I have really been enjoying my job at Supercuts. It’s brainless and tedious at times but it’s really fun to work with other people and interact with customers all day. Even when I sub, I don’t really get to talk to other grown-ups, except at lunch. With this job I’m always working with at least one other person and there is constant flow of customers.

Yesterday was fun and hectic. There was a radio station out in front of the store I was working at. They were doing a remote for two hours. So we were slammed. I prefer to be busy, rather than bored so that was OK, but it was busy, busy BUSY! The biggest problem was that ALL of the general managers and the store owner all felt they needed to be there. Too many cooks in the kitchen. When I first arrived there were also three girls from the main office helping out, a manager from another store, and a visiting manager all helping out in some fashion, either helping at the desk or cutting hair.

I hadn’t even got settled in yet and had orders from three different people to do three different things. Now… I’m good. I can multi-task, keep things straight and get all my work done. I can not however sweep the floor and dust the shelves in the other part of the store at the same time. Mr. Fantastic I’m not. It just won’t work. They were stepping all over my work all afternoon. Not that it wasn’t great to have help. But 5 extra people and 4 extra managers that was just too much! Half the time I couldn’t even get to my register. It was nuts!  I was glad when they all left and I could just do my thing.

I’ve really been enjoying my job over all though. Today a teenage girl came in with hair to her waist. She had it cut into an A-line with the back above her neck. She donated the hair to Locks of Love. She had a whole crew with her, taking pictures and crying (she cried too, but she loved her new cut). It was so crazy, but so cool. She’d had long hair since she was 8. It was a big change.

(not pictures of her, just ones I found on the web)

I’ve always switched back and forth from short hair to long hair. I grow it out and then get tired of it and hack it off. Back and forth. The girls have both preferred short hair since they first got it cut that way. So, question of the day:

Short, Long or in between?

14 lbs down. Too many to state here left to go. I’ve pleased. I also got my pizza fix with pita pizzas — thanks to ThisIsBullDookie for that idea. Last week and this week haven’t been my best, but I’m back on track again.

Had another interview again today. It seemed to go well, but then they all seem to go well. So I’m not getting my hopes up. I’m not feeling as discouraged today – and have accepted the fact that I may be subbing again this year. If that’s the case, so be it.

Ducky got her senior portrait proofs back and they are fantastic! I can definitely guess which one the photographer wanted to enter in a contest…. It’s my FAVORITE! I love it. I’ll try to figure out how to post the proofs or get a link to the online proofs. They are soooo good! She is so photogenic! Both my girls are– but of course, I’m not biased, just honest!!

LadyBug also got something new today. I don’t have pictures yet, but she got her hair all cut off! It can do a faux hawk, or just be really wild and cute, or even have a “Sunday” style. It’s so adorable! I can’t wait to see it once we color it. Tomorrow is her freshman orientation day. She’s both excited and nervous. Me, I can’t believe that my kids are now both high schoolers! Yikes.

In other less exciting news — for the last two days I’ve been straightening my hair. I’m really liking it! The girls and hubby don’t quite know what to do as they have NEVER seen me with straight hair. Even Hubby in 22+ years — never seen me with super straight hair. I probably won’t do it every day,but it’s a nice change!

Alright — confession. I love Ace of Cakes. Does anyone watch that show? Duff and his crew at Charm City Cakes are the BOMB! They do some amazing stuff and I love to watch them create these unique pastries. And Duff – he’s just a nut! His crew is just as crazy! Check some of the cakes out at the Charm City Cakes website. Here’s some of the more interesting examples – although they make more traditional cakes as well. I saw them make the Hogwarts cake, they made it for the last premiere…. very cool!

Question of the day:

If you could have a cake of anything, anything at all, for any reason or celebration – what would you pick and why?

Ever had one of those days? I’m sure you have, everyone has. You know the kind I’m talking about. Where nothing seems to go right and no matter how hard you try to adjust, it just keeps going downhill. Yep. I had one of those days today. It started with bickering with Ducky while trying to get the girls registered for school. Not anything major, just misunderstanding, miscommunication, long lines and red tape. The regular registration stuff. That wasn’t too bad.

Stopped on the way home and picked up the mail, and found my first really unpleasant event of the day, a rejection letter from one of the Friday interviews. *sigh*

You know how that goes, you pick yourself up and plug on ahead. I got together some more resumes to drop off, dropped the girls off at the movies and headed out to sell myself (figuratively of course!). The first school was pleasant. The second school when asked what I needed I handed my resume over the counter and began “I just wanted to ….” about there I was interrupted by the brusque lady behind the desk. “Resume?” (rolls eyes and snatches it from my hand) “Fine”.  I smile sweetly and say “Thank you for much, have a nice day” all the while thinking B#$%$ – you don’t have to be obnoxious.

