poor robin

i can relate

peekaboo

Okay, so my principal tells me today that after yesterday's incident, they feel it would be a good idea to install cameras in my classroom. I am not crazy about the idea, but it will allow me to focus more on my teaching and not worry so much that someone is pulling something over on me. Many of you know that there was a big drug ring running from my classroom last year. The kid who was in charge was later linked to 3 overdoses in our school. So maybe I am a little on edge about drugs in my room.

These kids are not taking French. They are in my hummanities class that I am teaching sans livre. I have to create everything (art, music, architecture, etc.) on my own. Therefore, it is not as structured as other classes. Plus, that is the nature of the subject...and that's how I roll. Overall, it's a lot of fun- when I don't feel kids are taking advantage of my kind natured self.

I adore high school kids. I respect them because they deserve it. Their lives are filled with people who treat them as children, but want them to make adult decisions. We all remember those days. In fact, being with my students is the one thing I am going to miss most about this job. Sometimes I care too much for them, and so I am getting out before I get numb. I have seen that happen- not good.

Have a good day.

~g

PS My kiddo was in class today. Nothing happened to him, but we talked.

you got served

After her bath last night, Chloe broke it down to the tunes of Atmosphere. There is no sound really, (you can hear Mark laugh a bit) so use your imagination, or play your own tunes and enjoy. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2856263036395413561

I hope this works. Good night.

~G

reefer madness

i just busted a kid for pot. they think we are so dumb. who gets high at school with 20 minutes left in the day?

i am going to take dylan swimming tonight after chloe's art lessons. yeah!

have a great afternoon. i gotta go brush my hair. and eat a snack. mmmm

kisses~

g

venting again

So my family doesn't really think I have really decided to go to law school. They think they can change my mind, or decide for me what I should do. For example, at lunch at my mom's today, Janet leans back, eyes squinted and says (in a very condescending manner), "So Gretchen, why don't you just go to TU and see if you really like law school, before you move? I mean, you might hate it. That way, you can stay here and not have to worry about Mark finding a job." I kindly explained to her that the $13,000 difference in scholarships between WELS and TU was a factor, but I intended to go to law school to get a degree- not to "try it out". Plus we want to move! I have accepted the fact that I will be getting no support from them, but I do wish they would give me an ounce of credit. C'est la vie, non?
moi
PS This is one of Scot's prints. See more at http://www.losergoes1st.com
I noticed he added some new stuff. LOVE IT!!

rock me falco

I am annoyed that I just lost everything I typed. GRR.

Basically I was saying that I am glad it is Friday, and it is going to rain- which means indoor projects this weekend. (ie. painting?)

I also had to brag a bit that Caleb was nominated by his teachers for a major award from TCC- for students in the Tulsa area. If he wins, they will recognize him at his school, hang a banner, give him a bunch of stuff, and put him on TV. I made it sound much more prestigious the 1st time I tried to post, but now I am just ready to get home.

Finally, to ye locals, Caleb and Chloe both have sleepovers on Sat. night, so I think we should play dominoes. eh?? eh??

I think that is all. I'm looking homeward, angels. (I post @ school cause it is hella fast- but only when I am sans élèves)

moi

PS here's the real tragedy...http://www.eonline.com/News/Items/0,1,2512,00.html

la vie simple

Your goals, minus your doubts, equal your reality.

-Ralph Marston
I didn't get into OU, but I'm cool with it. It wasn't meant to be.

Here are some cool sites I found recently...
http://www.livingto100.com
http://www.hamptonlandmarks.com


They were in my Real Simple Magazine. Here's their site
www.RealSimple.com
I love that mag.

When I took Liam to the Dr. on Tue., he insisted the Dr. say, "NO more monkeys jumping on the bed!".
Have a good day,
me

if i could turn back time...

I just don't trust him. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5081976

Who can warm Kate?

Someone doesn't care for Todd. It wasn't me. He may be a little conservative, but he isn't the devil. A very happy devil, who wants to outlaw gambling and tatoos...

This is really him, with my sister. Who may or may not be a robot.

