Madam Ferula McGonagall

Stig arrived today!!!

2010-06-17T14:13:00.004-05:00

I received seriously the BEST.PACKAGE.EVER from Clara today via her owl Stig!!!!! It was heavy and there were lots of little packages jam packed in it! I can't even begin to describe it all and give the proper credit to Clara!

Here is Bella, my dark arts detector at work. She checked everything very well!

As you can see, it all must have been ok because now she's taking a nap!

Here is a picture of everything, I will detail what was in it at the end!

And a package for our baby!! How thoughtful!

This is the cute little package for our little one. Jackson will love them! I love the socks and the hat and can't wait to use them, but that owl bib is just something else! I just fell completely in love with it! I can't wait until he is here and can use these for him!

Here is a list of what was in my package, I'm going to copy from the list Clara sent me because I don't want to forget anything!!!

Personalized Gryffindor Stationary

A journal

2 pens, one a Gryff red and one purple, my favorite color

2 packages in Bernie Botts Beans in my favorite flavors!

Hermione Cable and Eyelet hat - which I love and can't wait to where this winter!

Cable and eyelet ipod holder

2 owl barrettes - one is in my hair right now

Gryffindor book mark

Gryffindor Chainmail bracelet and a Gryffindor beaded bracelet

Stitch markers - Hermione, SPEW and NCIS themed!

Gryffindor baby socks and hat!!!

Gryffindor Owl bib

2 skeins of Claudia hand painted fingering weight yarn - absolutely beautiful

1 skein of STR lightweight sock yarn - will make a gorgeous pair of socks

Tales of Beedle the Bard pattern book - this is so cool!

Gryffindor/SPEW project sized bag!!!

This is seriously one of the best packages ever! I have been so spoiled by Clara, I CANNOT thank you enough for this wonderful package!

Almost ready....

2010-06-05T22:51:00.002-05:00

I am almost ready to send Winifred her package! My owl is getting all rested and should be out sometime this week, he is very excited to be heading out on a fun trip! My dark arts detector, Bella, is checking everything over to make sure that everything is good to go!

Busy week!!!!

2010-05-22T23:04:00.001-05:00

Today my younger brother got married! We are so happy for him! I have been so busy the past 3 days! I left work early on Thursday to come homme and bake the cakes, I went through 18 cake mixes. Then yesterday I decorated 5 tiers of cake. 2 for the grooms cake served at the rehearsal, then a 3 tier that was served today at the wedding. And on top of all of this, we babysat our 8 month old niece overnight last night! I have never had a baby overnight before, that was fun, she's so snuggly when she's sleepy!!!!

Bad blogger!

2010-05-15T23:07:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I haven't posted in 2 weeks, I'm such a bad blogger and student! My muggle school is winding down, so I have been extremely busy with graduations, finals and my younger brother getting married! I have also been working on something for my spoilee! Surprises around every corner!

As I sit here typing in my bed, my pups is looking at me but can barely keep her eyes open! She wants to watch, but she's had a busy day sniffing out Dark Arts. Not that we've seen anything, she's just always on the sniff-out! We are very lucky to have her.

Baby things happening!

2010-05-01T22:06:00.002-05:00

Today Mr. McGonagall and I with the assistance of our Dark Arts detector, Bella, put together our crib for baby McGonagall! We hadn't planned on it, but we were cleaning house and decided to move the box into the baby room and when we did, we just decided to put it together! It's pretty cool, now we just can't wait to know what color of bedding to get for it.

Quidditch Round 1

2010-04-24T20:10:00.003-05:00

Although I wasn't able to participate in this week's game, I can't wait until our next one! I know we lost, so I hope that I can help next time! Go Gryffindor!

Spell for allergies?!

2010-04-15T17:39:00.002-05:00

I don't know about anywhere else in the wizarding world, but here where I'm at we are having a record setting year for pollen count. I have had a sinus headache for a week now. Unfortunately, the only thing that works is Tylenol combined with caffiene, which I am supposed to be limiting due to Baby McGonagall.

We had our first official doctor visit yesterday, I did get to see the baby! It was a very grainy picture, but it's still exciting! She said everything looked perfect and I don't have to go back for 4 weeks!

I am slowly working on projects for my spoilee, I have not been in the mood to work on ANYTHING, so it's going very slow!!!!

ok, stay out of fights!!!

2010-03-31T17:35:00.002-05:00

So. Yesterday at school I was preparing for my morning before school and I hear in the hall some girls using some choice words. So I step out to see what the commotion was. It was a girl fight! So I step back in and call for administrators and then go back in the hall. When I got back out there another teacher had stepped up and was trying to intervene. Now, my general policy is that I don't get involved. Especially now that I'm 9 weeks pregnant after trying for so long. Anyway, she had one of the girls by the arms and asked me to help. Only a handfull of very close people know that I'm preggers. So this other teacher asked me for help, so I instictively grab the other girl by the arms. We did finally get them apart, but in the process I was hit in the arm. Not hard, in fact my husband and I play around like that!!!! But man, let me tell you, the hubs laid into me when he found out, then my mom did, then my sister did and one of the secretaries at school did!!!! And now, I have to file a workman's comp claim, I had to be examined by the school nurse and file a police report. Seriously, I was not injured at all!

HSKS10 1st homework assignment

2010-03-29T19:01:00.003-05:00

Homework already?!?! The homework this week is to list our 3 favorite characters.
1. Hermione - I like Hermione for her intellect, her matter of factness and her trust in her friends. My husband says that I am a know it all liker Hermione.

2. Minerva McGonagall - she's a teacher, I'm a teacher in the muggle world. She has a sense for people when she first meets them that seems to be pretty accurate. I love that she is a animagus. She's one of the smartest witches ever!

3. I don't remember who else I chose!!!!

TTC day #660

2010-02-08T20:49:00.003-06:00

So. We have been working on this project for almost 2 years now. We have not ahad much luck. In fact, it seems as if everything is working against us. We just completed our possibly last IUI. We were told that if it doesn't work, we may have to move to a much more aggressive therapy. This means much more money, which we don't have. I know that I was placed on Earth to do this. I know that this is my destiny, I just don't know how we are going to get their. I want so much to provide this to Ben, he would be so wonderful. I feel so lost, confused and hurt by this process. We are in another wait and see pattern hoping for the best.

knitting woes.....

2009-12-28T08:40:00.002-06:00

I love knitting and crocheting. I love making things for other people. But people have made it not very fun for me. Why is it that when someone learns that you can do this craft assumes that you have the time, money or even the wish to make them something??? At my mom's birthday party, a Friend of my mother saw a scarf that I had made and told her 11 year old daughter, Stephanie knows how to knit, she can make you a hat. What? I see you less than once a year and you are volunteering me to make your kid a hat? My aunt will find a pattern and email it to me wanting me to make it. I'm not made of money, you want to go buy the yarn. Then yesterday at a family dinner, I was giving my niece the scarf that I made her to match her hat and mittens, and my entire family started telling me the colors they wanted for scarves and mittens. Now, I don't mind making things for other people, in fact most things I make are for other people, I rarely make anything for myself. Every time someone asks/assumes I'll make them something, I have started quoting a price or telling them I'll teach them to knit. I told my family yesterday that I would charge $12 a pair of mittens, they all thought I was ridiculous. Well, handmade costs more, get over it. I will continue to knit for others, just what and when I want to!!!

Great weekend!!!

2009-12-13T21:09:00.002-06:00

Here's Paige in her baby surprise sweater I made for her!! She was so snuggly in it!

Here's my mommy and my aunt at my mom's 50th birthday party yesterday!!! My mom is the one on the right, my aunt Kim is on the left, she's not too far behind!!

busy, busy, busy....

2009-12-05T19:55:00.002-06:00

What a terrible blogger I am, I haven't posted in FOREVER!!! I just finished a baby surprise jacket for a teacher at school for her first grandchild. I didn't enjoy it and didn't have fun with it, however, I did try a ruffled cuff and I learned from that.

I am almost finished, like will be shortly after I finish this blog for my spoilee's handmade item. I'm about ready to send it with my owlie for delivery.

I can't stay long, I must go, my beloved college football team is playing the Division II national championship semifinals. GO BEARCATS!!!!

Pictures!!!!

2009-11-10T16:16:00.004-06:00

Here is Brianna's birthday cake!!! She wanted a Wizard of Oz cake, namely the ruby slippers. I didn't think that I could carve the shoes, so my sister and I decided to make one with the slippers as the main focus point. I LURVE this cake so much, it's my favorite cake that I have made.

This is the layers before it was frosted, each layer was a different color of the rainbow, with the cupcakes each being layered within the cupcake pan!! It was so pretty when it was sliced, Brianna was so surprised with it. I'm so bummed that I didn't get a picture of the sliced cake.

And of course, I couldn't have a post and not have a picture of Paige. She is so beautiful and such a precious baby. I love to snuggle with her!!!

today, today!

2009-11-07T22:10:00.002-06:00

Well, my sister and I created my niece Brianna's birthday cake today. As I am at my parents house, their internet sucks big time, so I cannot add pictures. I will add them when I make it home after her party tomorrow.

I also am ending the day smelling like baby formula puke/spit up. Those of you who have experience with infants know the smell I am talking about. I believe that part of the job description for AUNT is to be spit up on multiple times a day! Not that I'm complaining at all. Mommy just dropped her off with me and went on her merry way of checking horses!

Pictures of the weekend to come!

Pictures taken by a 6, almost 7, year old!

2009-10-31T11:54:00.002-05:00

My neice Patty - 3 1/2 with my furry child, Bella! Me with Paige, trying to get her to stop crying so she doens't wake her very sick mommy.

My sister, reading to Patty about Monarch butterflies. The ice queens heart has melted!

Pictures as promised....

2009-10-23T08:28:00.002-05:00

Here are the pictures that I have promised, I have tried to upload these several times this week! This is my baby niece, Paige, she is 11 days old here. She's now 6 1/2 weeks. I'm hoping to get more pictures tomorrow. She was 6 pounds, 10 ounces, 20 inches long. She got really sick right after she was born with extremely high bilirubin numbers, but she's all better now.

Here I am with Paige!

