Katieland

The Color of Sunday

2011-10-02T20:26:00.001-04:00

is wet!

Local Weather Alert

River Flood Warning for Oxford County, ME

From 7:15 PM EDT, Sun., Oct 02, 2011 until 3:21 AM EDT, Mon., Oct 03, 2011

2011-10-02T17:14:00.003-04:00

I have my class tomorrow after school and I'm looking forward to it! It's cool because the new things I learn each week sustain me for the whole week. I so enjoy putting my new knowledge into practice and by the time the weekend comes to an end, I'm ready for the next class and actually feel excited for it. I'm learning a little at a time and I'm not too overwhelmed, which is perfect for me. It's cyclical and wonderful. I wonder if next year, I'll take another class? I wonder if I am heading to +30 on the salary scale? I shudder to think that far ahead, but that could be an interesting opportunity. We'll have to see.

The Color of Sunday

2011-09-25T16:07:00.004-04:00

...back by popular demand...is sunny. Imagine what sunshine does to the green grass and leaves on the edge of turning on an eighty degree day - in late September, and that's been our day. Gorgeous. We put the garden to bed morning with a scattering of winter rye. And for the first time since we got a tree taken down, we were able to see exactly how much sun our garden will get. Prior to removing the pine tree, our garden would be in shade until ten o'clock. Now we're thinking we'll get it from eight o'clock on...And that could be a conservative prediction. Yay us!

Hello

2011-09-15T21:04:00.004-04:00

I'm back!

As it's September, we're all back to school. Which brings to me to some big news...I am working in a different capacity as an interventionist. Actually I'm doing a few things. First and foremost, I'm teaching/training as a reading recovery teacher. I also provide: small group instruction using Literacy Lessons for the Individuals (LLI), and targeted skill instruction in math for grades two and four. Quite a change from being a first grade teacher for twelve years. I won't lie...I respond to change in lots of funky ways, yet I'm fulfilled and feeling HAPPY.

Summer was divine. June and July were quite warm and dry. And as it sometimes works out, August was wet and mild. I got my normal shorts tan as I tended our garden and the abundance of tomatoes and cucumbers made learning how to can necessary and fun. Now we have jars of salsa, dill pickles, spaghetti sauce, bread and butter pickles, winter vegetables, and dilly beans on our pantry shelves. Last weekend we actually pulled most of the garden up, but we still have carrots, peppers and a few cherry tomatoes in the ground. With a frost warning in the forecast, we covered things up last night.

No promises, but I suspect I'll be back. This felt right.

2011-03-11T18:32:00.006-05:00

Today was a nice end to a wonderful, hectic week. Although it was a short one due to a snow day (#5 ) on Monday, it was busy. The trimester is coming to an end, so I was up to my ears in DRAs (Developmental Reading Assessment) and other assessments. But amid all the work and grades, we had Jennifer Richard Jacobson spend Thursday and Friday with us. As she talked about "quality details" the students were enthralled...Actually starstruck. It was powerful watching them listen to her presentation as she told stories from her childhood and how they serve as ideas and themes in her books. Jennifer was complimentary of our school and sadly, it caught some of us (teachers) off guard. This time of year is hard...It's approaching "mud season" and the snow is melting...which triggers a host of worries because we're on a hill and leaking is an annual problem. Water used to seep into our library every year without fail, until the drainage was re-dug but sadly, it's leaking again upstairs and the conference room downstairs has moisture rolling down the wall. Irregardless, we were blessed to have such a sweet visitor who refocused my attention on the dryer things.

Snow Day #4

2011-02-28T10:15:00.006-05:00

and it's the last day of February...

In celebration...I'm feeling the need for a list.

My top ten favorite things about February:

1. Snow days...No surprise there!

2. February vacation...Very restful! Especially with an extra day tacked on...because of our snow day!

3. The shortest month of the year...Twenty-eight days this year.

4. Anticipating day light savings...March 13th can't come soon enough.

5. Conversation Hearts...I'd eat them year around, and although my teeth would't appreciate it, my tummy would love it.

6. Avoiding the scale for the time being. Something about my last birthday (and maybe those conversation hearts) have expanded my rump. I'm just buying bigger pants and accepting it.

7. Reading smut...nothing troublesome, but interesting enough to escape and embrace my inner fan girl.

8. Making tracks in the back yard on my cross country skis. I've even managed to ski around the block a few times during our recent snow storms. Only a couple kids gawked at me.

9. Watching the snow fall from my window. I wonder how many storms are waiting in the wings?

10. Trying this yummy recipe from The Pioneer Woman.

I Love Snow Storms...

2011-02-25T13:44:00.003-05:00

and we're right in the middle of one. We haven't had a storm since February 8th so it was time...That's the way I look at it anyway.

While some people drove into work this morning and anticipate a yucky commute home, I'm lucky, as a teacher, I don't often experience that anxiety.

I'm at the end of February vacation...so I don't even have to make this day up. Big time bonus.The snowflakes fall at a good clip and the temperature hovers around thirty degrees, as I type away.

I think I'll go cross country skiing and when I get back, make some pasta with homemade sauce.

Some of My Favorite Things

2011-02-23T11:06:00.002-05:00

1. Grapefruit, tangerines, olives, mushrooms, and tomatoes. I have a thing for circular fruit and fungi.

2. Coffee; I love our Keurig. Coffee by the cup makes my morning and sometimes even my afternoon. The multi pack makes it even better.

3. A haircut and color job that makes me forget I'm going gray because it's way too soon for that.

4. The sun. It's been bitter cold, but at least it's bright without a cloud in the sky. (I'd be remiss if I didn't say...I WANT ANOTHER SNOWSTORM! The yard could use it and my soul would rejoice. I know...a little dramatic.)

5. Marked down books because I love sales, books, little first grade readers and of course my pre-reader, Frances.

6. Rosetta Stone because it pushes me to use my brain in a different way and someday Frances and I will be able to converse in French and she'll think I'm cool. Possibly we'll tell knock-knock jokes to one another and I'll actually understand the french she speaks so fluently.

7. Books that I won't name online because they're sensational and superficial but I will say that my sister may get them after me and that'll work out because she lives out of the country and I'll be able to maintain my anonymity. (I contemplate whether I should rip the front cover off, so I can go out in public.) The books may or may not be notorious, but they have my attention at the moment.

Since I last wrote...

2011-02-12T16:51:00.008-05:00

we've had two more snowdays, an early release, and an hour delay...

all because of snow.(I could never be a snow bird.)

Happily for me, the weather has been snowier than last year.

There is something about an active weather pattern that gets me through.

Since I last wrote, my first graders and I celebrated groundhog day

(a day late due to a snowday) and day 100!

From here, it's down hill and although we continue to count onto

one hundred seventy-five,I mentally count back from seventy-five

and relish in the peace that comes with making it to one hundred.

It was a chilly -10 degree fahrenheit on Friday morning.

The cold temperatures feel colder than last year but I bought new boots this

year, so I'm fairing fine.

Aren't Bogs cute? They're very warm.

Why am I smiling?

2011-01-12T06:51:00.005-05:00

Snow day #1!

The spoon under the pillow & the inside out pajamas worked. (The snow day dance didn't hurt either.) To all my teacher friends in the northeast, enjoy your day off.

Color of Sunday is...

2011-01-09T13:50:00.008-05:00

white with more on the way (hopefully).

As you can see, our next chance is Wednesday. It's not a sure thing, but I will track it anyway as the skiers need it, my first graders want it for better sledding and I'd like to go snowshoeing.

Although it's early in the season, this winter has been a bit disappointing. Storms have gone out to sea and besides the one blizzard after Christmas when I traveled to Montreal to retrieve my niece and sister, it's been mild and uneventful...I long for more snow with a little bluster mixed in. It's Maine after all, so I say embrace the power of the flakes...

I'll keep you posted on the potential storm.

For now, it's partly cloudy with some wind (in true first grade fashion) while the temperature is a balmy 30 degrees.

Pathetic.

*UPDATE*

I just returned from a walk with Mike and while I stand by pathetic, I will recant on balmy...It's pretty brisk out. Brrr....

Happy Birthday to Katie

2011-01-08T11:22:00.008-05:00

We celebrated last night with dinner at the Jolly Drayman in Bethel. Mike and I went last January 7th on my birthday, so it's becoming a tradition...

We even sat in the same spot.

We started with drinks, so my step son, Neil, got his usual root beer. He joked that it looked like a beer and I agreed. Like a stout. We were sans Lea because she decided to play Friday Night Magic at her mom and step dad's game store. Had she joined us, she probably would have had a coke.

