It is a wonder my brother and I survived past age 10.
This morning Punk asked me to teach him "more dangerous games that you and Uncle D used to play." So after a morning of brewing our own sodas (cinnamon twist and cherry vanilla swirl) I taught them Little Joey Carrot. If, like us, you have been cooped up for nearly a week, you really should get out a giant blanket and play.
Spread the blanket out on an open space on the floor. Take one person and roll them up diagonally like a burrito. Make sure they keep their hands down and legs straight - eventually the blanket will cover their feet and hands, making them pointy at both ends. You can use a few belts to secure the person inside the blanket if need be. Then sit back and enjoy.
Without using their hands, the person has to try to get up. They are bound, blindfolded, and trying to avoid sharp corners of coffee tables all at the same time. Add to this, the fact that the entire family is laughing hysterically at their predicament . . . the "carrot's" confusion, laughing spasms, and mild humilation, make for great family memories.
Trouble is, it's hard to stop at just one game. Punk has heard my list, and really wanted to follow up the fun with a rousing version of help I can't breathe. Kooka wanted to play Tom Sawyer, or help I'm falling.
Most of which are self explanitory.
I can't wait until the next family get-together when I can teach D's kids to play crash up derby. You play on real bikes, all crashes MUST be head on, and on the moment of impact you must sing out "crash up der-by" as loud as you can without falling off.
Considering everyone else in our family seemed to kick out prematurely, it begs the question . . . how are the two of us still alive? Without even taking in to account the fact that I often times walk barefoot in the snow, and D spends his days sticking his arms into giant, faulty electrical generators. I think we built up some kind of immunity from our dad, whose favorite game is allowing underage children to drive cars while pretending to supervise.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
the cutest thing
I do not really like to brag, and at the risk of turning into one of those people who can't stop showing pictures of their prize-winning cat, or making your taste their blue-ribbon pickles . . . I have to show off these pictures of Kooka. Styling by mom, photos by dad, and attitude by . . . well, that is pretty obvious.
Friday, December 26, 2008
fair warning
Consider this your warning:
Kooka has mono.
The kissing disease.
Now aside from wondering who the heck my first grader has been making out with, you may have a few other questions. Unfortunately, I have too many answers. I have been down this road before, and really hoped she wouldn't be. But here it is . . .
•Mono is caused by the Epstein Barr Virus.
•Ninety percent of adults over the age of 35, have the Epstein Barr Virus in their system. Which means, if you are a grown up, most likely you can keep getting hugs and kisses from Kooka, but use common sense.
•In many people the virus will remain dormant, but many people will have flair ups, months and even years after their initial diagnosis.
•Mono can cause a very enlarged spleen, as well as liver problems, so if you have been around us recently and have a "tummy ache" you might want to get that checked out . . . apparently those suckers can explode.
•This is concerning to us based on what Punk likes to dub our "poor genetic material" on my side of the family.
•We had a mild scare with her two years ago, where the doctor suggested the possibility of another autoimmune disorder . . . needless to say, I won't sleep tonight.
Anyway, we will be laying low for a while, trying to rest, trying much harder than a six year-old wants to. Wish me luck.
Kooka has mono.
The kissing disease.
Now aside from wondering who the heck my first grader has been making out with, you may have a few other questions. Unfortunately, I have too many answers. I have been down this road before, and really hoped she wouldn't be. But here it is . . .
•Mono is caused by the Epstein Barr Virus.
•Ninety percent of adults over the age of 35, have the Epstein Barr Virus in their system. Which means, if you are a grown up, most likely you can keep getting hugs and kisses from Kooka, but use common sense.
•In many people the virus will remain dormant, but many people will have flair ups, months and even years after their initial diagnosis.
•Mono can cause a very enlarged spleen, as well as liver problems, so if you have been around us recently and have a "tummy ache" you might want to get that checked out . . . apparently those suckers can explode.
•This is concerning to us based on what Punk likes to dub our "poor genetic material" on my side of the family.
•We had a mild scare with her two years ago, where the doctor suggested the possibility of another autoimmune disorder . . . needless to say, I won't sleep tonight.
Anyway, we will be laying low for a while, trying to rest, trying much harder than a six year-old wants to. Wish me luck.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
party time
I went to the kid's Christmas parties at school.
Kooka's class planned to decorate cookies and watch a movie.
Punk's class played games.
When I asked Punk which game he wanted to bring from home he had this to say:
"Hmmm. Imaginiff. Oh yeah - and I I forgot to tell you, Mr. D says we are supposed to bring a game, but we are also supposed to bring, beer, cigarettes and lots of junk food."
"Really? I didn't see that on the note."
At this point Kooka begins scanning her own teacher's note and mutters, "Hmmmm, I don't think the first grade is having that kind of a party."
She was right - first grade was much more classy - daiquiris, chocolate martinis and caviar.
Kooka's class planned to decorate cookies and watch a movie.
Punk's class played games.
When I asked Punk which game he wanted to bring from home he had this to say:
"Hmmm. Imaginiff. Oh yeah - and I I forgot to tell you, Mr. D says we are supposed to bring a game, but we are also supposed to bring, beer, cigarettes and lots of junk food."
"Really? I didn't see that on the note."
At this point Kooka begins scanning her own teacher's note and mutters, "Hmmmm, I don't think the first grade is having that kind of a party."
She was right - first grade was much more classy - daiquiris, chocolate martinis and caviar.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
christmas gifts
If any of you are looking to do any last minute shopping - here is a great site: 15 of the crappiest gifts ever: 15 gifts
Actually - I almost bought the alarm clock for Punk . . . and we have already ordered the earrings for Treats.
my job
Don't know if I have mentioned this but - I love my job.
Never suspected I would. Figured I had my niche - studio work, competitions, choreography, but noooooooooooooo - I absolutely love working at that school.
Some classes are better than others - but everyday something good happens.
Most recently, I was granted the opportunity to choreograph the school musical, which just happens to be (insert drumroll here) . . . THE WIZ - which is one of my all time favorites.
It will keep us all incredibly busy, but I am incredibly excited.
Never suspected I would. Figured I had my niche - studio work, competitions, choreography, but noooooooooooooo - I absolutely love working at that school.
Some classes are better than others - but everyday something good happens.
Most recently, I was granted the opportunity to choreograph the school musical, which just happens to be (insert drumroll here) . . . THE WIZ - which is one of my all time favorites.
It will keep us all incredibly busy, but I am incredibly excited.
feet
Today Kooka's math assignment was to measure the feet of her family members.
It was all fine and dandy until I measured mine and came up a quarter inch shorter than Punk.
When did that happen?
Probably about the same time that I borrowed a pair of his sweatpants, or grabbed his gloves by mistake.
I hate this.
It was all fine and dandy until I measured mine and came up a quarter inch shorter than Punk.
When did that happen?
Probably about the same time that I borrowed a pair of his sweatpants, or grabbed his gloves by mistake.
I hate this.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
weird-o-rama
There is small world - and then there is like Twilight Zone small world.
See if you can follow this . . .
In 7th grade Sheila moves to town - we are both athletes, both musical - and become best friends almost instantly. We go to the same church, both have annoying little brothers (who grew up to be absolutely wonderful), all through junior high we are inseparable.
Fast forward 18 years (give or take) we both have kids about the same time - both girls.
Fast forward another 6. Her little girl goes off to first grade and ends up sitting next to a little brown-eyed girl. Those two little girls become best friends. Little brown-eyes girl is my niece. (Who even though she looks like my little brother, is not nearly as annoying as he was at 6.) Weird huh?
Keep reading.
So - just this year I send my own baby girl off to first grade, where she sits next to a little blonde haired girl that we will call Sid. Kooka and Sid become fast friends. Kooka invites Sid to a Halloween party where we discover that - guess what? Sid is Sheila's neice.
Now, if you are keeping track it works like this - MY neice is best friends with Sheila's kid. SHEILA'S neice is best friends with my kid.
It gets better.