This is Paige's pinwheel sweater. The colors did not photograph well, but it's so pretty, it's blues and purples. I am now working on the sleeves. I am deviating from the pattern, I don't think the sleeves on the pattern are cohesive with the rest of the sweater.

And here's Bella, had to throw a picture of her in! She was rooting around under the blankets as I was trying to take pictures of the sweater!

Pinwheel Sweater...

2009-10-17T22:17:00.002-05:00

I am currently in the process of knitting a pinwheel sweater for my new niece, Paige, who I need to post pictures of, maybe tomorrow!!! I have been searching for just the right yarn to make this sweater. I finally found the yarn that I wanted in Joann's on Wednesday. So, Thursday night I cast it on and today I made it to the i-cord bind off, I made it through 2 sections before I just couldn't work on it anymore, my eyes are about to close on their own! I am up way past my bedtime!!

I will post pictures of Paige and the sweater next week!

TTC Day 487

2009-08-22T23:00:00.002-05:00

This week I had 2 dominant follicle scans. The first one on Monday and one follicle was 13 mm. I was told that I had to come back on Thursday for a second one. This time I the 13mm follicle had grown to 19mm and one that was 13mm. This is the first good news we have had in the last year and a half. The therapy is working. We are now in a wait and see pattern for the next 12 days. I praying for the best!

My owl arrived!!!!

2009-08-10T17:56:00.002-05:00

Bevin Rae Mooney's owl Keavy arrived on my stoop today!!!! I was going to post lots of pictures, but it wouldn't let me!!! Here is a picture of everything, including my personal Dark Arts detector, Blla, hard at work! There was a beautiful hand-painted box with my muggle initial on it, it's already been put to use holding all of my knitting notions on my table! A recipe box with cards, I definately need these! And a magnetic pad of matching paper. A cupcake rubber stamp, tags to attach to my knitted gifts, an owl, Sour Jelly Belly's and 4 patterns!! Oh, and stickers to place on my baked goodies for gifts and my own owl!!! Look at these beautiful yarns, the green is alpaca, I have so been wanting to get some! It's a beautiful hand dyed greens. And the lavendar is Malabrigo, I can't wait to cast on with it!!! What to make, what to make!

Here's my little tags, I love them!!!

And my new little friend, I will place him on my desk at school!

And here is Bella, giving her approval to the package!!!

Bevin has definately spoiled me!!! Thank you so much!

Camping trip with my girls!!!

2009-08-08T09:37:00.003-05:00

So, last weekend I went camping with my brother, his on/off girlfriend and their respective daughters. I had a great time with the little girls, but my brother and his girldfriend not so much!

Here is a picture from our fishing spot. It was about 6:15 in the morning and still foggy. My favorite part of the day at the park!!!

Here is my niece, Brianna, swerious fisherwoman here! She has a whole wad of fishing gear!

Here is Patty, she is the only one of the five of us to catch a fish!! She was so scared of it, I'm suprised I got a picture!

And here are the girls just chillin!!! They sat here watching the park. I cheated and stayed in my parents camper this time. Normally I do camp in a tent, but it was the end of July and the only way that Brianna could have gone was if I went, so I said camper!

Baby shower surprises...

2009-07-28T20:09:00.002-05:00

We had a baby shower for my brother's fiancee this weekend, here are all the goodies I made for her!

Baby Surprise Jacket w/ Horse buttons (mommy shows horses, we call them hayburners!)

Bibs

Hats, there were 14!!!

And the Hello Kitty Hat finished, it's my favorite!!! I just can't turn it!

Help me choose!!!

2009-07-13T17:36:00.002-05:00

I need help choosing which hat to make for my new niece. She will be 2 months old when Thanksgiving comes around. I like both of these hats, but I just can't decide!!!

Summer Camp Game #3

2009-07-10T10:39:00.003-05:00

My fear is snakes. Not like Ron with spiders, but I am afraid of them!! I have held snakes before, but if I see one in the wild, I turn the other direction!!! So I was in class the other day a snake appeared while we were practicing our bogarts. So I turned him into a big ball of yarn!!!!! Not afraid of that!!!!

Witch & Wizardly Wisecracks!

2009-07-10T10:19:00.003-05:00

I got one!!!! Celestina Pettigrew sent me Mad Eye Moody's eye and some belongings to return to him.

Here is the whole package:

Here is my personal dark magic detector sniffing the package!:

Mad Eye's eye!:

Summer camp game #2

2009-06-30T17:56:00.002-05:00

1. Chamber of Secrets
2. Harry Potter
3. Ron Weasley
4. Hermione Granger
5. Gryffindor
6. Dark Arts
7. Gilderoy Lockhart
8. Chamber of Secrets
9. House elf
10. Harry Potter
11. Moaning Myrtle
12. Harry Potter
13. Ron Weasley
14. Harry Potter
15. Voldemort
16. Horcrux
17. Ron Weasley
18. Ginny Weasley
19. Gilderoy Lockhart
20. Prisoner of Askaban

3 truths and a lie...

2009-06-30T17:49:00.002-05:00

1. I have traveled to Europe.
2. I had 12 grandparents/great-grandparents when I was born.
3. I have a tattoo.
4. I played in the marching band in college.

Good luck!!!!!

Bibs.....

2009-06-27T10:52:00.003-05:00

Here are a few of the projects that I have been working on this week. I have a niece that is coming in September, so I am working on hats, booties/socks and bibs that all match for each holiday/month. Of course, I am also making sure to include some of mommy and daddy's interests too!

Left bib - green and yellow, John Deere colors, daddy has a John Deere degree and works for JD. He was already given the hat that matches!!!

Middle bib - green and red, Christmas colors to match the Christmas tree hat and Elfin Socks.

Right bib - Blaze orange and camo, daddy is a hunter, I made a basic beanie hat that this one matches.

I am working on hat number 6 and bib number 4. When I get all the ends weaved in on everything, I will take pictures of each set and post them!!! (I am really bad about weaving in ends and clipping my threads!!! My mom always fusses at me for this!!!)

I have the best job!

2009-05-18T21:42:00.003-05:00

I was at graduation tonight for the high school where I teach. It hit me. I was there, making a real impact on a child's life. I was watching these kids walk down the aisle for the processional and it was like watching my own child. I even teared up a bit, this is big because I don't cry (drives the hubs nuts too!). I felt proud at that moment to be a part of this evening for my kids. I have built amazing relationships with some of these kids that will go beyond the classroom.

Like the senior who had a baby in February, she graduated in the top 10% of her class and recieved many scholarships for college. All this while working full time and taking care of her baby. She came to me in tears, she didn't want to leave!! She has done an amazing job with her baby so far and will be an exception to the teenage mother statistics, she will go far.

Out of a class of 268, I may have had about 10% of them. Every one of them came and gave me a great big hug!!! I knew that my job would be rewarding when I decided to begin teaching, but tonight was nothing short of amazing. Thank you GSHS Class of 2009!!!

the joys of teaching...

2009-05-06T17:12:00.002-05:00

So, I was sitting in class yesterday and a student came up to me holding out her hand. She was holding it like something was wrong with it. She had apparently just sneezed in it. This was our conversation:

Student: Excuse me, do you have any hand sanitizer?

Me: No, why? (the bathroom is just next door to my room!)

Student: I just sneezed in my hand and you know, with the swine flu going around I don't want to catch it.

Me: Speechless. This doesn't happen very often, especially at school. Yes, kids really do say the darnedest things!

Very surreal...

2009-04-27T18:59:00.002-05:00

Ok, so my parents and I work for the same school district. This morning about 5:30 from my dad, I get a call that went about like this:

Dad: Whatcha doin? (this is his normal greeting!)

Me: Sleeping. (Duh, it's 5:30, this is what normal people are doing)

Dad: Well, you might have to take me home from school today.

Me: Ok, why?

Dad: Greg died.

Me: (still in the stupor of sleep) Greg? Greg who? Uncle Greg?

Dad: Yes.

My 39-year-old uncle (ten years older than I am) passed away about 3:00 this morning. He had a seizure, went into cardiac arrest and then died. He has been married about 5 1/2 years, has a 4 year-old son, and a 17 year-old stepdaughter. This is not how I expected my morning to start. I wasn't that close to him, but it's a huge shock.

New stash!

2009-04-19T19:10:00.003-05:00

This is the newest yarn to enter my stash. This is a Koigu KPPPM in Bobbi Jo Color way. This is my first Koigu. I can't wait to cast on with it!!!

Quidditch

2009-04-17T22:42:00.003-05:00

1. This “Harry Potter” character’s first name comes from Roman mythology. The mythological character’s twin brother is named Romulus. What is the Harry Potter character last name?
b. Lupin

2. Which “Harry Potter” character’s first name is the Roman equivalent of the Greed Goddess Athena?
c. McGonagall

3. In ‘Harry Potter’ World, this wizard has created the Philosopher’s Stone (called the Sorcerer Stone in the US). The historical figure from the 14th and 15th centuries was a scribe and a manuscript-seller who became famous as an alchemist. Who is this individual?
Nicholas Flamel

4. What is the first name of a character whose last name is the name of a Bulgarian leader from early 9th century who doubled the country’s territory?
c. Viktor

5. Which character’s name is the name of goddess in Indian mythology?
b. Patil

6. “Where the Wild Things Are” tells the story of Max, a young boy sent to bed without his supper for his wild antics. Who created this winner of the Caldecott Medal?
a. Maurice Sendak - I love this book!!!!!

7. What was NOT one of the unexpected defense mechanisms that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Griphook encountered in their attempt to rob Gringotts?
d. The Geminio Curse

8. What was Snape aiming at when he cut off George’s ear?
c. Another Death Eater’s wand hand

9. How much older than James was Lily? (Referring to Harry’s
parents, not children).
a. James was older

10. Food is one of the five exceptions to what magical law?
d. Grimp’s Law of Fundamental Transfiguration

George
McGonagall
Patil
Where the Wild Things Are

I got it!!!!!!!!!! Hermione Bagnold is amazing!!!!

2009-04-08T21:20:00.005-05:00

My kit came today!!! Hermione Bagnold is amazing!!! Here's Bella checking it out for me! She gave me the okay to open each little package!

So here's all my little packages, all wrapped up in Harry wrapping paper!! And Bella's ear on the side, she had just turned away and that floppy ear made it into the picture.

