Christmas Q & A

This is from Becca:

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate....but to be honest, I've never had Egg Nog before. Something about the name makes me a little wary...

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Wrapped -- what's the fun in getting presents if you don't get to tear the wrapping paper off???

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? Like Becca, I liked color lights as a child; now that I'm a grown-up *gag* I prefer white.

4. Do you hang mistletoe? Nope. Our family never got into the whole mistletoe thing....maybe it's a cultural thing....

5. When do you put your decorations up? Gradually during the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Tamales....another cultural thing....who knew I was so culturally enriched...

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Christmas Eve at my Grandma's house. We'd always stay up 'til midnight and then unwrap all our gifts.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I honestly can't remember if I even believed in Santa....I don't think I did....I just asked my brother and he can't remember believing in Santa either. Maybe that whole opening the presents at midnight thing is what did it.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We used to when we were kids. Now we do it all on Christmas day - open gifts with the immediate family on Christmas morning (well, mid-morning, we all like to sleep in a bit) and open gifts with the extended family that afternoon.

10. What kind of cookies does Santa get set out for him? This year it was gingerbread bears, boots, bells, and snowmen (couldn't find the little person cookie cutter and had already made my last minute store run), but usually Santa doesn't get cookies. He got them this year because my nephew, Nathan, got here and kept asking if we could make "Christmas cookies for Santa." They're not Santa believers, either, so we have no idea where he got that from.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? This Texas girl would LOVE to experience a white Christmas....last year we had a bit of snow, but it only left me longing for more....

12. Can you ice skate? I tried it once. Meh. But then I can't even roller skate.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Don't have many memories from my childhood (I have the trauma from my brothers to thank for that), but I vaguely remember a doll house. It was a po' man's doll house because we didn't have much money, but I loved it nonetheless.

14. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Celebrating Christ's birth with my family and friends, and everybody taking time to demonstrate their love for each other.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Cheesecake.....mmmm....I missed it this year....

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? All of it.....except the staying up 'til 3 helping wrap gifts and get things ready...

17. What tops your tree? An angel that's been MIA since we moved last year. So this year's tree is topless.

18. Which do you prefer Giving or Receiving? I love giving gifts, especially when it's that perfect gift they always wanted. But, even though it may sound selfish, I also love receiving gifts; that's one of the main ways I receive love.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? O Come, O Come Emmanuel; O Holy Night; and this year I rediscovered The Little Drummer Boy.

20. Candy Canes? I'll eat them, but it's not the end of the world if the season passes without my consuming one.

Merry Christmas, Y'all!

I hope that you all had a wonderful day filled with family, friends, and love. May God bless you and keep you this holiday season and in the coming year.

Ho ho ho . . .

Here's a little something to get you in the Christmas spirit:

Your Elf Name Is...

Buddy Sugar Butt

What's Your Elf Name?

And this:

You Are a Minimal Christmas Tree

You're not a total Scrooge, but you feel no need to go overboard at Christmas. Less is more, and your Christmas reflects refined quality.

What Christmas Tree Are You?

via Jen

Shoes, shoes, everywhere there's shoes . . .

New shoes are probably the last thing I need. Heck, I just bought a pair the week before I went to England! But Famous Footwear gets me every time. *sigh*

But go see how cute they are!

Anywho, I got home and happily put my new shoes on. I showed them to my dad and he actually like them. As we sat there talking I started thinking about how quickly I chuck my convictions out the window. I want to save money. I want to give more time and money to the poor. I want to send more support to missionary friends across the world. I want to pay off credit cards. I want to pay off student loans. So what do I do? I go out and buy another pair of shoes! Oh vey!

A few minutes after I put them on I told the parents, "Maybe I should take them back."

They both gave me an astonished look and asked, "WHY?"

I shrugged and explained I didn't necessarily need new shoes.

My dad looked at me and said, "You know, there are millions of people in the world who can't even afford one pair of shoes."

I shamefully hung my head and replied, "Yeah. So you think I should take them back, too?"

Dad's pastorally reply: "No, I'm not saying that. I think you should enjoy the freedom you have to buy a pair of shoes whenever you want. Not everyone in the world can do that!"

The modern Alfalfa?

OK, anyone who knows me knows I'm the last one who should be commenting on fashion and/or hair. But I would like to step on my soapbox for a while.

Here I have posted a photo of Ricky Martin. Not to offend anyone who wears this hairstyle, but what exactly is the cool factor involved in a hairdo where you comb all your hair to make a point in the middle? Didn't I see a similar 'do on The Little Rascals when I was a kid??

When I first noticed this hairdo on a guy at work, I thought maybe he was in a hurry and just decided to comb his hair however or something. Then I saw someone else wearing it, then I noticed a picture of Ricky Martin wearing it. That would explain the new trend... Really, to me it looks like Alfalfa, only shorter and ever-so-slightly "hip."

Oh well, could be worse. :"> As long as flattops don't make a comeback, I'll stay a happy camper.

NARNIA ROCKS!!

Attention all movie fans. Boy, did Disney put out a great one for you.

Attention all Christians who like to see symbolism of their faith in movies. Boy, will you be blown away.

Attention anyone who liked Lord of the Rings but thought it was a wee bit too scary in some places. You have found your happy medium, and you can take your kids to go see it with you!

I cried. People around me cried. Some applauded when appropriate. It was all I could do to keep from shouting out, BRING IT ON!!! I never met C.S. Lewis, but I think he would be proud.

To me, the Christian symbolism in this movie was oh-so-obvious, but as a disclaimer, I saw the 1979 cartoon and read The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe when I was a kid but it wasn't explained to me until I was in high school or college that there was Christian symbolism at all.

But if you don't like Christian symbolism in movies, not to worry. This flick totally ROCKS anyway, honest!

Go to the next show, go to a matinee, wait until it's at the dollar theater, wait until it's on DVD -- whatever you do, GO SEE this movie!!! :D A classic for sure.

I WANT THE DVD!!! :D :D :D

Texas or England?

It's cold outside! It's 29 degrees to be exact; it's negative 1 in metric units. And it's suppose to drop a few more degrees before morning.

I'm pretty sure I'm back in Texas, even though less than two weeks ago I was in England and we had the same exact temperatures! But here's a crazy fact: I just checked the weather back in Bedford, and it's colder here in Houston than it is in Bedford AND London! Crazy!!!

Last Saturday it was in the 80's. I got in my car and had to turn on the AC. I also had to turn off the radio because listening to Christmas music in 80 degree weather felt wrong.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. Although it's cold, I love this weather! Too bad we won't get snow . . .

I think it's prophetic . . .

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern. A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock. A unique woman like you needs a city that offers everything. No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What City Do You Belong In?

. . . or at least, I'm praying it in . . .

Random thoughts on random Thanksgiving

This year has been a bit awkward for me so far during the holidays because I'm in the middle of an awkward transition at work. So I was scheduled to work this Thanksgiving. So my mom decided to take a break from cooking turkey. So I suggested we go out to eat at Golden Corral instead.

I like Golden Corral, but apparently nearly everyone else in Odessa does, too. The lines were surprisingly long for a holiday. But it was fun eating steak for Thanksgiving. :D It was nice getting to chitchat a little bit with my parents, since usually the TV's on during mealtimes.

What was depressing was having to go to work right afterwards. Especially during my dinner break at night, when a chilled hush descended over downtown Odessa. Reflecting in solitude underneath the early Christmas lights, I couldn't help but sigh.

So I'm glad that Thanksgiving is about giving thanks instead of just a meal and a holiday chiche. Whether you're at the Golden Corral or whether you're working a night shift.

By the way -- Mom did end up cooking a bit of turkey the next day. Short break, huh? :)

Home Again

Riding in the train from London to Bedford I looked out the window at the passing landscape and couldn't help but think, "I'm home again."

It really does feel that way. Especially after seeing all my friends. I love that I can walk around town and run into people I know.

*sigh*

Tomorrow I'm heading to London. We're going later in the day so I can see all the Christmas lights that are popping up around town. I'm excited; I've never hung out in London at night.

On Thursday I'm going to Sheffield. I have friends from my old church in Waco who moved up there to start a church back in June. I'm very excited about seeing them all.

Well, I'm off. I'll try to check in again soon.

Confused-grown-up question

Why do they not post instructions at the drive-thru at the bank? I try my best to look like I know what I'm doing whenever I lean out of my car & reach for the plastic tube thingy & unlatch the Star Trek opening doo-hicky, & usually the voice in the speaker is kind enough to instruct me. (And I gotta admit putting my driver's license inside the thingy & shooting it off into space is a bit disconcerting.) But was there some sort of class on drive-thru etiquette that they offered back in the 1970s or something that I missed?? They sure didn't offer any refresher courses when I was in school. I was too fascinated with my record player back in the 70s. (And, not to mention, not alive for most of it.)

I'll be glad when my bank decides to join the 21st century and install an ATM machine.

Ya learn something new every day. :)

Thankfulness

Today I was teaching my kids(all 22 3-year-olds) about Thanksgiving. We read a little book and then I explained what 'thankful' means. I told them a few things I'm thankful for and then I went around the room and asked them what they were thankful for. Of course I got copycat answers of "mi mommy" or "mi papi," as well as some silent blank stares, but there were a few original answers. Without hesitating, Jala said she was thankful for lunch. My favorite was when Yenny said she was thankful for her shoes. Later she also added "mis faldas" ("my skirts"). *sigh* That makes me so proud to be their teacher.