That's not Hillary.

la maison de mon reve

I really don't understand taxes. I know there are programs that simplify it for you, but I shelled out the $80 bucks to our accountant today so I could get my FAFSA sent in. I am starting to panic about the schools. I heard back from the bottom two immediately and now I check the mail and my e-mail many times a day. I know it could be months before I hear from the rest. I worked so long studying for the lsat, then writing the essays, and now I am at a loss. I have done all my fin. aide... So I am teaching myself Spanish.
Caleb and Chloe were sick today. Yuck-ee. Mark stayed home, but I took off tomorrow to take Liam to his Dr. apt. and Chloe has to get her (1st) filling.
I am sad about painting my house. I love my colorful walls. I have to look at it as a step towards separating myself from this house emotionally. When we moved in, we only had 2 kids. I know it is time, but I do wish I could bring the house along for the ride.
Alright, I am off to get Mark.
kisses
me

where its at

American Idol Winner (Carrie), Miss America (Jennifer), Garth and Trisha, ....
Oklahoma is the new California, I dare say.

mary kate

i feel so exposed

I hope everyone had a nice weekend. It was a busy yet productive one chez Oldham. I took my weekly Goodwill load today. After dinner tonight, Mark gave Caleb a drum lesson as Chloe and I updated her art portfolio to take to school for show&tell. Caleb was so happy, he told me he felt they had really bonded. God, I love that kid. Dylan read to me today...before he shat on the floor.
Mark worked all weekend, I feel kind of like his pimp.
As I look at the calendar, I see another busy week with dentist/doctors appointments, swimming, art lessons, soccer, etc... I wonder sometimes how I will manage to balance it all next year. I work well under pressure, but it does seem daunting.
Have a restful night and a good Monday.
kisses,
~g

voici gwen

je suis chez sarah....

Happy 30th Alyssa!!!

Love and kisses,
~g

Mark? Scot?

Nike recently bought 143 pairs of shoes from a collector in Japan to fill in holes in its archive.
read more...http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5077178

one of these things is not like the other...

I hope everyone had a wonderful day. Who knew mailing a letter could be so much fun? Little things seem much more magnified with kids. Like a nice long walk on a January evening.
~g

soy estudiante

...very longday...
I'm going to go study my spanish. buenas noches, amigos.

you are my candy girl

I think I may have a problem. I don't buy Splenda. I steal it. It started out innocently enough, but it has escalated into a bit of an obession. Everytime I go to Quick Trip, I take a handful of packets. I justify that they are there to be used. Plus, it is expensive at the store. Now rationally, I know that if I can shell out the .87 to buy a coffee at QT, then I can buy Spenda at the store, but I can't. I just can't.
I have other quirks, but I am afraid this one is borderline theivery. Last night, as I went to pay for my coffee, I pulled out a handful of packets from the pocket of my OSU hoodie. Oops.
My obssesive hair twirling, foot fear, or brocolli aversion have never gotten me into legal troubles.
random thoughts:

• I am thinking of learning Italian and Latin. German will follow. Maybe Russian, but I want to master the romance ones.
• Mark and I walk all over town and our students always see us. They are starting to worry. People are talking because NOBODY walks in this town. (unless you are crazy...we aren't too far off, eh?)
• Dylan still has no diapers. GRRR.
• Liam said his dad's name is brother.
• Chloe said she wants to be a crossing guard or an artist when she grows up (last night) Then she said, "I'd like to go to the moon, if mom will let me" to which I replied, "Of course, you can to anything- if you work hard." Liam perked up, and said, "Yes, I want to do anything."

G'Day. hugs. Happy b.day, Fritha. (I think it is tomorrow?)

Mark's turn to see the dentist. good luck.

~g

le sud de la france

yes, Dia this is what it looks like.

all things grow

I know, I know, the information in this article isn't new, per se- but it was great to read such a praising review in the Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/17/arts/music/17sufj.html?emc=eta1
I think Oklahoma should be next.
~g
ps i have to get a crown... there goes my moving/france $$. guess i'll have to start selling my body to the night, again. damn teeth.