Our waitress took this shot.

My hair looks oddly short because it's tucked in my turtle neck...I've been known to play around like this before I have it chopped off. I'm almost 40 (*gulp*), so it's probably going to happen in the next year.

Although we missed Lea, it was a wonderful evening. Looking around the table I felt connected to the people sitting with me.

Sunday means...

2011-01-02T14:02:00.009-05:00

a little prep and planning for my first graders. I look forward to the returning to the routine. I'm rested and ready... Although I'm dragging my feet on my plan-book, I will get it done before bedtime. My husband (who teaches high school) certainly has more correcting and grading than I do, but I think elementary school teachers have more pressure to maintain up to date plan books. At times, it's annoying.

So in the spirit of avoiding plan books... my's well do laundry...The machine is running and a couple loads have been folded. Outfits are arranged (I love doing that!) and now I'm resisting the urge to make my lunch at half time of the Patriots game we're watching. They're playing Miami and up by twenty four.

Off and on I've also been using and loving my Rosetta Stone (french), which I received as an early birthday gift. (Thanks Mike!) It takes a level of concentration I'm adjusting to.

It's a cloudy day here and the snow is melting with the temperatures hovering around forty- three degrees.

1/1/11

2011-01-01T14:12:00.008-05:00

For 2011, I resolve to avoid inspired yet forgettable resolutions. Instead, I will keep my eye on making steady improvement in 2011. Maintaining a better balance between work and home come to mind as I think of making 2011 the best year possible.

As a result, I may exercise and blog more but I'll definitely be at peace.

On the Eve of 2011

2010-12-31T08:51:00.009-05:00

It's been a full and wonderful Christmas break.

I made a trip to Montreal to spend time with my sister, her husband, and of course my niece Frances.

Then we headed down to Maine, so the rest of family could revel in their presence.

While I was in Montreal, I missed the first snowstorm of the season (which was labeled a blizzard) and Maine received just about a foot of snow. Ironically it was crisp and clear in Montreal, with no sign of the blustery weather to the east.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T08:11:00.004-05:00

For my friends and family who shower me with love and acceptance, I'm especially grateful. I take stock of my life on holidays like Christmas and I am reminded that things happen in their own time...I may not have the blue print but my faith sustains me when I give life time to navigate its path. Patience. It's a gift I long to nurture in 2011.

2010-12-20T18:49:00.004-05:00

Today's in the books and we've got one and a half more days until Christmas break! I did a little shopping on the way home and a little wrapping after dinner. We started dinner around 4:30 and I thought...may as well; it's pitch dark anyway.

Mike and I have gradually got things done for our Christmas festivities.

I am bit of a hermit in December, so a fast trickle feels fine.

In this darkness, I usually resist the urge to put on my PJs, but I still wind down early.

July is a memory and that's okay.

Color of Sunday is...

2010-12-19T13:56:00.003-05:00

white with brown poking through...

I'm a snow bunny and while I'm grateful there's a tad on the ground, I want more.

It's Maine and I'm no wimp when it comes to inclement weather. I actually depend on the excitement to get through. While I would love an earlier spring and longer summer...winter is supposed to be blustery and snowy.

I love how creaking tree limbs break through the quietness of winter. As calmness magnifies the unique sounds of winter, I actually look forward to the rumble of plow trucks with lights that shine through my bedroom blinds.

Call me weird, but I live in Maine, and I love of snow storms.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T09:08:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for family, friends, and first graders. I am thankful to have colleagues who care and lend a supportive hand. I am thankful to have a home that keeps my body and spirit warm and safe. I am thankful to have two little kitties and an aging dog who still sneaks onto to the couch. I am thankful to have two step children who make pumpkin squares with cream cheese frosting for my parents who they won't see today. I am thankful for my husband who is the glue.

The Day is Done

2010-11-10T21:35:00.004-05:00

I had most of my parent/teacher conferences yesterday and today and to say I am relieved is an under statement. Although my conferences went well, I was nervous before hand.

Now I only have three more on the 18th and I'll be done.

As some of you know, this year has been a whirl wind. I feel the excitement and challenges of this school year with a keen awareness that leaves me feeling tired at the end of the day. The days of hanging out in my hammock with a good book are so far behind me. I'm pale and could use a summer day...but would take a snowstorm and be almost as happy. While I'll survive just fine, I'm thankful tomorrow is Veteran's Day and we have the day off.

2010-11-08T18:13:00.006-05:00

Although it rained for most of the day, we had power and were better off than many communities who had strong wind gusts that downed trees and knocked out the power and cancelled a handful of schools in the state.

When I got to school for bus duty around seven o'clock this morning, it was still raining, so while lots of our students had breakfast, we led the rest of our students in a march around our school until it was time for school to start. Last year over three hundred students hung out in the gym, so four swings around our school provides a little exercise, and a nice alternative.

With daylight savings time behind us, my anticipation for winter grows. Our most recent weather event was just the level of inclement weather I desire this time of year. I even tracked it on weather.com starting on Saturday.

As my friends and family know, I love keeping an eye on the jet streams. I think in a past life, I was a meteorologist.

2010-11-07T09:22:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a lazy day and after a busy week at school, it was perfect. Turning down the dial is sometimes, no...always, just what I need.

For supper we had breakfast for dinner and made eggs, home fries, and ham. Later in the evening, we went grocery shopping. Mike and I may be the only couple I know who actually enjoy a weekly trip to Hannaford. We live in a rural community where driving forty-five minutes to the nearest big city is a necessary event. Consequently we don't always make the trip. But when we do, it's a combination of events. Dinner and a movie. (We don't have a theatre). Dinner and clothes shopping. (Although we have a Wal*Mart, it doesn't fit the bill when I'm filling my closet with teaching attire.) Lunch and an appointment with the dentist or orthodontist.

Today I will lesson plan for the upcoming week. It's an odd week with Veteran's Day on Thursday...but four day weeks are wonderful nonetheless. Having no school on Thursday will be a great break as we have parent/teacher conferences on Tuesday and Wednesday from 3-6:00. That brings me to a project I'm doing today. (Take note. This doesn't happen very often.) I got an idea from Chi-Town Girl yesterday.

As for your guys, thanks for "popping" in. No snack for you, sorry.

2010-11-06T09:55:00.008-04:00

In the third grade I decided I would be a teacher. With that direction came motivation and a dream. Although I'm not old, this has been my life for a long time and I take it seriously. And like a lot of teachers, I can get wrapped up in it all.

Reflecting back (like I do on Saturdays), I am reminded that I teach with supportive people and while the walls that surround my classroom may feel isolating, they define a space I've created for my students, with my students. My doorless, three-wall classroom is unique and busy, but it's open. Thank goodness.

Frances

2010-11-01T18:29:00.011-04:00

A year ago my sister, her husband, and their doula were in a Montreal hospital doing what they could do to birth my niece Frances. On the day before her first birthday, I can't help but swoon. Becoming an aunt has been pure joy. Frances is sweet and endearing with spunk and intelligence mixed in.

She's a traveler and has her own passport. (No signature required.) Lucky for me, she's made the trip to Maine several times in her first year of life.

Today Frances sits on her own, crawls, stands, and creeps. She has three teeth (maybe four by now) and a wavy mash of light brown hair. This year she was an owl for Halloween. Frances loves books, turns the pages by herself, and signs the word milk whenever the thought crosses her mind. She's an expressive, inquisitive little girl who starts her french speaking garderie any day now, so Eileen can enter language school.

I wonder what the next year will bring?

I am sure it's not surprising, but Frances is my one and only niece and I couldn't love her more. Happy birthday Frances-Doodle.

October Top Eight

2010-10-31T10:44:00.004-04:00

1. Mild and windy weather. (I scraped the car windows once.)

2. Forty-three student days that flew by with one hundred thirty-two to go.

3. Early bedtimes that restore me.

4. Long hours at school that remind me of my beginnings when I taught on Matinicus and immersed myself in meeting the needs of my one room school house.