Btw, I'm thankful for my shoes too. And my skirts. Especially the new ones I purchased last weekend.

Bursting with excitement...

...because in less than three days I will be on an airplane headed for England!!!

About five weeks ago, on a whim, I decided to book a flight. I had learned that we had the whole week off from work, so I figured it would be a good time for a visit. I found a flight within budget, and now I will soon be off. Unfortunately it's not for a permanent stay; I can't wait for that day to come. I'm sad about missing Turkey Day with the family, but I am looking forward to visiting my dear friends. Drop me an email if you want me to send ya a postcard.

Cheers, my dears!

Leave me and my (mother's) kitchen alone!

Holidays are sprouting here, ee-i-ee-i-oh.
Holidays are sprouting there, ee-i-ee-i-oh.
With a potluck here, and a potluck there,
Here a pot, there a pot, EVERYWHERE A POTLUCK!!!

I totally LOVE the holidays, and I totally LOVE all the free food they bring. :) But really... GIMME A BREAK! I DON'T EVEN COOK!! THE EXTENT OF MY CULINARY EXPERTISE IS BOLOGNA SANDWICHES!!!

I live with my mother and she rarely lets me near her stove. Yet at work, at church... everyone keeps asking me to bring food for potlucks!! (No, I won't ask my mother to cook for me. That would be like hitting below the apron belt, no?)

Honestly, I am looking forward to the meals and time with friends. But if all I ever do is keep signing up to bring a bag of chips, that might get old...

Can't we all just order pizza??

I mean, unless everybody really WANTS me to bring bologna sandwiches... that would be a different story altogether...

Pre-holiday yippee

I GOT THE CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY DVD!!! :D :D :D It totally ROCKS, by the way. :D

As I've been meandering through the shopping aisles lately, I've noticed something that I shared with a friend earlier this week: We have totally skipped over Thanksgiving. There was Halloween, then naturally we're all VERY excited about Christmas coming up (I, for one, am a Christmas NUT -- it's my FAVORITE time of year)... But what the heck happened to Thanksgiving??? Where are all the Thanksgiving displays? music? commercials on TV? Granted, perhaps grocery stores across America are pushing for high turkey sales. But still... when I leave the store, I'm impressed with all the Christmas decorations, not Thanksgiving cornucopias.

I was hit with a major shock when I looked at the calendar this morning, though. Thanksgiving is NEXT WEEK. Egad!! No wonder Christmas is getting celebrated earlier -- it's almost HERE!!!

YIPPEE!!!!!

Hopefully I won't get distracted by all the cool holiday stuff and forget about what the holidays are really all about. In the meantime, I am thankful. :D

29 1/2

Sorry I missed the date -- this message really should have been posted on November 7, my 29 1/2-th birthday. :">

Well, 29 1/2 isn't quite how I pictured it as a child... but it's still pretty cool. Folks had told me that my 20s would be hard because God basically puts you through the wringer, really hard. I can vouch for that. And they also said around the time you hit age 30, things get MUCH better. I look forward to that. And I think I know why this is a weird age. When you're a kid, you develop all these plans and dreams and ideals. Then around age 20 through 29, you try to live them out, but you're smacked with the reality of your character-in-need-of-repair, PLUS just adult responsibilities hitting you in the face for the first time. That can really bite.

Not that it's totally horrible at this age. Not at all. Recently I've begun to embrace the, how shall I say this, total kookiness that comes with being 29 1/2 and trying to enjoy life. I have become a fan of SpongeBob Squarepants (and I am not ashamed. Just ask my family who witnesses me keeping the TV on Nickelodeon a little too long sometimes.). I turn on my revolving disco ball and dance with my cat sometimes (I lead). After discovering ABBA, the Swedish pop band that was really popular in the 1970s, I now play an ABBA tape in my car for about 75-80% of my driving time. AND I STILL WANT THE NEW CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY DVD!!! :D

I shudder to think what my life will look like in my 30s. But hey, what's the worst that can happen??

You're right. I could become a Teletubbies fan. So... not to worry. Arrgh, SpongeBob rules, matey.

Highs and Lows...

...this week was full of them.

Work was hard. I was sick all day Thursday, but still had to work (a low). We went on a fieldtrip to the Children's Museum on Friday. Although it was fun, the kids acted like they had never been out in public (another low). Plus, I also had to work from 8-5 on Saturday (a big low).

The Astros lost the World Series (a major low).

While on my way to the Texans game, I was involved in a six car accident on I-10 this morning (another major low). I'm ok, but my car's not. It's drivable but will need some major work (big low).

*sigh*

But thankfully, life is comprised of great lows AND highs.

My principal got in trouble with HISD for not paying us for those four hurricane days last month (did I even tell y'all about that?). I'm not one to let people bother me and I especially don't like to judge, but that woman is the epitome of evil. Seriously. And I think HISD is finally starting to realize that she may be a liability. So we should be getting our money soon.

The Texans FINALLY won their first game of the season. (And I'm only slightly bitter that I missed the game because of an idiotic driver.)

On Friday night I was in the same building as Craig Biggio and joined in with everyone cheering and screaming and chanting his name. It was awesome!!!

A short time after we cheered for Biggio, The Edge was playing his guitar just eight feet away from me. Not only that, he made eye contact and smiled and winked at me!!!!!!! That's right folks, I was on the floor, leaning against the railing that surrounded the stage at the U2 concert!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*happy sigh*

Just give me some time, and I'll have some spin-off posts up. Boy do I have stories to tell!

Mini-review

I saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the dollar theater this past weekend, but I think I saw it with the wrong crowd. Many of the scenes were hilarious, but the people around me weren't laughing. "What's the matter?? This is FUNNY!!!" I wanted to shout.

Maybe it depends on what your taste in movies is. This Charlie movie, a Tim Burton/Danny Elfman/Johnny Depp collaboration, is a remake of the 1971 version of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (both films based on Roald Dahl's book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory). I wouldn't do either movie justice by comparing them to each other, but I must say the world would be missing out on a LOT if either movie didn't exist. :D

The new Charlie film I think is based a lot more closely on the book than its older counterpart. So it's a bit more off the wall, and naturally if Tim Burton has anything to do with it, it's a bit darker, super artsy-fartsy, and VERY imaginative. (Sort of like Mars Attacks! meets Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events.) I like the contemporary touches they added to the movie, like Violet Beauregard being a karate expert/overly competitive type. Veruca Salt was almost sweeter than her 1971 counterpart. Augustus Gloop was much more of a slob in this one. In all, they were a bit exaggerated. Satire -- I dig it. :D

A while back, I read a review saying that Johnny Depp's portrayal of Willy Wonka REALLY reminded you of Michael Jackson and was quite creepy. I totally agree!! Depp's Wonka is quite sissy-like, to be frank, but his chalky skin and antisocial life totally make sense if you think about it -- the dude just stays in his factory making candy all day and doesn't really know how to act around people. And this guy (unlike Gene Wilder's portrayal in 1971) is desperately in need of psychological counseling.

OK, great movie quote, from the scene where Mr. Wonka escorts the children into The Chocolate Room of his factory, where everything is edible (basically made out of candy): "Everything in this room is eatable. Even me. And that's called cannibalism, which is frowned upon in most cultures." HILARIOUS!!! (One of the parts where the theater TOTALLY missed out on a good laugh!!!)

You know how you're watching movies or cartoons and suddenly a chorus bursts into song?? There's this smart-alecky question in the back of your mind, going How do they know exactly what to sing and where the heck is that music coming from??? This movie picks up on that!! Augustus Gloop meets his downfall, the Oompa-Loompas start singing their song, and one of the children asks Mr. Wonka, "Hey, that looks very rehearsed! How did they know what would happen to Augustus??" And Mr. Wonka gets this trying-to-stay-discreet look on this face. Totally cheeky!!!

A note to fans of The NeverEnding Story: If I'm not mistaken, that actor who plays the dude who rides the racing snail plays the Oompa-Loompa in this new Charlie movie. (I'm pretty sure it's just the same actor, multiplied a zillion times via movie animation.) Cool!

In all, this movie ROCKS!!! The whole time, I kept thinking to myself, I WANT THE DVD!!! Well beyond worth the 50-cent matinee price I paid for it. :D I would definitely recommend it to anyone. But if you usually don't like Burton/Elfman/Depp movies, you may not go for it -- they remain true to their wackily brilliant form.

I WANT THE DVD!!! :D

You know you've worked too long at your night job when...

The idea of going to bed at 1:30 AM seems awfully early.

People ask you to speak up because you're in the habit of trying not to wake anybody up with any noise.

The highlight of your evening is watching Judge Judy episodes that you set your VCR to tape earlier. With the Closed Captions on.

World Series, Parts I & II

It's strange to not be watching a baseball game tonight.

Naturally, I'm bummed that the Astros won neither game this past weekend. IMHO, they played rather well, considering the environment and weather conditions. It was sad to see Clemens walk off the mound Saturday night after such a short time. It was especially sad that his relief pitcher wasn't up to par. Pettitte did an amazing job starting last night. The grandslam that Lidge let happen was devastating, though. So frustrating that it was practically handed to them (that ball totally hit the bat NOT the batter!!!). Although the 'Stros played well, there were some major mistakes, so hopefully they'll be able to pull it together and win the games here in town.