teeth suck

I am headed to the dentist this afternoon. That is never a good thing. I can't wait until I am rich enough to get me some grills, yo. Have a great day.
~g

ma liste, enfin

• Ok, I am not great at ranking things, but I rule at making lists... So here is a list of albums I am into right now. I have no clue if they came out this year or last year (some aren't out yet, oops) whatever, they make me feel good. Please remember I am not a music writer. It is really difficult for me to describe music, or why I like it. You will notice that Mark and I do have different taste, sometimes. Alors, voilà...
  · Jenny Lewis, Rabbit Fur Coat (the Handle with Care cover is extremly enjoyable)
  · Antony and the Johnsons, I am a bird Now (I crave this album- like chocolate)
  · The mates of State, the new one (?) (feels great and I can really get down to these songs)
  · CocoRosie, la maison de mon rêve (beautiful, folksie, and Frenchie)
  · The Bell Orchestre, Recording a tape the colour of light (Great to listen to as you work or drive... not for everyone)
  · The Arcade Fire, The Arcade Fire (again, I can listen to this anytime. maybe an all-time fave. it makes doing dishes go by faster, too)
  · Sigur Ros, Takk
  · Godspeed You Black Emperor, Lift your skinny wrists like antennas to heaven (amazing sometimes melancholic instrumental music. the way it builds and climaxes is slightly sexual, I think. ..it's a fantastic release. again, it's best for me when i am grading or driving. ..but not w/ mark, he's not a fan)
  · Sufjan Stevens, Illinoise
  · Damien Rice, O
  · Bright Eyes, Fevers and Mirrors (probably my favorite, I can always listen to it)
  · Belle & Sebastian, Your cover's blown (They rarely disappoint. Hopefully Sarah and I will see 'em in Dallas)
  · M.Ward, Transfiguration of Vincent ( I klike the new one, too. I dig the analogue die-hards and his voice, wow- so rare)
  · Davendra Banhart, Rejoicing in the Hands (not new- I know, but so good)
  · Fionna Apple, Extraordinary Machine (song #3- very empowering)
• The fiery furnaces, I like the last two albums
  

I feel like I am leaving someone out. i didn't mention the stuff like iron & wine 'cause you can look @ mark's blog everyother day and read that. (i love you, baby) I listened to a lot of Ani, the shins, and yo la tengo over the summer, but I haven't listened to them much lately.
I can't wait to find some Deerhoofs (grâce à vosse) Other albums I want to check out are...
· Cat Power, The Greatest (OMG that voice)
· Tortoise and Bonnie Prince Billy, The Brave and the Bold (I just discovered Tortoise)
· The elected, Sun, sun, sun
· The John Fahey tribute album
· the mars volta, frances the mute
· vashti bunyan, lookafter
· dungen, ta det lugnt
Again, there could be more- I am open to suggestions.
I hope Mark is having a good time at G-love & special sauce.
bonne nuite.
moi-
oXXX

a riddle

answer me this: is it worse that your 8 year old autistic son wants to wear your bralette? or the fact that he can? because i have this friend...

happy b.day.

Thank you Dr. King for your dream and for my 3 day weekend. We are headed to Stillwater this eveningt to spend our certificates (chez Hastings) and dine w/ Sally. Should be entertaining.

Tomorrow, I am monitoring at the academic team meet in the morning. Those things make me a lil nervous. It's $50 and a free sandwich, so what the hell.

We are going to continue working to get our house sellable, the kids have various activities (b.day parties, etc.) , Mark will be working,...so I am sure Tuesday will be for before I know it.

I am going to listen to the new Jenni Lewis and catch up on some reading now that all of my applications are done and SENT.

Have a wonderful Friday and keep the dream alive.

Love,

Me

i love o

i am wearing my gypsy skirt, listening to my damien rice...in my mind i am in my (soon to have) volvo station wagon, windows down and I am on my way to San Fran. the air is warm and the music is loud. i have a foot on the seat (that is how i drive) i am free. now go listen to blower's daughter and join me.
~G

how the world eats

This is really interesting. To me, at least...http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5005952.

I need to get to work, I guess.

Love, hugs and kisses.

*G*

Mark?

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's weekend motorcycle crash left him with a fat lip and a political black eye, but he won't be charged with a driving violation, officials said Wednesday.
Schwarzenegger was on his Harley-Davidson, with his 12-year-old son in a sidecar, when he collided Sunday with a car on a winding canyon road. Police said he was driving without a license, but the city attorney declined to file any charges after reviewing the accident report.

teachers! leave those kids alone...

