Water, Water, Everywhere?

So, as we approach the long weekend I am starting to think about the water problem that we have had last weekend. See many of you might not realize, there are no underground pipes in town, so water is delivered daily by truck. Likewise "waste water" gets pumped and taken daily by truck.

No when I say daily, I must clarify that on weekends, there is typically no delivery on Sundays, and sometimes nothing on Saturday. Simply put water is tight on weekends. We get in the habit of not doing laundry, limiting toilet flushes to "solids=only flush", and one (or two VERY short) showers from Friday night to Monday lunch MAXIMUM. We all know these unwritten rules.

At my old house there was only once that we ever ran out of water, however I was only sharing the tank with another single woman, and the tank was VERY large. At this new house, as previously explained, is a family with three toddlers living upstairs and sharing the tank. Last weekend by Sunday lunch the "low water" light came on and within 10 minutes we were completely dry. I had a call from my upstairs neighbour, who proceeded to tell me all of the reasons why she felt like it was not her fault that the water ran out..."Well, I've lived here for 6 years and this is the FIRST time that we have ever ran out of water... I haven't showered since Thursday morning... We never flush the toilet unless absolutely necessary... and on and on..."

Frankly, I didn't have much patience for her... I almost came out and said, "Fine, then just blame me for the fact we are out of water... I mean it makes so much sense that it has to be the single female living downstairs since she is the only new part of the equation... Even though, you family is 4 times larger..." I bite my tongue, and just smiled and nodded. But I am not looking forward to this weekend.

I mean, I did flush the toilet probably too many times(maybe 7-8 times from Friday to Sunday), but otherwise, I only did one load of dishes and had one short shower last weekend. I don't let the water run while brushing my teeth and use a little bit each evening to rinse my contact case but otherwise I have drinking water from the store so I don't think I am using my unfair share... I guess they are just not used to rationing more with their new larger family. I will cut back on the flushes this weekend, but other than that i really believe that I am doing my fair share.

So, in anticipation of another phone call, I have to psyche myself up so I don't say something that I might regret. I think this weekend will be inevitably a bad one since it is a long weekend and even though they are supposed to come on Monday anyway, you never know if they try to sneakily miss us.

Oh what to do, what to do? I guess that there is water sustainability issues experienced in places more that just Tofino, BC.

Just couldn't resist!

Nick and I do look like a wonderful couple!
Tell me what you think! (PS I am waiting for some songs to download from iTunes and thought I would entertain myself... Sorry for blurryness though of one, it was so small and when I tried to make it bigger it was a bit blurry...)

Hump Day....

Well, I understand this term a lot more this week... The hump is crossed and now we are on the downhill... Two more days of school this week...

Ok, I just finished watching Big Brother and am so tired of stupid women trusting Mike and Will... They are so manipulative, and I think Erica made a huge mistake- she should have trusted her gut which was saying the Mike would be faithful to Will first... But instead she trusted those jerks! ARGH!!! It is still a few weeks away from the end and if they do not break chill town up then they might never get a chance to!

Not much to say tonight. Notice the new blog link on the right... I finally signed N. up! Her website address "silapiujuq" means "it is beautiful outside" in Inuktitut. Oh, and my students had a chance to post again... It was interesting, some felt very strongly about this topic, as you will see... And even though they are still plagued with many grammar/spelling errors, that is not really my goal with the blog, but more to get them expressing themselves more and more... So, enjoy and you will be able to get an idea of some of their personaties a bit too...

So, anyway, that's all for tonight! Enjoy!

PS on a completely unrelated topic but on the topic of hump day, M. (the VP) was busy last night helping one of his male dogs latch on to a female dog that was in heat. I have to admit this was a freakin' funny story to listen to... he wants to make some pure husky puppies that will hpefully add to the dog team he is currently developing with another Inuit teacher. Funny part was how he said he felt like he was an accomplice to rape, and about 20 people came to watch as he was calming the female so that the male could mount...

Blah blah blah...

I know it is only the third week of school but I am just exhausted. Monday night I woke up every hour, it was so hot that I was tossing and turning. I can't seem to get the heat out of my house, even though i have the fan running 24-7 and many of the windows opened. I guess I will be happy that this new apartment holds in the heat when it is minus 50 outside!

Tuesday morning, I was quite dizzy when I woke up. I wasn't sure if it was because of the horrid sleep I had experienced, but I just didn't feel right. Occasionally when I stood up, my eyes would kind of spin for a few seconds before focussing. Very odd! I was kind of worried so I called the nursing station and went in during my free period after recess. After the check-up, I was given antibiotics and told I had believe that otitis, an type of ear infection in my right ear.

At school, things were not much better- a few classrooms, including mine, have had an overheating problem, where the heat is turned all the way off but it is still 30 degrees inside. The kids are rather grumpy and have trouble concentrating as a result. Not really the most fun environment to teach in. At the end of today I was so wiped out that I didn't even stay to prep and photocopy. I simply had to get out of there. I came home and crashed for an hour on the couch. Fast asleep within a second of sitting down.

I can hardly believe it is only Tuesday... And I think how can I ever make it through this week????

Watercolour sky...

The clouds in the blue sky today are so interesting looking that it makes me wish I was more artistic. There are what seems to be a millions shades of pale blue, grey and white in them. And the contrast between them and the bright blue sky is unbelievable. I unfortunately do not have my camera on me, but just close your eyes and try to picture it. They are incredible!

As was the day yesterday. I felt very refreshed after having climb to the top of the hill near "Old George" yesterday as the others were picking berries and fishing. As I stood near the top, I knelt down and picked a few blueberries to munch on, I looked around and soaked in the beauty. I felt as though I was on top of the world and I was far enough away from the others that I could scarcely even hear them. Just me and the environment. A few berries stained my knees from where I was kneeling and all I could think of was how lucky I am to be where I am, to have all of my needs taken care of, and even most of my wants fulfilled, all except one, having a special someone to share it all with. I know, I know, I am starting to sound like one pathetically desperate broken record... Reading Tam's story of meeting Pat was so touching... It's hard not to think about my own future.

In reality, I am surrounded by so many people who love and care about me. I am more blessed than many others feel they are. I recognize it, and cherish that connection I have with people, and as a result, I sometimes feel guilty for desiring "just one more" person- "THE" person. So many people feel alone, but I KNOW that I am not alone. So many people struggle in abusive relationships, but I do not have that burden. So why am I not content with this? Is it just trying to fit into a society that holds dating/marriage/partnership in such high esteem, or is it some deep down human spiritual need?? Is there one "soul mate" for each of us, and if we miss them on our path is that it? Or are than many suitable partners that we can find happiness with?