Kaia decides to invite Sid over tomorrow to play. We can't seem to find Sid's phone number. Nothing is where it should be since we moved. We finally manage to get a hold of it, and we call her mom. She asks where we live. We tell her, and she is quiet for a minute. "Did you just move in?" she asks. I tell her we did. "We live next door to you," she says.
So in the dark cold night. I carry Kooka into the front yard - her mom carries Sid, and the two of them just stare at each other for a minute. "This is sooooo weird!" Kooka says. She has been living next door for two weeks and didn't even know it.
So now - we will be able to have the best slumber parties ever. Brown-eyed girl can come to our house, Sid and Sheila's kid can meet over there and everybody can hang with their best friends and cousins all at once.
Kooka is thrilled beyond belief.
See if you can follow this . . .
In 7th grade Sheila moves to town - we are both athletes, both musical - and become best friends almost instantly. We go to the same church, both have annoying little brothers (who grew up to be absolutely wonderful), all through junior high we are inseparable.
Fast forward 18 years (give or take) we both have kids about the same time - both girls.
Fast forward another 6. Her little girl goes off to first grade and ends up sitting next to a little brown-eyed girl. Those two little girls become best friends. Little brown-eyes girl is my niece. (Who even though she looks like my little brother, is not nearly as annoying as he was at 6.) Weird huh?
Keep reading.
So - just this year I send my own baby girl off to first grade, where she sits next to a little blonde haired girl that we will call Sid. Kooka and Sid become fast friends. Kooka invites Sid to a Halloween party where we discover that - guess what? Sid is Sheila's neice.
Now, if you are keeping track it works like this - MY neice is best friends with Sheila's kid. SHEILA'S neice is best friends with my kid.
It gets better.
Kaia decides to invite Sid over tomorrow to play. We can't seem to find Sid's phone number. Nothing is where it should be since we moved. We finally manage to get a hold of it, and we call her mom. She asks where we live. We tell her, and she is quiet for a minute. "Did you just move in?" she asks. I tell her we did. "We live next door to you," she says.
So in the dark cold night. I carry Kooka into the front yard - her mom carries Sid, and the two of them just stare at each other for a minute. "This is sooooo weird!" Kooka says. She has been living next door for two weeks and didn't even know it.
So now - we will be able to have the best slumber parties ever. Brown-eyed girl can come to our house, Sid and Sheila's kid can meet over there and everybody can hang with their best friends and cousins all at once.
Kooka is thrilled beyond belief.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
punk's debut
I realize that I have had video overkill lately - but the kid looks sooooo darn cute warming up for his first orchestra concert tonight. The fourth grade strings did a great job - they mostly plucked their songs - and did a few with a bow. The violins were in the middle back so he is hard to see in the other videos - but maybe I will post one of those too if you want. This is Punk before the show - the classy kids in the back telling each other to shut up were just part of the extra-special ambiance. Enjoy . . .
kookas news
Today was a delayed start for school. Which meant that I had to call in a sub for school - but it also means that I got to be here for Kookas big news!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
get down with your bad elf
I can't stop. The Charleston is pretty good too - but I am a disco chick at heart . . .
Send your own ElfYourself eCards
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
what a REAL report card looks like
Apparently I have been doing it wrong for the past four years. Punk and Kooka brought home their first publicly funded report cards today. There are no F's to speak of - then again there are no A's or B's either. There are a bunch of S's and D's and numbers and little comments, I am attempting to translate as I write.
What I do know is this: Both kids are doing above average in everything. Punk is great in reading, spelling and art. He is off-the-charts amazing in social studies - which was news to me. Oddly enough - even though his scores are fabulous - his effort grades are just a bit above average - which led Mr. D to write this in the comment section: Punk has made a great adjustment to school, but I still do not think we have seen his best work in all subjects.
I must have showed mild disappointment, because Punk asked me what the deal was. I had to explain, that I would rather have him working his skinny little behind off for a 2, than barely working at all for a 4. He countered with "But a 4 is as high as it goes . . . so, if I am barely doing anything and getting a 4, shouldn't they be giving me something DIFFERENT to do?"
Too bad there is not logic class in 4th grade.
Kooka's report card was positively glowing. "Kooka is doing a GREAT job in ALL areas of first grade!" "She is reading above year end level expectations already and participating in enrichment activities!" "Keep up the good work!" She is a wizard in both gym class, art and reading. She is in challenge math, and her Spanish is quite good as well. But the best part is that her work, study habits and effort were ALL above average grades - which makes me happiest of all.
Overall - I am pretty proud of both of them.
What I do know is this: Both kids are doing above average in everything. Punk is great in reading, spelling and art. He is off-the-charts amazing in social studies - which was news to me. Oddly enough - even though his scores are fabulous - his effort grades are just a bit above average - which led Mr. D to write this in the comment section: Punk has made a great adjustment to school, but I still do not think we have seen his best work in all subjects.
I must have showed mild disappointment, because Punk asked me what the deal was. I had to explain, that I would rather have him working his skinny little behind off for a 2, than barely working at all for a 4. He countered with "But a 4 is as high as it goes . . . so, if I am barely doing anything and getting a 4, shouldn't they be giving me something DIFFERENT to do?"
Too bad there is not logic class in 4th grade.
Kooka's report card was positively glowing. "Kooka is doing a GREAT job in ALL areas of first grade!" "She is reading above year end level expectations already and participating in enrichment activities!" "Keep up the good work!" She is a wizard in both gym class, art and reading. She is in challenge math, and her Spanish is quite good as well. But the best part is that her work, study habits and effort were ALL above average grades - which makes me happiest of all.
Overall - I am pretty proud of both of them.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
two things
There are several things about public school that bother me. But since my time is limited, and my patience is thin, I will limit it to just two tonight.
1) Why in the name of heaven does headlice appear to be RAMPANT at this school?! We have received FOUR notices this year about it - and all four times, it just so happened that the infected child was deskmates with one of mine. WTF? Thank god neither of them have it. If they ever get it, Kooka will be sporting that new Katie Couric do, and Punk will have to pull out his old Charlie Brown shirt, because ALL he will have is one lone hair on his forehead.
Can't they fumigate or something? Next thing you know they will be sending notes home about ringworms, and spiders that crawl up kids noses during naptime and lay eggs. There is only so much I can take.
2) Punk brought home a permission slip today. Apparently the entire fourth grade will be attending a "Kindness Retreat." Yeah - you heard that right . . . they are going to waste an entire day of precious educational instruction on teaching nine year-olds how to spread (and I quote) "kindness in every lunch line and hallway in America." I told Punk that I would sign it, so he could hang out with his friends all day, but I also told him to tell his principal to "bite me, because my child is learning kindness at home."
Seriously, I get what the are trying to do - I really do. But taking 100% of the kids out of school to prove a point to the 10% who are social losers seems a bit ridiculous. Seems to me, they'd have better results, (and utilize everyone's time more effectively) if they just pulled 7 bullies out of class, had some high schoolers kick the crap out of them and say, "hey - how do you like it?" or "do unto others," or some other moral chestnut.
Every day I grow more grateful for the school where I teach. If you sass off to a teacher - they will kick you out. If you harass another kid - they will kick you out. If your grades are bad - they will kick you out. And I am hoping that is true if you get head lice too.
1) Why in the name of heaven does headlice appear to be RAMPANT at this school?! We have received FOUR notices this year about it - and all four times, it just so happened that the infected child was deskmates with one of mine. WTF? Thank god neither of them have it. If they ever get it, Kooka will be sporting that new Katie Couric do, and Punk will have to pull out his old Charlie Brown shirt, because ALL he will have is one lone hair on his forehead.
Can't they fumigate or something? Next thing you know they will be sending notes home about ringworms, and spiders that crawl up kids noses during naptime and lay eggs. There is only so much I can take.