Our students are mad because they can't eat in class or in the halls anymore. They are getting riled up. It is exciting. I try not to take sides, but it would be great if it got interesting.

MME dodge's twin

Who wants to be told that this is the celebrity they resemble? I mean, really? Who is this guy? And why? WHY?

my twin?

Ok, Sarah R. sent this web-site www.myheritage.com where you can upload your photo and it tells you what celebrities you resemble...she said it told her she looked like kirsten duhnst, which is believable. So, I go and try about 3 different pictures of me, and it keeps telling me I look like Jon Voigt. Actually, most of my matches are male. The best one was the pic w/ Mme Dodge in the bakery. Her matches had me on the floor. From Meatloaf to the Dalai Lahma- she is all over the place. I tried a picture I have of Thomas and he and I both look like Emma Watson. But in the bakery one, I look like Ted Bundy, John Kerry, and Courtney Cox. They didn't say it would be flattering. D- I tried one of yours, and you also look like Courtney Cox, and a bunch of other hot WOMEN.
Just a side note, Chloe matched with Marilyn Monroe, Rean Reno, Yassar Arafat, and Shirley Temple. Liam resembles Michael Moore and Liv Tyler... hmm. It gets addictive, but it is quite entertaining. I tried to link the bakery shot for you. Enjoy and have a great day.
G
http://www.myheritage.com/FP/Company/faceRecognitionFlash.php?s=1&u=g0&lang=EN&temp=48fc3c343k9q3808&server=Server4&database=1&startYear=1800&endYear=2005

better news!!!!!!!!!

acceptance #2
http://www1.law.wnec.edu/
they also want to give me $19,000/year. and other stuff. they are sending a packet.
yay-hoo. #2.
me

i'll surf the net.

if we move to cali., i think i want to surf. or stalk kelly slater and be friends with the surfers. or just stalk kelly slater and have imaginary friends who surf. or just have imaginary friends. wait. that's not right. they are all in hawaii. surfers, that is. i like to look at the ocean, but i don't get in. that may make it difficult to surf. i'll stick with plan b. it got cold here again. like it's winter, heh.

g

Service announcement

Dear students and former students who may read this-(I'd feel better if you weren't) . This blog is intended for friends I don't see very often- ones a tad older who have known me since you were in diapers. I don't mind you reading, but I don't like any mention of you drinking. It isn't cool and I am not impressed. I am dead serious. Mark and I are adults and have been of legal drinking age for quite sometime. Though he might like to sound like quite the party animal, we are quite boring. Please do not risk your health or your future by acting irresponsibly. And please please do not feel as if you can tell us these things as if we are your buds... especially if your mother teaches down the hall from me. It is my responsibility to report illegal activity or any activity that you might engage in that could be hazardous to your health. We are teachers and we care for you. We are adults and do not condone ANY kind of drinking by minors. Please please understand this is very serious. I would be happy to visit with you if you have any questions.
http://www2.potsdam.edu/hansondj/InTheNews/UnderageDrinking/
moi

daughters are fun

It has been a big week for Chloe. She has been introduced to Allen Ginsberg and Jerry Garcia. She was most fascinated in the story of Jerry’s finger accident. She finished her first chapter book, added about 26 pictures to her art portfolio, and shot her 1st video.
She auditioned for a play (don’t know yet…) and decided to get rid of nearly all of her toys in her toy box. (“New year, new me” she said…hmm where did she hear that?) Right now, she is playing with Missy and I’m not sure Missy is happy about it. They are planning a tea party/picnic on the living room floor. The "tea" is her recipe of pez+ water in a water bottle and shaken up. yum.We’ll see, we’ll see.
me
xxO

merci for all of your kind words

Here are some pix of the gang at Brittin's surprise party last night. It was good to see everybvody. I couldn't post about it before for obvious reasons. In a bit, when Mark gets home, I am going to dinner w/ Sarah and Brandi- then Mark is going out w/ Ryan to meet up with some friends to celebrate Brent's b.day. We are tag teaming it this weekend.
It has been a beautiful day outside and it has been nice hanging out with the kids today.
later,
~g