Saturday night I watched the game with my brother and friend Jason at a local sport's bar. I out drank both of them. Don't know if I should brag about that. I must have a wooden leg, 'cause I didn't even really get a buzz. I could have ordered another drink, but I didn't want to look like a lush.

Last night I ate a couple of hotdogs from James Coney Island and watched the game from the comfort of my own home. That's probably what I'll do for the rest of the series. I'm just praying that we win a game or two or four. GO ASTROS!!!

HURRAH!!!

YAY! -- The Astros just won the National League Championship!!!! How exciting!!!!!

Our whole family has been waiting for this for the past 44 years. Seriously. We all grew up watching the 'Stros with my grandpa, and I'm so happy that he finally gets to watch them play in the World Series.

Watching the live news coverage is awesome! Especially seeing the interviews with the handful of Astros fans up in St. Louis. There's one group of women up there who are all dressed in Astros jerseys with fake beehives and '60s style sun glasses. They're calling themselves "The Killer Bees" and have a poster that says, "We're Teaching the Birds About the Bees!" We all thought it was very clever.

As much as I would love to stay up and continue watching news coverage, my bed beacons . . . 5 a.m. comes way too early . . .

Safely Home

We got back to Houston yesterday afternoon, but I've been stranded without a computer all day yesterday and today.

The trip was fun. I'm tired and it's WAY past my bedtime, so I won't be writing that follow-up email tonight. But I wanted to post the 'quote of the weekend,' said by a 90 year-old World War II veteran called "Bud." We asked him how he was doing and he promptly replied, "Still kicking, though not as high as I used to!" He embellished by giving a small kick through the legs of his walker. So cute!!!

Heartache is . . .

. . . the Astros being one out away from going to the World Series for the first time EVER, only to have the Cardinals get a homerun with two men on base.

*sigh*

At least there are two more games . . .

Road Trip!

I am currently enjoying my school's Fall Break Holiday. It was WONDERFUL being able to sleep in today! I slept 'til 10:30 -- that's five extra hours of sleep!!! *sigh* I sure do miss those lazy days . . .

But tomorrow will be another early morning. We picked up a rental tonight so that Mom and I can head over to my grandparents' house in the wee small hours of the morning. From there we're heading to The Woodlands to pick up my uncle and we'll all embark on an EIGHT HOUR drive to Snyder, TX for my grandpa's World War II company's final reunion. I've never been, so I'm looking forward to meeting everyone and hearing all the war stories. They used to have these reunions every year but the viejitosare dying off. Very sad. They had their final reunion two years ago, but those who are still around decided to get together for one final hurrah.

It was just a few weeks ago I went on an eight hour road trip to escape a coming hurricane. But this time around our van is equipped with a DVD player. Nice. And I'll be the youngest passenger, so we don't have to worry about changing poopy diapers two hours into the trip.

I'll let y'all know how it all turns out!

Surviving

I truly dig the reality TV show Survivor, and am glad to have a working VCR so I can catch Survivor Guatemala when it comes on Thursday nights. (If you're not familiar with the show, read up on http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor11/.)

I have to admit, though, that when I watch the show I sort of do this mental double-take and just laugh... You see, there's an eery life parallel. I'm increasingly convinced that the game of Survivor is actually a lot like my job, or for that matter, the American workplace. Allow me to elaborate.

1) You're a bunch of random people stuck in this foreign place, forced to halfway learn the culture and maneuver through the hostile environment without killing each other.

2) There's usually at least one person around who's bossy (whether or not they're the designated boss) and succeeds in stirring up people's anger with each new power-hungry command.

3) Speaking of stirring up, there's usually at least one troublemaker who just idles about, putting bugs in people's ears that usually add up to somebody's demise... if not the troublemaker's themselves.

4) Those who lay low and remain under the radar usually end up going the furthest, I think. Especially if they play dumb at just the right moments.

5) He who speaks his mind haphazardly usually ends up on the chopping block unless everyone else agrees with him.

6) Those who are deprived of sufficient nutrients (i.e., lunch) end up cranky and showing their true colors. Often to their demise.

7) Those who are rewarded are often looked on with some jealousy and, if it goes to their heads, their actions often lead to their termination.

8) Everyone is periodically thrown together for a stressful, time-sensitive challenge that's momentarily exciting but then seems sort of childish and a bit dumb later on. Those who fail during the challenge are often terminated.

Sigh. If only a million-dollar prize were waiting for you the end of the American workday. Or at least a chance to watch yourself on TV.

Aggie Hurricane Preparation

Aqui Estoy

Made it to Waco in 8.5 hours....will update more tomorrow....keep praying....

Hurricane Prep

Hurricane Rita Shopping List:
(just the basics, cause the pay check hasn't been deposited yet.)
-water
-batteries
-flashlight (can't find any since we moved)
-canned food
-motor oil (stuck w/ Dad's car this week, and it has a slight leak)

But what I really bought when I made it to HEB two hours ago:
-Diet Coke
-wine (they were out of water, so I thought, 'What the heck!')
-ice cream (I had a craving)
-cereal (There's a whole half-gallon of milk in the fridge, and it's up to me to drink it all. Besides, it's a good hurricane food)
-candy corn (I actually need it for work tomorrow)

And that about tops off the items bought during my hurricane emergency shopping trip. Sad, I know.

I nixed the canned food 'cause I remembered that we had a few cans of tuna in the pantry . . . I think . . .

I nixed the batteries and flashlight because there were TONS of people in the store and I didn't feel like hunting through the store. I have plenty of lighters, matches, and candles . . . somewhere . . .

I nixed the water because there was no water and I didn't feel like waiting in line to get water off the 8:30 HEB supply truck (a truck which nearly ran me over as I was leaving the store! Seriously! It freaked me out!) Besides, I have tons of bottles around I can fill w/ our fridge's filtered water.

Talked to Mom this evening and she told me to fill the bathtub w/ water. I think she's crazy, but I may have to do it just to appease her. She says if we lose water power then we have to use the water in the tub to flush the toilet. Whatever.

It's obvious that people in the area are starting to worry/panic about this hurricane. I feel kind of whatever about it. It was strange going to the store and seeing shelves completely empty. They were so empty, I had no clue what items they contained just hours earlier.

I'm still planning to head to Waco. That is if I don't have to work. But I have a feeling HISD will cancel classes Thursday and Friday; many area school districts are closing tomorrow through Friday. So, if HISD closes, I'm hoping our school will close (since it's an HISD charter school they don't HAVE to close, and the fact that they get their money based on how many days they're open doesn't help).

So that's the 4-1-1. I'll keep ya posted.

Update, 10:30p.m.: My Uncle Mark (Blo, to you Thinklingers) just called and invited me to stay w/ them. I may just do that. I want to go to Waco 'cause I won't be able to go until October and I'd like to see my nephews, niece, and old friends. But, it would be nice just to chill at Mark's house. I wouldn't have to worry about fighting traffic, spending a hundred dollars on gas (seriously), and packing to leave town. We'll see. Ok, now it's past my bed time. Good night!

Jaw-dropping

(I thought of titling this post "I Stand Amazed," but I thought Nah, no need to plagiarize one of my favorite Dennis Jernigan songs... :D)

This evening, I was actually visited by a church. Finally. After months of filling out visitor's cards and getting nothing more than direct mailouts, I got real contact from live people.

OK, so it was from ladies who were old enough to be my parents, and they tried to witness to me, but hey, it was a start. :D They were from a large Baptist church here in town that I visited Sunday night, and I wasn't really comfortable in their worship service because the atmosphere seemed sort of stiff. But hopefully I was wrong. I decided that I would give them a chance if they actually called me.

So I'm giving them a chance. I emphasized that I would like to look into their singles ministry.

Well, that was my excitement for the evening. :D I was really beginning to wonder about a serious apathy problem in the church at large... Just as long as I can sit in a pew on Sundays without being ignored, I'll be happy.

Wow. What a weird goal...

Pending Hurricane

According to the Houston Chronicle:

. . . Rita . . . is a tropical storm now but is expected to strengthen into a hurricane this afternoon. By the time it hits the Gulf Coast on Saturday morning, it is likely to be a Category 3 hurricane.
"It could hit anywhere in the window of Brownsville and New Orleans,” said Lance Wood, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. "The Houston area is in the center of that window."

Well that's just great! The week I'm home alone a hurricane is projected to hit our area. It's a good thing I get paid tomorrow. I can go out and buy some bottled water and flashlights and batteries and whatever else you need when a hurricane hits. Or, I could just skip out on work Friday and head north to Waco. I like that plan better. I'm suppose to work Saturday, but I'm thinking if a hurricane is coming we might not have to go in. But you never know with my school!

I'll keep ya'll posted.

Wal-Mart boycott update

At first, I was just ticked off at their lousy customer service. But I think I've actually managed to successfully go a little over 3 months straight boycotting Wal-Mart. (See the blog entry dated June 7).

Again, not that it's a horrible store. I understand they're very involved in local communities. It's just that * I * personally can't stand shopping there. And I'm here to testify that yes, there IS life without Wal-Mart. :D

I've been frequenting Target quite often. They have some nifty deals. And in my neck of the woods, what's really convenient is that it's located in a shopping center next to HEB, so sometimes their deals are competitive to HEB.

