and circumstance" to signal the end of 7 years of elementary education (if that's what ya wanna call it) and the beginning of a new chapter of parenting, education,...hence, growing up. And let's just say graduation, or rather "culmination" was just not what it was supposed to be either!
Now, *scratching head,...I'm really going to start complaining. And I don't mean to, but c'mon! Graduation is graduation, and with it come 'expectations', now, right? Such as music, music 'you can hear', um,.... announcements, awards, pauses for applause and appreciation,.....can you tell where I'm going with all of this? *hands up in the air now in frustration
At this particular graduation, there was no music for the children to come in on, making it very uncomfortable and confusing for them, because they didn't know what to expect. As for all the parents, friends, and guests, they were left wondering if the first few children made a mistake by coming in too early? Or not on cue? And praying it wasn't their child in this predicament. * sigh * But, smart parents and relatives that we are, we caught on, immediately understood something was quite wrong with the audio equipment, and applauded our 5th graders while they entered. What else could we do?
Instead of it getting better, it just got worse. How can it get any worse, you ask? Oh,.....let me continue,..........
Principal tried to recite a poem that could not be heard, which, by the way, didn't seem as heartfelt as it should, and few awards were given out with little explanation as to why they were being awarded and as to why the recipient was chosen ( we barely heard names!). Infact, awards seemed to be something they (their 5th grade teachers) breezed right on through, showing little importance! How sad! Graduation certificates were given out rather rapidly, and again, one whole class' parents, friends, and guests could not even hear their childrens' names being called. And this is after many loud outburst from irritated (but patient) parents yelling "Please speak up! We can't hear you!"
And the kicker for me, after hearing my oldest and first born's name pronounced wrong was,......................................................................................... ..................................................are you ready?..............................................
.................................................Jo was third from the last in his class by alphabetical order. And,.................he..................was.................skipped,...... .................................over,..............................................
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhggggggggggggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!!!
yeah, imagine the "smile" on my face! LOL Hey, at this point, you just have to laugh, and I did. We did. He had a huge cheering section that made up for being skipped and then remembered. Funny, up until he was "skipped", he was waiting just like all the other kids, and kinda dancing in his spot, enjoying the whole thing,...biding his time until he had to stand up. So laugh, we did, all of us together, WITH Jo.
I feel bad for the parents where this was the first graduation they've ever experienced for their own child. It should have been more wonderful and memorable. I have been fortunate enough to have seen three of my own kids' elementary graduations before Jo's and have great memories. This will be a great one to remember as well. Who else will be able to say they went to both their oldest and youngest sons' graduation in the same year, only to have their child's name mispronounced as well as skipped over? *pondering,..............
Anyhow, I just chalk it up as another experience to remember. I wish it was more memorable, and infact, I guess it will be. Its kinda sad to think I am actually done with elementary school now. No more field trips, volunteering, Halloween parades, cheesy christmas programs,..,....no more parent conferences in little chairs, finger painting activities, handball,...hoola hoops for recess..*sniff,.... wow, I guess I will miss it! *looking into the crowd of internet faces now,... "Anyone got a pre-k child in need of a room mommy?" LOL
Miss it yes, but ready for the next few chapters? Oh yeah,....*looking blindly into the wonderful sunset laid out in front of me,.....................Oh yes, I am,........
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22
empire records
Sunday, June 29, 2008
this one’s for woobie Current mood: fabulous Category: Friends
And so it began, my lil love affair with a stupid cult classic named "Empire Records",...... as if Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure wasn't enough,......
You see, I would have never seen the movie, had it not been for Woobie, and his predicament at that place in time (which was on my couch). But, I'm glad I did see it,...glad we shared it. Ha, ha, ha,....... and with General Foods International Coffee! LOL
Funny thing, Woobie was over with his wonderful fiance and great crew of kids recently. And I had rented the movie because I had been dying to see it. Well, unbeknownest (ha, ha, ha,...did i just say that???...and did I spell it right?....derrrr) to me, he was able to make Gigi's graduation party. Great surprise!!!! Anyhow,.... I failed to jog his memory by showing the movie to him. And to tell you the truth, I didn't think he'd remember. Sheez, it's been many years since then! But to my surprise, that following Monday, I called him and asked him "Hey, I had our movie in the house. Do you even remember what it is?" And to my pleasant surprise, he responded with "All I gotta know is, am I the one with the black turtleneck, all in black!" Ha, ha, ha! OMG!!!! He remembered! And so, I cried back "Oh my gosh! You remembered! I love you soooooo much, man! I can't believe it! You really remembered!" Good times,...........................................