5. A husband who has dinner ready when I get home late.

6. Tomatoes still ripening on the window sill with some in a shoe box on the pantry floor.

7. Contemplating a move to Canada if Paul LePage is elected governor.

8. Wondering if the power of prayer could alleviate the possibility of #7.

The Color of Sunday*

2010-10-30T14:37:00.007-04:00

is yellowish brown for the leaves we usually rake up in November, but instead took care of this weekend. This fall has been mild, yet windy and many of the leaves have already blown out of our yard. So in an effort to corral the remaining leaves, we pulled out the the rakes and tarps, and the whole family cleaned things up. I like it when we operate as an unit and I got to say, my two step kids were helpful little sports who are fast becoming big kids . With all this prep behind us, I wonder if winter will bring some real weather to deal with? Although I haven't polled the family, I wouldn't mind more wind and a lot of snow.

*And just to be clear, it was officially Sunday in most regions of the middle east when I posted this :)

The Way Things Are...

2010-10-17T14:35:00.008-04:00

Breakfast at The Front Porch Cafe is literally a walk through the woods, then a right onto a road that leads past a cemetery. For us this is rural living.Although our thirteen year old night-owl was sleepy and less than jazzed for the walk, she was a good enough sport and her company made us the foursome we are.The last time we had breakfast out was in Disney World when every morning started with breakfast in a self-serve place at our resort. ( I loved the mickey mouse waffles and had them twice.)So after an eight months, we put on our coats and took a walk.The whole family.

craving, doing, thankful for...

2010-10-17T09:57:00.003-04:00

From my friends Rachel and Amity

craving:

another trip to Disney World. I'm hoping we make this happen in a couple years before my step daughter graduates high school. Our last trip to WDW was a week of unplugged magic. (We left the laptops at home.)

doing:

my plan book for a week with my first grade friends. With a well-planned week, I hope to do more than keep my head above water. Last week I struggled to tread water, and this week, I aim to swim... if even the doggie paddle. I remain positive and realistic on the state of affairs in my classroom.

thankful for:

my family, two cats, and dog who love and need me.
my niece who turns one on November 2 and is learning sign language.

my friends who feed me literally and figuratively.

Reflections...

2010-10-05T19:17:00.006-04:00

As I puttered around my classroom after school, I realized that tomorrow is Wednesday and I felt joy. It's one of those school years that finds me running all day long and when I ponder the grind and how fast the time flies, I am blown away. Then it starts all over the next day...with a weary smile and renewed energy.

The Color of Sunday

2010-10-03T13:01:00.005-04:00

is green...

Yesterday we pulled up the garden just time for the first frost. Up came many green tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, and bell peppers. Today the Green Zebras and peppers are on the window sill, while the remaining tomatoes sit in shoe boxes on the pantry floor. It was six months ago when we planted lettuce, radishes, and peas. Yesterday we had vegetables going strong as our jalapeno and bell peppers were on a second round and we had more blossoms to boot.

Growing and tending our garden has provided much satisfaction.

I wonder what the next six months will bring.

Hopefully more moments of discovery and magic.

Top Ten Tuesday

2010-09-28T18:49:00.004-04:00

Gotta love...

1. Mild fall days when it's' warmer outside than in.

2. Drizzly days that curl your hair.

3. Outside recess that dodges the rain.

4. A lunch of leftovers.

5. Glee.

6. Ethel Kennedy and a down comforter that lull you to sleep.

7. Three advil that kill a headache.

8. Two kitties who purr & slumber (not growl & snarl).

9. A hubby who makes dinner... twice this week.

10. A Pocket Full of Kisses & A Kiss Goodbye for room 205...

The Color of Sunday

2010-09-26T18:37:00.002-04:00

is white with clouds & drizzle all day.

Ironically it was steamy and summer-like in Maine yesterday.

This picture was taken at my family's cottage in Old Orchard Beach in late August. It wasn't very warm. Hence my niece, Frances wore her leg warmers. (*Swoon*)

These two always take the drear away.

All But One...and I'm NJK.

2010-09-19T13:45:00.001-04:00

Apple Picking

2010-09-19T13:42:00.002-04:00

Color of Sunday is...

2010-09-19T13:27:00.008-04:00

red because today found us apple picking with our best friends. The weather was blissful and warm... not really the typical fall conditions we're used to, but perfect for jeans and a tee shirt.

It's an annual thing for us and 32 pounds later, I see many apple related treats in our future. I'm also thinking I'll bring in some for my students who need a pick me up.

A Friday Night Tradition

2010-09-18T19:55:00.004-04:00

I was in the mood for black olive, red pepper, & onion, while everyone else wanted pepperoni, so we split things up. It's such an easy meal. We buy a dough every week at the grocery store and it beats frozen any day. Unfortunately, it's no wonder my hubby had a little heart burn last night...with the lasagna and all, but I'm pleased to report he is restored to his smiling-Saturday self .

Tonight...

2010-09-13T18:14:00.003-04:00

we had lasagna for dinner. We made it yesterday with tomatoes and peppers from our garden as well as a mixture of ground turkey and sausage. We stashed it in the refrigerator over night and when I got home from school around four o'clock, I popped it in the oven for an hour at 350. This'll become a tradition for us because preparing a meal on Sunday that is easily thrown in a crock pot or oven makes Monday so much easier.

The Color of Sunday

2010-09-12T15:28:00.002-04:00

is gray. It's overcast and the chill in the air has prompted my hubby & I to keep an eye on the overnight temperatures so we don't lose our tomatoes and peppers that are still going strong in the garden. Today after grocery shopping, we stopped for a pumpkin spice coffee at Dunkin' Donuts. Fall is around the corner and the anticipation is pretty wonderful in this corner of the northeast.

Yesterday

2010-09-12T10:34:00.002-04:00

I was talking my hubby and telling him how content I am.

It was Saturday morning and I sat down to punch out my weekly newsletter for my classroom and I can't even tell you how much fun it was. And it was a Saturday! I should note that I used to keep Saturdays sacred for non-school activity and a part of me wonders what the heck is going on. And as my friend says, "What the Buck?" (Incidentally, I really want to make her Huggy Buggy Bread Pudding without the dates.)

At home and in the classroom, I'm feeling wonderful.

Lately I am drawn to the work and preparation that teaching can demand, and this year it's actually feeling fun. While it's a lot of work and fills every corner of my brain, I'm in the groove baby.

It takes energy to teach and do it right.

The energy it takes to plan is introspective and reflective and I love it.

I will...

2010-08-06T13:15:00.005-04:00

stay relaxed and reassured as I move into August. I aknowledge it's different than July... But the weather is still beautiful. The trees still sway in the breeze. The sun still sets and presents an array of colors that can look like a rainbow. It's far from dismal. It's just that...my classroom creeps into my thoughts more often and I open the door that was just a wall in July. The beginning of August isn't the revolving door of September; it's a door you open, so you can shut off the light that shines in the middle of the night.

Celebrating July

2010-07-31T11:03:00.005-04:00

There are many things that made July memorable.

1. The weather was seasonably warm and sunny. And while it rained occasionally, it wasn't continuous and unrelenting like last year.

2. Mike and I traveled to Montreal to see my niece Frances (& her parents). Becoming an aunt is a wonderful thing. I have much gratitude that Eileen and Amos live four/five hours from our home. Seeing Frances-doodle grow and change has been fascinating.

3. Our garden is doing well. Although our pumpkins, squash, and zucchini have some sort of blight or fungus, it's still entertaining to watch our garden grow and produce little vegetables. Our lettuce, peas, peppers, and tomatoes are the rock stars this year.

4. We've been to OOB, to spend time at my family's cottage a couple times. We've seen various relatives and the weather has cooperated. I am pleased to report that the roof was patched up and the place doesn't appear to be leaning quite as much. A house built in 1910 will do that, you know.

5. My step son and I have walked down town and had lunch at Doug's Dogs, slurped slushies, swam in the surf, played with a new (actually used) remote control train set I bought for my first graders, visited an arcade and won some tickets, played on my school's playground, and walked & scootered around the track. His sister has spent much of the summer with her friends, so while we would have loved her company, I am glad Neil and I had some fun.

6. My husband and I celebrated our third anniversary. With our struggles to create a mini me & him, he's been my anchor. I'm thankful for his insight, humor, and prospective. Love you 'til the kitchen sinks.

Cheers & Jeers

2010-07-23T19:36:00.006-04:00

A local newspaper features a semi-regular editorial piece called Cheers & Jeers.

This is my version.

Cheers to Brian's Bistro. They have a tasty buffalo chicken mac & cheese that I would request as my last meal. The zest from the creamy buffalo sauce permeates the whole dish in such a yummy way.

Jeers to japanese beetles. They munch plants all over our yard and effortlessly procreate. I flick them off plants, yet our rose hips are a shell of what they're supposed to be.

Cheers to my husband for returning from Bowdoin for the weekend. I've missed him!