Here's my whole kit with Bella in the way, she's such photo hog!!!! There is 2 skeins of Knit Picks Essential Kettle Hand-Dyed in Wine and Gold, a set of Knit Picks Harmony size 2 circulars, a set of Australian animal stitch markers, coffee!, a gryffindor statue, Bella got a stuffed owl and some bones which she promptly swiped!!!

And the most amazing bag!!! I couldn't get the color to come out right. It's a deep royal purple and has Knit Picks Harmony needles at the top of the bag. I wouldn't want to have given it up either!!! It is already filled with all of my belongings!!!!

Oh, and this didn't make it into the picture, uh, because I was wearing it!!!! It also didn't photograph well, it is red venetian glass beads with little flowers on it! This is definately going to be on my wrist everyday!!!!

Thanks Hermione!!! I love it!!!!

A difference of 2 days....

2009-03-30T16:57:00.002-05:00

So on Saturday, we received 5-6 inches of snow. It was coming so fast, that many of the stores in the strip center where I work part-time, closed about 3 hours early! This picture was today on my way home from school. No snow, beautiful sunny weather close to 70 degrees!!!

Rain, Freezing Rain, Ice then Snow, lots of snow...

2009-03-28T18:42:00.000-05:00

Who would have thought that it was really spring?!?!?!? It's March 28 and it is still snowing here!!

bridal shower....

2009-03-22T13:45:00.002-05:00

Here is a picture of the latest cupcakes that I made. I decorated these in a hotel room in Omaha on Friday night. The wedding colors are red and black, two colors of frosting that I refuse to make becuase the food coloring makes the frosting taste disgusting. I made white frosting and then sprayed them with a red food coloring spray, not sure I really like the effect that it gives. I made 24 roses and 24 swirled cupcakes.

We also had a chocolate fountain with appropriate dippers. And I have leftovers! YUM!!!! The shower itself was ok. I was not in charge of it, I just did the food.

Brianna's Kitty Sweater

2009-03-16T20:33:00.002-05:00

Here it is!! Brianna's Kitty Sweater. This is a pattern that I received after my grandmother passed away, she had made one for my aunt when she was about 6. So, my niece is 6, so it was time to make her one. It's a bit too late for this year, but she'll still be able to wear it next year. All I need is to add the buttons, but I have to go find them first!

So here is a picture of the sweater back and the pattern:

The front:

And a close-up of the back:

Quidditch Round Two

2009-03-16T15:06:00.004-05:00

1. On which day did the Order of the Phoenix come to get Harry?
c. Saturday

2. During all this chaos with voldemort and the Death Eaters, people still had lives to live and Ron's oldest brother, Bill decided to marry Fleur Delacour? Who were the uninvited guests at Bill and Fleur's wedding?
b. Death Eaters

3. Voldemort had seven Horcruxes hidden in different places. Six of them were hidden at the Gaunt shack, Hogwarts, a cave, inside Harry, inside his snake, Nagini and Tom Riddles Diary. Did Voldemort hide the last Horcrux inside the Malfoy's vault at Gringotts?
b. No (the Lestrange' Vault)

4. Why did the Dumbledore's move to Godric's Hollow?
c. The father went to Azkaban

5. Harry and Hermione read a part of "Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore," written by Rita Skeeter. Then they met Dumbledore's brother Abeforth and he told them the same story, just with a few details changed. Which of the following did Aberforth and Rita Skeeter agree on about Dumbdore's past?
b. That Dumbledore was friends with Grindelwald for a while.

6. When Harry and Hermione visit Godric's Hollow, they visit the graveyard to see Harry's parent's graves. Harry walks by a tombstone that we later learn belong to tone of "The Three Broother'. The brother buried there once owned what?
b. The cloak

7. The Trio finds out that Luna had been kidnapped by the Death Eaters , and that they won't give her back until they got Harry Potter. Why did they kidnap Luna?
a. Her father sided with Harry and Dumbledore

8. After Voldemort killed Snape, he left the room and Harry came out from under the cloak. Snape gave Harry some of his memories all the way from when he was a child to just months before. Harry dived into the Pensieve and which of the following did he not see?
c. Snape and Lily having fun in a potions class

9. On the search of the Lost Diadem, Harry finally gets to takl to the Gray Lady. Who was the Gray Lady when she was alive?
c. Helena Ravenclaw.

10. Which of these is not one of Harry or Ron's children?
d. Victoria

Picture Scavenger Hunt
These pictures must either be posted to your blog or linked to from your blog.

Lily

Ron

Snape

Luna

Godric's Hollow

itchiness and basketball...

2009-03-14T10:22:00.003-05:00

Well, I have had an interesting last day or two. I came home from work on Thursday and was getting ready to work my shift at my part time job. I started itching. I looked and I had hives on my upper chest, my shoulders and my arms. I took a couple of benadryl and went on to work. They cleared up and I thought I was fine. Then I get home eat dinner, and take a quick shower and go to bed. I wake up about an hour and a half later with hives from my head to my waist solid. I have never had hives on my body, usually only in my mouth. There were hives in my ears! The hubs took me to the ER, where they gave me more benadryl, an anti-inflammatory and another anti-histamine. They went mostly away. I went to school yesterday, then chaperoned a busload of kids to the state semi-final basket ball game where our boys were playing! At the game the hives started coming back. I woke up this morning and now I have them all over again. Not as bad as yesterday morning, but definately coverd in them. Now, nothing in my diet or anything has changed. I don't know what's causing them. And it's really starting to annoy me.

This afternoon I am again chaperoning a busload of kids to the state basketball game where our boys are playing for the state title!! We are so excited. I am so excited to be a part of this experience.

It's finally finished!!!

2009-03-03T19:28:00.004-06:00

My first major attempt to crochet!! This baby afghan was started by my great-grandmother. My great-grandmother crocheted my older brother a baby afghan for his daughter when she was born. My sister and I asked her to make us each a baby afghan for our future children, knowing that she probably wouldn't be around when it was time for us to have kids. For Christmas several years ago, my great-grandmother gave my sister and I a baby afghan. It is one of my most precious possessions. When she passed away, my grandfather called and said that he had a "bag of knittin stuff that was grandma's." When I picked it up, he said that it was something that she was working on for my younger brother. I opened it up and there was the majority of a baby afghan. It's not perfect, it is really uneven and not square. You can see where she began losing her ability to keep an even tension. But it is perfect. It was something that we know she put her heart into. If you noticed the pink bow of yarn on the top picture, you can see where I began. I was working the border around the edges. I ended up putting about 3 inches of a border around it. The best part is, my brother doesn't know that I have it or that she even had started one for him. So now that he is having a baby, I thought it was time to finish this blanket. I have never been so proud of soemthing that I have finished. I can't wait to give this to him and his fiance'.

Bachelorette Party Etiquette?

2009-03-02T17:20:00.003-06:00

Ok, so my best friend from college is getting married in April. I am a bridesmaid in her wedding. So far she hasn't been too bad about things and really hasn't been a 'bridezilla.' Now, her maid of honor on the other hand, is being a bit demanding. We are having the bachelorette party and bridal shower the same weekend, this was to help me out. I have never been to a bachelorette party and don't really know what to expect. I am the only one that does not live in the same town that the parties are being held. I have to make a 4 hour drive and pay for a hotel room in town. I am the only one incurring any major expenses just to attend the parties. Now, I don't mind doing this, but I feel that no one has even considered this fact. Today I received the invitation to the bachelorette party. I am expected to pay for a hotel room for the bride to "open presents." What?! I have to buy her a present?! The MOH wants a "sexy" gift for the bride to take on her honeymoon. And I have to pay for a hotel room for this, why can't we just do it at the restaurant where we are having dinner or the bride's apartment? So, I emailed the MOH and asked about the expenses, reminding her that I am coming from out of town. I inquired about paying for the hotel room, I asked if it was an issue of having a sober driver, that I would be happy to take anyone home that would need a ride, as I don't drink. She replied that it was in case anyone got too drunk they would have a place to crash. And I'm supposed to pay for this, I don't think so. If they get too drunk to go home, then they can pay for their own room, that's their own problem. Then we were told that we had to buy the bride a drink and snack when we go out to the bars. Now, I don't drink and I have issues with other people drinking and getting drunk. I don't think that it's my responsibility to help get her drunk. I'm not trying to be difficult, but I have my limits. I'm already paying a lot out of my pocket to just attend, now I am expected to pay everything for her? I'm just frustrated and to the point that I don't even really want to go.

Great bargains at the lake!!

2009-03-01T18:06:00.002-06:00

My mom, sister and I braved the weather and went to the lake on Friday and Saturday to do some shopping. As you can see, I got some great stuff. At the Children's Place, I bought the princess niece an outfir for $6, I bought 2 shirts for Patty (brother's girlfriend's little girl) for $3 each, 2 packs of onesies for a diaper cake for $1.99 and $2.99 each, 2 pairs of baby socks for $.99 each, a stocking hat for a future child of mine for $2.99, a pair of space pajamas for a future child of mine also for $2.99 and a puppy hat for $.99. At the Crocs outlet store, I bought the hubs a pair of crocs for $14.99 (they are on his feet, not in the picture!), a pair of crocs sandles for me, a pair of Mary Jane crocs in purple and a pair of flip flops for the princess niece, and a pair of little green crocs for a future child for $4.99 each. A few baby items for the diaper cake for 1.99 and 2.99 at Tuesday Morning. I also got a few shirts for me for school and a few more little things. We had a great trip, but fought the snow all day yesterday. They closed the mall early too!!!

Good news or bad news...

2009-02-26T20:19:00.002-06:00

Well, we have good news. The hubs passed his tests for teacher certification. All he has to do now is pass his background check, which is not a problem, and have 60 hours of substitute teaching.

The bad news, this week we had our first visit with the RE. The good news for me is that the majority of his patients are just like me. That he is very confident that he can me on the right track. The bad news is for the hubs. While his count was really high, his motility and mobility are extremely low. We have to go back to the RE for a couples consultation. This has me scared. I'm afraid we are going to have very few options and can't afford many of the options that will be available. Mostly, because my health insurance will pay nothing for infertility. This is proving to be a tougher challenge than we thought.

I'm done!!!