And after I got off the phone, I decided then to call his bluff and ask if he remembered the title. So, I text him with "you don't even remember the name of the movie, do you,...." Which he then texted back with "EMPIRE RECORDS" and "can you even do Lucas' dance?" LOL,.............yeah, he remembered.
I love this guy, I really do. Can't explain why and how much,..........infinite. And love that we share this stupid bond about a movie, among other things. I wish him nothing but the best in his life, because he deserves it, and he finally believes that he does deserve it as well.
And of the day of his wedding, I will (hopefully) have this cult classic wrapped up nice and 'purty' for him, with a card inscribed with "we'll always have 'Empire Records', man,............" , cuz we will.
*sniff,....................................
k, now, I just need to find it,..............................................
p.s.
is tomorrow a beach day?
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22
this one’s for woobie Current mood: fabulous Category: Friends
And so it began, my lil love affair with a stupid cult classic named "Empire Records",...... as if Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure wasn't enough,......
You see, I would have never seen the movie, had it not been for Woobie, and his predicament at that place in time (which was on my couch). But, I'm glad I did see it,...glad we shared it. Ha, ha, ha,....... and with General Foods International Coffee! LOL
Funny thing, Woobie was over with his wonderful fiance and great crew of kids recently. And I had rented the movie because I had been dying to see it. Well, unbeknownest (ha, ha, ha,...did i just say that???...and did I spell it right?....derrrr) to me, he was able to make Gigi's graduation party. Great surprise!!!! Anyhow,.... I failed to jog his memory by showing the movie to him. And to tell you the truth, I didn't think he'd remember. Sheez, it's been many years since then! But to my surprise, that following Monday, I called him and asked him "Hey, I had our movie in the house. Do you even remember what it is?" And to my pleasant surprise, he responded with "All I gotta know is, am I the one with the black turtleneck, all in black!" Ha, ha, ha! OMG!!!! He remembered! And so, I cried back "Oh my gosh! You remembered! I love you soooooo much, man! I can't believe it! You really remembered!" Good times,...........................................
And after I got off the phone, I decided then to call his bluff and ask if he remembered the title. So, I text him with "you don't even remember the name of the movie, do you,...." Which he then texted back with "EMPIRE RECORDS" and "can you even do Lucas' dance?" LOL,.............yeah, he remembered.
I love this guy, I really do. Can't explain why and how much,..........infinite. And love that we share this stupid bond about a movie, among other things. I wish him nothing but the best in his life, because he deserves it, and he finally believes that he does deserve it as well.
And of the day of his wedding, I will (hopefully) have this cult classic wrapped up nice and 'purty' for him, with a card inscribed with "we'll always have 'Empire Records', man,............" , cuz we will.
*sniff,....................................
k, now, I just need to find it,..............................................
p.s.
is tomorrow a beach day?
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22
i was going,..
Friday, July 25, 2008
and I was going to blog about this,.... Current mood: inspired Category: Life
yeah, its about baseball,....DUH!?!?!?!
So, first off, I think its pretty amazing to have beaten teams this summer season that we usually lose to. THAT, my friends, is an accomplishment! And well, what I wanted so badly to blog about a week and a half ago, was how my son did his last three games of his summer season. One word? PROUD.
Now, I will be the first to tell you that he is not the favorite on the team, never has been. And well, I can go on and on about favorites on teams and so forth. Yeah, guys, you know me! I will also be the first to say that he is not the best player on the team. And I know that's fair of me to say that. If he were, then its perfection, and then there's no room for growth, the ability to learn more, and excel. And that my friends, is exactly what he needs. He is sooooooooooo capable of sooooooooo much!
I will definitely be the first and the one person that will always mention his drive, and more importantly, his heart. With that being said,...........his last three games, I saw his drive, committment to the one thing he truly loves at this moment in his life, and his heart. And he did well.
In one of the games, I was truly amazed at how focused he was. Errors on his part play wicked games in his head that he generally cannot shake. And he is maturing in that area. Errors on the team just piss him off and frustrate him ,...he feels like his hands are tied. But again, maturity and experience will help him grow here. And it has. In this particular game, defense was on,....his pitching was on,.... and for 7 innings there was one unearned run, error on the team. But WHO CARES?!?!!?! What matter to me most, is to see him focused, not letting anything stop him, and enjoying HIS game! Oh man! I am without a doubt, so happy just to see him play. And elated just to see him do well among his peers. But to stand out,...for one shining moment? Right now? I have no other word than that mentioned above.