So between Target and HEB, and also Dollar General, and not to mention eBay (for online bargains), I am one happy consumer who can lead a perfectly normal life without having to ever set foot inside Wal-Mart. (That is, except for the occasional social call.)

I still use my Sam's card, though. And I may visit Walmart.com to purchase some music downloads someday. We'll see.

Quote of the day

From an email I just received from one of my friends in England; an email that contained more than one expletive, btw.

Ps I love God how bout you?? Reading the message has made me feel better about Jesus. He was a bad ass.

Bias in the media

In the past, I've heard lots of complaints (mainly from Christians) about the media being biased. Meaning the ideas they communicate tend to be a bit skewed, reporting information that makes some people or situations look bad. Or just overall improperly balanced.

If you had to categorize me (and I hate being categorized :>), you'd probably end up putting me in the conservative-religious-right category. But I try to keep a healthy open mind whenever it seems appropriate. So usually it didn't seem fair to me to issue a blanket judgment saying that the media were biased. Even whenever a public figure in the conservative-religious-right category was presented in an unflattering light. Journalism is supposed to be objective, right? Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding.

But now that I work at a newspaper, I've just about completely changed my mind about the whole thing.

I'm here to testify first-hand that the media ARE biased -- thoroughly and totally biased!!! Not necessarily because of any agendas, but because of another enemy that gets less attention than it should: the DEADLINE.

I am thoroughly and totally convinced that deadlines can successfully suck any type of objectivity out of journalism. It takes a lot of time and careful, thoughtful planning to convey information objectively! (Just ask anyone who's ever worked as a manager anywhere.) But if you've got deadlines breathing down your neck, the clock is ticking and you've got no choice but to go with your gut reaction most of the time. If you're personally biased about something, I really think it will come out in your work sooner or later.

We're shorthanded at work right now. Part of my job is to write headlines. I've been so busy that I can barely even REMEMBER at the moment what was included in those headlines... And tomorrow those hastily written headlines are going to tell the entire town what is going on in the world. To me, that is a somewhat scary thought. Especially now, when there's SO much going on in the world.

And yet...

Somehow I'm comforted in the fact that it's just a newspaper. I don't intend any disrespect for the publication, but really... After the paper gets read tomorrow, our dog is gonna go on it.

Just a fact of life. :D

A Deeper Impact

Even though I've watched the news coverage over the past 12 days, I'm still blown away by pictures like this.


Or this



A few days ago, HISD began enrolling evacuees into their schools. I thought I would like to have one in my class, but figured it wouldn't happen since I have a full class and we're a slightly obscure charter school. So needless to say, I was surprised when Ms. Williams, our school's middle school's assistant principal, arrived at our campus yesterday and brought her three-year-old nephew to me. He and 15 other family members are New Orleans evacuees staying with Ms. Williams and her husband. My heart immediately melted when I met little Justin. He is the sweetest thing! And I can only imagine what he has witnessed over the past two weeks.

I don't know the whole story, but I do know that when the hurricane hit they had evacuated to the Convention Center. Soon they were told to move to the Superdome, but after they arrived there they were sent back to the Convention Center. I remember hearing the stories on Fox News about the people arriving and waiting in line to get into the Superdome Monday night and Tuesday morning. But then the Superdome was evacuated shortly after they arrived. I also remember seeing the first report about the people at the Convention Center on CNN. I was horrified - people waiting days for help to arrive, suffering through the heat outside because it was too dangerous to stay inside. I vividly remember seeing video footage of families huddled together, suffering together, protecting each other. And now I have little Justin in my class. Little Justin, whose 9-month pregnant mother* carried him through waist deep water from the devastation of the Superdome

to the devastation of the Convention Center.


I can imagine Justin sitting with his mother, waiting for help to come...much like this woman and her child...



Justin and his whole family made it to Houston safe and sound last Thursday. They were somehow transported to Houston in a van, with only the clothes on their back and an extra change of clothes, and are being taken care of by Ms. Williams and her husband. But there are NINETEEN of them. The Williams can only do so much.

There are THOUSANDS of stories like this one, I know. And even though I heard the stories and saw the pictures, meeting little Justin has impacted me deeper than anything else.

I've been praying and asking God to help me be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are suffering. I never expected Him to answer my prayer in this way, but I am honored to have this opportunity.

Let me know if you're also interested in supporting, praying for, and loving this family.





*Justin's mother went into labor and delivered a healthy baby boy, Joseph Williams Jr., Friday morning, the day after they all arrived in Houston.

All the above photos from foxnews.com photo essays

More thoughts on Katrina

Wow, it's neat how the body of Christ works. :) Here's a link to a Last Days Ministries site where Melody Green (widow of Keith Green) listed prayer points for the hurricane just before landfall. Also, if you'd like to donate for hurricane relief via LDM, follow the link to their home page.

This isn't the first prophetic-type stuff I've heard about Katrina (God showing people His perspective on events before they happened). He definitely knew this was coming (nothing new under the sun), I'm sure His heart is broken over the hurting people, & I'm sure He's got great plans for restoration & showing His glory.

Crazy Life

I know I've been quiet the past few weeks/month. It hasn't been intentional, believe me. Life has been CRAZY!

Never ever would I have thought I would be waking up at 5am. 5AM, PEOPLE!!!! Sleeping in for me (during the week) is waking up at 5:30; over-sleeping is waking up at 5:45. ?!?! Mind-boggling, I know. But such is my life.

This year of teaching has been the hardest thing I've ever done. I know that's a cliche, but it's true! I feel the pressure even more because my certification depends on how this year goes. Talk about stress. (sarcasm)It gets better(/sarcasm):

My school (which I'll call EEA) is an HISD charter school and the way it's run is ridiculous. For starters, I didn't have all the furniture I needed when school started - no bookshelves for my room, no teacher's desk, not even a chair for each child in class. They hadn't delivered our tables for the lunch room, so we had to eat in the classroom the first two weeks. Since the floors weren't properly cleaned, we got ants. So you can imagine what it was like for me, trying to get 22 3-year-olds to eat their lunch, even though half of them didn't have chairs. Then they would much rather look at all the ants than eat.

That leads to another rant - I have no teacher's aide! Like I said, there are 22 3-year-olds and ME. PLUS, the children arrive at our main campus in southwest Houston and then we're all bussed downtown to our school (something I didn't find out until after I signed the contract). Since there are no aides, we have to go to the first campus and ride the buses w/ the kids, leaving our cars behind. Since we ride to school w/ the kids we have no time to prep our room before or after school. That makes for some very creative mornings. The no aide thing also means we don't get breaks or a planning period. Thankfully the kids still nap, so that's our time to prep, eat and use the bathroom. At this point, once the kids fall alseep (usually around 1) we let them sleep until the buses arrive so we can leave (around 2:45). And that's what we'll keep doing until they say we can't.

There are 7 teachers and classes of 3-year-olds at our location. We have two administrators at the school as well. So nine staff total. The good thing is I get along well with my coworkers. The two I'm closest to are very strong Christians as well, so that's encouraging to have. What's also good is we're away from the main campus and all the crap that happens there. Our campus supervisor is laid back and tries to help us when she can. Of course we need TONS more help, but that's something we can probably only dream about. I'm not expecting things to change anytime soon.

I'll end my rant by explaining that all but three of my kids are Spanish speakers. So I try my best to communicate in my Spanglish, but there's still a lot that doesn't get translated. Not being able to communicate w/ some of the parents is the most frustrating.

But I'm getting used to my situation. I know I can't change it, so I'm going to try to make the best of it. That whole be faithful in the little thing. It's hard. *sigh*

My kids are still getting used to me and I'm getting used to them, but things are tons better. We're still working on staying in line, though. Especially when we arrive at the school in the afternoon. It's hard because a lot of parents are there already, waiting 'til 4 so they can get their children. So they stand around the corner and watch us get off and walk in. It's so frustrating because the kids want to turn and look at them rather than pay attention to where we're going so they can stay w/ the class. So half my kids are trying to walk into the building and the other half are outside waving at parents. Oh so frustrating. I don't blame the kids (they're only 3!); it's the parents that frustrate me sometimes.

Ok, no more griping. Sorry.

As you can so obviously read, life is CRAZY now. I need all the prayer I can get!

Sesame Street saved

Good news so far! The school district in Odessa voted recently (sorry my news is late) to hand over its PBS station to community members who banded together to form a non-profit organization. You can read about it in the August 31st edition of my local paper.

Also, one of our editors wrote an interesting editorial story in our August 21st edition, talking about how there ain't enough dough to go around for all the arts organizations smack-dab in the middle of the oil patch.

Disjointed thoughts

The devastation left by hurricane Katrina is unbelievable. I just read that the disaster area is as big as all of Great Britain. Unbelievable.

I listen to KSBJ every morning on my way to work, and it's been so encouraging to hear about what is being done and how churches have opened their doors and their hearts. It pulls at my heart and makes me want to do something . . . anything. So it's been frustrating this week, knowing I won't get a paycheck until next week and having to work 12 hours every single day. But such is my life from now until at least next June.

But I am so proud that I live and work in Houston. This really is an amazing city that has drawn together to support and sustain tens of thousands of evacuees. Amazing.