2) Punk brought home a permission slip today. Apparently the entire fourth grade will be attending a "Kindness Retreat." Yeah - you heard that right . . . they are going to waste an entire day of precious educational instruction on teaching nine year-olds how to spread (and I quote) "kindness in every lunch line and hallway in America." I told Punk that I would sign it, so he could hang out with his friends all day, but I also told him to tell his principal to "bite me, because my child is learning kindness at home."
Seriously, I get what the are trying to do - I really do. But taking 100% of the kids out of school to prove a point to the 10% who are social losers seems a bit ridiculous. Seems to me, they'd have better results, (and utilize everyone's time more effectively) if they just pulled 7 bullies out of class, had some high schoolers kick the crap out of them and say, "hey - how do you like it?" or "do unto others," or some other moral chestnut.
Every day I grow more grateful for the school where I teach. If you sass off to a teacher - they will kick you out. If you harass another kid - they will kick you out. If your grades are bad - they will kick you out. And I am hoping that is true if you get head lice too.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
kooka's tour
In case you are not privy to all of the details of our ever-so-chaotic lives right now, you haven't seen our new digs. (And if you aren't privy, you shouldn't be, so don't ask.) Kooka was more than happy to lead the grand tour.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
thanksgiving
Today I spent Thanksgiving with total strangers: Allison, Laura, Martin, Ruth, Nique, Jack, Ben, and one girl that I just call the whiner.
For years I have wanted to spend this day feeding the homeless and today I had that chance. The kitchen was over 100 degrees, the gravy was hot, the boss was bossy, and the orders kept coming. It was the best Thanksgiving ever.
Even though I missed being with my family, I knew that Kooka was wearing her favorite Hanna Andersson dress, and new sparkly earrings. She was busy whipping cream and mixing gravy with her grandma. My children are so lucky. The little girls I saw today were wearing jackets that had been handed down three times too many. They said their prayers, and their father reminded them to put their napkins in their lap. The Vietnam vets sat at their own table, grateful for the hot food and the company.
I hope I get to do this every year.
For years I have wanted to spend this day feeding the homeless and today I had that chance. The kitchen was over 100 degrees, the gravy was hot, the boss was bossy, and the orders kept coming. It was the best Thanksgiving ever.
Even though I missed being with my family, I knew that Kooka was wearing her favorite Hanna Andersson dress, and new sparkly earrings. She was busy whipping cream and mixing gravy with her grandma. My children are so lucky. The little girls I saw today were wearing jackets that had been handed down three times too many. They said their prayers, and their father reminded them to put their napkins in their lap. The Vietnam vets sat at their own table, grateful for the hot food and the company.
I hope I get to do this every year.
Monday, November 24, 2008
sorry
It is not like me to leave this space unattended to for so long, but things have been a bit chaotic here, so I have not been able to post.
I will say this much though . . . both kids are in the midst of deeply missing homeschooling. I know it would be a tough adjustment, but even Kooka is beginning to beg on a daily basis to go back to it - it was a beautiful life, and we all miss it terribly.
I will say this much though . . . both kids are in the midst of deeply missing homeschooling. I know it would be a tough adjustment, but even Kooka is beginning to beg on a daily basis to go back to it - it was a beautiful life, and we all miss it terribly.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
sore loosers
Boy was Punk mad this morning.
Kooka was not much better.
"Great," Punk said, "Now our country is going to suck."
Miss thang could not shake the grumpy look from her face either.
I didn't have much to complain about since I basically "threw my vote away."
But we did have this little chat:
"OK guys, Obama is a good guy. McCain is a good guy. We saw that when they gave their speeches last night. They said some nasty stuff about each other because they were both trying to win, but when it comes down to it - they both want this to be a great country."
"OK - then if they are both so great - why bother picking just one?"
"Because usually people agree with one guy's ideas over another's. And the great thing about America is that you get to choose. Everybody complains about George Bush - but the fact is, the American people elected him twice. They chose him. And now that America has chosen Obama, it is our job to help him - and to let him know if we don't agree with something he does. He is a good, reasonable man, and that is how democracy works."
Kooka was sobbing - seriously. Not sure if she was missing Sarah Palin already, or if she is just so competitive that she can't stand to lose. Probably both.
So, I finally get them settled down a bit, we walk to school together. We are walking down the hall when we meet the future unabomber.
Seriously.
The kid cannot be more than six. He is dressed in full cammo gear - overalls, boots, backpack - the works. His hair has not been combed in days, and he has a wild look in his eyes - either he ate 6 bowls of cocoa puffs this morning, or he has been up all night writing his manifesto. Probably has a copy of Catcher in the Rye in that backpack, and a crush on Jodie Foster.
Anyway - I am the only adult in the hall, and he comes running up to me, gritting his teeth, desperation in his face, and says "I gotta warn you about something!"
"What?"
He grabs my arm, eyes like dinner plates and says, "Do not be happy. Today is not a happy day. I gotta warm you about Obama." I don't say anything, but the look on my face is quizical. Mini- Kaczynski leans in close and whispers, "Obama does NOT believe in America!"
"Really?"
"It's true!"
And then he sprints off down the hall, shouting it over and over - "Do not be happy! Obama hates America!"
I hope his teacher searched his backpack.
Kooka was not much better.
"Great," Punk said, "Now our country is going to suck."
Miss thang could not shake the grumpy look from her face either.
I didn't have much to complain about since I basically "threw my vote away."
But we did have this little chat:
"OK guys, Obama is a good guy. McCain is a good guy. We saw that when they gave their speeches last night. They said some nasty stuff about each other because they were both trying to win, but when it comes down to it - they both want this to be a great country."
"OK - then if they are both so great - why bother picking just one?"
"Because usually people agree with one guy's ideas over another's. And the great thing about America is that you get to choose. Everybody complains about George Bush - but the fact is, the American people elected him twice. They chose him. And now that America has chosen Obama, it is our job to help him - and to let him know if we don't agree with something he does. He is a good, reasonable man, and that is how democracy works."
Kooka was sobbing - seriously. Not sure if she was missing Sarah Palin already, or if she is just so competitive that she can't stand to lose. Probably both.
So, I finally get them settled down a bit, we walk to school together. We are walking down the hall when we meet the future unabomber.
Seriously.
The kid cannot be more than six. He is dressed in full cammo gear - overalls, boots, backpack - the works. His hair has not been combed in days, and he has a wild look in his eyes - either he ate 6 bowls of cocoa puffs this morning, or he has been up all night writing his manifesto. Probably has a copy of Catcher in the Rye in that backpack, and a crush on Jodie Foster.
Anyway - I am the only adult in the hall, and he comes running up to me, gritting his teeth, desperation in his face, and says "I gotta warn you about something!"
"What?"
He grabs my arm, eyes like dinner plates and says, "Do not be happy. Today is not a happy day. I gotta warm you about Obama." I don't say anything, but the look on my face is quizical. Mini- Kaczynski leans in close and whispers, "Obama does NOT believe in America!"
"Really?"
"It's true!"
And then he sprints off down the hall, shouting it over and over - "Do not be happy! Obama hates America!"
I hope his teacher searched his backpack.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
vote
Today we went to vote. The whole house voted for the same guy - except for me. I voted green. Not like my vote counts anyway - nobody's vote counts in Minnesota - unless you are DFL - it is one thing I hate about living here.
I miss Wisconsin - campaigning and feeling like there was some point to it. I am not staunchly one way or the other, but for now - I am firmly green. It is important to Punk and Kooka, and they are the ones who will have to deal with whatever we choose. (I also voted to increase sales tax to benefit the environment and the arts - for which Punk rewarded me with a HUGE hug and tremendous grin.) I voted for all of the incumbent judges - except for one, who has a nasty temper. He did not have an opponent, so I thought of the most level headed person I know - and wrote in her name. (You're welcome Treats).
The electoral college sort of sickens me - because like I said - if you live in MN, it is completely pointless to vote in a presidential election. Kooka and I are snuggling on the bed - she is cheering whenever Brian Williams awards another state to her guy. I love that she is more hyped up about this than Hannah Montana or High School Musical. Hope she stays this way.
funny
This cartoon was up in the copy room at school - there was a republican one too - but I couldn't find it. They were both pretty funny.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
halloween
The video does not do it justice. When darkness fell, and the fog machines started up, the red lights were glowing in the graveyard, and Kooka was passing out chicken bones and peeled eyeballs for treats, then the fun really began.