2009-02-19T18:36:00.002-06:00

I'm all done with my Masters program!!! On Tuesday, I turned in my research paper. I received an A in the course, now the paper is on to be reviewed by the university. It's such a great feeling!!!

Quidditch Round 1

2009-02-18T21:31:00.005-06:00

1. What momentous event was the reason that the members of the Order of the Phoenix felt it necessary to move Harry out of the Dursley’s house?

d. Harry’s upcoming birthday

2. Who revealed the actual date of Harry’s transfer to Voldemort, despite the misinformation the Order had been spreading around that the move would occur on the eve of his actual birthday?

a. Mundungus

3. With the use of Polyjuice Potion (and to confuse any possible attack by Death Eaters), six member of the Order were disguised as Harry and escorted out of Privet Drive, along with the real Harry. Which member of the order did not survive that night?

a. Mad-Eye Moody

4. Who informed Harry, Ron and Hermione of the bequests left to them in Dumbledore’s will?

d. Rufus Scimgeour

5. During the wedding celebration for Bill and Fleur, Kingley Shacklebolt sent a Patronus to tell the guests that the Ministry had fallen, Scrimgeour (the Minister) was dead and the wedding celebration was about to be attacked by Death Eaters. What form did the Patronus take?

a. A lynx

6. Escaping from the wedding to London, our three friends found themselves confronted by a pair of Death Eaters, disguised as workmen. This close brush impressed on them the need to find someplace to hide. Where did they decide to go?

b. Sirius Black’s house

7. Kreacher’s animosity towards Harry, Ron and especially Hermione (a Mudblood) was well documented in book five, “The Order of the Phoenix.” His initial interaction with them showed that his attitude had not changed. How did they win him over?

d. By giving him Regulus Black’s old locket

8. Who did they eventually find was in possession of the locket/Horcrux?

d. Dolores Umbridge

9. What did Harry find embedded in the door of Umbrdige’s office?

a. Moody’s magical eye

10. After retrieving the Horcrux, they tried to return to their safe place but they were pursued (actually Yaxley tagged along when they disapparated). This meant that the Death Eaters knew their hiding place and they had to go somewhere else. Where did Hermione take them?

d. To the site of the Quidditch World Cup

Picture Scavenger Hunt

Mad-Eye Moody

Nymphadora Tonks

George Weasley

The Dursley's House

Kreacher

Cupcakes and Knitting....my two favorite things!

2009-02-15T14:54:00.002-06:00

Look at these cupcakes!! They are too cute!! Found this pic on www.threadbanger.com

My little brother is getting married!!!

2009-02-14T09:10:00.002-06:00

My little brother, Cliff, proposed last night!! He's not so little, he's 24 and taller than I am. I am so excited, I love Trish and want her as a sister! Also, they are expecting a baby in September. They are at the bank right now getting pre-apporved for a house. I am so excited for them!

Bella's birthday!

2009-02-04T17:28:00.002-06:00

This is a bit late. Like 3 weeks. Bad pet mommy! This is Bella eating her first birthday cake! Ignore that piece of lettuce on the floor. She thought she needed it and then didn't even eat it! She's a spoiled pups!

2009-02-03T18:10:00.003-06:00

1.What are your three most favorite colors? Purple, red, hunter green
2.What are you three least favorite colors? orange, yellow, pukey green
3.Your favorite candy is Starburst Jelly Beans or Jelly Bellys.
4.Who is your favorite Weasley? Ginny
5.Do you knit, crochet, or both? both, but mostly knit. Just learned to crochet.
6.What type of kit did you ask for? Sock, I think.
7.Acrylic— (a) has its uses, (b) should all be burned, (c) best yarn to work with? (choose an answer) a. it's good for pet stuff, mittens and doll clothes.
8.Who is the Gryffindor Head Girl ? CentyB
9.Name four "extras" you would love to receive in your kit. hmmm, I'm not sure...It's hard to think of these things!
10.What are your three most favorite scents? Orange Blossom, Lilac, Baking cookies
11.Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks? Most of the time sweet.
12.Which Gryffindor and Slytherin students are sisters in real life? Lizzy Wychwood and Emma Wigworthy
13.Do you really need more stitch markers? Not really, but I do love them!
14.DPNs, circular, or straight? circs
15.Favorite yarn? Dream yarn? Anything soft and squishy.
16.Favorite HP Movie? PoA
17.Favorite HP character? Hermione and Hagrid
18.What is your favorite pattern? Too many to decide from!

Girl fights?!

2009-01-27T17:49:00.002-06:00

Ok, so I'm in my classroom after Advisory today and I here this big bang on the lockers out in the hall. As I am getting up, I hear it again. I run out to the hall and there are 2 girls fighting. I run back in and call for help, then run back out to see what I can do. As I open the door, the teacher across the hall is yelling at them to stop. I grab one of the girls, make her go into my room and sit down. She complies. The other girl still tries to hit at her through the other teacher and me. Luckily, neither of us were hit. We finally get the other girl into the classroom across the hall. I go into my room to talk to the girl in my room. I asked her what happened. She said that the girl was saying crap about her, so she hit her. WHAT? Mind you, I've had this student before and I have her in 2 classes this semester. She's a straight A student, can be mouthy at times, but overall a pretty good kid. I asked her if getting expelled from school was worth it. She didn't know what that meant. I explained it to her, that she would be expelled for 180 days and it would go on her permanent school record as well as a police report filed (with an almost $1700 fine). The color drained from her face.

After the administrators and school resource officer took her and the other girl to the office, we looked in the hall. There were drops of blood from the hall to my classroom and in my classroom as well as clumps of hair!

Never a boring day at my school!

Why is life not fair?

2009-01-07T17:39:00.002-06:00

The hubs and I have been trying for a baby since about April of last year with now luck. We knoe that I have ovulated maybe twice since then. I have been on 3 different medications to induce ovulation too.

So tonight, the hubs and I were watching the local news tonight and there was a story about a 4 month old that was murdered recently. He suffered from severe malnutrition and weighed less at 4 months when he died than he did when he was born.

Why do people like this get babies and we can't. I know that my purpose in life is to be a mother. There is nothing that I want more than to have a baby. So why does this happen. I have several students that are either pregnant or have children. They can't even take care of themselves, more or less a child. I don't get this.

OH. MY. GOSH!!!!! Best night EVER!!!!

2009-01-04T10:00:00.002-06:00

Last night the hubs and I attended the Celine Dion concert at the Sprint Center. It was nothing short of amazing. She sang all the good songs and some new ones. This was by far the best concert that I have ever been to and well worth the pricetag. I will definately be going when she comes back. This was the best birthday present ever!

Setlist:

I Drove All Night

The Power of Love

Taking Chances

It’s All Coming Back to Me Now

Because You Loved Me

To Love You More

Eyes on Me

All by Myself

I’m Alive

Shadow of Love

Fade Away

I’m Your Angel

Alone

Pour que tu m’aimes encore

My Love

The Prayer

Soul medley: Sex Machine, Soul Man, Lady Marmalade, Respect, I Got the Feelin’ It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World

Love Can Move Mountains

Encore:

River Deep, Mountain High

My Heart Will Go On.

Happy New Years!!!

2009-01-03T11:16:00.002-06:00

I don't make resolutions for the New Year, I never have. However, I do set goals. I know, kind of resolutions. I always have a list of goals for my life. So this year I plan to:
1. have a baby
2. finish my master's paper and graduate
3. do a better job at getting papers graded on time
4. finish all projects otn and not start 30 at one time just because I get bored!

I'll add more later, I have to pee!

Snow day, part 2

2008-12-16T10:50:00.002-06:00

This was my morning:
5:32 - alarm goes off, drag myself out of bed, go potty.
5:35 - put on slippers, bundle up in the hubs coat, take dog out to make yellow snow - it has really had just started snowing and we may have had a light dusting.
5:40 - sit down in recliner and turn on the news, watching school closings, see my schools name!!! Turn to the 3 other KC area news channels, see schools name on them too!
5:50 - receive phone call from department chair saying school was cancelled!!!!!!
5:55 - climb back in bed and sleep another 3 hours!
9:37 - wake up again.
10:01 - make orange rolls for breakfast, got them just for snow day morning!
10:07 - put pork roast in the crock-pot for dinner.
10:58 - writing this post!

Gotta love snow days!!!

It's frickin' freezing!!

2008-12-15T16:17:00.002-06:00

When I left for school this morning my car said it was 2 degrees. TWO DEGREES!!!! That's cold!!! I had to turn on the seat warmers on high and the heater all the way to 90 and it still took 20 minutes to getg warm. I even stopped for a cappucino!

2008-12-12T17:23:00.002-06:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Definately wrapping paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? Has to be real
3. When do you put up the tree? We typically buy one the day after Thanksgiving and then spend the next day decoration.
4. When do you take the tree down? After New Year's, depends on when I have to go back to school
5. Do you like eggnog? LOVE IT!!!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Mary Lou Retton leotard in 1984, I had just turned 5!
7. Hardest person to buy for? The hubs
8. Easiest person to buy for? My mom or the princess niece
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, but I have one picked out, just can't afford it and my mom won't let me have the one I always put out as a kid.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Only mail.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? The ugly music box from my evil grandmother last year
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Mickey's Christmas Carol. I love most Christmas movies, the cheesier the better!
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? All year long
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Not usually, but I have.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Mom's Christmas breakfast, we have the same thing every year and only on Christmas.
16. Lights on the tree? Yes and everything else!
17. Favorite Christmas song? Carol of the Bells, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (had a solo in high school!), anything TSO
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Go to mom and dad's on Christmas morning in PJ's!
19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer? Yes.
20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Depends on whose house we are at. We only go to the MIL on Christmas Eve out of obligation. Then go to church. We spend Christmas day at my parents. We celebrate with the FIL sometime before New Year's because he get's paid too well to not work Christmas. I prefer Christmas morning.
21. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? My "bah humbug" husband.
22. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love red and green trees. But I also love sentimental ornaments.
23. What do you want for Christmas this year? A baby
24. Angel on the tree top or a star? A star. The angel is too expensive to put on the tree, so it sits on a table close by.
25. Favorite Christmas dinner? Anything at my parents.

Things to do on a snow day!