Jeers to a kitty (Daisy) who scratched on my door at 4:45 this morning.

Jeers to me and my soft heart. (I opened the door.)

Jeers to another kitty (Mr. Purry Pants) who tussled on the bed with his sister.

Cheers for the basement where kitties are banished for a couple hours so mom can make up for lost sleep.

Cheers for our tomatoes that are ready to pop. Soon we will be making whatever recipes we can with all our tasty tomatoes. Get ready friends!

I Went to School

2010-07-22T16:20:00.005-04:00

for the first time since classes let out for the summer. It's been in a long while since I've been to school in July!

I usually hold out until August, but since Mike's doing research at Bowdoin, the kids are at their mom's, and I have some spare time, I decided to do it. And you know what? It was fine; I did what I did and left after a couple hours feeling content. And I'm not joking you.

It was a great way to get some organizational tasks out of the way in relative bliss. It was quite a contrast to mid August when I'm positioning furniture, fiddling with items on the wall, and wrestling with the laminator -all in a fever pitch.

Part of the allure this summer are my new books. I inherited LOTS of them from my colleague who retired, so I was ready to bond with my classroom library. I have quite a variety of genres and my collection is three times the size now thanks to Brenda. Of course I am most tickled that I'm adding to one of my favorite series, Henry & Mudge. (Inspiration for the name of my future little boy if Mike agrees. Henry not Mudge.)

I Can Tell It's July 20th...

2010-07-20T20:49:00.005-04:00

but I'm pledging not to think on it too much.

I know how lucky I am. Having the summer off is a fantastic perk and by mid/late June it's time to move to the carefree days of summer. It's an adjustment to unplug my brain, find my rhythm, and I welcome it.

Well, it may be approaching late July, but I don't care.

Not yet anyway...

All my teacher friends understand what I'm saying.

The Color of Sunday...

2010-07-18T13:33:00.005-04:00

is green because today we harvested our first bell pepper, hot pepper, and cucumber. We've already eaten the cuke, but here is a photo of the peppers. Cute, huh? I love growing vegetables.

Tour de France

2010-07-17T13:23:00.004-04:00

My hubby introduced me to the Tour four or five years ago when we started seeing one another. He'd arrange for the special TV channel (then, OLN-Outdoor Life Network ) for the month of July and we'd watch a new stage each morning. Now VERSUS (the new network) comes with our cable package and although the TV is several inches larger and much flatter, the experience is still just as entertaining.

As a matter of fact, today was our semi annual Tour de France party. So...as some of the lean riders pedaled their hearts out on a relatively flat stage, we drank coffee and munched on cinnamon buns with our best friends.

It's just another reason I love July.

The Color of Sunday...

2010-07-11T13:46:00.005-04:00

is orange for the pumpkins plants in our garden.

The leaves are HUGE and the blossoms are blooming. They wrapped their little tendrils around anything stationary and while I admire their tenacity, I have to say, I've intervened on behalf of the tomatoes and peppers, so our garden can maintain its diversity and not become one big pumpkin patch.

(Note to self, talk to Mike about digging a separate garden for the cukes and pumpkins, so they can have the run of the(ir) garden.)

Right now, I see the orange blossoms, but I know at least some of them will produce pumpkins for halloween. Might I even have enough so I can bring in a couple for my first grade classroom? Stay tuned...(I'm thinking yes!)

The Opposite of Boring is...

2010-07-10T14:20:00.005-04:00

fun, but the opposite of cold is... hot, hot, hot and that is what the last few days have been. On our anniversary (7/7/07), Mike and I packed up the RAV 4 and headed north to see Frances & her amazing parents. To say it was hot and sweaty would be the understatement of the summer, but Frances, being her cute & normal self more than made up for it. It's all cheeks when she opens her mouth to smile. She's standing with help, sitting up her own and she's on the verge of crawling. She's also cutting her first tooth and being quite a trooper about it.

I am mighty relieved we brought the rain home with us. The garden and flowers will appreciate a reprieve from the heat. I'm happy too, just for myself. E & A's third floor walk up was HOT and I was fighting to stay on top of a headache and fatigue most of the time I was there. Needless to day, when the rains came yesterday on our last day in the city, we were grateful.

Very Uncool

2010-07-06T15:52:00.005-04:00

Who knows what it is outside (I don't want to know), but inside the temperature hovers around 84...To say, it's a bit clammy would be an understatement. The temperature on the screened-in porch reads 91. It's days like this when I wish we had a pool.

It's a Cool 77 Inside

2010-07-05T10:40:00.010-04:00

with the shades drawn and the windows shut, but a muggy and sunny 89 degrees out.

At dinnertime we'll be with my brother Jamie who is in from

DC. This heat must not be too bad for him given the stifling weather he's used to. It'll be great to see him at our normal meeting place -Gritty's.

Then we're off to Eileen & Amos' and petit Frances on Wednesday. Montreal here we come!

UPDATE: The indoor temperature has climbed to a balmy 80 degrees and we've resorted to opening our cellar door and strategically placing fans around the first story of our house...Mean while, outdoors it's feeling like a steamy 100 (with the humidity).

This is Katie reporting for Katieland news.

July 3rd

2010-07-04T11:51:00.007-04:00

Last night a dear friend celebrated his birthday and we were invited to the party at his farm house. Immediately I was struck by this sprawling family and how they honor their relationships with balance and routine. Among those in attendance were assorted friends, his mom, four brothers and their respective wives and children who come together every other year from all over the country. I am drawn to tradition, so it felt amazing to share some time with these people. Over potluck, I sat on their wrap around porch and listened to his daughter talk about her life in New Orleans, I was taken with wonderment. Who else has sat on these rocking chairs?

And We Have Peas...

2010-06-30T09:17:00.004-04:00

In Five Days...

2010-06-30T08:59:00.004-04:00

we head north to see my sister and her family.

This photo was taken in January, so you can imagine how much Frances has grown.

Apparently she's on the move and close to crawling.

Our trip coincides with our third wedding anniversary!

It's Almost a Salad

2010-06-26T14:44:00.003-04:00

The Last Monday...

2010-06-14T18:43:00.004-04:00

of the school year and where did the time go? Knowing my students performed well makes me happy and I must admit, I'm relieved. Being a member of a team of professionals who accepted my students as they were in September and led them to June makes it easy to see the benefits of team work. I couldn't do it alone and I am so glad I don't have to. I have parents, administrators, and colleagues who make me glad I am a teacher. Even when things are tricky, we come together and problem solve, so my stresses are not mine alone... I'm on the cusp of summer vacation and I feel particularly lucky to be a teacher.

What will I do this summer?

2010-06-12T15:56:00.004-04:00

Here is one little kiddo I'd like to see!

(Hint...there may be a trip to Montreal in our future!)

Down to One Hand

2010-06-12T14:58:00.003-04:00

As we approach the last week of school (three and a half student days left), I am feeling ready for summer.

My school year began as my best ever and I'm confident we'll finish strong.

This year I switched things up and incorporated a reader's workshop approach (From Solid Ground) that allowed me to ditch literacy centers once and for all and recommitment to relevancy.

Mid-way through the year, my students' stamina was strong (they were reading for fifteen stretches) so I implemented The Daily Five. My students then amazed me with their ability to make choices, as they worked on words, worked on writing, read to self, read to others, and listened to reading.

My students have made me proud and the reasons far exceed what can be counted on one hand!

Walking Along

2010-06-07T18:31:00.009-04:00

better than ever.

Since I last posted there's been a trip to Walt Disney World, visits with my little niece Frances (who isn't so little anymore), gardening, and the hub-bub of my first grade classroom that picks up in May and shocks me every year.

Although I reserve the right to loop back around and expound at length...here's the run down of where my brain is. I warn you; I'm taking this as it comes. I have enough topics to last me a while...(So stayed tuned for more posts.)

The trip to WDW was busy, fun, and warm. We're Mainers... so wearing shorts and running the air conditioner everyday in mid April is always AWESOME.

Seeing the fireworks in front of Cinderella's castle in Magic Kingdom remains a memory of flashing lights and exploding bangs -all to music, magically choreographed. Although WDW is a middle class mecca, sharing space with that many people as the sky lit up above us was unifying.

Looking back on it, I figured I'd be lacking for for my own space and overwhelmed with the sheer population of people milling around me, but with minor adjustments here and there, I managed quite nicely.

A saving grace included having an accommodating spouse who willingly watched the kids as they picked out their flags, tee shirts, mugs, and toe socks. Outside of the gift shops, the people watching was superb.