Over the past few days I've seen tons of news footage that stirs a flurry of emotions - grief for those suffering and lost, anger at those politicizing this tragedy, relief for those saved and reunited with loved ones, and thankfulness for those banning together to help each other.

One such story was featured on On the Record with Greta Van Susteren. Jabbar, a young man from New Orleans who looked about 18 years-old, went into a school yard and took a school bus after the hurricane hit. He then went around and picked people up from the side of the road. Although he had never driven a bus in his life, he drove about 80 people from New Orleans to Houston in 8 hours. They made three stops for gas, and made their way to the Astrodome because they heard on the radio that's where people were being evacuated to. Hearing Jabbar tell his story was encouraging and even comical at times.

Here's another heart-warming story: An older couple living in Mississippi was interviewed on a news program last night. They're in their late 60's and retired. Their house was destroyed during the hurricane. As they stood outside what was left of their home, the husband explained that they had lost everything and that he had never imagined that they would have to start all over at their age. The wife looked up at him and said, no we didn't lose everything; we still have each other. He put his arm around her and said, yes, we still have each other.

How sweet is that???

It's easy to get overwhelmed by all that's happening. So my suggestion is to pray. Pray for the tens of thousands that are now homeless. Pray for those who are still suffering because of lack of food and water. Pray for those who have lost loved ones and for the families that have been separated. Pray for those waiting to be evacuated. Pray for those organizing evacuations, as well as rescue and relief efforts. Pray about what you can specifically do to help.

Like I mentioned, the hunt for someone to blame is really starting to anger me; it's time for people to stop pointing fingers and DO SOMETHING. Our country is divided enough as it is, and instead of drawing us closer together, this tragedy is causing a deeper rift. I was reading a blog earlier (which I won't even grace with a link) that essentially said since the states devastated are red states, they should be left alone to suffer. How stupid and heartless can people be?! Another guy said he saw a woman on the side of the road, standing outside her car, clutching her baby. He assumed she had run out of gas and slowed down to stop to help when he saw the W on the back of her car. So instead of stopping he sped up and drove away! He had the audacity to say that since she was stupid enough to vote for Bush she should wait on the side of the road for him to come and help her. What the- ?!?! I don't get how one's political standing should keep them from receiving help when they need it. Or how one can refuse help because of another's political views. What's wrong with people???

These are just a portion of my disjointed thoughts. There are plenty more where these came from, but my bed beacons. Until tomorrow . . .

Which book of the Bible are you?




via Becca

Random thoughts on Odessa

When I lived in Waco, I ran into a LOT of people who were shocked to hear that I really liked Waco. Then I told them I was from Odessa. And then they understood.

Just as a disclaimer to this post... I read an article about people who took their blog too far, didn't remain confidential enough, and ended up messing up their lives because they were venting stuff on their journal online. (They'd get fired after calling their boss horrible names online.) Which in a way could get me in trouble, but hopefully I've kept everything as general as possible... :"> At any rate, I do tend to vent about life out here in Hicksville USA quite a bit, but I assure you it is for my emotional well-being. :"> And hopefully as a friendly warning to you and for your entertainment as well.

So I wanted to write a little bit to balance the ventings. Over the years, I have grown to severely dislike Odessa, yes. But it isn't a 100% horrible place. There are some very nice people and unique sites and programs. But if you were to ever visit this town, I feel it only fair to give a heads-up.

I'm noticing that just about every city/town has its hangups. For example, one of Waco's problems is religious hypocrisy. Some Baylor students sleep in on Sunday mornings and then dress up when they go to lunch, to make everyone think they've gone to church. (I don't think I've actually met anyone who's done this, but I have heard stories. And they seem to match other situations I encountered in that town as well. :">)

I'm convinced that Odessa isn't really a town. It's a club. And nobody will teach me the secret handshake. There seems to be an invisible, unspoken set of rules and standards that most Odessans don't have a problem adhering to. But if you don't adhere them, and if you don't cross your T's and dot your I's in just the exactly correct manner, THEIR way, you'll get jumped on. Publicly criticized. Then you'll get looked at funny and talked about behind your back.

Personally, I think this is an issue that's developed over time as a coping mechanism for living out in the middle of nowhere. Your world has become the city limits, and any new-fandangled thing needs to pass inspection if it's going to be accepted.

I remember absorbing this mentality when I was in high school, although I didn't know what I was doing at the time. It was fun to gossip about people. Speculating about people you'd heard of but didn't really know became like a sport for me.

But now that I'm the outsider, it ain't so fun.

There are some very nice people in this town -- folks who'd give you the shirts off their backs if you needed them. The absolute coolest, sweetest people you'll ever meet anywhere. Then on the opposite end of the spectrum... there are some excessively horrible people in this town -- folks who'd grow claws and spew slime at you, if they could. The absolute ickiest, most connivingly manipulative bunch of folks you'd never imagine meeting in your worst nightmares.

What boggles my mind is that it seems to be the nice people who allow the horrible people to remain horrible. I believe Joyce Meyer would call this codependence -- when you make your problems other people's responsibility.

I've been fortunate to meet some great people while I've been here, though. Like one of my high school teachers. She taught me that the opposite of love isn't hate -- to love or to hate are to feel or believe passionately about someone or something, whether positive or negative. The opposite of love is indifference -- when you just don't care at all. (Now I think maybe, in a sense, she was referring to what Jesus was talking about in Revelation 3, about wishing the church were either hot or cold -- not lukewarm.)

So perhaps in this sense, I have a love-hate relationship with Odessa...? Hmmm. Perhaps only time will tell. :)

Hello Blog

I miss you.
Hopefully some day soon I will be able to write a proper post.
I'm starting to feel less and less tired after work. But I am excited about going to bed in five minutes and (((here's something I NEVER thought I would say))) getting to sleep in 'til 5:30am tomorrow. Woo hoo!!!
Oh, what a sad, sad life I live these days . . .

No more Sesame Street?

When I read the Odessa paper this morning, it finally became clear to me that this town might actually close its PBS station, for real. If this were to happen, from what I understand, it would be the only town in the country to do so. (I'm told that if that were to happen, they would probably just pipe in the PBS station from Dallas like they did before.)

There is a nonprofit organization that may come to its rescue, so Barney may not die in Odessa after all. (OK, I'm NOT a Barney fan, honest. :"> It's the educational value of the otherwise quirky TV organization that would leave a serious blank if removed from the airwaves. I think it would in ANY town.)

Check out this article that explains a little bit about the situation. If you like, I can keep you posted.

I find it disturbing that Sesame Street could slip through our fingers, yet we seem to be doing all we can to secure a local Hooters...

Duct tape, cont'd

Now I think I've seen everything. I didn't realize duct tape could make a fashion statement: Duct Tape Fashions

Duct tape

I've been reading a little about the space shuttle Discovery, and am very glad the astronauts made it home safely. But some of those technical problems they were having... I'm no rocket scientist, but in my opinion, the space program in general either needs some serious repair or needs to just throw in the towel altogether.

In one interview, while they were trying to repair the shuttle before liftoff, one of the NASA officials said it was sort of like an old, beat-up car. Like it was needing repairs all the time, maybe as if they needed to trade it in for a new model. If I recall, the astronaut who ended up doing repair work in orbit actually took some duct tape along, just in case.

I know people (especially in the editorial cartoons -- now, those were funny :D) stereotypically joke around about duct tape being the universal fixit tool, but COME ON. Is this not a multi-million (if not -billion) dollar vehicle they're riding in? Aren't the astronauts' lives on the line? Remember the Challenger, the Columbia??

I don't get it. We spend millions of dollars on the space program, but lately SO many things have gone wrong. I am tired of hearing about astronauts dying -- it is a totally unnecessary tragedy. And I am very glad that the Discovery astronauts' lives were preserved this time.

Granted, it sounds like NASA has accomplished a ton in the past. Taking mankind's first steps on the moon will probably be one of its coolest achievements. And I enjoy learning about outer space (just ask my family -- I had an old solar system poster hanging in my room for the LONGEST time when I was a kid :">). But where do we draw the line? When is enough enough? When do we stop trying to go where no man has gone before?

In my opinion, I think the space program should either get all its ducks in a row and actually IMPROVE all the rinky-dinky technology that transports our astronauts' fragile lives every time they go into orbit --

Or, and this is personally what I would prefer -- just scrap the space program altogether and let the scientists use their brains (and not to mention taxpayers' dollars) to figure out more pressing problems. Like national security. Or the border patrol. Or "world peace," or any of the other zillion pressing issues. I think technology could be put to very good use in other areas.

Just, please... don't go back into space with duct tape again. How utterly embarrassing...

Smartalecky question

I've been told that at my parents' church, they usually don't ask women to pray in public, or at least during the services. During my visits there, I have found this to be true. So my question is... they wouldn't have a problem with women helping out in the kitchen or nursery, would they?

(It sort of reminds me of the time my dad invited Jehovah's Witnesses in our house, and then when he asked me to pray for everybody, they freaked out.)

I truly hope this is not a case of male chauvinism in the church.

This town just gets weirder and weirder. LOL!! Mercy, Lord!!!

Whirlwind Week

Here's a recap:

Thursday, 28 July: Went to the charter school that offered me a job two months ago to turn in final paper work. I was stalling in case something better (and closer to home) came along. Received copy of contract and went home to read it over. But I had to decide soon b/c work/in service started Monday (1 August).