2008-12-10T10:50:00.003-06:00

1. Sleep in!
2. Watch CSI marathon on Spike
3. Take the pups out for a steaming present
4. Eat a bowl of cornflakes
5. Fill out Christmas cards, hope I got everyone!
6. Work on Brianna's sock, second sock syndrome?!
7. Blow nose 5 million times
8. Make great-grandma Margaret's homemade chicken and noodles from scratch, if only I had an old hen
9. Go to Dialog in the Dark with little brother, then out to dinner
10. Dig out a box of baby clothes that I have been collecting
11. Wind some yarn into balls
12. Mail swap box
13. Snuggle up on the couch with the pups

Hooray for snow!!!

2008-12-10T08:34:00.002-06:00

Students and teachers alike love snow. Why, you ask? SNOW DAYS!!!! My students kept asking me yesterday if I thought that we would have a snow day today, I kept saying no, it's not going to snow enough. Well, I was wrong, as I was watching the news a 10:03 last night, my school's name showed up as being canceled for the day!!!! We only had a half day with students, so it was probably a good idea to cancel for the day! I get to stay home snuggled up on the couch with the pups and watch a CSI marathon and drool over Nick Stokes!

I'm getting sick, I have a head cold. Now it's settling into my chest. Not good. I've already had bronchitis once this fall, now I'm getting it again. I can't really afford (time and money) to go to the doctor, get the expensive antibiotic (because I'm lucky enough to be allergic to the cheap antibiotics) and cough syrup right now. I've gone through so many Kleenex's in the last 2 days!

I love the snow....

2008-12-09T16:37:00.004-06:00

but hate stupid drivers! I don't know what it is about snow, but it brings out the stupid in people. Now, I have 4-wheel drive in my SUV and everything, but that doesn't mean I get to drive how I want to. You still have to take it slow and drive smart. I live 28 miles from my school, it's a 35 minute drive, I passed at least 12 wrecks. I drive mostly interstate, these are the first roads cleaned off.

Great night!

2008-11-30T09:15:00.002-06:00

Last night we went to see Trans-Siberian Orchestra live in concert. We took my parents for their Christmas present. I'm not sure they enjoyed it as much as the hubs and I did! I think my dad fell asleep during the first half of the concert!!! But I would recommend that everyone go see them in concert!

Definately has to the best kit ever!!!

2008-11-24T17:37:00.003-06:00

I got home and found 2 packages waiting for me! One was from the New Moon Swap and one was from Ophelia Ballycastle from HSKS6. Oh my goodness, she deserves to win the best kit prize. 3 gorgeous sock yarns that I cannot wait to cast on. A beautiful green and blackSlytherin yarn, Cosmic Fibers Half-Blood Prince and a beautiful purpley-pinkish-blue colorway. Bella gives her nose of approval.

Here is a picture of the whole package. A beautiful green project bag with a pretty green satin. Unicorn Fibre wash and rinse, Things I Learned from Knitting by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, Owl Post note cards, 40" addi Turbo Lace circular needle, a pedicure kit and pumice stone, a KnitPicks view sizer, bent tip tapestry needle set, green and silver bracelet and stitch markers, a sachet bag and a cable knit coffee mug!!!! Best kit ever!!!! Thank you so much Ophelia!

Look what I got for my birthday!!!!!

2008-11-16T16:04:00.002-06:00

This is what the hubs got me for my birthday!!!! 12 pairs of socks that I have to make myself. The Spring/Summer sampler and the Fall/Winter sampler. They came with patterns for each month. They are so beautiful!!!!

Disappointed and depressed...so let's eat ice cream!

2008-11-15T14:10:00.003-06:00

Ok, a year ago tomorrow, the hubs did the sweetest thing for me. He bought me Celine Dion tickets for her concert here in KC tonight. So I've been planning and getting excited for this concert. I have wanted to see her in concert since 1992 when I heard her first song on the radio. Yes, I still remember this! So Tuesday night, after my parents took me to dinner for my birthday, my dad calls me. He tells me that I'm "not going to your concert on Saturday." Knowing my dad, I thought he was yanking my chain. He wasn't. No, she is sick and has postponed several shows. Now. I've had my tickets for a year now. I have to wait 2 more months before she comes back to KC. I've been bummed all week about this. At least I still get to go, but I am still disappointed!!!

For my birthday from my parents, I got a Cuisenart Ice Cream freezer! I've already made 2 batches. An Orange Sherbet, but it was REALLY sour. And today, I made an Egg Nog ice cream. It's still in the freezer waiting for the hubs to get home from work!

Today I went and had blood drawn a second time. Checking progesterone levels again. My doctor thinks everything has been working, just double checking up one everything. My temperature has been up for about 10 days now. So, we're just waiting to see the results from this blood test.

Last Round Quidditch

2008-11-15T12:58:00.002-06:00

1. Who was Tom Riddle Sr.’s girlfriend before Merope gave him the love potion?
b. Cecilia
2. What does Luna say floated into Harry’s ear when he was in the train car that supposedly caused him to lose focus?
c. Wrackspurt
3. How much do the primary Apparition lessons cost?
d. 12 galleons
4. What is Professor Merrythought’s first name?
b. Galatea
5. What Hogwarts club was Eileen Prince captain of?
b. Gobstones Club
6. Who is head of the Goblin Liaison office?
b. Dirk Cresswell
7. Mrs. Weasley offers Fleur a goblin-made tiara for the wedding with Bill. What family member is currently in possession of the tiara?
a. Aunt Muriel
8. How many points does Snape take from Gryffindor for Harry’s late arrival and muggle attire?b. 70
9. When Profressory Slughorn first meets Hermione, he asks her whether she is related to Hector Dagworth-Granger
What society did Dgworth-Granger found?
d. The Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers
10. Which of these describes Golpalott’s Third Law?
d. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to more than the sum of the antidotes for each of the separtea components

Rude and inconsiderate people...

2008-11-09T20:57:00.002-06:00

Ok, so I work part time at a retail clothing store. I started as a favor to a friend for the summer and have continued through the fall, it's my yarn spending money! I can buy what I want and not have to feel quilty! Anyway, I know the job expectations and requirements of this position. Help customers, put clothes away, keep the store clean, etc. However, there comes a point where the people that come in are just rude and inconsiderate. I understand that people come to a store, try one clothes and don't buy everything they try one. But seriously, DO THEY HAVE TO THROW THE CLOTHES ON THE FLOOR?!?!?!? I walk into the fitting rooms several times on a daily basis and it looks like my bedroom as a teenager. Clothes and hangers EVERYWHERE!! Do people not have any respect for their fellow man that they can't even hang the clothes back up? Or at the vary least, fold them and lay them on the bench in the fitting room? While I do work at the store, I'm not their maid. Today it was from a 12-year old child. What are we teaching our children?

Ok, thanks for listening to my ranting and raving. Going to bed now!

Syltherin House Quiz #6

2008-11-09T10:11:00.002-06:00

1. What are the three important things in Chapter 13 Harry needs to remember?
1. Riddle hated what made him like everyone else.
2. Riddle had no friends.
3. Riddle collected trinkets that he believed were special, they were like trophies to him.

2. What did Merope sell when she was alone in London before the baby was born?
Slytherin's Locket

3. What does Mrs Cole like to drink?
Gin

4. What does Tom Riddle demand Professor Dumbledor do twice when they first met?
He made Dumbledore would tell him the truth, and to do some magic.

5. What did Mundungus nick from the Black house?
Mundungus steals Slytherin's locket.

House plans.........

2008-11-03T20:46:00.002-06:00

The hubs and I have spent a while trying to find the perfect house for us. I know, with the market as a buyers market, you'd think it wouldn't be that difficult. But having a grandfather who taught construction and is a former licensed home inspector and a father who has built more houses than I can count makes it difficult to find one that meets their standards. So, I was posed with another option. I was offered to buy some land from my dad! And the hubs agreed. We are going to buy 10 acres and build a house. YEAH!!!! So we have been looking at plans, I think we may have found one that will fit our needs. We are altering it a bit and then by grandfather will design it for us and draw the plans. Now we just have to do the legal stuff in buying the land first.

Slytherin House Quiz!

2008-11-01T09:04:00.002-05:00

A favorite Halloween picture...
How about 2!!

This is Brianna's first Halloween, she was 4 days old.

(she just turned six!)

This is Brianna the day she came home from the hospital!

Less than a week....

2008-10-29T17:07:00.003-05:00

Until the this election is over and NO MORE political ads. I am SSSSOOOOO tired of the commercials on tv and radio, junk mail and phone calls. This morning the hubs and I were watching the news before work and one commercial break was nothing but commercials. We recieved 5 ads in the mail and I have talked to the Democratic National Committee several times because I won't tell them if/who I've committed to voting for. I still have 6 days to decide, leave me alone. I just want it all to be over. I don't need anyone trying to persuade me one way or another.

I am loving the weather we are having this week, but then again I LOVE cold weather!!! I love everything about winter, snow, cold, snow days!!!! And it also lessens my allergies. I love snow days. I make my great-grandmother's chicken and noodles. She made them all the time when I was a kid. They are so good and warming. Yesterday was her birthday, she would have been 95. She passed away 2 years ago. I have my love of knitting from her.

I found out last night that my cousin is now expecting a baby in June. They just had one this last June! So another baby to knit for!!!

Bella went trick or treating!!!

2008-10-26T14:46:00.000-05:00

We took Bella to the Plaza and went trick or treating! It was sponsored by The Three Dog Bakery, proceeds went to their organization that helps abused and neglected animals. Here's a picture of her checking out her loot! She's wearing a Halloween fleece hoodie that I made for her. The hubs made me agree to no costumes when we got her!

aahhh......parent-teacher conferences.....

2008-10-24T08:14:00.000-05:00

The joy of parent-teacher conferences. I really do love speaking to parents. I just wish that more parents would attend. The majority of the parents that I saw have students who are making 85% or better in my class. I did get one of the parents that I have really been trying to get in touch with.

But, because we spent time Wednesday night and Thursday afternoon and night with conferences, we have today OFF. HOORAY, I get to sleep in! Not. I was only able to sleep in about an extra hour. :-( Bummer, I was hoping to catch up on sleep. I think the hubs leaving for work got me up. But on the other hand, I get a day home alone! Just me and the pups!

