Sunday, January 06, 2008

Trying to find a new look

There isn't much to do with blogger, but I am trying to not get bored by the look. Blues, purples and pinks remind me of winter, so I will try this for a while. I guess I just need to see what grows on me.

Books, books and books

I have had time to read over break, and have taken advantage of it. For the past 6 months, I had been looking for a book club, and was even willing to start one but didn't have much luck with my friends. So, I kept looking. Well, I found a site called "meet-up" and there were two book clubs, one that seemed to be closer, and I looked to see the book and the place for January. It was the 3rd, and the book was Cage of Stars which I hadn't read, so I joined. I read the book, but then after the tiring day with kids, I just couldn't go and be a new member and talk about a book with death in it. So, I missed, and now the next one seems to be on a Thursday when I already have a meeting. Its a bummer cause the book is Mists of Avalon which I love.

So I am signed up to go to another one on a Tuesday and its the only Tuesday I don't work at DUI, so I am happy about that. Its a little farther, and I am not really sure how to get there, but I am going.

Now, about the book Cage of Stars. Good, and I would recommend it, so there is that. At least I didn't dislike the book for the meet I missed. Last night, however, I decided to begin Water for Elephants which people kept telling me I would like but I resisted because I tend to NOT read those books which everyone else picks up and says "Oh I loved it" cause many times its the only book they read for 6 months.
However, I am almost finished, and I LOVE IT. Great plot, characters, and way of writing. Get it read it. I say so.

Saturday, January 05, 2008

A beginning and an end

I know this blog didn't see much writing during 2007, but I do want to change that even though I don't now if anyone will ever see my words but me. And does it really matter? since I began this as a way to get the thoughts that rambled in my head out, and maybe to keep in touch with friends and family who take the time to read. So, let's start 2008 with a promise to myself to write more, and to be honest in what I say.

To wrap up the year, and "an end", the funeral was painful for all. I hurt because I can feel the pain of those who lost their daughter, sister, friend, niece, cousin etc. The mass was beautiful, but the pain hurt. When I walked out of church, the pain was gone, but the tears lingered for days as I wondered what our new year at school would be like.
Thursday, we returned to a quiet group at times, to teachers who said nothing, and to teachers who let the class know they were trying to understand. And in the typical way of many of our students, A's closest friends came to see me and said, "We know we could talk anytime with you or the counselor, but we don't want to miss class". Yeah, that's my kids. Anyway, we (6 girls and I) spent lunch, study hall and then their gym class talking. Or I listened mostly while they talked. It was hard, tiring, but I think it helped them a little. Yesterday, I faced the empty chair in my Psych class, and cried later in my office after speaking with a parent who is concerned. Long days, lots of thoughts, and knowing that there will be hard times but also it will get easier. That's what I tell myself.

Before returning to school, we had visitors here, though, so I got to see life when my brother, his wife (and my sister in my heart), and beloved nephew/godson spent 4 days here with us. We had a great time, although I cried because I want San Diego to be closer to us. My sister-in-law is my friend, and I wish we lived down the road and not across the country.

We are at home for a moment, but had a productive day shopping for a shower gift and gift for Keith's daughter's 30th birthday. Tonight is a get together to watch football, or to talk with friends. . I guess it depends on who you are.