They are lucky to have a dad who is so talented, neighbors who are willing to look the other way, and each other to share their fiendish plans with.
The video is OK - but really, you HAD to be there.
They are lucky to have a dad who is so talented, neighbors who are willing to look the other way, and each other to share their fiendish plans with.
The video is OK - but really, you HAD to be there.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
WATCH THIS
Oh my GOSH - I almost bought a bunch of this stuff for Punk and Kooka - you HAVE to watch this!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
pumpkins
In case you are like us - and haven't even begun to carve pumpkins - here is your chance:
pumpkin carver
pumpkin carver
Monday, October 20, 2008
punk's art
Punk created this picture using photoshop. He has even more on the weeping rhinos site. His art skills always amaze me. Let him know what you think:
Thursday, October 16, 2008
medea
This is the girl we call Medea. Kooka and I are so proud of her that we had to post this here - hope her parents don't mind.
Bear in mind that the first time we really saw this girl she was on stage dressed as a Greek Godess with purple/green hair - so we knew she had some skills - but are glad she changed the hair.
Anyway, even though our household is terribly divided politically - Kooka loves Sarah Pallin and McCain (because girls can be pretty AND smart, and John McCain was really brave to protect our country) - Punk is all about Cynthia McKinney and the Green Party (girls don't HAVE to be pretty to be smart - and come ON - it's the green party - what else is he gonna choose?), A is likely a McCain guy, and I am moving to Australia,. . . but we all love Medea and her family . . . and the girl knows how to get her point across.
So despite the fact - that I will likely let Punk take my vote -I had to show you guys this. We are so proud of this girl.
Check it out:
Bear in mind that the first time we really saw this girl she was on stage dressed as a Greek Godess with purple/green hair - so we knew she had some skills - but are glad she changed the hair.
Anyway, even though our household is terribly divided politically - Kooka loves Sarah Pallin and McCain (because girls can be pretty AND smart, and John McCain was really brave to protect our country) - Punk is all about Cynthia McKinney and the Green Party (girls don't HAVE to be pretty to be smart - and come ON - it's the green party - what else is he gonna choose?), A is likely a McCain guy, and I am moving to Australia,. . . but we all love Medea and her family . . . and the girl knows how to get her point across.
So despite the fact - that I will likely let Punk take my vote -I had to show you guys this. We are so proud of this girl.
Check it out:
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
but for the grace of god . . .
I volunteered to help in Kooka's class. I'd homeschooled her for two years - no way I could send her off into the wild blue yonder without my occasional interference. So every Tuesday I show up, and do whatever I am asked.
Today it was handwriting.
And the spitter was on my list.
Remember him? First week - spitting in Kooka's hair - never sits still, always sent to the principal's office, talking out of turn.
Lucky me.
So there we sit - the two of us. We are writing numbers - and as I expect, his handwriting is about as nice as his reported behavior. So he plops down at the table and starts to write. My job is to make sure he starts at the top of the line and make his letters the right way.
He starts at the bottom.
"OK, dude," I tell him, "What we have to do on this page is start at the top - right where that little green dot is."
"Why?"
"That's what the rules in this book tell us to do."
"Who made those rules? Why are there so many rules? Can't I just make this stupid six however I want?"
"Well, sometimes people who write school books try to give us rules to make our brains think about something in a certain way.
"Yeah, but whoever wrote this book does not get how my brain works - because this makes nooooooooo sense."
Whoa.
Whoa.
Where had I heard THAT before?
Not three years ago - at my own kitchen table. I cannot count the times that Punk had said them - still does sometimes. And suddenly, the spitter was somebody else - the spitter was a kid who could be helped with a little creative thinking, and maybe even a little hallway homeschooling. He was not a bad kid - just hated pointless rules - and really - who can blame him?
So I say to him, "That is a really good point Spitter. And I agree - sometimes rules do not make sense and we have to make up some new ones. So tell me how your brain works Spitter - what is in there?"
"Cars - a lot of cars are in there."
"OK. So we are gonna make this eight. We are going over the hill first."
"Why?"
"Because that is the way the road goes - otherwise we will smash into other cars."
"Alright."
"But at the top of the hill - there is a cliff we didn't see - and he falls all the way to the bottom - AAAGGGGGGGHHHH! Come on - you can scream . . . "
So he does - the two of us out there falling down cliffs, and then chugging slowly back up to the top. Three tries later - he is making eights the "right" way.
He tries a seven. "Oooooh - ooooh - this one starts at the green dot too, " he says. "And then the wind blows him sideways, and he falls down another cliff - but this one is so steep he can't even get back up - so he stays down there."
"Perfect, " I tell him - and we do the fist bump - but gently - because as he says, you never want to hurt somebody when you are trying to tell them "good job."
Soon he has a page full of numbers and a smile on his face.
I send him back into class and sit there for a minute. I think about what would have happened to Punk, if I had dropped him off at the door in kindergarten. I do not think he would be a hitter, or a screamer, or even a spitter. But I have no doubt he would have asked too many questions, talked out of turn, and wondered who made up all of these stupid rules.
So on behalf of all the struggling Punks out there, the ones who need a kitchen table more than they need a supervised study hall, I will keep going to Kooka's class - even if I never get to work with her at all.
Rock on Spitter.
Rock on.
Today it was handwriting.
And the spitter was on my list.
Remember him? First week - spitting in Kooka's hair - never sits still, always sent to the principal's office, talking out of turn.
Lucky me.
So there we sit - the two of us. We are writing numbers - and as I expect, his handwriting is about as nice as his reported behavior. So he plops down at the table and starts to write. My job is to make sure he starts at the top of the line and make his letters the right way.
He starts at the bottom.
"OK, dude," I tell him, "What we have to do on this page is start at the top - right where that little green dot is."
"Why?"
"That's what the rules in this book tell us to do."
"Who made those rules? Why are there so many rules? Can't I just make this stupid six however I want?"
"Well, sometimes people who write school books try to give us rules to make our brains think about something in a certain way.
"Yeah, but whoever wrote this book does not get how my brain works - because this makes nooooooooo sense."
Whoa.
Whoa.
Where had I heard THAT before?
Not three years ago - at my own kitchen table. I cannot count the times that Punk had said them - still does sometimes. And suddenly, the spitter was somebody else - the spitter was a kid who could be helped with a little creative thinking, and maybe even a little hallway homeschooling. He was not a bad kid - just hated pointless rules - and really - who can blame him?
So I say to him, "That is a really good point Spitter. And I agree - sometimes rules do not make sense and we have to make up some new ones. So tell me how your brain works Spitter - what is in there?"
"Cars - a lot of cars are in there."
"OK. So we are gonna make this eight. We are going over the hill first."
"Why?"
"Because that is the way the road goes - otherwise we will smash into other cars."
"Alright."
"But at the top of the hill - there is a cliff we didn't see - and he falls all the way to the bottom - AAAGGGGGGGHHHH! Come on - you can scream . . . "
So he does - the two of us out there falling down cliffs, and then chugging slowly back up to the top. Three tries later - he is making eights the "right" way.
He tries a seven. "Oooooh - ooooh - this one starts at the green dot too, " he says. "And then the wind blows him sideways, and he falls down another cliff - but this one is so steep he can't even get back up - so he stays down there."
"Perfect, " I tell him - and we do the fist bump - but gently - because as he says, you never want to hurt somebody when you are trying to tell them "good job."
Soon he has a page full of numbers and a smile on his face.
I send him back into class and sit there for a minute. I think about what would have happened to Punk, if I had dropped him off at the door in kindergarten. I do not think he would be a hitter, or a screamer, or even a spitter. But I have no doubt he would have asked too many questions, talked out of turn, and wondered who made up all of these stupid rules.
