Ch-ch-changes!

One of the major 'events' during my blog absence was the purchase of a brand new car- for ME! I'm sorry I don't have a picture of it right now, the camera lens I bought on Amazon was the wrong type (my mistake). But, the picture above gives you an idea. I got a black Toyota Yaris, two doors just like the one above. It's shiny, and still has that new car smell!

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I hated the idea of having to make a car payment as I don't like the thought of being in debt. I already owe part of my soul in college loans thank you very much. However, problems with my old Buick were numerous. So numerous and severe it would have cost more to get it up to snuff than the car was worth. Add another summer without a/c in the car, and that Leo was going to be with me far more, I knew that my options were limited. Jon and I talked about it and agreed to look at a new car, one with a warranty, one that would be reliable, gas efficient, etc, etc. So one Friday evening we beboped on over to a dealership to test drive a Yaris.

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Mind you I was SO nervous about going to a dealership to buy a car. I come from a car family. My father pretty much pounded the idea in my head that car salesmen will try to give you the shaft. I am beyond happy to report, however, that I did not have to battle it out with the salesman. In fact he was uber nice, the car was perfect, and finance was willing to give me a very nice, reasonable deal. I bought it the next day. I got all the extra coverage I could as paying a little extra per month for peace of mind is worth it! Oh, did I mention the dealership let me bring both Leo and Louie (who's a pet so, he doesn't have the carte blanche to be in public like Leo) into the dealership?? I wanted to make sure they could fit inside the car (they do) and they were beyond cool about it. How neat is that?

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I've had the car for three weeks now, and I L-O-V-E it!! I bought it just in time for the warm-hot summer temperatures. I love a/c... love it. I seriously think it is one of the best inventions out there. Alright, maybe not the best, but, it sure is NICE! I could really go on, and on, about the a/c ,but, I will spare you all that. ;-) It's really nice to have a good reliable vehicle though, my last car was not going to last much longer. In fact, the dealership gave me a whopping $100 for it! That tells you how much of a ticking time bomb it was. What a relief I'm not in it anymore- not to mention not having to pay nearly as much filling it up with fuel.

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Getting that car is a major life win. However, not all events have been a 'win'. Life is funny how it balances things out isn't it? More catching up later guys! I have laundry to get to.

ps- Thanks for the welcome back love! It feels great to be back here.

Guess Who's Back?

It's me! Taken by Tami, my boss, at the studio recital May 22

Well, it has been awhile hasn't it? I dunno what to say other than I'm sorry I haven't been around. There really is no excuse. The only explaination for my absence is that the last month of work was I N S A N E! Add running to two jobs five days per week and other various sundry life stuff equaled me being exhausted nearly every day. The drain on my energy left me unable to form proper sentences at times. It was sad really lol, but, I just knew I was too tired to write about what was going on. I'm sure my entries would've made very little sense as I couldn't really think after I got home from work.

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Now that summer vacation has started (can we say YAY!!!!!) I'm slowly coming around. I miss my blog friends and sharing what's going on in our lives. Rather than give you all one huge blog entry about what has been going on (and there has been a LOT!) I'm going to break it up and spread it across a few entries. How does that sound?

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So, my dear awesome blog friends you'll be seeing more of me I promise. Again, I'm so sorry I abandoned you and I will do everything in my power to catch you all up and be a better friend to you guys. I really have missed you all more than you can know!! Sending each and every one of you some love wherever you are. 'Talk' to you soon!

The Hardest Holiday

Today is Mother's Day in America as many of you know. Let me start with, I really do admire moms out there, and I can't begin to imagine the hardwork, love, and dedication it takes to raise a child. That said, Mother's Day is the hardest holiday for me as I don't have a mother. Well, technically I do, but, we haven't spoken to one another in seven years. For me, Mother's Day is a reminder of what I don't have- a mother and/or children, so it can be a bit tough for me. And now I found out that my cousin who is struggling with many things in her life is receiving a great deal of emotional support from my mother- the same woman who offered me little when I was going through an extremely difficult period myself. Talk about the proverbial salt in the wound.

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So today I salute the good moms out there, the ones I know face whatever challenge their child's life presents them. The moms who support, even when they don't know what to do. The moms who love unconditionally. The moms who give in ways I cannot imagine, because at many trying moments in my life I never saw that from my own mother; especially during the dark hours I needed it most. I'm working on not being bitter, but, life has a funny way of reminding me that I'm not completely over somethings. Well, I guess it's a one step at a time scenario, eh?

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I hope you all are having a happy Mother's Day or at least a happy Sunday. I promise my next post won't be such a 'Debbie Downer' one. Love you all!

When It Rains It Pours, Literally and Figuratively

The weather for the past two weeks here in the OK have been wet and stormy. Before the rain came we were actually experiencing an unusual spring drought. There were wild grass fires all over the state and talk that the wheat harvest wasn't going to make it. Well, Mother Nature woke up and holy crap did we get soaked! Storms have been producing up to golf ball size hail (as my car will testify to) and tornadoes have come. Nothing as bad as Alabama and Mississippi thank goodness. Still, it has been interesting and that's just how it goes in Oklahoma. When it comes to weather, expect the unexpected.