OK, no big thing, shake it off and regroup. Head home. Run a few other errands and then settle in for some reading. Lounging on the couch. Phone rings. The Family School position is not mine either. Vice-Principal is very nice, you interviewed well, it was between you and one other, I’ll help out all I can in order to get you a position, you’re one of the strongest candidates left in the pool yadda, yadda yadda.

This time not so easy to shake off. I really wanted that one. Felt good about it. So – I’m bummed.

Cleaning up I find 4 lottery scratches. I’m thinking pessimistically that the way my day is going I won’t win a dime – guess what? I was right.

Hubby calls and I tell him to pick up something for dinner – to pick up pizza. Right now I don’t care about points, I just want something to lift my spirits. He comes home an hour later, no pizza. Instead he thoughtfully considered my WW plan and choose instead something healthier – over-cooked grocery store rotisserie chicken, bag salad (not even the good kind) and bread – which we have no butter for because I didn’t feel up to facing the commissary. yummy. So. No pizza. I eat some chicken (and in defiance of my points eat some with skin) and have two slices of bread dipped in Olive Oil. Doesn’t really help and I’m still bemoaning not getting my slice of pizza.

Hubby and I talk, but I really don’t feel like hashing my day over and over again. I go back to reading. LadyBug comes in sheepishly, holding my phone. She’s been using my phone to text her friend on, since one of her other friends dropped LadyBug’s phone in a glass of tea a couple of days ago. Hubby ferrets out that now, she has dropped my phone in the sink while she was washing her hands and it is – surprise, surprise – no longer functioning. Great. Perfect.

It’s thundering and lightening outside. I figured I better stay in as the way my day was going, if I went outside I’d get hit by lightening.

So far the only good thing about the day is that it’s almost over and that tomorrow is probably going to be better.

Oh goodie, the cable box just went out. What other surprises could possibly lay in store?

I have a lot to be grateful for – and now is the time to focus on that.

So here are my thankfuls:

I’m thankful for a loving supportive husband.

I’m thankful for two beautiful, smart, and healthy girls.

I’m thankful for all my friends.

I’m thankful for the house we live in and the food we eat.

I’m thankful for my new contacts.

I’m thankful for my freedom

I’m thankful for all of you! Have a great night everyone.

Question of the day:

What are you thankful for?  

So Monday was another interview. It went really well and the vice principal said it would probably end up being between me and the candidate before me. He also said he thought I would get snapped right up and that he would talk me up to the other administrators if they didn’t pick me up. He also mentioned they might have a 5th grade position opening up and if so they would definitely be calling me again. So even if I don’t get this position, I feel better about my capabilities. This position is one for Family School, which is working with homeschoolers — right up my alley! And also right within my expertise! Cross your fingers for me. I’m holding out hope…

We finished putting up french doors. We did this to separate the living areas so when the girls had friends over or were playing video games, we can still hear the TV in the other living area. We have a tri-level home. We have two living areas, one we set up as the “game” room. That’s where we have the game systems hooked up. That’s also where we hang out when the kids are having “movie” nights. With the doors we don’t have competing TV volumes. It’s really nice. Since we installed the french doors we decided we’d also rearrange. It looks so nice now! I have to clean the crafting / homework area still, but it is really nice! I’ll take some pictures and post them later.

I was just watching the news. The police shot a man who called the paramedics because of chest pain and then refused to go to the hospital!! LOL Guess where he’s at now?? See… ? They can MAKE you go to the hospital! Watch out!

In other news – I finally got to play Rock Band and was having a blast! The drums are not my strong suit – YET, but I’m working on it! Fun stuff. Now just to get Mario Kart and Wii Fit. Then I’m good for awhile!

Alright question of the day:

Drums, Guitar or Vocals?

Where or where has the time gone?? It seems like just last week she was grinning that toothless smile at me over the crib rail. A few short days ago she was smiling at me mischievously after getting into something she probably shouldn’t have. And just yesterday she was glancing at me over the edge of the latest book she was enthralled with. A few short hours ago, she was sharing the excitement of starting high school with a nervous smile. And today, tonight — this. 17 and about to start her Senior year. How did this happen?

I’ve been busy working my tushie off. And I had two interviews on Friday — which I think went very well. Tomorrow I have another interview. I worked all weekend, but went yesterday with Ducky to get her senior portraits taken. It took a lot longer then said it would and when we signed in they had us sign a thing granting permission to use her photos in advertising etc. I had to leave to get to work, but before Ducky left they asked her to have me sign another form because one of the photographers wanted to send her photo in for a contest! She is so photogenic! I can’t wait to see the proofs!

I’m really tired – it’s been a busy few days! I’ll stop by tomorrow to visit and comment. Until then everyone have a good night — and

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DUCKY!!!