So on behalf of all the struggling Punks out there, the ones who need a kitchen table more than they need a supervised study hall, I will keep going to Kooka's class - even if I never get to work with her at all.
Rock on Spitter.
Rock on.
Halloween
For the first time ever - we will not go trick or treating this year. Punk - who has long been fascinated with skeletons, haunted houses, and things that go bump in the night, has finally convinced his dad to decorate the yard for Halloween. They are nowhere near done - but already the neighbors are starting to notice. It's gonna be hard to miss once the fog machine, purple lights and thunderclaps get going.
I will post pictures when I can - but in the meantime, feel free to drive by.
I will post pictures when I can - but in the meantime, feel free to drive by.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
conferences
Parent teacher conferences today - interesting, very interesting. For years I have wondered where they stood. I thought I had a good handle on it - but could not wait to get legitimate feedback. It went something like this:
Both Principal and Teacher were outwardly shocked that my homeschooled son had absolutely no social issues and was even (wait for it) . . . popular. His only concern with Punk was that his work does not actually show how smart he is - which has been a battle with that child all along. The teacher's comments were something along the lines of "I expected to be talking to you about his advanced algebra equations, and the fact that he really needs to learn to make friends . . . " But that is not how it went down. According to Teacher, Punk is doing just fine and dandy in school, with the exception of hating timed tests - which again has been a battle all along.
However - there are issues that cannot be ignored. Each child was asked to write a self evaluation for conferences - rate their own behavior, explain what they are good at, and write out a goal for the year. Here is Punk's:
Dear Mom,
So far fourth grade has been OK. Art and music are going well. I can't write bad things on this paper, but I have made all those friends you wanted me to make, so now my goal for the year is trying to get you to home school me again.
love,
Punk
And that little nugget did not escape teacher's attention - it was a bit awkward. Punk likes his teacher a lot - he does not love the structure of school.
But his gifted and talented teacher says that she sees amazing things in Punk - and she can tell that he loves when he comes to that class - and she's right. Overall about what I was expecting.
As for Kooka - both teachers raved about her. Apparently she works very hard to use her Spanish every day and does not just shout out the English answer. I was glad to hear that - because we are counting on her to teach the rest of us. She also has (check this out) a "lot" of friends, and gets along well with everybody. Her artwork was fantastic, and her writing is coming along really well.
Kooka is also being put into a special gifted program. Technically that would not start until third grade, but there are some kids who really need this - so there will be some small group stuff with three kids in her class. She also asked for harder math - and her teacher was happy to oblige. Again - just about what I would expect from Kooka.
Both Principal and Teacher were outwardly shocked that my homeschooled son had absolutely no social issues and was even (wait for it) . . . popular. His only concern with Punk was that his work does not actually show how smart he is - which has been a battle with that child all along. The teacher's comments were something along the lines of "I expected to be talking to you about his advanced algebra equations, and the fact that he really needs to learn to make friends . . . " But that is not how it went down. According to Teacher, Punk is doing just fine and dandy in school, with the exception of hating timed tests - which again has been a battle all along.
However - there are issues that cannot be ignored. Each child was asked to write a self evaluation for conferences - rate their own behavior, explain what they are good at, and write out a goal for the year. Here is Punk's:
Dear Mom,
So far fourth grade has been OK. Art and music are going well. I can't write bad things on this paper, but I have made all those friends you wanted me to make, so now my goal for the year is trying to get you to home school me again.
love,
Punk
And that little nugget did not escape teacher's attention - it was a bit awkward. Punk likes his teacher a lot - he does not love the structure of school.
But his gifted and talented teacher says that she sees amazing things in Punk - and she can tell that he loves when he comes to that class - and she's right. Overall about what I was expecting.
As for Kooka - both teachers raved about her. Apparently she works very hard to use her Spanish every day and does not just shout out the English answer. I was glad to hear that - because we are counting on her to teach the rest of us. She also has (check this out) a "lot" of friends, and gets along well with everybody. Her artwork was fantastic, and her writing is coming along really well.
Kooka is also being put into a special gifted program. Technically that would not start until third grade, but there are some kids who really need this - so there will be some small group stuff with three kids in her class. She also asked for harder math - and her teacher was happy to oblige. Again - just about what I would expect from Kooka.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
update
This new schedule is seriously cramping my style . . . there is no time to write, and I absolutely hate that. Here are some highlights of the week:
Kooka was moved up another 12 levels in reading - putting her at level 24, which is short chapter books. She was thrilled about this - so were we. She also took an Irish step dance class at my school, with Celtic Spring - a family group that was featured on "America's Got Talent." She was the youngest one there, as most of the kids in the class were high schoolers, but she managed to keep up (thanks to a little help from Lucy).
Punk started his gifted reading program - which he loves. He also started art club at my school, and orchestra at his own. He is whipping through his rocket math now, and seems to be settling into a routine. He still claims that school is terribly boring . . . conferences are next week - we will see what happens then.
I gave my first test last week - and nobody aced it. Midterms are due this week. Conferences are the week after. Kooka, Punk and I attended a concert at Hogwarts (what they call my school), and they met some of my students. They asked Punk if he was going to go to school there and he said "OH yeah!"
We'll see . . . . .
Kooka was moved up another 12 levels in reading - putting her at level 24, which is short chapter books. She was thrilled about this - so were we. She also took an Irish step dance class at my school, with Celtic Spring - a family group that was featured on "America's Got Talent." She was the youngest one there, as most of the kids in the class were high schoolers, but she managed to keep up (thanks to a little help from Lucy).
Punk started his gifted reading program - which he loves. He also started art club at my school, and orchestra at his own. He is whipping through his rocket math now, and seems to be settling into a routine. He still claims that school is terribly boring . . . conferences are next week - we will see what happens then.
I gave my first test last week - and nobody aced it. Midterms are due this week. Conferences are the week after. Kooka, Punk and I attended a concert at Hogwarts (what they call my school), and they met some of my students. They asked Punk if he was going to go to school there and he said "OH yeah!"
We'll see . . . . .
Saturday, September 20, 2008
week 3
Week three of school is just ok.
The first week was novel (and short) week two was a drag, and now there is some sort of routine.
Kooka has been moved up 12 levels in reading - which is a blessing to us all. Her rant of "I hate first grade - this is pathetic!" was getting old - especially because we knew it wasn't true. The fact that her initial books were peppered with photos of an evil clown leering at elementary children as he passed out toys, probably didn't help. Not to mention the fact that the creep was pointing out colors to ten year olds. "Are these kids morons?" she kept asking me. "How can they be Punk's age and not know their colors - and why would they ask THAT evil guy to help them?" Now she is reading Aesop's fables, and funky poems - which as she says "is totally up her alley."
Kooka is also refining her Spanish skills. Nothing we did not learn last year - days of the week, colors numbers, basic introductions, but she is much more confident about them. I am sure she will surpass us all by year's end.
Punk has been moved to the gifted program for his reading, which he is really looking forward to. He also starts orchestra on Friday, and will be having art class once a week at my school with the high school kids, so hopefully he will be sufficiently challenged. Here is the instrument he chose:
I expected his first song to be something like "Ode to A Dying Cat" or "Fingernails on the Chalkboard #9" - but in actuality, he was pretty decent. He plucked out a pretty good rhythm and was able to work the strings individually for some good sound.
As for mom - week three finally has me in my groove. The first two weeks I could have done with my eyes shut, but now I am figuring out where my students are at and what they should be learning.
The worst part for me, was realizing that all of the kids had to call me "Ms. - something". Yuck.
So on day one, I told them that they had to help me out - because there was no way I was answering to that all year. At first they settled on "Ms. J" - but then the conversation went like this:
"Can we just call you J?"
"YES! That would be even better."
"What about "Teach J?"
"Yep."
"Or YO! J!"
"Yo J?"
"Noo Nooo - I got it . . . Master J. NO! Masta J. Can we call you Masta J?"
"Yes you can."