Although not as superb as the people in this photo!

Greetings

2010-04-08T19:49:00.003-04:00

from my neck of the Maine woods.

Tomorrow is Friday! Can you say yay?

I just finished my classroom newsletter. Effectively keeping families in the loop and slipping one to my principal is usually a weekly thing for me.

But between a storm day, field-tripping at the local ski resort with the whole school, report cards, and two workshop days in late March, it's been a while since we've had a regular Friday.

So...I am back on the Pages wagon. Choosing a template that I jazz up is still great fun and it makes me contemplate a career as a layout editor.

Maybe in retirement?

Magical Monday

2010-04-05T19:15:00.005-04:00

At the elementary school I worked at a few years ago, I chose adjectives to describe each day of the week and I'd write it on the morning message each day. In typical first grade fashion, we had magical Mondays, terrific Tuesdays, wacky Wednesdays (because the students arrived an hour later, so teachers could attend meetings and engage in professional development), thrilling Thursdays and fun Fridays. Although there came a time when I stopped using the adjectives, Mondays remain my favorite day of the school week.

Mondays anchor my students with familiarity on a day when they are rested. If I could duplicate Mondays and have five of them each week I would in a minute. I wonder if I am the only member of the magical Monday fan club?

March

2010-04-02T21:05:00.006-04:00

Although March was a tad rainy and devoid of snow (so sad), I made it through.

March is a long month that goes on and on, but a busy schedule made things move along. Between teaching, serving on the Response to Intervention committee and being a negotiating team member for the RSU (Regional School Unit) to merge three contracts, it's been busy.

And honestly, there are other things going on that demand our attention.

Nonetheless, here we are happy. Winter is behind us and spring is here.

Happy Good Friday

2010-04-02T19:33:00.006-04:00

April has been sunny and mild so far. Today Mike and I walked one of our routes and it was WARM. I thought about wearing a pair of shorts as the sun made us sweaty. Tomorrow I may just pull them out, along with my hammock.

Tonight we stopped for an ice cream on the way home from grocery shopping.

It's spring time.

Happy Easter.

Soon, soon, soon...

2010-03-29T18:11:00.002-04:00

we'll be vacationing in Disney World. After some figuring, rearranging and generosity (thanks Memere and Pepere), we decided the time was right for this trip. Come Wednesday, it'll be 17 days and we'll be on the plane for the sunshine state. We are staying in the park for six days and we're excited.

Other trips will certainly take place in the future that will allow us to travel to D.C. or Montreal to see my brothers and sister's family.

Just think... when we get back from Florida, it'll be the end of April and we'll be on the final stretch of school.

Today was a nice Monday and to think there are only ten left is crazy.

Got Leaks?!

2010-03-23T18:43:00.008-04:00

Unfortunately the weather has turned rainy (inside recess for two straight days) and as new wet spots appear on the ceiling tiles in my school, I'm having flashbacks of flooded classrooms from a year ago when a clogged drainage pipe caused an overflow of April rain to soak through our walls and saturate rugs. (Why one builds an open-concept school on a hill is beyond me.)

As I retrieved my students from music class, some repairmen were in the conference room investigating a stream of water dripping down the wall under the watchful eyes of my principal.

It'll rain most of the week, but I hope the only green I see is on the grass.

Emergance

2010-03-11T17:44:00.002-05:00

In my later years, I have grown to love the glory of winter, so I accept March and even like it.

This March is different. It's been relatively warm (40-50) and sunny for the whole month and the snow is almost gone. With no snowfall on the horizon, I've come to peace with our mild winter and I'm ready to spring ahead on Sunday.

More perennials are sprouting along our driveway and I'm looking forward to raking and sprucing things up this coming weekend. I feel the give in the lawn when I take the dog out, yet it's not muddy.

What special things will happen this Spring?

March Madness Without The Anger

2010-03-07T15:59:00.003-05:00

Today is...

*sunny. Lately, by the afternoon, we see more of the lawn than we did in the morning. The melt is a first step and the mid forties will do that for you. (Fifties in the sun!)

*the day we turned off the heat (at least until sunset) and opened the kitchen door to the porch where I read my Good Housekeeping, and fell asleep. I love the porch and 3/4 seasons I use it as an alternative to the living room. It's quiet and catches the mid day sun. Mr. Purry Pants slept on my legs and Daisy hung around too without any growling.

*the day after an annual pizza and wine tasting party we've been attending for years. It was great fun seeing our friends although we missed seeing our close friends, Kelli and Ryan.

*the day when the plants around our foundation are sprouting their green little stems. We're talking about expanding our vegetable garden, but the perennials are the beginning.

*spring-like and as good of time as any to get some exercise. (Alas, it's time to get back in shape.)

*a day when the laundry may stay in the basement. Eight loads can wait to be folded. I'll put together an outfit, ready the coffee, and make my lunch. All will be good.

*a week from daylight savings. I'll miss the morning light, but it'll be nice to have it on the flip side too.

Snow Day!

2010-02-25T07:39:00.003-05:00

I said, I'd blog the next storm, so here goes...Although first, give me a second to eat my bagel and start my second cup of coffee.Alrighty then, I'm ready :) In my community, teachers, students, and those parents who can take a snow day are at home today. I'm on the couch in my Snuggie, watching The Today Show, and contemplating a nap as I've been up since 5:15.

Currently there's an inch or two of accumulated snow on the ground and as of 8:30 AM, it's in and out snowing/sleeting. Overnight we had ice, so I assume the roads were slippery this morning. (And practically everybody rides a bus, so better safe than sorry.)

A snow day always packs a punch for this teacher.

Sunny With a Chance of Snow?

2010-02-20T12:41:00.001-05:00

I am a Maine girl. I live and work here on purpose because I like the four seasons and the unique qualities of each. When the weather conditions get boring or excessive, I hold out hope that things will turn around. Case and point, July was wet, yet August was sunny and warm.This is my saving grace right now. This winter will come around, won't it?

Stay tuned; I will certainly blog the next real storm, but it'll need to be a real one and not a snore fest that never materializes.

Some of my Favorite Things

2010-02-19T16:28:00.005-05:00

My niece, Frances Fern:

She's a bundle of love and sports a cute pair of leg warmers like no other baby I know. Frances is four months old and grows more smiley and strong each day.

It's Not All Flowers and Sausages:

Let me say up front that when "Miss Mimi" left teaching, I dropped her from my blog roll, but I've picked her back up. Maybe it's because she's devoted her time to finish her dissertation and a second book, but she's also pregnant and for me, that's the clincher. As I've caught myself up, I've discovered that she hasn't forgotten her classroom roots and this makes me very happy.

Watching high school basketball:

Last night we spent the evening watching the Dirigo Cougars play the OOB Seagulls and I got to say, I'd love to have a child to play the sport. Watching how teams respond to one another fascinates me.

Mike makes this list too. He knows me, loves me, and gives me his best. We're a great team. (He's funny too.)

Sierra Redwood

2010-02-17T20:16:00.004-05:00

Being vacation week, so there was no better time to paint the office.

And although I don't care to paint, today had good rhythm.

I got to say that Mike did a wonderful job selecting our paint color and thank goodness! If it were up to me, the rooms in our home would be varying shades of beige, pale yellow, light gray and white and although the subtle color pallet matches my occasional longing to fade into the background, Mike teaches me that our home shouldn't.

Tonight I see the truth in his words.

Happy sierra redwood to you and yours.

It's School Vacation Week...

2010-02-15T18:03:00.007-05:00

And I've enjoyed a break from the normal hubbub of school.

I've had over thirteen of these breaks in my lifetime, and it's like visiting an old friend. Once you arrive, you settle in where you left off. February break gives new meaning to finding time and spending it the way you desire. I love how the tick of the clock slows down.

Maybe it's the mild winter or the sunshine, but I'm longing for spring and today I dreamed of planting carrots in an even bigger garden.I'm a goner because you watch...March will be snowy now that I've posted this.

(Which I wouldn't mind either :)

Getting To Know Me

2010-02-12T20:37:00.005-05:00

I got this from my friend Rach.

1. What time did you get up this morning?
5:50 because I had a 7:00 meeting with one of my colleagues at school.
I bribed myself with a donut.

2. How do you like your steak?
Medium. I love it on the grill.

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
Julie and Julia, I think.

4. What is your favorite TV show?
Project Runway. I download them on my laptop every
Saturday because I can't watch 10:00 PM shows
and be in good form the next day. I also like
"Big Love" (so much so that I now get HBO just
so I can watch it.)