I was putting my new ball winder and TinkerToy swift to use, but I kept getting it tangled. I got one made, the second one I gave up on. It's still sitting there. I might get around to it later today!!

We had my dad's 50th birthday party last Sunday, my sister and I made the cupcakes for his party. Here's a couple of pictures:

They were so fun to make. There's a beagle (our family has 4), a bulldog (our school mascot, my mom and I teach together and my dad works in the maintenance), a westie (my niece has one, she chose this one) and a yorkshire terrier (just because they were cute and quick).

OTN: I am currently working on a pair of Candy Cane socks for my mom for Christmas. I'd actually like to have them done by Thanksgiving weekend. The hubs and I are taking my parents to Trans-Siberian Orchestra for their Christmas present.

Quidditch Round 2

2008-10-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

1. What animal does the portrait in the Muggle Prime Minster’s office resemble?
b. Frog
2. What drink does Romilda Vane try to give Harry?
a. Gillywater
3. What is the name of the person who heads the Holyhead Harpies?
b. Gwenog Jones
4. How many ‘Exceeds Expectation’ grades does Harry receive in his O.W.L’s?
c. 5
5. What is Professor Sughorn’s favorite candy?
d. Crystallized Pineapple
6. What tattoo is Harry reported to have on his chest?
c. Hippogriff
7. What color robes do the staff at the Weasley’s shop wear?
b. Magenta
8. What is the man outside Flourish and Blotts selling?
a. Amulets
9. How much is the skull, which Hermione enquires about at Borgin and Burkes, worth?
c. 16 Galleons
10. What are Professor Slughorn’s initials?
b. H.E.F.

What a beautiful weekend...

2008-10-13T19:26:00.000-05:00

We went camping over the weekend. Roaring River State Park. We have been going since I was a kid and my dad started going as a kid.

The view from our tent!

The view from our picnic table!

My parents' dog Trixie, she thought she should get on the table to get water! My mom and sis in the background.

Trixie posing with my dad and brother-in-law Zach.

The view from the hatchery. We went on a hike and saw all the beautiful changing leaves.

Doctors + Insurance = Fun!!

2008-10-08T20:16:00.000-05:00

So the hubs and I have been trying to get pregnant for about 5-6 months now. There's a problem, I haven't been ovulating. So I have been keeping a temperature chart and taking a medication to stimulate ovulation. Well, that hasn't been working either. So I went in today to the doctor to begin ovulation induction. So, I was prescribed a new medication and stopped by the pharmacy to pick it up. My insurance didn't cover it!!! It will pay for 3 rounds of IVF at roughly $10,000 a pop, but not $9 for medication to get pregnant!! Go figure.

I also got my new yarn swift in the mail today!!! I bought tinker toys and made a swift. So I can make my own yarn cakes now!!! It's so cool!! I also got 3 new yarns in the mail today. One is for a friend for a pair of socks.

Harry Potter Opal Yarn!

2008-10-07T17:14:00.000-05:00

I got one today!!! I stopped by my LYS to pick up a new set of Addi Turbos that I left at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday and she had the whole line of Opal Harry Potter. So I got the Harry colorway. I may go back and get a Dumbledore to make the hubs a pair of socks. I liked the Hedwig one, but he said it looked like bird poop!

All my life.....

2008-10-04T20:50:00.000-05:00

I wanna be a Bearcat,
Hoo Ha, Hoo Ha
Go, go, get 'em, get 'em
And when you got 'em say:
Hoo Ha, Hoo Ha!!!

I didn't go to Hogsmeade today like other Hogwarts students, I went to a muggle football game, it was at Arrowhead Stadium. It was my college team, Northwest Missouri State vs our biggest rival, Pittsburg State University, which also is my brother's alma mater. We won!!! 35 - 10!!!! It was one heck of a game!!

Oh, and I took the latest sock that I was working on. Yeah, it fell out of my purse somewhere and I lost it. AND the addi turbos that I was making them with. I am SO mad. I'm going to call Monday morning, but I doubt they'd be turned in.

I also finished a hat for my brother-in-law for Christmas, it's totally him. I made him a hat last year and he went nuts over it, so he's getting another one this year. I bought this yarn at an auction this summer.

Slytherin Quiz #2

2008-09-29T20:50:00.000-05:00

Are you a sock knitter?What are your foot measurements? Yep, 9" long, 9 1/2" around.

Do you have a yarn winder and/or a swift? Just ordered a winder online and just made a swift from TinkerToys today!!!

Where/how to you keep you needles/hooks? I keep my Denise needles in their case, my straights in a metal pitcher (think knitty.com) and my dpn's in a vase! The one's I don't use very often are kept in a trunk.

Do you collect anything? Zuni Fetishes, yarn, and Gingher Scissors.

What is your favorite type of music? Are you MP3 ready? mostly pop, I love 80's music!!!! I am very mp3 ready, I love my iPod!!

Do you like sweets? What are your favorites? Love!!! Depends on my moods and the season, I LOVE chocolate. Right now, I'm on a candy corn kick, but that could change in a day or two!!!

What is your living situation like? Any pets? Children? I live with the hubs and my 8 month old puppy in an apartment. No children, but we are trying for our first.

Do you have an online wish list (Amazon, Etsy, Loopy Ewe, etc.)? Please include links for your swap pal. no, but I might have to make one!!!

Favorite Harry Potter movie character? Hermione or Molly Weasley.

Found this questoinaire on ravelry....

2008-09-27T12:16:00.000-05:00

What kind of cheese do you like? Pepperjack
If you were a hot dog , would you eat yourself? No, don't like hot dogs
Kennedy Assassination – conspiracy or did Lee Harvey Oswald act alone? conspiracy
Did you like Jurassic Park III? – if yes, you must explain why. didn't watch
How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop? 1,2,3, crunch!
Did you witness Tom Cruise jumping on Oprah’s couch? nope
Do you consider bowling a sport? no
What is your favorite Star Trek series? don't watch
Which Buffy character do you identify with? didn't watch
Did you want Joey to end up with Pacey or Dawson? didn't watch, I know, I wasn't a normal 90's kid
What color is your hair? brown
Do you find Howard Stern offensive? extremely
How many chucks would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? 12
Do you have a favorite “indie-dyer”? If so, who? too many to choose
Do you use hand-knit dishcloths? no, but I crochet pot scratchers
What new technique would you like to try? (dye yarn, felting, lace, socks, etc.) none, already do too many
Do you know what Sparkle Motion is? nope
Do you like Starbucks? no, I LOVE Starbucks!
Do you eat fast food? If yes, what is your favorite? Don't eat fast food
Coke or Pepsi? don't dink soda either, but I do prefer coke over pepsi if I were to drink one
Tea or Coffee? or Hot Chocolate?
Do you wear hand-knit items? If yes, what is your favorite? hats or socks
Do you have any favorite Etsy shops? too many!
What is one pattern you love, but would never make for yourself? an afghan
Do you like Harry Potter? DUH!
What is your favorite non-Twilight book? not sure, I read too many.
Did you read Midnight Sun? no
Have you read all four published Twilight books? (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn) yes, in less than a month
What is your favorite song? anything Celine Dion - going to see her in concert fory birthday
What is your favorite band? Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Are there any celebrities you would like to meet? Who/Why? can't think of any right now
Do you like Green Eggs & Ham? No, allergic to green food coloring
Are you a monogamous knitter? Or a WIP-Hoor? WIP hoor
What is your favorite TV show? CSI
Who would win in a duel? Edward Cullen or Harry Potter? explain your answer. Edward Cullen, due to the fact that he can move so fast
Have you seen Meet the Feebles? (and will you admit it, if you did??) Never heard of
VanHalen - Sammy Hagar or David Lee Roth? ??
Are there any non-knit/crochet crafts you enjoy? sewing, quilting, beading, scrapbooking
Why is the rzz always gone? Because my husband drank it!!
What is the secret of life? not to take things too seriously
If you could fight anyone in the world, dead or alive, who would it be? well, I'm fighting with my MIL, does that count?
Explain the complex theoretical problems of the Babble Fish. Huh?
What was your favorite childhood outfit? My Mary Lou Retton leotard I had when I was 4
If you’re riding in the car late at night with the windows down, what cd is playing on the stereo? Wicked!! or Mamma Mia!
If you were on a deserted island and had only one skein of yarn, which would it be? sock yarn
If you could have lunch with any fictional character, who would it be (movies, books, or tv)?
If your life were a television program, would it be a half-hour sitcom or a one hour drama? What would be the title of said show? one-hour drama - don't know the name
Do you know how to pronounce Clapotis correctly? I think so
If they made a movie of your life, which actor would you want to play you? Drew Barrymore
What one superhero power would you want and why? Reading minds, I always want to know what people are thinking!
What was the best job you ever had? The worst? The weirdest? my current job teaching, working at Wal-mart snack bar, Baskin-Robbins - the boss made it weird, she asked another girl and I to buy her drugs?!
Do you sleep with a stuffed animal? If so, what is it? No, I sleep with a real animal
Describe your style in one word. my husband says teachery
You randomly walk into a bookstore on a whim & buy a book. It’s most likely a _mystery_(fill in genre here)
What vehicle would you like to own? Mine, a Trailblazer
Do you collect anything? Zuni Fetishes
What’s your favorite smell? Least favorite? Favorite - Orange Blossom, Least - Skunk
What’s your living situation? Live with parents? In a dorm? Apartment? House? Apartment
What do you do in your leisure time? What's that, I have a full-time job, full-time student and have a part-time job, I don't have leisure time.
What do you like to do on weekends? Nothing....knitting of course
What is the strangest thing you’d wear on your head? just hats
If you were to fill the sun with rats, how many rats would you need?n12 million

I got them....

2008-09-26T22:11:00.000-05:00

I ordered tickets to Trans-Siberian Orchestra!!!!!!!! I'm so excited. The concert is Thanksgiving weekend, so two months away! We are taking my parents for their Christmas present. They have been wanting to go, we went last year and were blown away. Our seats are 3 rows back from where we were last year.

Also, I bought my airline ticket yesterday to go to Charlotte, NC for a conference for school. I've never been there, so that will be a new experience. I have a busy next few months!!!

I don't have school on Monday, I get to sleep in! I am going to a workshop and it is about 10 minutes from my house, so I was elected to go. No complaints here, I get to see the hubs and the pup extra time!!!!