That's all the philosophizing for now... Let me know your thoughts on these questions, if you feel like it... I appreciate all the life experience and wisdom you are willing to share!
G.

Fresh air and berries!

Well, I just got home from a morning trip up river on M. and N.'s boat. They decided to go up river to try catching fish for all of M's dogs. I was invited to go along, which I rarely say no to since you don't always have chances like that!
It was beautiful sun, hot and the water was so calm. We left before high tide at around 10 am, and travelled about 30 minutes upriver to where the village used to be located. They call it "Old George".
There was unfortunately not many fish, only Andrea and Annie caught one each. But everyone enjoyed the abundance of unpicked berries- black berries (just these little round black ones, not the ones that look like raspberries), blueberries and some red berries (also known as partridge berries in Nfld.) I enjoyed the chance to get get lots of fresh air and went for a hike up on top of the mountain where we had "docked".
Enjoy the pics below from this morning.

Few pictures from today

So, a few you of you have been asking me where the heck I live and I have to be honest it is hard to describe. I had never heard anything about "Nunavik" or there being anything in the northern expanse of Quebec until I arrived up here four years ago.
On the above map you will see my town, Kangiqsualujjuaq, the village closest in the East to Labrador. It is close to the western boundary of the Torngat Mountain chain which runs down between the provinces.


This picture is of my house (far left) and two other teachers homes in a row. Across the street are two duplexes that are also inhabited by teachers... So, it's a bit part ot feel the privacy of ones' autonomous house.


This last picture shows my door, on the left, since I live on the bottom floor. The family with three kids owns the big grey truck. You can also see how completely close the school is, through my "backyard" and a few steps more and I am there!!
So, that is my humble abode. The houses here don't typically have basements, they are mostly built like my house on top of many metal stands. I remember thinking it was so weird when I first arrived. Have a great evening... still have 4 things left on my list and only have two hours before I want to sleep!! G.

My brochure for Kangiqsualujjuaq!

So, I woke up very late this morning and felt like it was a good rejuvenating move. So, it's 10:30 and I have just written myself a plan for the day: blog, fold laundry, wash dishes, build a spice rack, go for a walk, varnish spice rack and shelf, read my Cris Tovani book, hang new curtain rods and curtains, help N. signup for a blog, take pictures of my house, and outside to make blog more interesting, and whatever else I can think of....
But as I tackled number one on the list I thought about what to write and decided that I would try to write a blog of pictures to try to convince any of you to make a visit... So, was born a brochure for Kangiqsualujjuaq- which means very large bay.
Here are some pictures from Fall and Spring in different years- I haven't taken any yet this year so just wait for those in upcoming blogs...

new pics for blog

Aug 26, 2006 - 11 Photos

I just tried to figure out this picasa thing.... but as you can see I couldn't just post single pictures but my whole album is showing... If anyone can give me instructions on how to post single pictures from picasa into blog then please let me know!
Thanks!! I better start getting this list done! have a good day everyone! G.

Pictures...

So, I thought I would post a few pictures, since I FINALLY remembered to take my camera to school with me. I almost left for home before it dawned on me, so these were taken at 6:15 pm just before I left work for the day.

Above and below are pictures from my classroom so you can picture where I spend the majority of my day. I was going to take a pic with my students but completely forgot until they were gone!

Today was a rather rainy day but I tried to take a picture of my view from the classroom. I am one of the only secondary teachers on the North side of the building and I have to say my view is so inspiring. It is quite hard to tell from the pic since the rain is caking the window, but check out the silhouette of the mountains. In between those mountains is where the airport is located...

Then just before Big Brother started I noticed a reddish glow on my window frame. Usually that is a sure sign of a beautiful sunset! So here she is!

Hmmm, well I have many more pictures from fishing in June that it might be fun to post, but I'll sign out for now, and leave you all in suspense for at least 24 hours! Please don't hate me for playing with you all like this!! LOL!! (I know I would hate me if I was reading and left in suspense!!!)

Let me know your thoughts! G.

Troubles and blessings...

So, I have this dilemma: Do I open the door to my heart and soul to everyone? Or do I guard this knowledge from those who might use it to hurt me?


So, I was thinking today about the nice parts of living and working in such a small community and also the negatives. I enjoy the fact that usually there is a lot of comradery among the staff, since we all work and live in each others laps. Where my house is located, I have teachers living upstairs, and two teacher families right across the street, one house away from them, are two other teacher families, and next to my house are two more buildings with another 6 teacher families. (I'll try to take a picture of the teacher ghetto we have going here when it is light out to help you picture this!)

Basically we are always around each other. Most of us have best friends and spend the majority of our freetime with other teachers. Which is fine, but it has it's drawbacks. For one thing, we can easily get on each others nerves and little things that you would typically overlook with colleagues, becomes blown out of proportion because people know way too much about each other. I also notice that in staff meetings, sometimes the way people joke and kid around, using language which might be offensive, would never happen in a staff meeting in the south.

Today I was in a discussion with another teacher and she was complaining about that very fact- a francophone using a specific swear word flippantly during meetings. It's funny though because I find that she uses a lot of sexual jokes that I am not really very comfortable with (but brush off since I think it is simply her way of demonstrating her friendship.) She didn't seem to notice the difference between our school relationships and those between staff in the south.

I don't know why I get annoyed by that... talking about it now makes me notice how truely small and meaningless a discussion it was. Maybe it was just the person that was saying it that made me annoyed, since this person tries to make big deals and crusades over the smallest little things. But reading it now, makes it easier to drop.

I also helped another teacher to get set up on blog. She wanted to prepare a website for a business that her and her husband are starting. I realized though that I don't want to tell her about my blog. Is that selfish of me? I am afraid that if she were to read it she would read too much into things I say and feel and get upset with me because we have been through some really trying times in our relationship- where this woman was always getting mad at me for things that I would say that she would simply misinterpret. She drained me mentally and emotionally for a long time, until I just cut ties. I think that I could not be as honest and open as I am with you all. She is very complicated and with whom I cannot be myself because she doesn't understand me and judges me constantly... Sad to say that she is one of my friends... maybe you can see why I am so happy to have all of you in my life!

Is this just silly fears? Or do you think that sometimes it is easier to hide certain things to maintain peace with complex people? I hate to think I am two faced, but see it more as I only expose the part of me to her that cannot be misunderstood. Oh what to do? You are all so supportive, open-minded and uplifting... Thank you!