I would love to see him come around consistently with his bat as well! *key word at the moment, say it with me guys! consistently! And in time, it will. I know it will. He needs to believe it will. Heck, he has come a long way with that, almost a few feet from the fence. I would rather him just concentrate on contact, and hitting gaps. Anyhow................
That game, that moment, will remain with him forever, as it will me. Will it happen again? Yes, I believe it will. But nothing changes, practice as usual. Drive to be the best in what he wants, nothing less. And continue this love affair with a game he is trying so hard to tame and master. *sigh,.................He has so much to learn, so much to understand,........................
And so, I have now become that ugly parent that just brags on and on about their child's shining moment,...................... I try to keep him humble, that's how you stay grounded and focused. I know what I would like to see happen for him. I know his secret dream. And right now, I just need him to believe. Believe that if this is what he wants, go after it, and get it.
He came home with a feeling of accomplishment. What could any parent ask for? For the their child just to be happy with what he had just done. And you know, he still had comments on how he did, how he could do something better. Always working, always striving. But most of all, he came home happy. Now, that was definitely a change for the better. (note: I haven't mentioned his whole summer season,....) Anyhow, he needed this game, for his mind, his spirit, his self esteem, ...............his heart. He needed this sole sucking (ha, ha, ha!) game of his to kick something back! LOL *thank you , baseball! : )
As I also continue this love affair with baseball,.......................I am exhausted.
*sigh,.....................can't wait for winter season and THE season,.....
Well, we'll see.
Well done, son, well done.
Currently listening : Reckless By Bryan Adams Release date: 1990-10-25
and I was going to blog about this,.... Current mood: inspired Category: Life
yeah, its about baseball,....DUH!?!?!?!
So, first off, I think its pretty amazing to have beaten teams this summer season that we usually lose to. THAT, my friends, is an accomplishment! And well, what I wanted so badly to blog about a week and a half ago, was how my son did his last three games of his summer season. One word? PROUD.
Now, I will be the first to tell you that he is not the favorite on the team, never has been. And well, I can go on and on about favorites on teams and so forth. Yeah, guys, you know me! I will also be the first to say that he is not the best player on the team. And I know that's fair of me to say that. If he were, then its perfection, and then there's no room for growth, the ability to learn more, and excel. And that my friends, is exactly what he needs. He is sooooooooooo capable of sooooooooo much!
I will definitely be the first and the one person that will always mention his drive, and more importantly, his heart. With that being said,...........his last three games, I saw his drive, committment to the one thing he truly loves at this moment in his life, and his heart. And he did well.
In one of the games, I was truly amazed at how focused he was. Errors on his part play wicked games in his head that he generally cannot shake. And he is maturing in that area. Errors on the team just piss him off and frustrate him ,...he feels like his hands are tied. But again, maturity and experience will help him grow here. And it has. In this particular game, defense was on,....his pitching was on,.... and for 7 innings there was one unearned run, error on the team. But WHO CARES?!?!!?! What matter to me most, is to see him focused, not letting anything stop him, and enjoying HIS game! Oh man! I am without a doubt, so happy just to see him play. And elated just to see him do well among his peers. But to stand out,...for one shining moment? Right now? I have no other word than that mentioned above.
I would love to see him come around consistently with his bat as well! *key word at the moment, say it with me guys! consistently! And in time, it will. I know it will. He needs to believe it will. Heck, he has come a long way with that, almost a few feet from the fence. I would rather him just concentrate on contact, and hitting gaps. Anyhow................
That game, that moment, will remain with him forever, as it will me. Will it happen again? Yes, I believe it will. But nothing changes, practice as usual. Drive to be the best in what he wants, nothing less. And continue this love affair with a game he is trying so hard to tame and master. *sigh,.................He has so much to learn, so much to understand,........................
And so, I have now become that ugly parent that just brags on and on about their child's shining moment,...................... I try to keep him humble, that's how you stay grounded and focused. I know what I would like to see happen for him. I know his secret dream. And right now, I just need him to believe. Believe that if this is what he wants, go after it, and get it.
He came home with a feeling of accomplishment. What could any parent ask for? For the their child just to be happy with what he had just done. And you know, he still had comments on how he did, how he could do something better. Always working, always striving. But most of all, he came home happy. Now, that was definitely a change for the better. (note: I haven't mentioned his whole summer season,....) Anyhow, he needed this game, for his mind, his spirit, his self esteem, ...............his heart. He needed this sole sucking (ha, ha, ha!) game of his to kick something back! LOL *thank you , baseball! : )
As I also continue this love affair with baseball,.......................I am exhausted.