Tense week...

2008-09-25T20:06:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I promised that I would explain the week I've had at school. We had an incident in the community where I teach (I don't live in the same district). There was a fight between 2 boys (boy A and boy B), one of their brothers (boy C) pulled out a gun and shot the boy (boy A) fighting his younger brother (boy B) (I know, confusing to follow). SO, our school was on a semi-lockdown all week. What does this mean? No students out of the room for ANY reason. No bathroom passes, locker passes, no tissue breaks, NOTHING!!! For the most part the kids were ok, but you know that there is always a kid that has to push the rule. The kid turned himself in to the police and we are now off of out "lockdown." We aren't really allowed to say that we were on a lockdown. It was pretty tense, there was supposed to be a big retaliation at school, but with a huge police presence, we haven't seen anything. I'm hoping that nothing happens!!! We are still a bit tense, but things are starting to get back to normal.

Quidditch ~ Round One

2008-09-24T19:15:00.000-05:00

1. At the beginning of the book, Cornelius Fudge is talking to the Muggle Prime Minister. Which member of the Order of the Phoenix has recently been found dead?
c. Emmeline Vance

2. What animal does Bellatrix Lestrange kill when she and her sister, Narcissa, are going to see Professor Snape?
b. Fox

3. What time does Professor Dumbledore collect Harry from Privet Drive?
b. 11 p.m.

4. What did Professor Sluhorn transform into when he was trying to hide from Harry and Professor Dumbledore?
a. An armchair

5. What grade did Harry get for Herbology?
a. E – Exceeds Expectation

6. Herbert Chorley, the Prime Minister’s Junior Minster, has been entertaining the public by impersonating which animal?
b. A duck

7. What is Professor Sprout’s first name?
d. Pomona

8. What is Dumbledore’s idea of ‘a few words’?
d. nitwit, oddment, blubber and tweak

9. Who is Marcus Belby’s famous uncle?
b. Damocles

10. What is Snape’s mother’s name?
b. Eileen Prince

Narcissa

Snape

Bellatrix

Professor Sprout

Professor Dumbledore

My picture...

2008-09-23T09:04:00.001-05:00

Stressful day at school yesterday (I'll post more later, we are on semi-lockdown all week) and fried computer cord = no picture on September 22. I hope it's not too late!!! This is one with the princess niece and I at a Royals game this summer!!!

Hooray for grad hours!!!!

2008-09-19T16:48:00.001-05:00

I signed my new contract for school today. I moved over on the pay scale because in the last year I have earned 24 grad hours!!! I moved 3 steps over. I just can't believe that in a year, I have gotten this far. I have 8 weeks of class and then I have to write my paper.

Tomorrow night the hubs and I are going to the Royals game. They are giving away stocking hats. The hubs says I can make a better one cheaper, but I want a Royal's one!!

OTN: BSJ for a KAL, Bearcat baby blanket, Dream Swatch and Ampersand Socks.

Being a true Slytherin, I stole this!!! It's the Hufflepuff's quiz!!!!

2008-09-19T16:48:00.000-05:00

1. Do you knit and/or crochet? Knit, I can do simple crochet
2. How long have you been at your craft? About 2 years
3. Do you spin? If yes do you use drop spindle or wheel. No, don't really want to eaither.
4. What is your favorite color? Purple
5. Do you have any other hobbies? I love to read, quilt, sew, scrapbooking, camping
6. What are your favorite yarns/fibers? Anything soft and pretty!!
7. What are your LEAST favorite yarns/fibers? Itchy yarn.
8. Are there any yarns that you’ve been eyeing and wanting to try? Socks that rock yarn
9. What are you currently working on? a baby blanket, a BSJ and sweaters for the princess neice's AG doll
10. What is your favorite Finished Object? (Pictures are welcome.) the Little Daisy Cardigan in lavendar that I just completed (it's on my Ravelry site)
11. Are their any knitting/crochet techniques that you would like to learn? Hmmm, just better at crochet.
12. What is you favorite type of book or movie? Romance (not dirty) and Fantasy (HP and Twilight)
13. Who is your favorite person at Hogwarts? Mermione
14. Favorite class and/or subject at Hogwarts? Transfigurations
15. How many family members do you have? 2, the hubs and the pup
16. What is your favorite Fall activity? Football games and camping!!!!!!!!!
17. How many projects do you have on your needles/hook? at least 4
18. What is your favorite type of footwear? NONE!
19. What is your favorite beverage of choice? Chocolate milk, Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte and white hot chocolate.
20. What is your favorite park of Half-blood Prince? Need to reread it!

HSKS6 Questionaire

2008-09-13T22:18:00.000-05:00

Potter Name: Madam Ferula McGonagall

Rav ID: stitchinsteph

I am allergic to: cats, dust, smoke

Pets that I have: I have an 8 month old puppy, does the hubs count?

My favorite yarn: depends on what I am making.

If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors? N/A

My favorite flavor: chocolate, caramel...

My favorite holiday: Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas - Christmas, got married 12 days before!!!

I would like to receive a: (Sock kit, scarf kit or yarn dyeing kit) Probably sock kit

List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length: circs - addi turbos - 24" - I use 2 circs method, dpns - wooden or metal, not bamboo, 6"

Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: Nope

I've participated in HSKS: (How many times have you participated in HSKS swaps?) this is my 4th year

Do you have a birthday during this swap? If so which day? Yep, November 16!!!

My Harry Potter Husband!!!

2008-09-13T16:56:00.000-05:00

Your result for The Harry Potter Husband Test...

Mrs. Bill Weasley

Your perfect HP man is Bill Weasley.

You like guys who are cool. And not cool in that fake, dicky way, but actually cool. He's so cool that they couldn't find any actor to adequately portray him, so they decided to just leave him out of the movies rather than risk not doing justice to his coolness. He's like the Chuck Norris of Harry Potter: plain freaking awesome. When Voldemort says "You-Know-Who", he's talking about Bill Weasley.

It's Monday and September.....

2008-09-08T21:00:00.000-05:00

Boy, where has the time gone. It's already September. We are 4 weeks into school and they are already playing Christmas stuff on tv!?!?! It's Trans-Siberian Orchestra, so it's not like it's bad!!! Tickets go on sale on Friday, CAN'T WAIT TO BUY THEM!!!! This year we are taking my parents for their Christmas present. The hubs and I went last year for our anniversary and were blown away. If that's the only concert I ever go to againg, I would never complain!!! (That is, after I see Celine Dion the day before my birthday in November!!!!)

Since last term, I have been busy. I went to a conference for school. Then I went to Chicago, we took the princess niece to the American Girl Place. I highly recommend that everyone go for a meal at the American Girl Cafe. She got not one, but two dolls!!!! Here she is with her bags!!!!

Quidditch Round 3

2008-07-18T17:56:00.001-05:00

1. When Hagrid returns to Hogwarts after being sent to see the giants with Madame Maxime, Professor Umbridge questions him on his late return to school. She suspects that Hagrid had been to the mountains, but where does he tell her he has been?
d. South of France

2. Professor Umbridge comes to Hagrid's Hut and searches his cabin one evening (as she believes Harry, Ron and Hermoine are there visiting him at night when they are not supposed to). When she walks past the place where Harry, Ron and Hermoine are hiding under the Invisibility Cloak, Harry holds his breath. True or False?
b. False

3. A stately-looking witch in an emerald green shawl is one of the members of the Advance Guard who rescues Harry from Privet Drive. What is her name?
a. Emmeline Vance

4. What is the name of the witch who was killed two weeks after the photo of the original Order of the Phoenix was taken?
b. Marlene McKinnon

5. Which two fifth year Ravenclaw students does Dumbledore choose to be prefects?
d. Anthony Goldstein and Padma Patil

6. Which house was Rose Zeller sorted into?
d. Hufflepuff

7. What is the color of Murtlap's essence?
c. Yellow

8. Name the Ravenclaw girl who became prefect in Harry's fifth year.
b. Padma Patil

9. According to a healer's portrait at St. Mungo's hospital, which disease was Ron suffering from?d. Spattergroit

10. Which book did Harry give Hermoine for Christmas?
a. "New Theory of Numberology"

Padma Patil

Hannah Abott
Percy
Dumbledore's Army
Cedric Diggory
Extra 5 pts - What movie will Robert Patterson star in this December?) Twilight

The princess' first baseball game!!

2008-07-13T23:27:00.000-05:00

So the hubs and I took our princess niece to her first baseball game at Kauffman Stadium to see the Royals beat the Mariners. We had a wonderful time!!! We had her picture taken with Santa at the game! (I'll add a picture when I get it scanned!)

It was their Christmas in July game, they gave away Royals santa hats! The princess posing in hers!!

Here's our little family for the night!

She stayed the night with us and we camped out in the living room, sleeping bags, lantern (battery operated) and all!!! Then we woke up bright and early and took my mom to the airport. The princess niece had never been to the Kansas City Airport (we are taking her to Chicago in 2 1/2 weeks, so she'll get to go on her first plane ride), we jsut dropped her off at the door! We went swimming, shopping and to the pet store and she had so much fun.

Crazy days....

2008-07-10T19:31:00.000-05:00

Here is Bella, all dressed up for the 4th!!!!

I was packing for my trip to Denver with my mom and grandma, Bella thought she got to go too.

This is my grandma and I at the Coyote Ugle Saloon in Denver. The best part is that we got my grandma in a bar. She hasn't had a drink of alcohol in her entire life! She was acting really weird when we were in there, she was nervous to be in a bar! And it was a Sunday afternoon and there were like 3 other people in there!!

My owl has arrived and I have the best spoiler ever!!!!

2008-07-10T18:56:00.001-05:00

I could not believe my parcel when I opened it! I was truly spoiled! Here is a picture of the entire package

Here is my new "Sexy Slytherin" sock yarn that I cannot wait to make into a pair of socks!

This is of Bella sniffing the beautiful blue yarn that was also in my package!

My new owl and "potter" stitch markers.

Here is my bag that was "stuffed" with goodies, some polka dot notecards, bamboo needles size 3, a journal, a calculator, a package of SOAK (which I've been wanting to try!), oh and not pictured (they are in my backpack!!!) Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles by Cat Bordhi and Favorite Socks by Interweave Knits. I will be using all of this to be making lots of socks!!! Thank you so much Morgan!!!!!!!!! I LOVE my package!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2008-07-04T12:56:00.001-05:00

I have finished Bella's sweater. She looks so cute in it! It's big on her, but she's still growing!