Christmas Day...

After a draining day, I unlocked my door and found my 15 boxes. The ones that I slaved over for 3 or 4 days, taping and packing... And within 45 minutes I had cut apart and destroyed all of that hardwork... Sometimes I wonder why I tape the boxes so well, but I guess I can be happy that everything arrived in one piece so I think it was time well spent?!

And for the third year in a row, while unpacking my things- new curtains, small prizes for students, clothes that I bought, some Christmas gifts, new winter booties, etc.- I told myself that I would only buy food items next year and that I didn't need to buy anything new for my house... Maybe someday I'll learn! I just have so much trouble saying no to pillows!! LOL!!

Class Blog begun...

BOY OH BOY! That was a tricky class... Working with technology is fun but so stressful since it rarely works the way you hope. The worst part is when everyone is stuck at a different point in the log-in process, so one answer to everyone won't help! I felt a little bit like a chicken with her head cut off, but once they started writing and looked excited about writing, I felt like the time and effort was worth it! Still have a couple students to get up and running with it but most seem to have the hang of it! Check it out... don't mind the typos, they were kind of rushed today. Hope it will be interesting for you to get to know the students a little bit. If you have any conversation starter questions that are interested in learning the answers to- let me know! G.

Silhouette on a cloudy day...

Cloudy again, I guess in a sense it looks like rain is on the way. The foreboding of the next three days is over my head and makes me a little frightened. My schedule is very heavy, no prep periods on two of those days, and it is my first time to live through it.

But the mystery and worry that is in me is so small and in 20 years will this be one of the things I remember. I doubt it. Reading Nannan's blog today, I am reminded of the fact that there are people in this world with pain. Some have physical and some have emotional pain. I don't take joy in their pain, or make light of it, but I want to acknowledge it, for we often take our own situations for granted.

My students lives are not the easiest. But sometimes I am so consumed with worry about lifes little bumps, and completely overlook that for them, finding a quiet and safe place to sleep some nights is a major challenge. I often wonder what I have done to deserve the life I have right now. I can't explain how fortunate I feel at times, and I sometimes get so overcome with gratitude for it.

BUT the fact remains that there are those in need all around us everyday. Those who need our love, those who need a few bucks to make it through the week, those who need our patience, those who need our emotional support, those who need a word of wisdom and challenge to help them improve and make good choices, those who need a helping hand, those who need a word of encouragement to realize their own potential, those who need a thank you to feel important... Time is often our excuse to overlook those needs. Sometimes people hide their needs behind a smile, and others share them hoping for a connectio to be made... Either way, we must open ourselves. We have all been there, we have all felt despair... None of us is too good to pain...

My hope is that I would not overlook the needs that are around me. I pray I would have discerning eyes, to see past the masks people wear to hide their need, and I also hope I would have the integrity and love to support and share the burdens of those who voice them.

In 20 years, those wil be the thoughts and experiences that WILL be remembered. And I pray that my life would be full of such memories. For I do not know where I would be today without those who love and have shown kindness to me.

During cloudy days like today, we have a chance to see the way things really are... we do not have to squint or be blinded by the sun, but everything is easy to see. We get perspective of what is ahead and our pupils are more opened when the sun is gone, so that we may bring more light into ourselves so we can see more clearly.

Good Idea Tuffysmom...

I forget whose blog I was reading today, but it was the book survey thing that we got tagged for. Anyway, Tuffysmom made a comment that said that if it was songs then it would be better... So tada, I thought I would do it using songs just for fun... Now Tuffysmom, since you said you wished it was with songs I expect you to copy the questions and post one of your own on your blog using songs! Anyone else is welcome to do... Never know who likes the same songs as you! Now that I have started, gosh this is hard!!!
One song that changed your life: Scarlet Hands- Hillsongs, or Morning has Broken- Cat Stevens (that was the first song playing on the radio the day my parents got married)
One song you can listen to over and over again: Home- Michael Buble
One song that made you laugh: Some of the Barenaked Ladies songs...
One song that made you cry: The Rose by Bette Midler (because my grandmother told me when I was 8 that she wanted it at her funeral)
One song you wish had been written: A song about the beauty of the northern lights...
One song you wish had never been written: The song that never ends... That gets so annoying when kids keep singing it over and over...
One song you are currently listening to/ or last listened to: Better Together by Jack Johnson

Sunny Sunday...

I really like those days when you go into church and it is cloudy and then when you come out the sun is shining and the whole world feels brighter than when we went in.

It's kind of like what happens in our spirits too. You know those days when everything is dark, cloudy and dready, then you pray, read or listen to some music that makes you think about God and suddenly your spirit feels uplifted, happier and ready to face the world again. That happened to me this week and the encouragement/lesson came in the most peculiar way- from a cup of tea.

A few days into school, feelings of frustration were increasing about one of my colleagues. The frustrations were so consuming me that I could tell I was getting bitter and hating him for his lack of interest in motivating and helping his students learn. I could hardly focus on my work but told myself that the administration is aware of his abuse of the system and that I simply had to force myself to let it go, even if I saw my former students suffering a bit for it. It is the admin's job and they have to keep him accountable. My despise would not leave me (boy I sound like a bitter person!!) and it was interfering in the planning I was to do. I felt a bit guilty for having such negativity but it was hard to give up.

Then the message came- I went to take a sip from the green tea I brought with me to school that morning. As I tipped the cup up I got a glimpse of the little paper that was attached to the string of the tea bag, it was right in front of my face and turned in such a way as to let me read these words.... "If you cannot see God in all, you cannot see God at all."

Hmmm, well there it is! That was a clear message! And it was actually quite an encouraging rebuke, I felt more calm and capable to letting it go and I was also encouraged to know that God can speak to us through ANYTHING even tea bags.

So, as you all enjoy this sunny, late summer day know that God is all around and communicating with you- sometimes in blatantly obvious words (like my tea bag) and sometimes he communicates love through the hugs of little ones- all of these things are in place to bring us peace and to give us hope and purpose.

Muddy boots and wet butts...

I have had both in the last 24 hours. But at least it has indicated a renewed enjoyment of the rain. Rain and cloud cover have been a constant since returning up North. A cool wind has also brought upon us that feeling that summer has indeed ended and responsibility begins again.

The rain however is quite welcomed, as is the cool wind. Both creations of mother nature are excellent natural bug repellants, and have made the environment a beautiful place for evening strolls. One deterrant to walking is rumours however.