Friday, 29 July: Dad called at 9:00 A.M. to tell me he called his friend down in McAllen who owns a car dealership and there was a car available for us if we wanted to go down and pick it up. A 2004 Hyundai Accent w/ 14,000 mi; only $1000 down and $300/mo. Even better, no interest! Problem was, we didn't really have $1000. (My caddy is still kicking, but has major air con probs. Driving around H-town in 96+ degree weather w/o air con is no fun!)

Saturday, 30 July: 2:00 P.M. - Drove to McAllen to pick up car! Still didn't quite have all the money, so we went trusting God to provide. I read Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince most of the way down (my friend had just lent it to me the night before).
7:15 P.M. - Meet Dad's friend and the car. Gave it a test drive and really liked it; of course the price tag made it even more appealing.
9:30 P.M. - Left McAllen to venture home
11:45 P.M. - Accidentally drove through border patrol stop. Oops. The cop was really nice, though. He didn't even put his siren on when he came after me! Thankfully we stopped just past the "check-point charlie," as my dad likes to call it, to switch cars and drivers, so the cop didn't have far to go.

Sunday, 31 July: 4:20 A.M. - Finally arrived home and promptly fell asleep. Read more Harry Potter after I woke up. Also spent time cleaning room and closet. While organizing closet, I realized the floor against the wall was slightly damp. Then I moved my plastic incased duvet and found some nice mold forming on the back corner of the wall. The floor board was even warped. Apparently, a pipe burst (my closet shares a wall with my bathroom). Don't know how that happened; the house is only 4 yrs old. Good thing we don't own it. But it's still not fixed.

Monday, 1 August: Went to school for beginning of in-service and signed contract. Was told the preschool teachers wouldn't have to return until Wednesday. Stayed up till 3:30 A.M. to finish Harry Potter. It's not like I had to wake up early for work!

Tuesday, 2 August: Was called at 9:00 A.M and asked why I hadn't shown up for work at 8. Uhh . . . cause they told me I didn't have to! So I threw some clothes on and ran out the door. The reason I had to rush to leave was b/c the school is AN HOUR away. So I was basically 2 hours late for work. Nice. Fortunately, everyone is super laid back and we were just working on setting up our rooms. Unfortunately, since I was so late it was slim pickings for rooms and decor. But I did the best I could. After lunch I was informed that the next day was Open House, so we needed to be prepared to show our rooms to parents. Great. Stayed 'til 6 but still got caught up in traffic going home. Got home at 8:30 P.M. Oi!

Wednesday, 3 August: Rushed to finish room in the morning. The parents went to our mother school at 10 A.M. and were then bused to our school around 12. At 12:45 our supervisor told us there was another in-service in the evening for those parents who couldn't make it that morning. So we were given an extended lunch and then asked to come back at 5. As you can tell, this school likes to keep us on our toes. But I survived the day and got home at 8:45.

So that brings us to today. I got to go shopping w/ some of my co-workers. We had fun and found some great deals! The school campus I'm working at is strictly comprised of PK 3 year-olds, so there are only 8 classes. We still need 2 teachers, but the rest of us all get along great. And we're all Christians, so that's amazing and a HUGE blessing! We're just hoping we all get to stay at our location (they can move us until Aug 20; that and other issues will have to be a separate venting post).

So can you see why this has been a whirlwind of a week?

For those who have trouble interpreting the signs:

And you thought the driving test was hard.

Venting Session #1

I hate Odessa. We are going to get a Hooters restaurant soon. As if there weren't enough ogling going on in this crummy, chauvinistic, two-bit little town.

When will people around here get their heads out of their butts? There is WAY more to life than just football and sex. You are not better than everybody else, you do not have to make fun of everything that moves (and some things that don't), and just because you have a college degree and the people around you don't doesn't mean that those around you are inferior to you. Doesn't having a college degree entitle you to a bit of an open mind?

Oh, wait -- that's right. You got your degree in Odessa.

As the psalmist would say, HOW LONG, O LORD?????

This Venting Session was made possible by PMS and by a grant from The Corporation for Public Snoozing. If you pledge now at the $50 level, you will receive an autographed mug and paperweight (ideal for tossing across a room).

Controversial Movies, etc.

All this talk about Willy Wonka has gotten me thinking. Especially from a Christian perspective, there are some forms of entertainment (with movies being one of the easiest to participate in) that certainly might be considered as "forbidden fruit."

But from an artist's perspective, a lot of the clean stuff can often be considered very boring and just plain NOT living up to any real artistic standard. A lot of Billy Graham movies, for instance -- although more recently I think they have definitely improved. It sort of makes me think that they wrote a tract and just padded it until they had a movie script (I think "Tribulation" fits this category).

In my opinion, Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" is an excellent example of a movie set solidly in the Bible, with an overt Christian message -- yet with solid artistic merit.

I am blown away with "The Passion" each time I see it. But I've noticed that other people aren't affected as profoundly. So I wonder... does my fascination with its artistic merit just blow its Christian message out of proportion? or am I enamored with its message and in turn blow its artistic component out of proportion?

To me, a complete flipside of "The Passion" would be Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Jesus Christ Superstar." I personally dislike this movie VERY strongly. I feel that most of it is blasphemous and just plain dumb. (Except for some of the melodies, which bear Webber's signature genius.) Yet, I've talked to some people who are deeply ministered by this musical. To them, it demonstrates the humanity of Jesus. (To me, it demonstrates the ickiness of the free display of chest hair in the 1970s.)

Hey, if God uses a movie to draw people closer to Him, that's awesome. May He continue to move however He pleases! For example, Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera" movie ministers to me (at least in the first 30 minutes or so) because in a way, the Phantom is like a combo father-lover figure to Christine. Sort of like God the Father and Jesus, drawing His beloved into the secret place. (Except for the Phantom's obsessive, serial-killing thing, that is.)

I'm sort of just throwing out ideas here, but I'm wondering if part of it has to do with walking in the fruits of the Spirit. Among the fruits of the flesh, Galatians lists sexual immorality, idolatry and witchcraft, drunkenness, orgies, etc. To me, that's your basic listing of what the world around you does (or at least wants to do) for fun, is it not? :) The fruits of the Spirit, on the other hand, are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I'm thinking that Galatians lists very specifically (in the flesh-fruits listing) what NOT to do. Yet it seems to leave a lot of breathing room (in the Spirit-fruits listing) in what IS allowed.

Not that I consider Willy Wonka's movies to be "forbidden fruit" (at least, not for me personally). I think Wonka can be compared to a generous Father who wants to share everything He has with His chosen. But I'm sure there are some who disagree. And I might be stretching it. What do you think?

Please feel free to expand the discussion to include other forms of entertainment (TV, music, etc.). Have fun!!

Wonkavision

Has anybody seen the new 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' flick yet? I'm a huge fan of the 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory' 1971 movie with Gene Wilder. I read a review of the recent movie with Johnny Depp and heard that it's supposed to be even better than the 1971 version. (This new 2005 flick is a Tim Burton/Danny Elfman collaboration.) From the review that I read, Depp's portrayal of Willy Wonka is brilliant, but a bit creepy at times. (The reviewer likened Depp's Wonka to Michael Jackson-- soft, surrounded by kids, and chalky-faced.)

From what I understand, the new version is supposed to be pretty close to Roald Dahl's book ('Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'). When I read the book as a kid, I did think it was weirder than the (1971) movie. But I don't remember anything that reminded me of Michael Jackson, thank heavens. (But that was in the late '80s when I read the book -- probably a few plastic surgeries ago?)

I do look forward to flocking to see the new flick one of these days. :D Pocketbookwise, maybe at the dollar theater.

Mental Notes to Self...

1.) Don't jump into the ocean two hours after shaving legs.

2.) Don't try to manually adjust car seat while braking for a red light (that darn Newton and his darn Laws of Motion!).

Just Plain Wrong!

Occasionally I get spam at my homail address. Thanks to the junk mail filter it never makes it to my inbox. As I was browsing through my junk mail just now I came across an email inviting me to meet Christian singles. I usually get an email like that every other week but pay no attention to it since I'm not all that interested in meeting Christian singles right now. But this time I thought, 'What the heck! Why not open it and see what they have to say." I guess I shouldn't be surprised at what I saw.
It was a black background and right smack in the middle of the email a woman's back was softly illuminated. She was pulling off her lacy black bra and, though the picture cuts off at the bottom for the text, it was obvious that she had already pulled off her lacy black panties. In white script to the right of the woman was "Sexy Christians Meet."
::gag::
That is just plain WRONG on so many levels!!!!!!!!
Or at least, that's my opinion...

Reunion

I just got an email from one of those find-your-old classmates websites that I'm a member of (for free). It said my old junior high (in Duncanville, Texas) has a website for its 15-year reunion. But for me to find out more information, I'll have to become a paying member.

So I thought I'd see how far I could get without having to splurge. :"> Anyone out there know of the 15-year reunion for the W. H. Byrd Middle School Class of 1990??