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With these storms dumping on us it seems that the universe has decided to dump on people as well. I'm not just talking about me, but, others around me that have been experiencing a wide range of 'life challenges'. At work we've been going through the difficulties of state testing, which we finally finished last Friday praise the Lord! But, along with it we've lost a teacher who resigned out of the blue. Another employee, who's son has a brain tumor, found out that the medicine to keep the tumor from growing after its removal would cost nearly $1000.00 per month. A cost, she obviously cannot afford. Kids have been wild, teachers moody and stressed, have added to the strained environment.

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For me, the week hit a huge bottom when the kid who was shadowing me was told by his mother that he wasn't allowed to be around Leo and thus me. She is under the impression that Leo makes his asthma issues worse! Can you believe it? They have a family dog at home, he's been around Leo all year, bonded with him and such and she decides to pull this. She's not thinking of it's spring in Oklahoma and the allergies are horrendous. Yeah, explain that one to me. I was gutted, absolutely gutted. The kid too was very upset. Such an emotional blow for both of us and his teachers who have worked with him and me to build a relationship with him and get him to where he is now. Leo was the ice breaker and has continued to serve a positive role for this student. It maybe unusual to some, but, it has worked brilliantly. Then in one day, it looked like all was gone as we have no choice, but, to obey a parents wish even when it doesn't make sense.

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However, there good news came. We managed to resolve the situation somewhat. Mom is now ok with me being in the classroom for a period of time to help out, but, she does want him to stay away from the dog as much as possible. I believe she realizes that her initial statement was inaccurate as her son's asthma acts up majorly when he's outside and active, but, she doesn't want to completely admit to being wrong. Just my humble opinion. What a rollercoaster ride! I'm still on edge though, what if he has an asthma attack again like he had when he didn't take his morning medicine and his mother asks about Leo? I know the whole situation sounds silly, but, we often deal with parents who get something stuck in their head and hold us at this school accountable. We have had more than one angry parent at our school giving us a hard time for situations that their child started. Yet, it's our fault in the end. Most of the time the threats end up empty, but, it goes to show how little respect and authority we're given as educators (by some, not all). It's frustrating and I hope I and the rest of us can make it to the end of the year without too much grief from parents.

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There are only 25 school days to go. May is going to get crazy busy. Jon's 30th birthday is tomorrow, there are more birthdays coming soon for both our families, of course the studio recital is coming up, Jon's work is going on a float trip later in May, both of us are volunteering to help out at a Therapetics fundraiser, and the list goes on! I think I'm ready for the flood, but, I just hope it won't exhaust me as much as these past two weeks at work have! Here's to making it through another crazy May!

In Which Reality Crashes the Party... And It's Ok

State standardized testing began last week and with it came the loss of all my energy. Things are crazy at the school as 3rd-5th grade classes have to be moved around to different classrooms so we can test individuals with learning disabilities and small groups of English language learners. The change in the schedule has caused the children to collectively go 'whhhheeeeeee!' and it takes a lot of extra energy to deal with that. To add to the energy drain I have a shadow now. An emotionally disturbed kid who I've built a good para to student relationship with gets to hang out with me all day and when he has his tests I monitor with his teacher. Without expanding on that, let's just say I have been very mentally and physically drained at the end of each school day.

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I last left off with thoughts of going to Europe and needing advice on how to make it happen quick. In retrospect, I should've been a wee bit clearer why the sudden entry. I had a price alert on plane tickets to Paris from a couple of departure points I could get to easily, and when I got an email saying that ticket had dropped to a feasible price my trip, which I had written off due to loss of income (blizzard and surgery), seemed possible again. It seems though I jumped the gun a bit. My accountant came back to me and my 2009 taxes were going to cost me- BIG time! Well, for me big time. Mind you we got things to a much more reasonable level, but, still I have to say bye, bye to some mula.

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Then, as if that wasn't jarring enough, I had car expenses come up, a traffic ticket, and I managed to break the camera lens and will need to purchase a new one soon. Yes, right now I can't even take pretty pictures because of my wonky depth perception. Blergh. So, I've taken the Mack truck like hint from the universe and put off my Europe trip plans for now.

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I am bummed about this. But, I think things will work out for the best though (sans Europe, but, Europe will still be there!). Jon and I have done a lot of talking and we are going to combine forces taking care of bills and working to save up for a wedding and such. Yeah, that's kinda exciting! lol If what we are planning works I will manage to save, at least, a couple of hundred bucks per month. Jon is looking to get a new job, and while that may not happen for awhile he's coming out of his rut and we are making progress towards starting our lives together.

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I've also begun exploring the idea of getting certified to be a teach as it is a easier to do for me because I'm a para with a university degree. Why would I do this? Well, I've figured out that while I do have dreams of being abroad one day, it's some steps away. Nothing seemed right for a reason, I have some steps to go up before I get to that point. If I work as a teacher I make a bit more than I do now (salary is a LOT better than hourly) and get the added benefit of reduced student loan repayment. Mind you, nothing is set in stone right now. Either way, I need to start making some kind of progress towards my future instead of dreaming about the possibilities without rolling the dice to get the game started.