Last year the replacement janitor in the school used to tell me everyday, "you should be careful Gillian, they saw a polar bear (or wolf) in town. You shouldn't go outside". But this year, I had many people telling me that they have seen many wolves this summer, close to town. So, I think that maybe I should be a bit more cautious, no walks on the airport road after dark I guess.

It might sounds weird to have a fear of wolves, it's just that wolves look almost exactly like Inuit dogs. And in town there are lots of stray dogs, even some without collars so they look identical to wolves. An Inuit man once told me to look at their paws to see if they are dogs or wolves. He said that wolves have wider paws than dogs, but frankly, I don't really want to be close enough to a wolf to actually see that distinct difference between them and their relatives.

So, as I still have some early morning light with me, I think it is good time for a walk. Oh wait before I go I must explain the "wet butt". Since the most common and popular mode of transport around town is not car or truck but by 4-wheeler, it is a regular occurrance to have a wet butt from the rain dampened seat. You get used to it after a while and sometimes it's just easier to walk through the puddles than drive.

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Headache....

Ok, as you can guess from my title and this fancy picture I am suffering from a headache, so much so that I can't even think about celebrating the fact that it is my first TGIF day! (On a side note, my class last year was so cute, and they used to always come in on Friday morning and say, "thank you thank you!" When I would ask them why they said it, they would say, "TGIF- thank Gillian it's Friday!")
At lunch, I ate a quick bite and my head was starting to pound so I ended up having a cup of coffee and taking a nap. My ears felt like they were popping/ stuffed up, and the head was aching behind my eyes. I woke just in time to go to the community centre since our Secondarys were meeting there for an activity. It was rainy outside so we couldn't do the picnic like we had planned. But we had some prizes from the hunt the day before, and then planned on having a volleyball tournament. As I walked there, my headache continued.
I think that maybe my attempt to trick my brain did not work. I don't tend to drink a lot of coffee, only usually one per day on weekdays, and it always tends to be at 1 o'clock to help me make it through the afternoon. I don't think I can deceive myself though, the coffee I had a decaf instead of a real coffee, and the headache persisted. So the real question is: Am I addicted to coffee? It's just one per day? Tell me what you think.
So, I will you leave you with that question for now. The fog is rolling in quickly and is so thick that it is touching the ground. It might take me a while to find my way home, so I will let you all go. (PS. I will try to take some pictures of my class, my apartment, people I have talked about from my blogs, etc. this weekend, so keep reading !)

New Link...

If you noticed a new link in my sidebar, you can be considered VERY observant! The second link in the list will be something that I decided to try this year with my English class. Why keep the wonderful world of blogging to myself, when I know my students enjoy being online. So I decided that every week or two I would get my students to reply to a question on the blog instead of in their journal.

I was a bit worried that if I was not keeping track everyday, we might have some unwelcomed visitors so it is a "member's only" blog. What that means is that others can read our blog, but no one except people I invite can post anything. I hope the students will be excited about this chance and thought I would share the link with you if you are interested in seeing the kind of things that they talk about.

I have kept both blogs very separate however, since I don't really like the thought of my students reading my in most thoughts!? You know how it is! LOL!

We will start using it next week if everything goes as planned. They will be able to post anytime but really they only have access at school and in a few homes in town, so the interaction might be concentrated at certain times.

That's all I have to say now. If I am up to it I might do another more personal post today, but I can tell I am losing steam!

With my students...

(This photo was from my class last year, one of the other students wanted to take a picture with my camera)

I got to see some of my students today. This is why I love teaching. I was growing very tired just working in my class, but after seeing the students, I got quite pumped up. Many of the students from my class are away right now until the end of next week because they are in the next town for a music festival called "Aqpik Jam".
It was cute because I had a few of the French students say, "I want to be in your class". It's cute when they say it, since I know that they can recognize the positive atmosphere that I try to maintain in my class. I think that it is common for most teachers that students will say that when they move to a new homeroom, but I always wonder when students I have never taught say that to me?! (They probably don't know what I am really like when they fool around!! hehehe)
My upstairs neighbours are arriving by place tonight. I have really enjoyed the quiet but tonight it all ends and I will have to see how I cope. I knew what I was getting into before I chose to move here and just hope that I don't regret the move. The husband of the family is one of my colleagues in secondary and I can actually recognise his footsteps through the school floors when he is walking on the second floor. He is a heavy heel walker and I think his wife is the same... Maybe I will wear headphones 24-7. LOL!

Ohhh, I hear their car pulling in... Better go say hi! Wish me luck and much patience! LOL

Has it been only two days of work so far???

Okay, seriously is someone playing a joke on me? Is it really only Tuesday of this week!! I seriously thought that it must be Wednesday or Thursday at least!! that was my thoughts at about 2 pm today in the middle of my first secondary meeting of the year. (Quite a painful experience as no one wants to take leadership, and then the ones that do are met usually by major opposition and no better solutions. These meetings last MUCH longer than they should, and we usually re-hash things many times over before deciding on something that was suggested in the start! argh!)
Enough negativity. Funny thing happened to me today, and really shows that sometimes our feelings are all a matter of perspective. Was sitting in my class about an hour ago. It is getting to be close to supper and wafting in through my window was the sweet smell of burning wood. It reminded me of campfires and made my stomach ache for roasted hot dogs, slow roasted over the red coals after the flames have died down. (Oh, you know the ones I am talking about, and if you don't invite me over for a fire next summer and I will show you a hot dog worth writing a blog entry for!)
I digress, the smell was just like someone was roasting hot dogs just outside my window. When suddenly it dawned on me, WHY would someone have a fire right behind the school?! I spun around in my chair and saw that the entire sky was filled with smoke and even the mountains were shrouded by it. The smoke seemed to be originating from the Northwest, and I realised where it was coming from like a flash! They must be burning at the dump. I have been around a couple of times when they have had to burn the trash to make more space. After visiting the dump a few days ago and seeing all of the scrap wood, and doors, and old siding that was taking down during the recent community renovations, I wasn't surprised.
Then I revisited my former fondness for the smell. I can't believe I actually liked that smell. Like turned into disgust a bit and I swiftly closed my clasroom windows. It's all perspective, what was sweet smelling turned out to be gross when I knew where it was coming from... Weird, surely that happens to us in life too. Live and learn...
Time for me to go, I thought I would post a bit earlier today than I typically do. I will however, undoubtably be on and off all evening. Tomorrow we meet our students at 11 am, we always have a meeting where the principal talks about the importance of doing your best, respecting others and making decisions carefully. this is usually followed by a role call and a brief description of the next few days of school. We have an activity planned for Thursday afternoon, teacher hunt/ survivor challenge. Should be fun!
Until then, take care of yourselves! G.