I thought they were joking. I really did, but that is indeed what they call me - in class, in the halls, when they refer to me to other teachers. Masta J. We'll see if that name holds when we finish jazz and move on to ballet.
The first week was novel (and short) week two was a drag, and now there is some sort of routine.
Kooka has been moved up 12 levels in reading - which is a blessing to us all. Her rant of "I hate first grade - this is pathetic!" was getting old - especially because we knew it wasn't true. The fact that her initial books were peppered with photos of an evil clown leering at elementary children as he passed out toys, probably didn't help. Not to mention the fact that the creep was pointing out colors to ten year olds. "Are these kids morons?" she kept asking me. "How can they be Punk's age and not know their colors - and why would they ask THAT evil guy to help them?" Now she is reading Aesop's fables, and funky poems - which as she says "is totally up her alley."
Kooka is also refining her Spanish skills. Nothing we did not learn last year - days of the week, colors numbers, basic introductions, but she is much more confident about them. I am sure she will surpass us all by year's end.
Punk has been moved to the gifted program for his reading, which he is really looking forward to. He also starts orchestra on Friday, and will be having art class once a week at my school with the high school kids, so hopefully he will be sufficiently challenged. Here is the instrument he chose:
I expected his first song to be something like "Ode to A Dying Cat" or "Fingernails on the Chalkboard #9" - but in actuality, he was pretty decent. He plucked out a pretty good rhythm and was able to work the strings individually for some good sound.
As for mom - week three finally has me in my groove. The first two weeks I could have done with my eyes shut, but now I am figuring out where my students are at and what they should be learning.
The worst part for me, was realizing that all of the kids had to call me "Ms. - something". Yuck.
So on day one, I told them that they had to help me out - because there was no way I was answering to that all year. At first they settled on "Ms. J" - but then the conversation went like this:
"Can we just call you J?"
"YES! That would be even better."
"What about "Teach J?"
"Yep."
"Or YO! J!"
"Yo J?"
"Noo Nooo - I got it . . . Master J. NO! Masta J. Can we call you Masta J?"
"Yes you can."
I thought they were joking. I really did, but that is indeed what they call me - in class, in the halls, when they refer to me to other teachers. Masta J. We'll see if that name holds when we finish jazz and move on to ballet.
Pirate Day
In case you missed it, yesterday was National Talk-Like-A-Pirate Day. To celebrate, we bought pizza, ale and cupcakes, and ate our dinner like this:
Saturday, September 13, 2008
better late . . .
. . .than never. Here are photos of the kids first day of school.
Kooka spends her day with two teachers. Senora S. (in the picture) teaches in Spanish for the first half of the day, and Mrs. L, teaches the second half.
Punk has Mr. D - who he claims is both strict and funny - but mostly funny.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
structure
I suppose my ADD thrives on a bit of structure, we are having some great new adventures - but this schedule is grueling . . . maybe I will get used to it. Yesterday it went like this:
7:30: Wake up - wake kids up, cook breakfast, fix Kooka's hair, check Punk's. Double check homework assignments.
8:35: Head out the door, walk kids to school. Hang with them until 8:45 when the bell rings.
9:00: Get home, enter grades, check faculty email, review lesson plans.
10:00: Leave for work
10:20: At work - check mailbox, carry stuff into class, sound check the amp, review choreography.
11:00: Class starts
2:35: Done with class, head home.
2:55: At home, do laundry, dishes, exercise the dogs, enter grades for last two classes, plan lessons for next day, make dentist appointments.
3:35: Walk to school to pick up kids.
3:55: Get back home with Punk and Kooka, make them snacks and talk about their day.
4:15: Homework time with Punk. Math - worksheet also reading. Then I work with Kooka - a little bit of both.
5:00: Put dinner in the oven and set up Punk on the laptop so he can blog or work on his short story.
5:10: Mow the lawn. Run to pet store to buy crickets for various amphibious pets.
6:00: Dinnertime
6:30: Dance lessons for Kooka in the basement.
7:10: Bathtime for Kooka - run between upstairs and down, trying to help Punk with spelling and blogging, and washing Kooka's hair. Listen to Punk's story - it's pretty good.
7:30: Punk's bath - help Kooka clean her room. Take out garbage and clean the kitchen until Punk is ready to do flashcards.
7:50: Flash cards with Punk. Feed the dogs.
8:20: Make bedtime snacks for kids.
8:45: Tuck kids in, hang with Punk for a bit.
9:15: Run to grocery store
9:45: Make Kooka's lunch
10:00: Shower
10:25: Grade written assignments, check prices on bulk orders of tap shoes.
11:00: Make a list of all the stuff I cannot forget to do tomorrow.
11:15: Go to bed.
Not that I sleep in bed - nothing seems to solve that little issue, at least now I will be able to afford prescription narcotics.
7:30: Wake up - wake kids up, cook breakfast, fix Kooka's hair, check Punk's. Double check homework assignments.
8:35: Head out the door, walk kids to school. Hang with them until 8:45 when the bell rings.
9:00: Get home, enter grades, check faculty email, review lesson plans.
10:00: Leave for work
10:20: At work - check mailbox, carry stuff into class, sound check the amp, review choreography.
11:00: Class starts
2:35: Done with class, head home.
2:55: At home, do laundry, dishes, exercise the dogs, enter grades for last two classes, plan lessons for next day, make dentist appointments.
3:35: Walk to school to pick up kids.
3:55: Get back home with Punk and Kooka, make them snacks and talk about their day.
4:15: Homework time with Punk. Math - worksheet also reading. Then I work with Kooka - a little bit of both.
5:00: Put dinner in the oven and set up Punk on the laptop so he can blog or work on his short story.
5:10: Mow the lawn. Run to pet store to buy crickets for various amphibious pets.
6:00: Dinnertime
6:30: Dance lessons for Kooka in the basement.
7:10: Bathtime for Kooka - run between upstairs and down, trying to help Punk with spelling and blogging, and washing Kooka's hair. Listen to Punk's story - it's pretty good.
7:30: Punk's bath - help Kooka clean her room. Take out garbage and clean the kitchen until Punk is ready to do flashcards.
7:50: Flash cards with Punk. Feed the dogs.
8:20: Make bedtime snacks for kids.
8:45: Tuck kids in, hang with Punk for a bit.
9:15: Run to grocery store
9:45: Make Kooka's lunch
10:00: Shower
10:25: Grade written assignments, check prices on bulk orders of tap shoes.
11:00: Make a list of all the stuff I cannot forget to do tomorrow.
11:15: Go to bed.
Not that I sleep in bed - nothing seems to solve that little issue, at least now I will be able to afford prescription narcotics.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
PLEASE
Punk needs your help to save the prairie dogs - go to his weeping rhinos blog, find the post, and follow the link to sign the petition. Please tell your friends - the destruction is set to begin in two weeks!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
pros and cons
So - as much as we miss the whole homeschool thing, there have been a few upsides to the new arrangement. So in the interest of fair and honest reporting - I will lay out both sides of the story:
PRO: Both kids have met some really nice friends
CON: I don't know the friends names, because neither of them can seem to remember - maybe they are imaginary.
PRO: Punk is taking more responsibility for memorizing math facts, because he doesn't want to look like an idiot in front of the whole class.
CON: His conceptual math is actually really good. he was tested at a seventh grade level at the beginning of third grade. But now the only thing he is concerned with is SPEED.
PRO: I am really enjoying making Kooka's lunch every day. It used to be just another chore, but now it feels really good to do something nice for her when she is away. She is such a good eater and can't wait to find out what healthy surprises I made for her.
CON: Punk takes hot lunch - which has the daily option of a Smuckers Uncrustable if you don't like the main entree. I don't even WANT to know how many he has eaten.
PRO: Kooka is learning Spanish.
CON: So is the kid who spit in her hair - and we have not yet learned the word for "hyperactive looser with minimal social skills." We have mastered a fairly decent "STOP IT" and a nice two-handed-shove - which I think translates well in any language.