*sigh,.....................can't wait for winter season and THE season,.....
Well, we'll see.
Well done, son, well done.
Currently listening : Reckless By Bryan Adams Release date: 1990-10-25
hmm,...
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
bbq Category: Life
The BBQ for James was nice. It was nice to see all of the family together,...meaning both sides. It was great to see most of his crew there as well. They're a "motley" bunch somewhat, but they all seem like pretty good kids, and they are really going to miss their "Dungeon Master" and friend.
Of course, I got snap happy with my camera. I remember when my brother left for boot camp and we had his going away party. I still have one of the pictures. Looking back at all of his buddies then, its amazing to see that there are like 5 of those buddies that he still keeps in touch with today. So, when taking the "crew" pic, I wondered what they would all turn out to be in the next 5, 10, 20 years, and who would still be around. I think most of them will keep in touch, which I'm looking forward to.
Yesterday, was a little nerve racking, in the sense or trying to get things in order, mainly paper work. My gosh! I keep EVERYTHING!!!! And cannot seem to let things go. Well, much to the "assistance" of both Chris and Jr., and to many thoughts of wanting to bite them, and actually getting up and leaving the room after making Jr. yell,...I sifted through the mounds of letters and actually got everything into a presentable folder for our trip out to Arizona. Whew! There's still many things to do! Especially for today.
For today, again, I need to keep things in stride, and get my tasks all done. I just saw him pedal off, maybe for the last time until christmas? Summer break? I don't know,....and I absolutely hate the thought of "the last time to see/experience things in regards to one of my children. I mean, its not the end of anything. Its on to a new chapter of life.
I've been trying to keep busy, and with everything in the last few months, it hasn't been hard. Vacation, summer school, grades, semi-tutoring at home, chores,......they've all kept me busy, busy enough not to sit and dwell on the next two days and start missing him. But now, those two days are staring me in the face. I will miss him.
And I am soooooooooooooo damn excited and nervous for him. I am actually sending my first born off to college! Seeing him off to a brand new chapter in his life. Pictured it in my mind before, but very different to be actually going through it.
Well, its already past 7am, and need to get my day started. Need to get busy, yet again.
I can't wait to see what this chapter reads like,...............................
gidget gurlie
Currently listening : The All-American Rejects By The All-American Rejects Release date: 2003-02-04
bbq Category: Life
The BBQ for James was nice. It was nice to see all of the family together,...meaning both sides. It was great to see most of his crew there as well. They're a "motley" bunch somewhat, but they all seem like pretty good kids, and they are really going to miss their "Dungeon Master" and friend.
Of course, I got snap happy with my camera. I remember when my brother left for boot camp and we had his going away party. I still have one of the pictures. Looking back at all of his buddies then, its amazing to see that there are like 5 of those buddies that he still keeps in touch with today. So, when taking the "crew" pic, I wondered what they would all turn out to be in the next 5, 10, 20 years, and who would still be around. I think most of them will keep in touch, which I'm looking forward to.
Yesterday, was a little nerve racking, in the sense or trying to get things in order, mainly paper work. My gosh! I keep EVERYTHING!!!! And cannot seem to let things go. Well, much to the "assistance" of both Chris and Jr., and to many thoughts of wanting to bite them, and actually getting up and leaving the room after making Jr. yell,...I sifted through the mounds of letters and actually got everything into a presentable folder for our trip out to Arizona. Whew! There's still many things to do! Especially for today.
For today, again, I need to keep things in stride, and get my tasks all done. I just saw him pedal off, maybe for the last time until christmas? Summer break? I don't know,....and I absolutely hate the thought of "the last time to see/experience things in regards to one of my children. I mean, its not the end of anything. Its on to a new chapter of life.
I've been trying to keep busy, and with everything in the last few months, it hasn't been hard. Vacation, summer school, grades, semi-tutoring at home, chores,......they've all kept me busy, busy enough not to sit and dwell on the next two days and start missing him. But now, those two days are staring me in the face. I will miss him.
And I am soooooooooooooo damn excited and nervous for him. I am actually sending my first born off to college! Seeing him off to a brand new chapter in his life. Pictured it in my mind before, but very different to be actually going through it.
Well, its already past 7am, and need to get my day started. Need to get busy, yet again.
I can't wait to see what this chapter reads like,...............................
gidget gurlie
Currently listening : The All-American Rejects By The All-American Rejects Release date: 2003-02-04
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