Thanks in advance. :D

Rambling tumbleweed

I'm not sure what the deal is about this time of the year. Is this when everyone in the free world takes their vacation? Just about everybody at work is gone. Most of the usual mass-emailers have left my inbox vacant. I would take advantage of the time to catch up on all my email that's accumulated in the past few months, but I'm too tired from overworking myself to compensate for all the people being on vacation at the office... :)

Sigh. I've noticed that just about any time I start a new job, I usually end up feeling overworked in the summertime. Maybe it's the heat?

Or maybe I should take some time off in the fall, and then everyone at work will have to overwork THEMselves while I'M enjoying some much-needed R & R. :D

Perhaps one of these days I should jump on the bandwagon and start taking vacations during the summertime, like normal people do. Like I used to do with my family when I was a kid -- when suddenly you forgot about the world around you from June through August. Then August comes around and suddenly there are actually people around, with real schedules and new sunburns and stories to tell.

In my mind I keep fast-forwarding to December (Christmas!), skipping over July through September entirely. Perhaps I ought to just be content with the day that's in front of me, eh? ;)

Prayerful Thoughts

My heart goes out to those in London, and the UK, who have been victims of this heinous act. I cannot even imagine what they are going through.

Yet, as tragic as the loss of 37 lives is, it also seems a miracle that not more were killed. This time last year I was riding the London Underground; I know how crowded the tube gets during rush hour. People squeeze into the smallest crevice of each carraige. MILLIONS rely on public transportation everyday.

One news station I was watching earlier today interviewed a man who gave his account of the tragedy. The comment that stuck out the most was, "People were praying; they were praying to God . . ."

I pray that those people know that He heard their prayers. And I pray that this tragedy draws people to Him. Christianity is rapidly declining in the UK and Western Europe, even though this new generation of post-modernists are becoming more spiritual (Many are turning to Islam to fill that spiritual void). But I pray that as people are faced with tragedy today that they will find comfort and strength in Christ's loving arms. May the peace of God be upon them, and may they know that they are not alone!

Backwards

Earlier today (Saturday) I attended a wedding in which the bride and groom were finally making their relationship legitimate. They had been living together for the past year and a half or so. To me, their exchanging of vows and making it all official was a tremendous relief.

(Although I must say that getting married after living together does seem a bit redundant.)

I got a bit of comic relief as well. My mom was sitting next to me and said that the bride had her veil on backwards. I wondered why you could see her hair but not her face... I'm not sure if this was intentional.

But I did think it was interesting. Here we had the bride who was getting married, after living with the groom, and now I believe one of her next goals is to get her high school diploma.

Perhaps the backwards veil was symbolic?

Birthday Weekend

So my big birthday day is less than 26 hours away. Don't worry if you haven't mailed my birthday present yet; I'll be accepting presents through the rest of the month. =o)

I'm currently in Dallas. My dad had a meeting up here and my mom came with him because they need to go to Waco. Mainly, because my oldest brother is flying out to Germany tomorrow. He's going to visit his former roommate and attend the U2 concert in Berlin. That lucky @#$!*^%!!!

I'd love to go to Germany; I have some close friends I'd love to visit! I'd also love to go to the U2 concert, but I'm not that bothered about it because I'll be going to the show down in Houston. That's right, the show that was sold out less than an hour after ticket went on sale. Yeah, I have general admission tickets, the best tickets you can get. Finally I can cross off one of the things on my "List of Things to do Before I'm 30" list.

Anywho, back to Dallas. I basically had no choice about coming up. It was either come up and spend my birthday with my family, or stay home alone on my birthday. I'm glad I chose the former. I'd much rather spend the evening eating cake, opening presents, and playing nintendo with my brother. Although that may sound boring to some of you, it sure beats sitting at home all by myself watching Nick at Nite. *sigh* I'm feeling nostalgic about last year's birthday - I spent it working in the Nightshelter; not only did I have a blast, it was humbling to see so many new acquaintances (some of them poor and homeless) go out of their way to make it a special day. *sigh*

So, I'll be spending another birthday in Waco. I'm very thankful for my family, but I miss all my old friends. Too bad they won't be around; they're literally spread out over the WORLD. At least I don't have to worry about being thrown in a pool this year. That hasn't happened in a few years - not since Baylor Landing was replaced by a parking garage - so I should be safe.

Since I'll be at my brother's, I'll be without internet (unless I can hack into someone's wireless signal...), so I end this post with a bit more narcissism.....

HAPPY EARLY 25TH BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!

We finally bought a new scanner and I thought I'd test it out with this photo. That's me and my brothers with our grandpa. I'm the little cute one on the right. Eric (aka Bird) is the one up front and David (aka Sha) is the one on the left (the one that looks like a true mexicano). 

Zookeepers

After having worked at a TV station, and now working at a newspaper, I would like to share an observation with you.

I believe that those of us who work in the mass media are a lot like zookeepers. (Although I've never worked in a zoo, so I couldn't quite tell you for sure...)

I remember visiting the zoo as a child and being awestruck by the wonder if it all. I believe I was seven years old when I went on an elephant ride (I remember the guide said something about the elephant's hair being bristly like a toothbrush, and sure enough I could see the black bristly fur right in front of me). To this day, I'm not sure how I kept from falling off the animal -- it was huge, and totally swaying back and forth!

Then there's the smell. I think it still remains in my nostrils to this day.

But at least I got to go home after visiting the awesome yet smelly animals and escaping the stench. I don't even want to think about what kind of crap the zookeepers have to shovel around.

So here's where the metaphor kicks in. You turn on your TV and watch the news or just enjoy a show. It's awesome. You want to wear the styles the actors are donning, you want to imitate the cool tone in the announcers' voice, and you shudder at how close the cameras were able to zoom into the actors' faces. Or you walk to the kitchen table where the newspaper is lying around and flip through the front page, the crossword puzzle, the comics section, the sports page. Fun and enjoyable, but then you move on and get on with your day.

But for those of us in the media, behind the scenes, the glitter can fade rather quickly. The wardrobe people who pick out the actors' styles are probably just following orders from a director or producer, the announcer is probably some fat guy who's been working on his voiceover all day with the help of some engineer named Charlie, and the camerapeople are in therapy for putting up with hyper directors who like to yell when something isn't shot perfectly. Or the person designing the front page at the newspaper is frustrated because a news-breaking story was added at the last minute, the dude who puts the crossword puzzles together is spazzing over a millimeter of space that is throwing off the whole puzzle, the comics person monotonously downloads another cartoon off the internet, the sports guys are about to explode with stress because the game went into overtime and their section will be late. Not always so enjoyable -- that IS our day.

I'm sure the zookeepers enjoy being with the animals and feeding them and explaining aspects of the animal kingdom to young visitors, but for the most part I'm sure their day just consists of shoveling crap. The kids who visit the zoo will ooo and aah over the animals, but I'm sure underneath a smiling face, the zookeepers might be thinking, "Big deal. It's just a smelly monkey."

It's lots of fun working in the media and being in the middle of all the action. Sometimes people will ooo and aah over what's on TV or in the paper, but for those of us who work behind the scenes shoveling all the crap around, sometimes we just think, "Big deal. All I did for it to come on your TV was push a button." Or, "That newspaper is just a bunch of Quark documents stuck together."

Some days are awe-inspiring, but other days, it's just a smelly monkey.

TV Corner3

[Sorry for taking so long to post this... I got this idea back in March while watching Turner Classic Movies :> ]

The concept of time often gets a bad rap, like when you're running late, etc. But I think sometimes time can be our friend.

Random example. From my point of view, time was very kind to the musical West Side Story (I believe the '60s film version was adapted from the cutting-edge 1950s Broadway musical). All throughout the movie, there are all these macho guys dancing & twirling around all over the place. Sort of like a gangsta ballet or something. Which makes sense if you remember you're watching what was originally on Broadway nearly 50 years ago.

But I don't think any filmmaker would be able to get away with something like that in 2005. Too gay.

See? They did a good thing when they made that movie back in the SIXTIES. The time was just right for them. But if they had waited until now, it would have been splashed all over the tabloids, or all the televangelists would have been rebuking it, or... something like that.

A Quarter of a Century . . .

. . . is only two and a half weeks away for me. Scary.

Ten years ago I thought I would either be married or on my way to being married by the time I turned 25. That's even scarier. Praise the Lord I was wrong! What's funny is, I was probably closer to being married ten years ago than I am now. Back then I was probably more likely to compromise than I am now.

I remember when my oldest brother turned 25. Even that was kinda scary. And that was 6 years ago. Those six years sure passed quickly.

I was thinking a few months ago about how I'm in my mid-twenties. That's scary. Next come the late-twenties, then the thirties.

Hmm . . . I'm sensing a scary theme; a theme of scariness, that is.

It's not that I'm scared of turning 25 or 30. It's just that it's so weird.

I don't feel old enough to be 25.

People who are 25 are supposed to be mature, right? Not me! I'd be overjoyed to rent a moonwalk for my 25th birthday (and I would do it if I weren't so poor at the moment).

People who are 25 are supposed to have started a career, right? Not me! Sure I'm fixing to go into teaching, but I only see it as temporary; something to bring in money so I can pay bills and prepare to go back to England.

People who are 25 don't live at home and mooch off of their parents (Is 'mooch' the right word?). (((Well, I technically don't see it as mooching, but as them supporting me for all those years I supported myself in college. ;) Since I was the last kid through college, the money had dwindled by then. But it was ultimately my choice to pay my own way.)))