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
I'm content here...Although there are times when I wish there
was a good sushi place nearby.

6. What did you have for breakfast?
A coffee and a donut, although yesterday and the day before
that, I had half a grapefruit.

7. What is your favorite cuisine?
Anything creamy.

8. What foods do you dislike?
For me it's about what I pair with my food with. I like
practically everything.

9. What is your favorite place to Eat?
The Bistro, but honestly, all the restaurants I frequent provide
tasty options. Why else would I go and spend the money
unless I was sure?

10. Favorite dressing?
Bleu cheese.

11.What kind of vehicle do you drive?
Ford Focus.

12. What are your favorite clothes?
Khakis and sweaters.

13. Where would you visit if you had the chance?
Ireland, Germany, or anywhere warm.

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full?
I strive to be 1/2 full, but I'm not always successful.

15. Where would you want to retire?
That's so far away; I have no idea.

16. Favorite time of day?
A little sunshine makes anytime of day wonderful.

17. Where were you born?
Lewiston, Maine.

18. What is your favorite sport to watch?
Basketball.

19. Who do you think will not tag you back?*
20. Who do you think will tag you back first?*
21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this?*

22. Bird watcher?
I could be.

23. Are you a morning person or a night person?
Morning.

24. Do you have any pets?
Two cats, Daisy and "Mr. Purry Pants."

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share?
I'm on vacation!

26. What did you want to be when you were little?
Since the third grade, a teacher. (Thanks Mrs. Coupas!)

27. What is your best childhood memory?
When Patrick was born.

28. Are you a cat or dog person?
Cat.

29. Are you married?
Yes, for over two years now.

30. Always wear your seat belt?
Yes.

31. Been in a car accident?
Unfortunately.

32. Any pet peeves?
Intolerance. Closing ones mind to change or diversity.

33. Pizza?
Bacon and black olive.

34. Favorite Flower?
All kinds.

35. Dessert?
Sure, but only if I've saved room. I stop eating when I'm full.

36. Favorite fast food restaurant?
McDonald's. I have to say that I love this
restaurant. (Embarrassing.)

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
Twice.

38. From whom did you get your last email?
The teacher of my new student.

39. Which store would you choose to max out
your credit card?
I don't do that.

40. Do anything spontaneous lately?
No...not really my thing.

41. Like your job?
I love it.

42. Broccoli?
Sure.

43. What was your favorite vacation?

Oregon... when Eileen and Amos got married.
Aruba... after Mike and I were married.
Oh, I loved Quebec City in 2005 and all the times
we've been to MV. Then there was South Padre
and Key West with Kelli and Saline with
Pete and the crew. They've all been good!

44. Who was the last person you went to dinner with?
Mike to the Bistro.

45. What are you listening to right now?
Olympic coverage.

46. What is your favorite color?
Any shade of blue.

47. How many tattoos do you have?
None.

48. How many are you tagging for this quiz?*

49. What time did you finish this quiz?*

50. Coffee Drinker?
Yes! Although I now drink "lite" coffee for
health reasons.

*I don't have any patience for those dumb
questions. (Can you tell I need a vacation?)

Ten thoughts in ten minutes

2010-01-23T10:35:00.003-05:00

Not sure I can keep it within ten minutes, but I'll give it a real Katieland try.

1. I love Saturday mornings! I got up at 9:40 this morning. I can't do this during the week when I'm up by 6:00 AM so I can get to work on time.

2. It's sunny this morning and we'll take a walk. The sky is blue and it reminds me of summer.

3. As much as I love Saturdays, I don't mind getting up at 6:00 during the week because I love my job! It provides me with a routine that I dig. I don't even mind Sundays when most of my day is spent planning and thinking about my school week.

4. In April we'll be going to Washington D.C. to see the sights and my two brothers who live there. One is preparing to be a priest and the other is a computer tech for a company called JSI.

5. This morning when I got up, all three pets greeted me at the bedroom door and rumbled down the stairs as I wiped the sleepy out of my eyes and stumbled into the dining room to feed them.

6. Next I had some coffee which I have to say I love...and it's even lite (half the caffeine), so I always have two mugs of it on the weekend.

7. I am a little pissed that we're getting a rain storm on Monday. It's not supposed to happen that way in January especially when we had enough rain in July. Shouldn't that erase the possibility of us having it in January?

8. I am running out of thoughts I can put words to. That is amazing I know. I can barely believe it myself. Although some of you know I have things on my mind that I don't include on Katieland. Mostly out of a need for privacy...But for those of you in the *know* we're at the beginning of good things. I am choosing to remain positive even though there are unknowns.

9. My friends are very important to me and I love it when I run into them. I don't see some of them as much as I used to. It's not on purpose. Married life is full. I got to say, I love it when my friends mention how nice it is when they run into me. Isn't that what it's all about? Telling those important people that it was nice to see you?!

10. Lastly, my little niece Frances is almost three months old and being her auntie is so wonderful. She's a precious bundle of sweetness. (Hence the picture I included that includes Brother Joshua and Lea.)

When it's cold, why not go shopping...

2010-01-10T08:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Mike and I took off for Freeport. It's an outlet city here in Maine and the recession (although very bad for some) did not disappoint for my post birthday shopping spree. The sales were INCREDIBLE. We went to the Bean's Factory store and The Gap Outlet. I went shopping with the hope of purchasing some khakis for work and boy, did I?! I bought six pairs for under $5 a piece! $4.19 to be exact. I scored four pairs of pants that take on different shades of tan, a pair of navy blue chinos, and a pair of gray trousers. The tables turned yesterday and I pawed through the racks with the best of them and I went back for a second go around. Happy Birthday to me. Had Mike not been recovering from his cold, he might have given me a high five...Sorry honey. Hope you feel better soon. (Then we can go back.)

Hi

2010-01-06T18:15:00.003-05:00

It's time again for a brief post. Current temperature is 22 degrees...

Wait a minute! I wish that were the case! It's actually 6 degrees and the temperatures are forecasted to drop down to -8 overnight.

I began this post a couple days ago and I was in a bit of a funk...Mostly caused by the frigid January temperatures...But right now 22 degrees (with no wind) doesn't sound too bad. What was I thinking? (Maybe it was that birthday of mine?)

Currently the wind is rattling the house and the furnace is running non-stop.

I'm left jonesing for nicer weather. I want to read a book in my hammock. I want to lie on the green grass at Rach and Dave's house where the ground rumbles when the kids run by. I want to sit at the beach and run my fingers through the warm sand.

Either that or a snowstorm...We live in Maine after all and tracking a good snowstorm is fun stuff. Cold, windy weather isn't.

Oh well, there's a lesson here. Things aren't nearly as bad as you sometimes feel.

Until I post again, I'll be keeping it in prospective because you never know what mother nature has in store.

Oy.

Ten Years From Now...

2010-01-02T10:43:00.004-05:00

A different hue on some of our walls may accompany new rugs upstairs...Maybe we'll have a fireplace in our backyard and our best friends gather will gather around it in July & August when we're not on the Sicotte Road. Maybe we'll have a bigger garden that grows tomatoes. God willing, the beach will be standing and full of all interested derivatives of the Finn family.

We'll have a twenty-three year old Lea and a twenty year old Neily. Will Lea be scoping out Martha's Vineyard for her gingerbread house and be singing for crowds big and small? Will Neily be in the middle of college, near by and home whenever possible?

Will there be a third little Nolette running around? Somehow.... Whether our petit Nolette is a tall basketball player or a rugged football player? A trumpet player or a glass blower, it won't matter. Let him or her be a cute configuration of each of us.

Being out of blogging practice, my open declarations makes me shudder a little, but a delete button is not the way to live. I resolve to publish the post.

And maybe more...

Day 55

2009-11-23T19:12:00.004-05:00

Boy, it's been a long while with a lot of everything in between.

Fifty-five days ago, I was reading in my hammock, enjoying the sun...splitting my time between school and home anticipating the start of school.

Fifty-five days later, my students and I are in the swing of things. A wonderful combination of students and my discovery of reader's workshop make this a killer year, full of possibility. I am thankful.

Fifty-five days ago, I had some color in my cheeks. Summer was just August and it felt heavenly.

Fifty-five days later, I've long since lost my tan. I look forward to some snow. Bring on winter, I'm ready to track storms. Don't live here if you hate the snow. Embrace it.