Holidays Over! 10-4

Today is done. Worked from 8:30 until 6:45 today, with a half hour lunch. Luckily I did get a lot of my adminstrative stuff done: attendence sheets, daybook pages typed/printed, class and personal schedules printed and distributed to admin, evaluation of all of my homeroom students from their official files, and also some exercises photocopied, oh and actually I created my basic template for each student's report card and saved them on the school server so they are ready for first term marks!

I realise it does not sound like I did much looking at that list, but it sure felt like I was productive! Usually I take lots of "social breaks" helping other teachers out, building project ideas, answering questions about computers, etc., but today I stayed very focussed.

Well, so far this blog is awfully boring. Let me think about what I can talk about that is more interesting. Well, I will tell you about my new homeroom class.

The North has always struggled greatly with producing graduates. The kindergarten classes typically have around 20-28 students in them. However since I have been here in GR (George River), the largest number of graduates I have seen in a single year is 5. (1 year from the last 3 years had no graduates) Those are similar statistics as other Northern schools are seeing. I have tried to think about what we can do as a school to help improve those statistics, and realised that we needed to spend more of our school resources in the Secondary Sector.

One of the struggles of a small school is that our financial allocation is for ALL levels and the board gives each school a little bit of flexibility with how to divide those allocations. Unfortunately, the secondary sector over the past few years has received the raw end of the deal- receiving no special education teacher, and with extremely large multi-level classes, for quite a few years in a row. (I guess the secondary teachers never spoke up very much as often they were fairly new teachers) That didn't stop me, and last year I started to use my power of persuasion to convince the principal and vice-principal of the importance of creating smaller homeroom group in the secondary sector so that each student could receive more attention and hopefully that would help a greater number of them to succeed and go further with their education. (especially as dropouts are quite common at the Secondary 2 and 3 levels)

I believe in this theory a lot and wanted to see it work very badly, so I decided to take on the homeroom gropu of many of the students who have failed repeatedly, have major behavioural problems and typically VERY poor attendence. Normally most of these students would bottom out in Secondary 2, which would become a very large group and the new/younger students would get very distracted and learn bad habits/attitudes from the older students. We wanted to free up the Secondary 2 gropu so the younger students could hopefully maintain their good attitudes about learning and their positive learning behaviours.

I know most of the students in my new homeroom and hope that my style will continue to keep them on my side. to help these students out we have actually given them a slightly less academic program- so instead of them taking 5 academic courses, we will offer them 4 academic courses and a work placement in the community. Hopefully for the students who are really not cut out for school, they will at least learn about some different jobs in town and will maybe have some doors opened up to them.

I am both excited and a bit nervous about this class. I will be teaching their Math, English and Personal/Social Development (PSD), and although I have lots of great ideas, I know that these students are often very moody, overtired and sometimes high. (hate to be so blunt) Some of them have quit school last year from April to the end of the year. I guess the next few weeks will tell. I plan on entering class with full optimism, as I always do and focus on building up their self-esteem and belief in their abilities... we'll see what comes a a result.

Health benefits to blogging!

Okay, I have been thinking about the content of this post for a couple of days and since I am in the mood to blog right now and am lacking any other title, then I feel that the time has come to share my hypothesis...

In the past couple weeks, since beginning my blog, I have noticed some definite health benefits to this habit. First of all, blogging has replaced time that I would typically have spent, mindlessly in front of the television. My tiny 13 inch, second-hand TV is a welcomed companion- and don't get me wrong I am into Big Brother, Survivor (when it is on) and a few other shows like House, MD- but lately I find that I am more eager to check blogs than tune in.

No try to follow this train of thought- due to my elevated time on the computer I have noticed a distinct decline in random, un-necessary snacking, since watching TV is a hands-free activity thus easily lending itself to the use of hands in a snacking way, but blogging requires the constant dependence on the hands to type out thoughts, thus leaving no time for snacking. Of course, I would also not want to take a few chips in my hand on those momentary thinking breaks since crumbs might then be transferred to the keyboard and lower the life expectancy of my iBook!

Second of all, I am fairly convinced that the increased blood flow to the mind and fingers during a blogging period, MUST burn more calories than simply sitting numbly in front of the TV. I am sure that excitement one feels as you wait for the comments to upload (the faster beating of the heart et al) is practically like a low impact cardio workout!

So, that is my theory- may the scientists among our group please comment on whether this might make an interesting research project for a Master's thesis! LOL. (that means you especially Mike!!)

So, I guess that my thesis statement should read something to the effect of, "Blogging is more effective than watching TV for people who are on a weight loss program."

Where did today go?

I can't even remember the beginning of this day... As I sit here to write a SHORT blog, I realize that I have done sooooo much today that I can hardly remember before noon! YIKES, is this early altheimers hitting me? Day began slowly, taking advantage of being able to sleep in still.

After checking my blog and eating breakfast I called my buddy Mark (the VP at the school) to see if I could go with him to meet the new teachers at the airport. Three of them were arriving from their training. I reminisced back to my first year here and how everyone forgot we were arriving and not a soul was at the airport. The airport guy actually drove us into town in his truck and the maintenance guy met us on the street so we could get our keys. I thought it would be nice to have a few faces out there to help give a nice first impression.

Other than that I did a few little visits with other teachers, to catch up on the gossip from the summer and all! Then I re-arranged my house, switching my master bedroom and the spare room around. I was feeling like things were not quite right, but now I really like the way it is. I still have a whole bunch of things to unpack that I left in boxes when I flew out the end of June. I hope to get that stuff cleared away tomorrow, since 15 more boxes are coming sometimes soon and I will have to try to put that stuff away while I am also working.

Think I heard a buzz about a little social get-together at Isabelle's house... I am promising myself I won't stay late, so I can go with Nancy (Mark's wife, and our school student counselor) to church tomorrow morning.

Anyway, that is my news from the North from today. I haven't been out berry picking and the mosquitoes are still quite bad as soon as the wind dies down. I'll try to take some pictures of some of the other teachers or of my new house so you can get a mental picture to go with my stories!

Tagged... but who can I tag??