PRO: Kooka's teacher looks like a Disney Princess.
CON: We have spent nearly $300 to make sure Kooka can look like that too.
PRO:Punk is bringing home a new friend every day.
CON: I am having to feed those new friends every day.
PRO: It is nice to have a modicum of time to myself.
CON: Who am I kidding - I never have time to myself, I am just teaching somebody elses' kids now.
PRO: Both kids have met some really nice friends
CON: I don't know the friends names, because neither of them can seem to remember - maybe they are imaginary.
PRO: Punk is taking more responsibility for memorizing math facts, because he doesn't want to look like an idiot in front of the whole class.
CON: His conceptual math is actually really good. he was tested at a seventh grade level at the beginning of third grade. But now the only thing he is concerned with is SPEED.
PRO: I am really enjoying making Kooka's lunch every day. It used to be just another chore, but now it feels really good to do something nice for her when she is away. She is such a good eater and can't wait to find out what healthy surprises I made for her.
CON: Punk takes hot lunch - which has the daily option of a Smuckers Uncrustable if you don't like the main entree. I don't even WANT to know how many he has eaten.
PRO: Kooka is learning Spanish.
CON: So is the kid who spit in her hair - and we have not yet learned the word for "hyperactive looser with minimal social skills." We have mastered a fairly decent "STOP IT" and a nice two-handed-shove - which I think translates well in any language.
PRO: Kooka's teacher looks like a Disney Princess.
CON: We have spent nearly $300 to make sure Kooka can look like that too.
PRO:Punk is bringing home a new friend every day.
CON: I am having to feed those new friends every day.
PRO: It is nice to have a modicum of time to myself.
CON: Who am I kidding - I never have time to myself, I am just teaching somebody elses' kids now.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
first day
Here is it how it went - just a few minutes before blastoff:
Kooka had a marvelous time, and rumor has it that Punk was the Mac Daddy of the art class. Punk had some hip new friends and an invitation to play already. But the verdict is still out . . . one kid is sold - the other will take some work.
Kooka had a marvelous time, and rumor has it that Punk was the Mac Daddy of the art class. Punk had some hip new friends and an invitation to play already. But the verdict is still out . . . one kid is sold - the other will take some work.
Friday, August 29, 2008
mourning
I would be lying if I didn't admit that I miss homeschooling already. Nobody is actually IN school yet, but already I can't stand it. All the stuff we ordered for this year is sitting in box on the couch - and it is the coolest stuff - solar powered robot kits, election games, city planning kits from JA - it was going to be a great year.
But now I am sending them both away. Their teachers seem nice enough, both kids are somewhat excited about the adventure (though Punk says he is SURE he will lose an entire year of intelligence), so why am I so grumpy about it?
But now I am sending them both away. Their teachers seem nice enough, both kids are somewhat excited about the adventure (though Punk says he is SURE he will lose an entire year of intelligence), so why am I so grumpy about it?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Punk's message
This is sooooo cool . . . .it is merely a rough draft of what they are working on, and only the very beginning - but it is a start of Punk's PSA about water. It's not Speilberg or anything - no 3D effects or computer generated dinosaurs, but it is so very Punk. Hearing his voice over the nature film almost made me cry, because I know how important the environment is to him. If you click the links on the page after the video - Punk introduces a new concept or game to the kids - it's pretty sweet. Since this is just a draft, I don't know how long this will be up - but here is your chance to check it out:
CLICK HERE TO SEE DEW
CLICK HERE TO SEE DEW
Saturday, August 23, 2008
the scoop
I have been keeping this mum for a while . . . in great part, because I was not sure how I felt about it. . . but at the risk of being accidentally found out, I need to say it here:
Punk is going to public school. He is not thrilled about it - and I am even less so, but it is necessary . . . because I will be teaching someone else's kids.
It feels kind of weird to be hired as a real teacher, I'll be working at a private school, teaching dance in their arts program. It is the perfect gig for me - and a free $130,000 private school education for each of my kids once they reach 6th grade . . . IF that is what we choose.
And I am not sure what we will decide to be quite honest. I still consider us homeschoolers - and this is just another adventure for us. Who knows how long it will last.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
the luckiest girl
She was beautiful in her little turquoise dress. Her talent portion was spot on - and her interview was incredible . . . she did the best she can do . . . and she lost. So why is it that she is the luckiest girl?
Because when she hopped off stage, she had almost 20 people there, hugging her, hi-fiving her - and it gets even better.
Later that night, when she went to the older girls coronation, she got so many compliments on her singing (which by the way - was a thousand times better today than the practice video) - total strangers coming up to her, complimenting her, telling her how talented she is. And then there was this one princess - from Lakeville I think. She stopped Kooka after the show and said, "I have to tell you something - your singing was amazing - it was the best part of the show."
Kooka smiled with a dutiful "Thank you," which left the unspoken 'thanks but I still lost' hanging in the air.
And then this princess, kneels down and says, "You know - I'd rather be the most talented girl in the room, then be the one wearing the crown."
"Why?"
"Because at the end of the year - that other little girl is going to have to give that crown back."
Kooka thought about that all the way to the car. And by the time she sat down she was grinning ear to ear. "Mom, do you really think I was the best talent there?"
"Hands down Kooka - and not just because I am your mom. I do this for a job - you were the best one."
"Then I am glad," she said, "These flowers will get all withered up, and this paper program will probably get lost, and when the year is over you can't be the princess anymore . . . but I will never ever have to give up my talent, or my singing or my dancing. I will never have to give up being a good friend."
Thank you Princess Lakeville - wherever you are . . .you gave my little princess sweet dreams and renewed her confidence. You earned that goodwill ambassador crown tonight.
Because when she hopped off stage, she had almost 20 people there, hugging her, hi-fiving her - and it gets even better.
Later that night, when she went to the older girls coronation, she got so many compliments on her singing (which by the way - was a thousand times better today than the practice video) - total strangers coming up to her, complimenting her, telling her how talented she is. And then there was this one princess - from Lakeville I think. She stopped Kooka after the show and said, "I have to tell you something - your singing was amazing - it was the best part of the show."
Kooka smiled with a dutiful "Thank you," which left the unspoken 'thanks but I still lost' hanging in the air.
And then this princess, kneels down and says, "You know - I'd rather be the most talented girl in the room, then be the one wearing the crown."
"Why?"
"Because at the end of the year - that other little girl is going to have to give that crown back."
Kooka thought about that all the way to the car. And by the time she sat down she was grinning ear to ear. "Mom, do you really think I was the best talent there?"
"Hands down Kooka - and not just because I am your mom. I do this for a job - you were the best one."
"Then I am glad," she said, "These flowers will get all withered up, and this paper program will probably get lost, and when the year is over you can't be the princess anymore . . . but I will never ever have to give up my talent, or my singing or my dancing. I will never have to give up being a good friend."
Thank you Princess Lakeville - wherever you are . . .you gave my little princess sweet dreams and renewed her confidence. You earned that goodwill ambassador crown tonight.
Friday, August 15, 2008
practice
This is Kooka's Mary Poppins practice . . . . it is mine too, I have never uploaded video before - hopefully it works.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
cat out of the bag
I suppose it is about time . . . not that we are ashamed of the fact, lots of people do it, but there is a very strange feeling about finally announcing this:
Kooka is going to public school.
This was completely her idea, and for the record I have been more than supportive. Personally, I loved school and all it entailed - school shopping, student council, sports, projects. I think Kooka will love it too.
But man I will miss that kid.
Stay tuned for the diatribes to follow . . . because even though I am 100% behind this experiment - even though I just consider it another homeschooling experience - much like a trip to the zoo, I have puh-lenty to vent about already . . . and class doesn't even start for another three weeks.
Kooka is going to public school.
This was completely her idea, and for the record I have been more than supportive. Personally, I loved school and all it entailed - school shopping, student council, sports, projects. I think Kooka will love it too.
But man I will miss that kid.