The job is going pretty well. Boring and simple, but the people are very nice and the work is easy. At least I’m out of the house and earning some money. My manager also agreed to work around my schedule if I go back to subbing or get picked up for a full time position. She said I could work nights and week ends, which I would probably do for awhile in order to get caught up financially. Besides, like I said, the people are really VERY nice.

Speaking of jobs…. guess what I’ve gotten since I started working? Two interviews!! WOOT! They are both scheduled for Friday, and both for Rio Rancho schools. That would mean a commute, but at this point I really don’t care! I’ll take any teaching position – any at all! So wish me luck. I’ll let you know on Sat. how they went. Why Sat.? Well …. because Friday is going to be CRAZY!

The entire family has dental appointments starting at 8:00 am. Then Ducky has to be to work by 11:00 – my first interview is across town at 11:30, then my second interview at 1:00. Then back across town to clock into work by 3:00 and work until 9:00. I think I’ll be wiped out by then! They asked if I could work this week end at one of the other stores and I said sure, forgetting that Ducky has senior portraits on Saturday at 11:30 and her birthday is Sunday. We colored her hair today for her portraits – it turned out awesome. She got the cutest cut last week end. Her punky colors came in the mail yesterday, so voila! Think Pink. Just the front is pink these days though, the back is dark brown. It does really look cute.

We are thinking about taking her and some friends to Cliff’s for her birthday. She’s an adrenaline junkie, and we haven’t been yet. I still haven’t gone shopping for her Birthday yet either. Jeez. I guess I’d better get busy! Like I don’t already have enough to do! Ha!

Tomorrow it’s the library, WW, fun with Terrific58 and then some errands (like getting Ducky’s Birthday presents!). Guess it will be another busy, busy day! I’d rather be busy than bored though. Just not TOO busy!

Question of the Day:

Busy or lots of free time?

I’m sorry I’ve been absent lately. I’ve been busy around the house. After visiting CO – my folks came up for a visit to help me celebrate my Birthday. Yep. That’s right. Another year older for me. Not a big celebration, just family and good food (which I splurged and spent some of my weekly points on). I got a cool new styling tool for my hair, and since I got it cut again on Friday, that was very handy! I also got a hot air popper, which my friend ThisIsBullDookie informs me will be a life saver with some butter spray and spices.

I also got a job. Not teaching sadly. Not yet anyway. But for now I’m working as a receptionist at the Supercuts up the street. When I was getting my hair cut the stylist mentioned they were short a receptionist. She asked if I was interested. I applied, went back the next day and the manager hired me on the spot. I started today. It’s not great, and it’s only minimum wage, but it’s a paycheck and that beats the big fat zero I’ve been earning! And it gets me out of the house, I get free haircuts and a discount on all other products and services.

Again, not very exciting, but it’s a paycheck. I’ll take it.

Went to Laffs again. It was awesome! My mom and dad ended up being part of the show. The comedian was talking about marriage and what makes a good marriage. He asked who was married for a long time. The first guy said “8 months” – that brought down the house. He continued asking and was at like 33 years when me and my mom yelled out 44 years. Then he asked my mom what the secret to a happy marriage was – one of our friends leaned over and told her to say alcohol and she did! The whole place just fell apart. The comedian did a happy dance and said “you ever have one of those days where everything goes right at work?” — then when every got settled down he asked my dad what the secret to a happy marriage was and my dad said “Always have a bottle opener” — ROFLMAO. The comedian commented that everyone was prepared to be let down, that there was no way he could be as funny as she had been, and then he answers with that! He offered to hire them and have them travel with him. I wouldn’t be surprised if he used their answers in one of his future shows. It was soooo funny! People were coming up to mom and dad after the show and talking to them, and one lady offered to buy them breakfast. Too funny. See? This is where I get my sense of humor, and my girls got theirs. It’s genetic.

OK, I’m off to help hubby, who just got home. We’re hanging french doors between the living areas. This will allow people to watch TV or game with disturbing the others. It’s going to be so nice! I’ll be back later to read and catch up with everyone. Until then ~

Question of the Day:

What’s your secret to a good relationship?

This week end we headed north to visit the In Laws. It’s about 6 hours by car. We had checked out a couple of audio books, that always help the time pass quickly and headed out. Just north of Santa Fe we ran into a freakish hail storm, but other than that it was smooth sailing all the way. On Saturday we headed to Littleton where the Irish Festival was happening. Sister in Law was volunteering there, and we wanted to see her so why not combine that with some fun. The festival was great, if severely detrimental to my WW — but so much fun anyways! We wandered around looking at booths, and then stayed and watched Town Pants play. A fantastic band with lots and LOTS of energy. Ducky was especially take with the fiddle player Kyle. Of course he showed up sporting an unhawked Mohawk. Seems their plane was late and their luggage got lost (including instruments). They switched with another band who hadn’t made it at all due to plane delays. So Kyle understandably couldn’t hawk his hair, he had no hair spray! LOL. At any rate they were fantastic. Ducky went up and meet them after and a got a autograph from Kyle (on her neck!)