Homefree- no more tags after this,please!!!!!
I've been tagged by Aussiesnan
One book that changed your life: both "Tuesdays with Morrie" and "Five People you will meet in heaven"
One book you have read more than once: Actually I have reasd tuesdays with morrie twice... felt like I was missing some great life lessons!
One book you would want on a desert island: Maybe the Chronicles of Narnia boxset- it would hopefully last long enough for me to be rescued!!
One book that made you laugh: Little White Lies (chick novel, but SOOO good!)
One book that made you cry: My grandfathers journal from his first year teaching... (made me feel so close to him even though he is passed away!)
One book you wish had been written: hmmm... a better journal from my year in Europe
One book you wish had never been written: thats too hard!!
One book you are currently reading: The Runner's handbook and Prince Caspian by CS Lewis
One book you have been meaning to read: Kissed the Girls and Made them Cry by Lisa Bevere (she is mailing me a copy soon!! I just found out today!!)
Now tag five people: Jennah (http://lexysmama.blogspot.com/) (I totally didn't know who, hope you don't mind J!)
Beth (http://www.staresatthesky.blogspot.com/)
I can't think of any more... Lame I know but it is getting late! LOL

Shells...

Shells... they are beautiful, their shapes and patterns and colours and mystery are so incredible when we find them on the beach. But when they are shielding us from others they have a different affect on us.
I have lived my life in stages. Those stages were more often than not ones characterised by the shell that I wore. In my first 7 years of life, I was a carefree kid, living in a secluded and tightknit neighbourhood in Newfoundland.
In 1986, my family moved to Yarmouth and I put on my first shell. I became shy, reserved, withdrawn and scared to be myself around the people that I met. I wanted to be accepted but felt outside, I had friends but felt that I had to be what I thought they would really like. My thoughts resigned themselves to remaining within. I loved those friends with my whole heart, but still kept parts of me hidden from anyones reach.
Then came "teenagedom", the time when everyone is insecure with their physical, social, psychological and relational self. Thoughts, feelings and emotions are deeply buried, and released in the form of tears into the comfort and privacy of one's pillow. Off and on, I would experiment with the whole openess thing and test people's loyalty. Sometimes I would be met with genuine care and love and other times with disregard. Knowing who was which way was the new goal in friendship.
Near the end of high school, I experienced the crisis of separation. Knowing that I would be leaving people I felt so close to, the genuine ones, the ones I loved, I thought with much dread about that moment when "Goodbye" would be necessary. A new shell, a shield, a dam against any emotion was built in me. I regret my actions at that time a lot. As I pushed away the people who cared deeply about me, thinking it might make goodbyes easier... I retreated into my shell like a turtle does when danger is nearby. I became vindictive, brutally untrue in how I really felt and I regret the hurt I caused. Again, the shell.
A shell might seem like a safe place to retreat to, but really it is a prison. I learned, upon much reflection, that a shell is a dangerous place to be in. It locks us into a tight place where our feelings, emotions and freedom is gone and meaningless. I want to live my life in an open way from this point onward. I want to be honest with how I feel about others and about circumstances, I desire to free my mind to experience pain, joy, uncertainty and love. I don't want to be shy about the things I love and the things I don't care for. But alas, dread comes in and the reality of being in a state of fear about telling the truth to everyone causes me to back up a little.
Maybe I am just not ready yet...

Without further adieu...

Back by popular demand- LOL- This is the rest of the story from my trip back up North.
On Wednesday morning, I packed up my box of fresh food, wrapping many things in newsprint to help it from getting bruised, smashed or crushed during the flights. My flight left 10 am, boarding at 9:30 so I had to bid farewell to my dad at 9:15 with many tears and runny nose. He gets the brunt of most of my goodbyes, as he is usually the one who will drive me to my last point of contact. But the best part is knowing that my dad is a complete sook too, he just pretends to be the strong one. (Top secret but my dad bawled his eyes out when he saw the movie Old Yellar, which ends with Old Yellar getting killed, and since then he claims to hate watching movies and I am sure it is because he is afraid it will have a sad ending!!)
Anyway, I went through security and got to the gate with just a few minutes to greet other teachers from my town that were also travelling up. It's nice when you can go in a crowd since there is such a long wait in Kuujjuaq, 4 and a half hours. Now, it might not seem that long if you are imagining an airport like Montreal or even Halifax for that matter with restaurants, shopping and entertainment, but Kuujjuaq airport only has a couple benches and a vending machine that is more often than not out of order!
Fortunately the flights were all on schedule, including the twin otter flight that was full to the max and I got back into my house at 6:10 pm. After eating, settling in I realized I have two small problems to get fixed hopefully ASAP-
1st: my toilet flush lever is broken so I have to do something in the tank to get her to work, and
2nd: my phone is not hooked up like Bell Canada assured me it would be. I think it is a scam too just to get money out of me which is rather frustrating! Last year the teacher who lived here had a phone that worked fine, now suddenly since they changed the numbers it doesn't work. I was told by a woman from troubleshooting/repairs, that if they cannot fix it at "central" and if a technician comes into my house to check it out, it would cost between 75 and 99 dollars. I have no idea how anything in my house wiring could have changed... It's a scam I am sure!! BUT what can I do, and how do I prove this! LOL
In any case, it is nice to be home!! I am stumped as to what else to say, so I will say bye for now. And try to think of something really neat to write about for tomorrow.
PS If anyone knows a good science and math teacher who is looking for a job we are desperately looking for someone, since the woman we had lined up just called and backed out a couple days agio leaving the prinicpal scrambling. I know how negative that it is for the kids, starting the year without all of the teachers!! PLEASE email me any names of people you know who are interested (even as just a replacement) and I will give it to my principal! (Nan- ever want to experience the north for a bit, you guru of math and science???)

Traffic, Construction, Torrential Rain, Red Lights, Detours and even a Tornado warning!