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Oh don't get me wrong, I will be traveling in the future. Maybe not when I want to (heh like now), but, it will be soon. It's nice that I've managed to gain a lot of perspective, but, not feel bitter about it. More stuff is going on, but, I think I've babbled on long enough. Man have my entries been long winded lately! lol I hope you are well and if you don't hear from me for another week it's because of those crummy state tests sucking my life force to critically low levels. No matter what though, I will be back, talking about this and that, hopefully taking pictures soon, and soaking up what's going on with you my amazing blog friends.

Travel Tips- As In I Need Them!

So my dear, wonderful, blogging friends I am in need of your help, advice, or just plain encouragement. I will take whatever I can get. I was planning on a trip to Europe in June. I'm thinking I can still manage to make this trip happen. Things depend on the tax refund. Anywho, I have friends all through France, one in Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Germany. I'd like to visit as many of these fabulous people as possible of course, but, how in the world do I plan for a trip like this?

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I should give you all some background here. Though I have traveled some I am practically a virgin when it comes to planning a trip, especially one that could potentially involve train trips after landing. If I am to go, who would want to see me? Where would I buy the train tickets for a reasonable price? How in the world do I go about seeing my friends, but, not burdening them with my inexperience?

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So if any of you have some advice to when is a good time to hop over the pond and go to Europe please share. Any information as far as what to expect cost wise (hostels and/or food), where to stay, what train(s) to take, and how to book all of this stuff please pass that my way. I think I can figure out how to get the plane ticket (looks like I'll be landing in Paris) it's just getting those other details figured out that I'm at a loss for. Oh and did I mention I don't even know how to make an itenerary?? Though, I'm sure you all had it figured out by now.

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Also, if you wouldn't mind seeing me then please let me know. I'd love to arrange some meet ups!! Go ahead and email me if you're more comfortable with that and be prepared for questions on where to meet up, stay and cost. I'm kinda on a 'shoestring' budget so I want to make sure I have my p's and q's lined up. But, hey, if you are willing to put up with that then have at it. I will bring pretty things from the states too. I promise.

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As you can plainly see, I need some serious help! Please give me some input if you are so inclined. I mainly need a starting point to build an outline of what to do and then I'll probably have some questions after that. I'm sorry to bother you with my naievity, but, anything will be a great help. Thanks so much!

The Long Overdue Leo Post

At the salon, chillin' like a villan. Taken on my iPhone

Sooooo... Leo! I know you all haven't heard much about him lately. But, I assure you he's doing fantastic! Leo will be a year and five months come April 16th and I'm amazed everyday at how far he and I have come along.

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As you guys know, Leo goes with me everyday to school and piano lessons. He does extremely well at school. When I don't need him he happily naps or chews on a bone. When I do he is more than ready to do his job. His tasking skills have come leaps and bounds. I can ask him to pick up plastic ware off of the cafeteria floor, carry it, and to drop it in the trashcans. Uber cool. He even leaves food that falls on the floor alone- well, most of the time. Hey, he is a dog first and foremost after all! Other tasks he does easily include, but not excluded, are turning lights on and off, opening drawers, closing them, retrieving and giving me my bag, keys, and anything other items I need him to get off of the floor or tables.

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Every week we attend training classes and I'm happy to report those are going along famously. Leo and I have even received compliments from the trainers!! He is now far more consistent with commands and doesn't give in to distractions as much as he used to. I credit age and the fact that we have learned to work as a team. I know how to get his attention and talk to him to get what we need to do done. I am far more patient than I used to be and he understands what I'm saying better than ever. I imagine that is how he and his future partner will develop. There will be many bumps at first, frustrations, but, over time a bond will form and they will 'gel' and become a team.

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I have Leo until the end of this year. He will turn two in November and at the point he'll be tested for hip, eye, and elbow problems. If he clears his health checks and does well at his two year evaluation (which I'm pretty sure he will) he will then be partnered at the beginning of 2012. It's a bittersweet thought as Leo has definitely become part of my little 'family' at home and at work and I love him dearly. When one works with a dog hours upon day a relationship develops and you and the dog become connected in a very unique way. I know when Leo leaves home to begin his new life as a full fledged service dog there will be many tears from me. It's going to be hard, I'm under no delusions about that. However, without Leo I would've missed out on amazing opportunities and moments. The kids I work with at school wouldn't have had Leo help to calm them down. I wouldn't have had the dozens of people come up to me and ask me about the program- you never know how that might affect them or someone they know. Without Leo in my life I would've missed out on so much. So, in at least some ways, I will have gained more than what I will loose when Leo goes to his partner.

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It's all part of the deal. It's what I signed up for. And I am more than happy to do my part because in the end I'm a better person because of this and someone will have a better life because of this too. Win-win, even if it is a bit heartbreaking in the end.

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ps- I will have a better picture of him soon. Technical difficulties with the camera and computer!