Here are the cupcakes that I made for my family dinner tonight. I make these every 4th of July. The picture doesn't show the color very well. It is really red, white and blue!

It is nice to have NOTHING to do but knit all day. That's what I have done for the past 2 days! I have learned to knit socks on 2 circs! YEAH!!!! I have dinished one and I am working the gusset on the second. It is so much faster than dpns!

OTN: the second Bellatrix sock! And the hub's baby blanket, still working on it, haven't worked it for a few days, I've been too busy!

It's Monday...

2008-06-23T17:18:00.000-05:00

It's the last week of summer school. I'm actually really happy it's almost over. I know that I'll enjoy the paycheck next month, but it's been very stressful. As I said before, I've never taught this subject before, so I don't really know exactly where to go with it. I also have one class that is major behavior problems and are very hard to manage most of the time. There is one girl in there who got in trouble twice last week and her mother has been all but harassing me since then. She wanted a meeting with her, the daughter, principal and myself. We really didn't get anything accomplished because she thinks that her daughter is perfect and that I am a terrible teacher. She didn't hesitate to remind me of that. She also threatened that she could come "sit in class anytime I want to" to which I responded that she was more than welcome. So she came. On Friday for the last 30 minutes of the day. D.U.H. It doesn't take a moron to know that is the worst time to observe classroom. This just confirmed her thoughts that I am a terrible teacher! Nevermind she has only one child, who for the most part is a good student! Some people.

I spent the day Saturday trying to make these pot scratchers that my great-grandma used to make. I DID IT!!!! I have made three so far, my family is so excited because these are like the best ever and easy on teflon pans too.

We have a new addition to the family, my cousin and his wife just had a baby. Meet Dane Matthew, he was 9 lbs, 10 oz. I haven't seen him yet, but I've heard he is so cute!

OTN: I finished the BSJ I was looking for buttons for, found them. I also finished Bella's sweater. Will post photos later. I started a hat for the princess niece, it has horses on it. It will be part of her birthday or Christmas present, haven't decided.

Quidditch Round #2

2008-06-21T10:03:00.000-05:00

1. At the beginning of the year feast, who is the only person who rudely interrupts Dumbledore during his speech?
b. Professor Umbridge

2. Off what street is the alley where Harry first met Sirius?
c. Magnolia Crescent

3. Tonks’ mother had two sisters, both pure-bloods, and both left on the Black Family Tree. What are their names?
c. Narcissa and Bellatrix

4. What spell are the students studying in McGonalgall’s class when Umbrdige is doing her inspection?
b. The Shrinking Spell

5. Who comes to warn Harry and the rest of Dumbledore’s Army that Umbridge and her group of followers are coming to break up their meeting?
Answer: Dobby

6. Who are the members of the Order that met Harry Potter in the Dursely’s house during the summer before his fifth year?
c. Alastor Moody, Nymphadora Tonks, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Elphias Doge, Dedalus Diggle, Remus Lupin, Emmeline Vance, Sturgis Podmore, Hestia Jones

7. Moody used the Disillusionment Charm on Harry.
a. Yes

8. Which of these Death Eaters is Sirius related to?
d. All of these

9. At what age did Sirius leave his home?
Answer: 16

10. How many of the original Order members were killed (don’t include those who disappeared)?
b. 8

Kingsley Shacklebolt

Bellatrix Lestrange

Nymphadora Tonks

Remus Lupin

soo.....

2008-06-14T13:34:00.000-05:00

Summer school is half over now. I am somewhat enjoying it. I am teaching a class that I have never taught before and I don't know the material super well. That makes it really tough. I have 2 classes and each class is 3 hours long.

I bought a new car today. My car died. Well, it's a used car. I refuse to buy a brand new one. It's not worth the depreciation. I got a silver Trailblazer. It must be the top tier on bells and whistles. There are so many buttons and knobs that it will take me a while to learn them all. It even has a dvd player in it!

While we were out, the dog chewed up some stuff. Mostly garbage, she likes boxes. But she did chew up one of my Denise needle cords. I found some of it, but not all of it. She has only gotten into a few things before, but she's also not alone by herself very often due to mine and the hubs schedules. I teach during the day and he works 3rd shift. So he gets home just after I leave.

OTN: Still working on the baby afghan for the hubs, this will be more of an ongoing project. I also am almost finished with my 8th Baby Surprise Jacket. I am on the button row and I can't decide buttons, so I refuse to finish it until I find buttons that will work. Thursday night I started Bella a sweater, it is brown and pink. I think it will be really cute when I finish it. That's what was on the Denise cord she chewed up. The hubs said I shouldn't finish it, I said that I'm going to finish it and then make her wear it all the time!!!

Interesting things at school...

2008-06-07T10:11:00.000-05:00

So I was gone to a conference for school, I took my husband with me! It was ok, but we had a great hotel room. We were also right next to a great shopping area. I bought the princess neice an American Girl backpack to take on our vacation this summer.

News at school, some of my classes for next year have changed. I was scheduled to teach out freshman required careers class again, but I have been changed to teach personal finance. It has something to do with how the district reports to the state and they needed someone who is vocationally certified. It has to do with coding. Not the most fun class to teach, but oh well. It just means more training and more conferences!!! I'm also slated to attend a national conference in December, I like traveling!! Especially when someone else is paying!

My summer school classes are both very interesting, I have one who won't speak to me and one who won't shut up!!! One week already down.

On other news, we have a new principal for next year. He's been moved from assistant to head principal, he'll do a great job. Our current principal did such a crappy job that he was asked to move to one of our middle schools as an assistant principal. He was awful, he lost all my teacher artifacts and then blamed it on me. He didn't know staff members' names. He was never in the building, when he was you had to make an appointment to see him, then he never showed for the appointment. The kids absolutely hated him. Good news is he's gone!!!

My puppy is growing so much! My sister kept her while we were gone. It was really good for her, she was able to socialize with several other dogs. She's not afraid of other dogs now, she wants to go meet them and play with them!

OTN: I am currently working on a baby afghan for our future baby. It's going to be a gift to the hubs. I'm going to knit our college logo in the middle of it. He has no idea, he thinks I'm making something for my cousin who's due any day now. I'm also working on another BSJ.

Life!

2008-05-30T10:46:00.000-05:00

I have had a pretty lazy week this week!

I had class, eh, boring, five hours in a seat hurts the back.

Then Wednesday I sat in my OB-GYN office getting a glucose test. I got poked 4 times because she couldn't find a vein. The nurse took my fasting blood, no problem. Then gave me the colored sugar water to drink. She said come back in 2 hours and don't eat anything and if you drink, only drink water. Well then after 2 hours, she took my blood again. She went to the same vein, couldn't find it. She then fussed at me for not drinking anything. She didn't tell me I had to drink water, just only drink water. I'm a big water drinker anyway, I usually don't have any problems. Well, she finally got the second vial of blood after poking me 3 times to get a vein. She then tells me no news is good news. I'm having this done so that I can be put on medication to boost ovulation. I said, I need a call so I know what the next step is! I don't think she had any clue as to why I was there.

Oh, and I went to my knitting group Wednesday too!

Thursday - I had a meeting at school for summer school. I only had one class make, so I'm teaching in the morning and then working on curriculum in the afternoon.

Today, I'm doing NOTHING!!! Just me and the dog sitting on the couch. I suppose I need to go to the store, the hubs needs dinner tonight.

Got my current Praxis scores, I took the Biology test in April to obtain additional certification. I didn't pass, I missed my 20 points. I don't know how its scored, but I'm not to upset, I haven't had a biology class in ten years.

I also got the results from my blood test. Everything normal. I start my medication to help me ovulate. We can make a baby!

Quidditch Round 1

2008-05-30T10:21:00.000-05:00

1. Which of Arabella Figg's cats ran out from under the car?
a. Tibbles

2. Which of the following is NOT one of Albus Dumbledore's middle names?
a. Ignatius

3. Which educational decree introduced a High Inquisitor to Hogwarts?
d. 23

4. Apart from Harry, Ron and Hermione, who was the first person to enter the Hog's Head that showed an interest in Harry's Defence Against the Dark Arts classes?
Neville Longbottom

5. In the first Quidditch match of the year which player attempted to score first?
a. Angelina Johnson

6. What kind of bush does Harry hide behind to listen to the news?
b. A hydrangea bush

7. Why is Mundungus Fletcher disguised as a woman when he witnesses the DA (Dumbledore's Army) meeting in the Hog's Head pub?
b. He was banned from the Hog’s Head pub 20 years ago.

8. When Harry and Cho go on their first date to Madam Puddifoot's in Hogsmeade, what is it decorated with for Valentine's Day?
c. Golden cherubs and pink confetti

9. How old is Sturgis Podmore and where does he live?
a. 38 and number 2 Laburnum Gardens Clapham

10. What did Fred and George Weasley do to Montague?
a. Forced him head-first into a Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor

Nothing to watch...

2008-05-26T13:18:00.000-05:00

So I thought I'd spend a few days just being lazy, watching tv and knitting. DAYTIME TV SUCKS!!!! I don't know how people stay home all day and watch tv. I know people who do this! Soaps are boring, I don't want to watch the same depressing news hour after hour and I've seen most episodes of the shows that I do watch. The movie channels show the same movies over and over! I guess that's my motivation to get my butt moving!

I have gotten a BSJ 2/3 finished since yesterday. I'm making one for the future baby in my life! We are in the process of working on a baby. I'm hoping that getting started on some stuff would be like a lucky penny!

It's been raining or extremely muggy all weekend. My allergies and asthma just can't handle this kind of weather, so I have to stay inside. It has been nice to spend the weekend with just the hubs and pups. My puppy Bella has been doing so good. She's learning tricks and we've figured out the peeing the bed issue.

We went to see the Indiana Jones movie on Saturday night. We went to the drive in. It was a pretty good movie. A little out there for the series, but it did tie up some loose ends. I love the series anyway, so that was fun to go. And we love the drive-in. We take our dinner and camp out in the back of out SUV.