*sigh*

Okay, enough wallowing; although, I once heard that self-pity is the best kind because at least you know it's sincere.

I have to be a grown-up now and go do my homework.

Wait a sec'!!!

People who are 25 aren't supposed to say, "I need to go do my homework," are they?

I have a feeling it's going to be a rough year.

Here's some advice for ya, Tirzah:

"If you have a cat, or a dog for that matter, be careful where they urinate," Oyabu said. "Especially keep them away from electrical appliances and wires."

That's some sage advice from fireman Masahito Oyabu. Apparently, two kittens in Japan opted to potty on their owner's fax machine rather than in their litter box. The result: a fire that nearly burned their house down.

You may want to pass the word on to Tommy and Tessie . . .

Word Tag Meme

This is a meme they're doing over at the Thinklings. Here are Bill's rules:

1. I will start us off in the comments thread with one line from either a book or a poem. Aw heck, I'll allow songs too (and brace myself for the onslaught (or trickle, if this post bombs) of U2 lyrics).

2. Your job, if you choose to accept it, is to then supply another line from a book, poem, or song that has one of the major words from the line I supplied. For instance, if my line is "In a hole in the ground there lived a Hobbit", the major words are "hole", "ground", "lived", and "Hobbit". The smaller words (articles, conjunctions, prepositions, pronouns, etc) don't count. So, based on "In a hole in the ground there lived a Hobbit" you might be inspired to supply this line (with attribution, of course):

"That a maiden there lived whom you may know
By the name of Annabel Lee;
And this maiden she lived with no other thought
Than to love and be loved by me." - Annabel Lee by Edgar Allen Poe.

3. The next person will then supply a line that contains one of these words: "maiden, lived, may, know, name, Annabel Lee, other, thought, love, loved". If you know html, please surround the word with bolding tags (, ), as I have done above, so that it will be easy to see which word spawned your entry.

Update: OK, movie quotes are now allowed also. I gave in to the pressure.

My quote is in the comments. Please humor me. :)

I had a bright idea.

I decided to go for a walk when I got home this evening. It was such a beautiful evening and I love walking at night. I haven't done much walking in a few months, either, and sometimes I just need to get my rear moving. It was a spur of the moment thing, so I threw on the closest thing to me. Also, since it was already past ten, I wanted to hurry up and get out there. I had the bright idea of slipping on new tennis shoes . . . without socks. Needless to say, my right pinky toe is numb and the back of my heels are rubbed raw. Yeah, I don't know what I was thinking.
I was almost to my turning around point when I started feeling it, so I just kept going. After I turned around I started to jog. I figured my feet were going to hurt no matter what, I might as well jog to get the pain over with. Sure, I felt even more pain when I got home and couldn't breath, but at least I got home faster than I would have!
Hmm . . . I should go find the hydrogen peroxide now . . .

Update: It's been two hours since my little excursion and I've discovered why my toe was numb. A blister, about half the size of my toe, has formed on it! What do I do??? Do I leave it be or do I pop it??? This is always the dilema I have when I develop blisters, but I get them so rarely I can never remember what I did the last time. Any sage advice anyone?

Wal-Mart & other consumer ramblings

I keep telling people that I try to "boycott" Wal-Mart, but I think I may be coming closer & closer to actually doing a REAL boycott.

Except for Sams Club. I've still got one of those groovy memberships. :D (Hey, it comes in handy when you want to buy an 18-month supply of soap...) Or the music downloads at www.walmart.com (only 88 cents per song, plus tax)... but I may just download from iTunes instead (I think the sound quality's better).

The other night after work, I spontaneously decided to get some stuff that I needed at Wal-Mart. It was about 12:45AM, but hey, they're open 24 hours, right? Well, I got INTO the store OK... the elderly dude who greeted me was very nice & even sold me on the idea of getting a shopping cart. Then it looked like they were stocking the shelves, so I walked around the stock crates & made my way to the electronics section. But it was blocked off with boxes.

Hm. No problem, I'll just get the toothpaste I need. Mission accomplished there... but WAIT! Some dude walks by with a floor buffer. It looks like he's waiting for me to get out of his way while he's adjusting his cord. No problem... but WAIT!! How do I get out of here??? I walk halfway across the store (with my shopping cart that's holding only my purse & toothpaste) just to untangle myself out of the labyrinth that was once the Wal-Mart aisles.

What happened was they were roping off most of the store so they could buff the floors. Did they notify me about this? No. Were there signs posted anywhere, maybe with one of their trademark smiley faces telling me Sorry, we're buffing? No. Did I even get eye contact or any other type of acknowledgment as a human being as I walked around the boxes, trying to shop?? No way. Hello, I am a paying customer!!

I decided that they didn't want me to shop there that night, so I simply paid for my toothpaste & got out of there. (The cashier's teenage kids apparently were there in line in front of me, at least I assume they were her kids, because she grounded a couple of them... that was interesting. :> ) The elderly greeterdude was very courteous at saying goodbye, but still I was frustrated. I decided I would go to Target and/or HEB later instead.

I usually don't even GO to Wal-Mart. Not unless I'm super-desperate & broke. (Or accompanying a family member just to hang out.) The store is almost always dirty & smells funny. And crowded. And huge. You park your car then it takes 5 minutes to walk to the store, then when you're in the store it takes you 10 minutes to walk to the other end of the store, and -- crap! -- you forgot something on the other side so you have to walk 10 minutes all the way back. Then the CHECK-OUT line... you stand in line 10 minutes & then wait while the cashier takes their sweet time, usually around 10-15 minutes, to ring up & finish bagging your stuff. Then it takes you 5 minutes to walk to your car, 5 minutes to get out of the parking lot, & about 5 more minutes waiting to pull out into the super-busy street... Sigh.

Then you make it back home, exhausted, & are proud of yourself for saving a grand total of about 20 cents.

When really if you had just gone to HEB, it would have taken you only 2 minutes to walk to the store, 3 minutes to do your shopping, 3 more at the checkout, & then 3 more back in the parking lot and -- viola -- you're driving home. And still have energy to spare.

While we're comparing prices, say you're a bachelorette (like myself) who likes to buy microwavable canned meals. HEB sells a store-brand can of spaghettios & meatballs for 75 cents, & Wal-Mart sells their own store brand for the same price. You microwave the food & HEB's tastes light & yummy. Wal-Mart's tastes OK, but it is greasier & the meatballs are shaped weird & are smushier in your mouth. Which, I ask, is the better value?

Fried chicken at the deli. HEB sells a yummy assortment of pieces that taste just as great hot & fresh as they do if you let them sit in your fridge & eat them cold a few days later. Wal-Mart sells chicken (I'm not sure of the price) that tastes OK too, but is much greasier... sort of like Albertson's, only shaped more normally.

If it sounds like I'm an HEB fan, I am. I guess their efficient service, reliable products, & less-smelly stores have won me over. (Except for that one in Bellmead... WOW was there a pungent odor coming from the dairy section before they rebuilt the store a couple of years ago... yeesh!)

I am beginning to discover Target. We don't have the supercenter version with grocery section here, but I've found some pretty good deals at their electronics section. And the Hallelujah chorus would have fit in perfectly with the look on my face when I saw the 60-foot giant rolls of bubble wrap. Like, WOW!!! Hmm... I may have to rethink my Sams Club membership...

My personal opinion is that Wal-Mart takes advantage of poor people. They charge like 5 cents below what everyone else charges, so everyone & their dog flocks to the bargains. Then their products, scuzzy stores, & horrible customer service all combine into one subtle insult to the modern consumer. Like, blech.

I read somewhere that nobody can compete with Wal-Mart, so what the other stores do is compete AROUND Wal-Mart -- try to be something it's not. Like a clean, efficient store (HEB). Or a store with really huge candy & soda sections (Albertson's). Or a resource for cutting-edge products & services (Target). Or just plain less crowded (KMart). Well, whatever these stores are doing to compete around Wal-Mart is working, at least for me. For the most part, they've won me over.

[I realize I have written this at the risk of offending hundreds of loyal Wal-Mart customers. Please realize that this is my opinion only. :D Many people I know & love do their shopping exclusively at Wal-Mart Supercenter.]

But remind me not to do any more spontaneous shopping at 12:45AM.

Today . . .

. . . I drove over 200 miles. And that was just to go to the places I needed to go and do the things I needed to do around town. The greater Houston area is HUGE!

. . . I spent more time in my car then I did anywhere else I went, and that includes the three hour class I had this evening.

. . . I was a grown up and went to a bone fide education job fair.

. . . I was nearly crushed like a bug in my attempt to be a grown up. But it's all good, and I'm not quitting my quest.

. . . I was reminded of God's faithfulness (a truth I sometimes forget).

Praise the lord that tomorrow is another day and that should involve less driving!

The Child-like God

This is a quote I love from G.K. Chesterton's Orthodoxy. Since it's too long for the sidebar, I'll post it here.

A child kicks his legs rhythmically through excess, not absence, of life. Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, "Do it again"; and the grown-up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown-up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monotony. It is possible that God says every morning, "Do it again" to the sun; and every evening, "Do it again" to the moon. It may not be automatic necessity that makes all daisies alike; it may be that God makes every daisy separately, but has never got tired of making them. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, and our Father is younger than we. The repetition in Nature may not be a mere recurrence; it may be a theatrical encore.