So, tonight I sit in the Quality Suites in Montreal, but it has been a LONG road to get here. On Monday morning, we woke up, had breakfast and got on the road by about 9:20 am. Before jumping on Route 2, we had to go a bit further south to drop off my dad's secretary's daughter with her aunt and cousins for a short holiday. We were told to meet at the Burger King at Exit 103. Unfortunately, this exit did not have a Burger King but a toll booth, and it was also NOT accessible by her Aunt who suggested it but was coming up from the south. After MANY cell phone calls, (a couple arguments between my dad and I), and lots more driving, we FINALLY found a gas station and her relatives. At that point, we could head to Ottawa. 11:30 or so, (two hours behind schedule) we started the westerly trek across the forests and hills of the American Northeast. It is truely beautiful scenery and the towns are often really well kept and historic. Hours and hours passed as we re-thought our route and consulted maps and cooled ourselves with the air conditioning. After passing through the trees of Maine, and the mountains of New Hampshire with a 10 mile detour on a single lane dirt road, we started traversing Vermont. This is where the story gets a bit interesting. You can guess the outcome since I am still alive but at the time I was not so certain of our fate! In Vermont, I was tired of playing my same Jack Johnson CD over and over, so I tuned into the radio. I scanned a few channels before getting on a channel that had a great song. Within 30 seconds there was suddenly a very weird alarm-like beeping that began. My dad and I looked confused at each other but turned the volume up a couple notches. "This is the Federal Weather Service with a severe weather warning for Franklin County, in the far Northwest corner of Vermont. Accompanying the extreme thunder and lightning storms that have recently passed through the county, a low pressure system has been identified resulting in a very high likely hood of Tornados developing. If you should be in the proximity of a tornado, you should blah blah blah.... leave your car immediately and find shelter in the nearest concrete basement... blah blah blah..." The towns the named, the time they were giving and the path they were describing was the exact location of where we were planning on driving to within 20 minutes of the projected tornados... We wrestled with what to do, imagined the worst and the best and finally, reluctantly, followed cars with Vermont plates in the destructive zone. Luckily, we saw nothing but our heart rate certainly elevated for a while! As we crossed into New York, near the top of Lake Champlain, we met the first rain we saw that day, but it was one of the hardest rains I have every driven in. It sounded like the rain would break our windshield it was so hard! Crossing the border in Cornwall was a complete joke, and we got into Ottawa with JUST enough time to take Kenneth out for some ribs. They were worth waiting for! After chatting and eating, dad and Kenneth dropped me off at by friend, Andrea's condo, and they went back to his place to sleep. I enjoyed seeing Andrea for the second time this summer, we chatted for a while and then I allowed her to get some sleep! LOL This morning, I ate a delicious "Kenneth" breakfast, fancy seasoned egg and genoa salami in light rye bread! YUM! Then we all went to get something for mom at Ikea, before packing our car SOOOOO FULL with Kenneth's things and driving on to Dorval. After another argument on the highway, we finally found our hotel and were able to relax. I picked up so fruits and veggies and cheese at the grocery store, which will be packed up tomorrow morning so it can be my second piece of luggage for the plane. Hmmm... what else to say? I can't think... Guess I am still pretty tired out from a few long days! Nice to see all of your posts and to connect despite the different time zones and hours of driving between us! Take care everyone and keep in touch!

On the road again

I finally had an experience with glistening water to make my blog title a perfect fit. While writing in my journal during the last half of my ferry ride I took a moment to reflect. I looked distantly out the CAT window and remarked to myself that the moon was approching a full moon, and that the sky was awfully clear. Then I glanced down toward the water, low and behold it was glistening with the brilliant moonlight on the rushing ocean surf that we passed. BRILLIANT! This is my addresses inspiration from now on! Glistening Water- when bright light shines on a rushing, liquid surface... Time for bed! G.

All Aboard!

What a nice day! Went for one last Yarmouth walk before shipping out. I had called Paula to go but as was the case the last three days, she was unfortunately already busy. I was going to show her my walk route around Milo. Guess it will have to wait until next summer, unless we have an abnormally balmy Christmas vacation. I was a bit disappointed as I haven't had much time to get together with her and I was hoping we could have one last good chat as we walked. Oh, well, guess it wasn't meant to be. I guess with some people we feel much more connected to them, than they do to us, but also I guess she has a child and husband to look after so that would certainly make one busy! BUT back to the weather, WOW, nice and warm, sunny, what else can I say, it was a gorgeous day. I went to church this morning with Mom and Dad. Norman couldn't read the second lesson so I filled in. Love reading actually, I find it is like story telling and I love that too, as you have probably noticed! On my walk today I wanted to try something a little different so I went from Chestnut along the tracks to the dayton road then up to the Brooklyn Road and back across. I was thinking of going along the tracks straight out to Hebron but although I had the energy to do that walk, I didn't really have time on my side! On Brooklyn Road, you are high enough that the breeze follows you all the way past Meadowfields. It was soooo refreshing. I was glad to get out especially since I will be in a car for all day tomorrow! Time to wash up, and eat supper with Mom and Dad. My time is drawing nigh, and I am already all choked up. I HATE goodbyes!

Paths...

The most beautiful paths that I have walked are the ones lined in mystery... I was the type of kids who loved to explore all of the junk in the basement or go off in the trees that used to be across the street from my house before they built Brunswick extension. I was always full of curiosity and wonder about what was coming up and what I might run into or find. I didn't have fear of getting kidnapped or grabbed or eaten by a bear, but my desire to find something was more overwhelming than anything else. . In life, this is an exciting way to live. Live with awe and wonder. Wonder about the lives of the people I meet or pass, curiosity about their personalities and beliefs and interest in knowing their life story. Rarely are we given the chance to be drawn into that greater knowledge of our acquaintances, but when we are, our paths cross in such a way that it is hard to part company and go off on a pathway all alone again. . So, friends, don't leave me to walk alone, but I invite you all to stay on the path with me. If I want to detour, I promise to take you along on the adventure!

Better late than never!

Guess that should be my theme for this summer! That was not only my team name for the dory races, but it is also what I felt this morning. A few days ago I made a lunch date in the real world with my blog buddies and I was the one who was late! No excuses really... except that I was up so late reading and replying to blogs that I slept in and then I was watching "Clean Sweep" and editing pictures on my laptop so I could bring them on my iPod and suddenly I looked at the clock and realized I had 10 minutes to get dressed, brush my teeth, get dad home, AND get down to lunch on time. Of course, in such a rush I put on the shirt that is a flattering cut but shows sweat stains WAY too easily and had to abandon myself to a lunch with now shame as the sweat creeped almost all the way around my neck LOL. I wish I didn't perspire so much, but what can you do! It looks gross but hey, at least it doesn't smell... (and I wonder why I don't have a boyfriend! hehehe) I think I am really well suited to the north in that regard. Lunch was excellent, enjoyed getting together with S and C... I am still amazed at how much alike S and I think! Blogs are nice like that, you say what you really think and feel, the things that you might hesitate to say when you are with someone, maybe things that you don't think they would be interested in listening to, or things that you think are so weird and out there that everyone would judge, when really you might not realize how much everyone else are in the same boat and are just desperately seeking someone that they can relate to... So, blog away my friends, get off your chest all the crap that is holding you back from being yourself, or keeping you from being totally free and at peace... (as I digress endlessly, I hear the grandfather clock toll from the living room and remind me that time is escaping me... cardboard boxes, which are destined to be filled, are still lying emptily on my basement floor soaking in the dampness and groceries, which are ordain to give me energy as I work those long days at school, are still in their bags... I must go work, seize the day, even though I'd rather be blogging! hehehe What a great slogan for a t-shirt! "I'd rather be blogging"... oh you know what you are getting for Christmas now! hehehe... Stop fingers from typing... the packing tape is calling.... gotta.... goooo..... pack....)