Afterwards was a BBQ at SIL house where we were happy that both nephews could make cameo appearances! They are so busy these days it’s hard to get a chance to see them! Sunday we headed back to the Festival where they had an Irish mass. We got in the festival for a donation of canned goods, and made mass! Then more festival enjoyment where the girls bought some stuff and I ate too much! (thank goodness for my weekly points and activity points, otherwise I’d have been in trouble!). We headed for home about 2 and boy were we ready to be here! I love travelling, and visiting folks, but I’m always happy to be home.

This week end my folks are coming up, and I’m looking forward to spending some time with them. It’s been raining quite a bit, gotta love the monsoons. It’s starting to look green again after months of brown. I’m itching to get my camera out. Terri you ready?

Alright, one last picture to leave you with – this is the sunset from my SIL’s back porch. She has some beautiful property, and this is basically her back yard.

There are two kinds of people, those who go and meet the band, and those who only buy the CD — which are you?

Fourth of July was great – thanks everyone who asked. We went over to one of LadyBug’s friend’s house. They have a pool and jacuzzi — very nice! They also had a huge tub of fireworks (one of the huge storage tubs) for the kids to light. They’d been collecting them for a few years. They kept buying them but for various reasons didn’t get to light them. So the kids (about 6 of them) spent about three hours doing nothing but lighting fireworks. They really enjoyed that! While they did that, the grownups sat and chatted. Two other ladies from their church were there and they were so much fun! We laughed, and laughed the whole night – and that was sans alcohol! LOL

Talking about the kids — I have to admit – I too snuck out at night. Which is why I understand. I never got caught, but I did it none the less. I feel the obligation therefore to catch my kids at everything I can and help them to see the error and (in this case) danger of their ways. Sigh. They are feeling it this week! Especially LadyBug as she has no phone, computer or freedoms. Her complete cut off from her friends has made a huge impact!

Ducky got her ACT and SAT scores back. A combined score of 1740 for her SAT and a 27 on her ACT. Not bad for no studying and only about 5 hours of sleep the night before both tests. Since this was right after Duckman had broke up with her, she was still unable to sleep well. She (of course) was not happy and has decided to retake them. She’s wanting a 1800 on her SAT and 30 on her ACT. Hopefully she’ll study and sleep this time and she should have no problems!

I’m still on the job hunt. I’ve put in application at a Hobby Lobby and Page 1 (another bookstore) as well as posting my resume online with some educational job sites. Tomorrow I’m going to go around to some schools with my resume and see what comes up. I would really like to get a job soon. Any job will do at this point. I really don’t want to sub again.

Tomorrow is also my next weigh in – we’ll see. 4th of July was rough – but I’ve done pretty well the rest of the week. I keep a veggie crudite in the fridge to nibble on with some low fat dill dip, I also keep a container of fresh fruit salad – for when I want something sweet. It’s been a big help to curb my snacking and preventing my derailment. I’ll let you know how I do tomorrow! Regardless – I feel good about the steps I’m taking and that’s what counts!

I’ve been doing pretty good this week. Watching my points and eating healthy. Drinking my water and taking my meds. Today was the first weigh in since starting and I was pleased to see the numbers going in the right direction! This week I lost 3.2 lbs. Woot. I’m just so glad that there was positive progress. Now to add in some more exercise and keep at the watching the points. Enough about that. On to more interesting, or should I say troubling events?

Lady Bug (who used to be called Squirt) is on major lock-down. She and her girlfriend decided to take a midnight romp through the neighbor hood. We found out about it yesterday. Of course, we were more than a little irked. It was worse when we found out that Ducky knew about it, BEFORE they left. Dang kids. Too much time on their hands, and a total disconnect from their brain has had a negative effect on them lately. When the girls were in elementary school – during the summers I had them do “school” 3 hours a day/ 3 days a week. They did math, reading, writing and usually spelling. Nothing to strenuous, just review stuff to keep their skills fresh. This was before I even started thinking about home schooling. They hated me. But you know what? They didn’t get into trouble. Of course – They were 10 and 8. Things were decidedly easier at that age. I love this age. Don’t get me wrong. But it’s a little harder to punish them. 5 minutes of time out doesn’t have the same effect.  And it’s so vital that they learn to think – to use good judgement and to take care of themselves.

Anybody want a couple of teenagers? They are funny, pretty, smart (occasionally) and come with clothes and furniture. Anyone??

Nah, I wouldn’t give them up for the world. My life would be completely empty without them.

Besides, let’s face it. My childhood wasn’t full of stellar choices. I want to save my girls from learning some of that the hard way, the way I did. But my parents couldn’t teach me either, I had to learn the hard way. I guess we are a family of hard heads! LOL

I hope that everyone has a great 4th!