Fifty-five days ago, I was wondering about my future. Trying to dream and always thinking.

Today... I'm ready for action. My dreams are really our dreams and I'm ready.

School Will be Starting...

2009-08-27T08:14:00.003-04:00

and my excitement is building.

We have a new principal this year (a ball of energy) and I got to say that our school is looking pretty great. Maybe it's the new the principal, but I've got the new school year bug like never before. It hit in August and I was there by the 6th scrubbing and tossing like crazy. Stuff I haven't used in the last five year is gone and I'm raring to go...

Out with the old; in with the new. PRIDE.

More to follow soon...

Oh Yeah...

2009-07-30T21:49:00.004-04:00

Earlier this month, we celebrated our second anniversary. I love this guy, his children, and the life we've made. The ice cream was good too.

I Love Green Zebra Tomatoes...

2009-07-30T21:43:00.005-04:00

Thanks to one of Mike's teacher friends at Dirigo, we got a tomato plant they started in a green house. We transplanted it in June and despite all the rain, it's doing great and I can honestly say that my first ever green Zebra was yummy. Thanks Jen and Leo.

Tippy...3 Months Old

2009-07-30T21:41:00.000-04:00

Stayed Tuned...

2009-07-26T19:13:00.006-04:00

for an updated photo of Tippy. He's probably doubled in size as he continues to work his way into our hearts. Tippy's all claws (that get clipped when he falls asleep) and fur and just perfect. A new kitten has been good for me.

Although Daisy's been outside A LOT MORE, she's okay too. Yesterday we found her on the opened garage door, near the ceiling, probably taking a nap. It was funny because as I called for her (it was getting dark and I don't like her out overnight), I heard something rumbling around. I was ready to see a raccoon when Daisy peaked out. Good thing. We usually shut the garage door before going to bed and that would have launched her into the air. Mike saved the day -or night-by gently dragging her down. Hopefully by winter, they make friends.

A Day At Hadlock

2009-07-26T18:27:00.002-04:00

What a nice time we had at Hadlock today. Seated in general admission, we managed to avoid the rain for the most part (with only a few drops) as we ate our way through the park and made it through the whole game. (A great feat for this family!) Between innings there were little contests...Two girls sang the theme song for Funtown. Both won tickets. Four kids played musical chairs. A man threw balls into a giant Hannaford cart and won a gift card. Little kids danced with Slugger. Neil threw trash into the Trash Monster, smiling wider than I've seen in a LONG time. Lea pretended she didn't know us when we all did the wave. Neil got a trusty foam finger. Although this summer may be end up being the wettest on record, today was fun! Weather-wise, it may not have been perfect, but it's a fine memory for the Nolette famille.

Tippy and Daisy

2009-07-06T20:12:00.004-04:00

Although Daisy looks like an alien in this photo, she's feeling better. (Thanks St. Gertrude!) This is a first for the deux chats. Right before I snapped this picture, they were cuddling/wrestling without even a growl.

Tippy and I Relaxing On Another Rainy Day...What Else Is New?

2009-07-02T15:38:00.007-04:00

As I uploaded this photo, the sun decided to make an appearance,

so Mike & I are going for a walk while we can.

*Update*

On our walk, we encountered rain, so we had to cut our walk a little short.

I honestly can't remember the last time the sky was totally blue and the sun felt hot on my skin.

I hope, hope, hope for better weather!

I'm Really Hoping For Sunny Skies

2009-06-29T15:42:00.002-04:00

As our friends get ready to depart for Montana, I can't blame them. Along with seeing family and fulfilling graduate school requirements in Bozeman, you know the weather in Montana has to be warmer and sunnier than it is here.

While it's green and lush outside, this isn't Oregon. We're Mainers and most of us are pale and suffer from vitamin D deficiencies, so we don't just want the sunshine, we need it.

Snowstorms are exciting. Weeks of rain are not. Enough with the sinkholes, and wash outs. The promise of a pleasant summer is part of the deal for those of us who live in Maine, so I remain optimistic that the sun will come back.

Bucks: Have a safe trip and if all else fails, I'm depending on you to bring back the sun.

Haircuts and Thunderstorms

2009-06-26T15:59:00.003-04:00

On this day, one of the last in June...I sit and contemplate summertime, as one by one, the normal things happen. The normal things that make me happy and reinforce my calling to be a teacher (who gets her summers to herself).

First, I got a haircut this morning and returned to my original hair color.

The haircut usually coincides with the onset of humid weather. Six inches were chopped off.

Returning to my roots, sort to speak, after highlighting for five years, was something different, but change is good.

Second, we had our first set of thunderstorms roll in. A few claps and strikes were observed. No hail in Dixfield, but it rained quite hard for about forty-five minutes. Now the trees have that familiar sparkle of glistening raindrops on the leaves and the sun is poking out of the clouds.

Finding my Rhythm

2009-06-22T15:51:00.006-04:00

Today Mike had a meeting in Buckfield, so the day was mine to navigate.

I got up around 7:30...The ideal time for me to rise. It's later than the school year, but still early enough to get things done in a leisurely fashion.

I made some necessary appointments. I took off for school to complete some last things in my classroom. I transplanted some houseplants and moved them onto the porch. I weeded. I jump-roped. I walked the dog and I managed to eat five servings of fruit.

My goals for the summer include: taking time to read, exercise, breath, and just be.

My long-time goal includes extending these goals throughout the year. Somehow.

I don't have to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders.

Here's Tippy

2009-06-21T20:01:00.004-04:00

Lea, my step daughter, took this photo of Tippy. I think it came out just great. Tippy is doing wonderfully. There's lots of meowing and cat naps as he explores his new surroundings. He responds pretty well to our voices and purrs. It's interesting how Tippy goes about things as he comes out from the office just as far as he wishes and scurries back when things feel too unfamiliar. I gotta say, I can relate...and can't blame him.

The Trek Across Maine

2009-06-19T13:51:00.004-04:00

Besides a plane reservation, the only thing that gets me up before 5:00 AM, on the second day of summer vacation, is the Trek. Out of the house by 5:15 AM, we drove over to Dave's to pick him up. After stowing his bike safely on the bike carrier, we were off to Sunday River, sipping coffee, munching on McDonald's and cursing the rainy weather.

After a picture and a kiss (for Mike) The Cycling Cougars were off. Heading back to the car, I drove back east to the New Page Rest Stop in Rumford, where I served as cheer leader for hundreds of soggy, yet smiling trekkers.

I got home a couple hours ago...soak and wet, yet so happy. Talk about wonderful people! All them riding in the rain...All of them trying their best...If you see a trekker this weekend, offer them a hot cup of coffee. Noise makers and bells are nice too. "Thanks for Trekking!"

Our Weekend...

2009-06-14T20:58:00.008-04:00

Busy. Rainy. Fun. (Maybe we'll add some sun soon too...)

For my first bit of news..

It's official; we're the proud new owners of "Tipsy".

He's furthest to the left. Look at his cute little ears. (Hence his name.)

It'll be a week or two before he's old enough to come home with us, but we're getting ready.

Second on my list of news worthy items...

There are only 2.5 days left of school.

I honestly don't know where the time went.

I'll miss my kiddos, but I'll be ready to wave good-bye.

Third...

We just returned from our annual get together with the Virginia Elementary School (RIP) gang. Although it was rainy and we ended up in Jean and Larry's house and not their camp, the kids (L, N, B, J, and K) all swam and hung out in the hot tub.

VES was small and it had just one hallway, but I had a door to my classroom and a whole wall of windows I could open and close at will.

We had something unique up there and they're still my people.

One Of Our New Kitties

2009-06-07T18:55:00.006-04:00

A while back we lost our cat Sammy.

Along with us, Daisy, our other cat, has missed her.

Although Daisy'd be the first to admit they had their differences, both cats did get to a point, where hissing and growling became the exception and sharing space was the norm.

The kitties in the photo will be one of ours. Right now they're six weeks old, so it'll be a couple more weeks. Of course we're excited. Even some our friends Cate and Ben are longing to meet the new kitty.

I'm hoping Daisy and Coach, our dog, are accepting and dare I say, affectionate.

We'll all be out of school by the time we take 'Mineau" home and we're hoping for harmony in la maison de Nolette.

If I keep reminding Daisy to be loving, will she be?

In regards in the picture...I like the one furthest to the left. The little guy in the back is taken. Mike likes little Charlie Chaplin. (I am no longer calling him Adolf.)

Thanks Rachel!