Sobeys receipt- $182.45

Okay, I should be good for a while. I convinced my dad that we should run to Sobeys tonight so I wouldn't have to interrupt his routine tomorrow morning. It's kind of fun going late, people who are there are more relaxed and stroll instead of rush. Anyway, I bought tonnes of snack food- almonds, trail mix, banana chips, dried apple, granola bars- some soy milk, many cans of tuna, curry mixes, thai rice noodles, ocean spray juices, and many items that my dad had coupons for... Those should be the LAST items I will buy for my return to the North and since I worked my butt off packing the rest this evening (with "What not to Wear" blaring in the background to disguise the sound of the packing tape, argh!) they will be the last things to box up. I keep feeling like there is a lot I am forgetting, but am most happy that I now have all of the accessories for my Hallowe'en costume, except an afro wig... It should be quite neat and part of me wishes that it could be Hallowe'en next week... hehehe (except for the whole needing to have report cards finished if it is Hallowe'en!) Better get some good sleep tonight if I ever wish to make it to lunch on time for 11:30. I am not making a reservation so I hope we won't be table-less! See you then ladies!

See if I can make it short...

I love writing so I realized how freakin' long these tend to be. I have thus determined to keep this one short, so as not to bore you all! Had a great day on the French shore, doing a typical NS Frenchy's marathon- 5 in one day. Today was luckily an "ON" day, where they seemed to have LOTS of stuff in my size and that I liked- even managed to get a Hallowe'en costume (DON"T GROAN- remember that I will not be at a REAL store until Christmas so I HAVE to get these things together now!) I also was happy to spend the day with my mommy. She's a great woman, often misunderstood and overlooked- but a lady that I respect for the way she doesn't try to be the centre of attention, or doesn't need to take up too much space but is content with the little, more important things in life. I am sometimes known as a girl who naturally draws attention from a crowd of people (even though I don't try, honestly!) and who is sometimes even a bit boisterous. I am still amazed how well my brothers and I turned out despite my parents non-strict style. They never really sat us down and went through the rules of the roost and for some reason none of us really pushed it. I guess we were either just to dorky and unpopular to have anyone to break the rules with or else we had simply learned the importance of mutual respect. Parenting- what a tough profession... Can't wait! Well, this is still too long. I'll try again tomorrow- I must soon be getting to my 21st day of making this a routine! :o)

Saturday Lunch... Bloggers welcome...

Well, I am sick and tired of the very irritating sound of packing tape as it pulls off the roll. It is SO annoying and loud, not to mention when it rips or accidentally sticks back on and you cannot find the end!! I called today to find out when the movers could come and pick up my 12-15 boxes of personal effects, and instead of Saturday, they said first thing on Friday morning would be best! So, my procrastination HAD to end. I spent all evening slaving with tape and boxes trying to fit everything in my boxes- a new pillow, highlighters, bongo drums, deoderant, more toilet paper than someone would need in 6 months, blueberry juice and tahini, warm winter fleece and new down booties from MEC, multivitamins and fish oil capsules, you name it and I probably have it in a box! I made my final shopping list for tomorrow as well, lots of fun, especially since my mother has the day off and scammed the car from my dad so we could go to all the Frenchys' from Digby to Yarmouth. My justification now is to buy enough new clothing items to help wrap any breakables in the boxes. And all this comes when I have FINALLY started to relax and do the things I love the most in life... Going for long "power walks", listening to music and emailing people. With only 11 days of holiday left, I guess I just have to started looking forward to Christmas now! On Monday and today, I did a nice walk around Lake Milo. My dad measured it to be about 6 km and it took me about 1 hour 5 minutes both times. I like the sense of accomplishment everytime you reach the top of one of the many rolling hills of Main Shore Road. I am going to try to keep up with this habit since I love it so much, and hey, it also give me a great chance to listen to an hour worth of music too!

August 2... I made a mistake!

During the past few posts I have been saying that I start work on the 18th, but in fact it is early this year- August 14th!! YIKES!! It is coming SO quickly, and although I am excited, I know that I still have a lot of work ahead of me before I can say that I am ready! WHERE did the summer go! By the time you actually start to loosen up, relax and get a nice routine happening- wake up, small breakfast, go for an hour power walk, shower, eat lunch, shop, pack, relax with family, post a blog entry, go to bed- you have to go back to the insanity of work. (now reading about Mike's schedule, I guess it isn't that INSANE what I do, but I know I still work WAY too much, ahhhh the life of a teacher, right girls?) Yep, so I actually start the trip back up North on Sunday evening by taking the CAT to Maine. My dad and I will stay at a hotel somewhere in Maine then drive up to see my little brother Kenneth in Ottawa by Monday evening. On Tuesday, we will pack up much of Kenneth's things into the car (since he is moving home in September), then in the evening after celebrating his 23rd birthday with him we will go and spend Tuesday night in Montreal. I jump on the plane on Wednesday morning to return to the GREAT white north. So, much packing to do before then. I am allotted 75 kg (about 150 lbs.) of personal effects every year, so I have to have those boxed up and ready to be picked up ASAP. It's a pain in the butt to do it, but I know that it helps me to save money on some of the seriously overpriced goods that I KNOW I will need. (For example, the cheapest small box of clothes detergent up north costs 20$ whereas the same down here is only 5 or 6 bucks!) Other things like contact solution are things you simply CANNOT buy up there because neither of the two stores sell it... which reminds me, I haven't bought any yet, shoot, I thought I was done shopping! LOL Better let you go! If any of you locals are interested in getting together on Saturday for lunch or coffee, let me know either by telephone (numbers in the book under dad's name) or by this...

How can they know my blood type?? (these quizzes are way too scary!)

Ok, this is a bit spooky... I tried this quiz and somehow it could even guess my blood type! Let me know if this also works for any of you guys!!

Your Inner Blood Type is Type A

You seem cool and collected, though a bit shy. You are highly driven and a perfectionist, but that's a side you keep to yourself. Creative and artistic, you are a very unique person who doesn't quite fit in. People accept you more than you realize, seeing you as trustworthy and loyal. You are most compatible with: A and AB Famous Type A's: Britney Spears and Hilter

What's Your Inner Blood Type?