2009-06-02T19:18:00.006-04:00

1. What time did you get up this morning? 6:15

2. How do you like your steak? Medium rare

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? It's been a while, but I think it was Bride Wars.

4. What is your favorite TV show? The Biggest Loser, Big Love, and Project Runway.

5. What did you have for breakfast? Coffee, glass of milk and grits.

6. What is your middle name? Finn, but before I got married, it was Shannon.

7. What is your favorite cuisine? I like it all, but italian is always a yummy choice.

8. What foods do you dislike? Smooshy squash.

9. Where's 9? I'm not cool enough to get it either. (What?!)

10. Favorite dressing? Bleu Cheese

11. What kind of vehicle do you drive? Ford Focus

12. What are your favorite clothes? Jeans with a tank top.

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation? Ireland, Germany or St Maarten.

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? 1/2 full

15. Where would you want to retire? It'll probably be 33 years from now...so who knows?

16. Favorite time of day? Mid morning.

17. Where were you born? Lewiston, Maine.

18. What is your favorite sport to watch? Baseball.

21. Pepsi or Coke? Coke...especially if it's a Diet Coke or Sierra Mist.

22. Bird watcher? I could be.

23. Are you a morning person or a night person? I'm a mid morning person. By eight o'clcok I'm at my best.

24. Do you have any pets? We have a cat and a dog, and we're getting a kitten soon.

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share? Not yet.

26. What did you want to be when you were little? An icecream maker.

27. What is your best childhood memory? best? By far, when my little brother Patrick was born.

28. Are you a cat person or a dog person? Cat

29. Beer or Margarita? Margarita...Both are good...but probably beer.

30. Always wear your seat belt? Always

31. Been in a car accident? Unfortunately...but not in 8 years! (Knock on wood.)

32. Favorite Restaurant? Any restaurant on Martha's Vineyard.

33. Favorite Pizza Toppings? Mushroom, black olive, pepperoni.

34. Favorite Flower? There'll all pretty.

35. Favorite ice cream? It's a good, but I don't prefer strawberry.

36. Favorite fast food restaurant? McDonalds, by far.

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test? Two times, but the first time, they wouldn't let me test because the driver's side door would not open from the outside.

38. From whom did you get your last email? Someone at school.

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Maxing out credit cards would indicate a severe emergency or stupidity. Neither of which I'm experiencing.

40. Bedtime? Now that summer is nearing...closer to ten.

42. Broccoli? Sure and we're growing it in our garden.

43. What was your favorite vacation? Aruba.

44. Last person you went out to dinner with? Mike.

45. What are you listening to right now? Cartoon Network. Neil's got the remote.

46. What is your favorite color? Baby blue.

47. How many tattoos do you have? Never in a million years.

Hello

2009-05-31T20:51:00.005-04:00

It's been a while, and I've been pondering Katieland.

Why bother to blog if you're not making the time to write?

One reason...

I'm an introvert and always mulling something over.

Katieland works out to be a good place for those thoughts and feelings.

Sometimes things come out that I don't even plan on.

Katieland is my own parking garage for over seventy vehicles.

And they need a safe place.

Sometimes I get mired in the process of creating an entry.

Thinking I need to be profound and lengthy.

But I'm letting it go because I can.

There are some other things in my life that are harder to let go.

They create pressure and stress.

I attempt to deal with those things and sometimes I'm successful.

And sometimes I'm not.

Katieland is my own Gateway Garage.

So while I may profound, it'll be OK if I'm not.

After all, Katieland is me.

Spring is Here!

2009-04-24T20:04:00.011-04:00

Today was a glorious day. I happily spent a couple hours weeding and raking my side and front flower beds as I remembered why I love summer so. With temperatures in the upper 70s...I puttered around feeling wonderfully content as Mike put up our new clothesline and hung some bedding and clothes out. After some reading, Mike meandered into the garage and the snow blower was swapped around for the grill. To mark the occasion, we had buffalo burgers with a medley of vegetables (done with a little olive oil, salt and pepper). Later in the evening, we walked to Rowe's and had our first ice cream sundays. Now Mike and I are back inside watching the Red Sox/Yankee series and hoping for the best. Days like this, make spring well worth the wait.

My ABCs

2009-04-23T11:55:00.003-04:00

Thanks SJ!

A - Age: 37

B - Bed size: Queen

C - Chore you hate: cleaning the bathrooms

D - Dog's name: Coach

E - Essential start to your day: shower and coffee with sugar and half&half, not milk or God forbid, skim milk

F - Favorite color: blue

G - Gold or Silver: gold

H - Height: 5'8"

I - Instruments you play: piano

J- Job: first grade teacher

K – Kids: not yet...hopefully soon.

L - Living arrangements: with my hubby and his two children

M - Mom's name: Joann

N - Nicknames:Katie or Kate

O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth: yep...a myomectomy five years ago

P - Pet Peeve: disappointing others and myself

Q - Quote from a movie:

R – Robot or Human? a human...a little one

S - Siblings: two brothers and a sister (who is preggers)

T - Time you wake up: 5:50 on school days

U- Underwear: bikinis

V - Vegetable you dislike: Anything canned and smooshy. Go fresh!

W - Ways you run late: I misplace something and have a little melt down in the process of searching for it

X - X-rays you've had: Uterus, teeth, knees, and eyes,

Y - Yummy food you make: Pizza

Z - Zoo favorite: Koala Bears

What Have I Been Doing?

2009-04-22T15:05:00.007-04:00

Part Two:

2. I've been dancing my little legs off as I try to master wings (and other quick moving steps) so I can be ready for my three numbers in the upcoming recital. To prepare, the month of April is always filled with extra dance rehearsals where the halls of Miss Patty's School of Dance are crazy loud with parents and dancers of all ages milling about, waiting to be lined up to practice their numbers.

I'm a sucker for extra practice time. Humiliation is a particularly good motivator. Whether I'm at Sally's, on my driveway or playground duty and even shopping at Hannaford with their long isles, and snazzy music, I 'm a believer in the saying that practice makes perfect. Although I am not suggesting I'm perfect...Just a hard worker with a goal to have fun.

Of course I'm acutely aware that on May 1 and 2, I'll be on stage with my fellow dancers, strutting my stuff with a smile (hopefully). Stay tuned for photos in the coming weeks. Proof that this gal can wear sequins.

What Have I Been Doing?

2009-04-22T10:24:00.003-04:00

It's been a while and although I am a bit wrapped up in my own chagrin, I'm not surprised.

April to June tend to pick up speed at school. Everyday counts, but spring days tend to pack more of a punch. The weather is still cool and learning comes together in a puzzle where the pieces make pictures you can make out with clarity...I find it to be exciting stuff and try and maintain the pace as the days left in school dwindle. Although the assessments and instruction stare me in the eye, taunting me to fall behind...I'm pleased to say I've kept up with my students and their educational journey.

I can't say the same for Katieland. So this is part one of a what I might have written about had I made the time. (There's nothing like April vacation to regain your footing and carry on with other aspects of your life.)

1. I joined a qualified group of individuals and helped craft a new constitution and bylaws for the Western Foothills Education Association. Although many of us were surprised by the governor's plan to regionalize Maine's school districts and some of us were equally bewildered by how our communities gave its overwhelming support in a recent referendum, we came together and volunteered our Tuesdays to facilitate a transition from three associations to one... What the WFEA has now is a ratified constitution and bylaws, nominees for office, and an upcoming election. How we will operate in the future remains to be seen, but I'm hopeful for a semblance of togetherness and trust. It'll take time, but I am optimistic.

I Am Blessed With A Wonderful Volunteer

2009-03-20T17:36:00.004-04:00

Every Wednesday one of my student's grandma comes in and does a craft with my first graders. Among some of the projects they've completed: bird feeders, shamrock pins, cedar pillows, Christmas ornaments, and this quilt!

Her commitment is extraordinary. She's does more than her part and at the end of the day, my students feel extra special knowing she's in it for them.

I am in awe.

Day 112

2009-03-09T16:27:00.004-04:00

I was a hard working kid and for the most part, I always tried my best.

In every grade, there are important skills to learn and never enough time.

But in first grade, they're not likely to advance to second grade if they can't read and write adequately. Talk about exciting and hard core.

As a teacher, it's my job to know my learners. So consequently, I aim to challenge my students and nudge them to the next level.

Educating children is like a puzzle and today I left school feeling as though I was lacking some corner pieces. It's likely I'll make some phone calls tomorrow so that we can share space at the table, and shuffle through the pieces together.

I can't do it alone.