Stay tuned for the diatribes to follow . . . because even though I am 100% behind this experiment - even though I just consider it another homeschooling experience - much like a trip to the zoo, I have puh-lenty to vent about already . . . and class doesn't even start for another three weeks.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
what the . . . ?
What is this?
It was on the swingset at an event Kooka had to go to.
Kids were going crazy for this thing - and every single one of them looked like they were riding piggyback on an a-bomb to Hiroshima.
Seriously - what is this?
And who puts this kind of stuff on a kids swingset?
six days
Less than one week before Kooka's big day. She has already planned her talent portion for next year - she is prepared - but still, she is Kooka, and she is so hard on herself.
She's had a great time with all of the other candidates, and is very excited to perform her Mary Poppins song. Her accompanist is amazing, her friends will be there to watch, and there will be cake afterwards - so it promises to be a pretty good day no matter what.
Here are the details, if you care to join us:
2:00 - 4:00pm: Coronation at the Middle School Auditorium (We still have tickets if you need them)
Cake and tea afterwards at our house
7:00: Queen's coronation
summer
This is what summer looks like for us . . . .
Big dives in Katies pool for Kooka.
As many amphibians as Punk can hold.
Thankfully, we have discovered that bullfrogs are an invasive species. It's illegal to harbor one unless you intend to use it as bait.
Punk is harboring one. He says it is bait for making friends.
He's found six so far this year - only managed to catch one, but it is soooo much cuter than the two toads he insists on keeping.
These are the very best days of all - when he is nine and she is six, and we are all so lucky. (Well all of us except that bullfrog who's new home is sitting on top of Punks dresser).
Big dives in Katies pool for Kooka.
As many amphibians as Punk can hold.
Thankfully, we have discovered that bullfrogs are an invasive species. It's illegal to harbor one unless you intend to use it as bait.
Punk is harboring one. He says it is bait for making friends.
He's found six so far this year - only managed to catch one, but it is soooo much cuter than the two toads he insists on keeping.
These are the very best days of all - when he is nine and she is six, and we are all so lucky. (Well all of us except that bullfrog who's new home is sitting on top of Punks dresser).
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
djjd
The long wait will soon be over. On Saturday August 16th, Kooka will participate in the DJJD junior royalty coronation.
She has been practicing daily and hopes you will all come to watch her Mary Poppins song. (And if you do - we respectfully demand you buy your ticket/button from us - as we are required to sell the entire stack we were given). Buttons are $4 and tickets are $3.
She is a bit nervous, but I think I am more so. With Punk - it was all about the performance . . . Kooka actually wants to win. We'll see - I haven't had a chance to assess the competition yet. Hopefully they are all tone-deaf, lazy-eyed ragamuffins who swear in public, and smoke backstage. It would also be great if they had tatoos and showed up drunk - not only would that help Kooka's chances - but it would make the talent portion soooooooooo much more bearable.
She has been practicing daily and hopes you will all come to watch her Mary Poppins song. (And if you do - we respectfully demand you buy your ticket/button from us - as we are required to sell the entire stack we were given). Buttons are $4 and tickets are $3.
She is a bit nervous, but I think I am more so. With Punk - it was all about the performance . . . Kooka actually wants to win. We'll see - I haven't had a chance to assess the competition yet. Hopefully they are all tone-deaf, lazy-eyed ragamuffins who swear in public, and smoke backstage. It would also be great if they had tatoos and showed up drunk - not only would that help Kooka's chances - but it would make the talent portion soooooooooo much more bearable.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
finally
OK - we didn't totally fix the picture situation - but at least have a temporary solution. Sorry these pics are old - but at least they are here.
Punk recorded his cartoon about two weeks ago - he had a blast, even though the client and the sound guy did not always agree on what direction to give him. He did a fantastic job and we can't wait to see the finished product.
While he was in the booth - Kooka was hanging out at Club Libby Lu - getting a makeover with Aunt H. She chose the rocker look - and man did she look cute.
Punk recorded his cartoon about two weeks ago - he had a blast, even though the client and the sound guy did not always agree on what direction to give him. He did a fantastic job and we can't wait to see the finished product.
While he was in the booth - Kooka was hanging out at Club Libby Lu - getting a makeover with Aunt H. She chose the rocker look - and man did she look cute.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
not
I am NOT lazy, it's just that our computer/picture thingy is broken, so I can't get the stuff I want on here.
Speaking of not being able to get what I want - why can I not buy this album anywhere? It is ticking me off.
Speaking of not being able to get what I want - why can I not buy this album anywhere? It is ticking me off.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
4th of july
Last day of horse camp • A trail ride for Kooka • Baking a firecracker cake • A visit from grandma, grandpa, and aunt h • lots of sunscreen • a dead chicken foot • wild raspberries • Medea, Schroeder and Treats help us light off smoke bombs and firecrackers • Laying in the front yard• Fireworks over our head • Bug spray - lots of it • Falling asleep on the trampoline
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
what i am
Tonight's diner conversation goes something like this:
"So, if I were going to assign everyone in our family to be a sea animal based on their personality, it would go like this:" (one guess who starts this thread) "OK, umm, I would be a squid, Kooka an angelfish, mom a sea turtle, and dad and octopus."
"Wait - why am I the octopus and not the squid?"
"Because you have a round head."
"So - you said this was personality. Why do I have to be the octopus?"
He was not happy with any of his assignments actually. Next round put him as a manatee then a pufferfish, Kooka got baby dolphin and clownfish, Punk an orca whale and eel, and me a starfish and seal.
Then came tropical version - he got lion - don't know why he's complaining about that one. Kooka got scarlet mccaw, Punk a red eyed tree frog, and I got koala.
Overall I think I fared pretty well. But still, I am not sure how I feel about being a combination turtle, starfish, seal and koala. It either makes me wise, beautiful, fun and snuggly - or old, lazy, loud and fat.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
kooka's best thing
My mom said I could pick a camp to do this summer - and my best thing is horses, so I picked horse riding. On my first day I met my horse, his name was Bernie. He looked like a white horse with black spots. My teacher's name is Annie. First I rode him bareback with just holding on his mane. Then Annie told me to put my hands on my hips and ride, second she told me to put my arms out. She also told me to do around the world (like in the picture). Pretend that you are regular on a horse, then you have to stay on the horse and put your leg over so you are sitting like ladies did in olden times, then you turn again so you are facing the back, then to the other side so you are olden times again, then back to the front.
So far my favorite part of horse lessons was when I got to ride by myself with the reigns and also ride in the field. I love my horse lessons.
by kooka
Thursday, June 26, 2008
who?
Recognize this old man?
It's Punk.
The asian girl is Kooka.
They've both been morphed. Punk was aged aged about 70 years on my new favorite website: face of the future.
You can also turn yourself into a drunk, an ape, a baby, a cartoon, a teenager - it's amazing! Punk as a teenager made me more than a little sad - but I am happy to report that he is a handsome dude. Kooka looked pretty good in everything - except the old lady get-up. Go check it out for yourself.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
punk's dream
He has always wanted to be a cartoon, and now he will get his chance.
Punk got a call today that he will be featured as "Dew" the cartoon raindrop who is the spokesperson for the water conservation project in Dallas, Texas.
The agent and client said such nice things about him, and he can't wait to get back into the foley booth.
Punk got a call today that he will be featured as "Dew" the cartoon raindrop who is the spokesperson for the water conservation project in Dallas, Texas.
The agent and client said such nice things about him, and he can't wait to get back into the foley booth.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
girl camp
With the boys away at cub scout camp, Kooka and I decided to have some girly time.
We started with grocery shopping, so we could make a meal that Kooka loves - spaghetti and meatballs. I will not reveal the recipe here - it's top secret, but suffice it to say, that neither of us had ever had such good Italian food. We just sat at the table looking at each other, our eyes wide, not really believing we had pulled this off. The whole house still smells like fresh garlic and warm parmesan.
After that it was spa time. Kooka got a facial mask, a special candlelit bath, a rainbow pedicure and manicure, while she ate tiny chocolates and sipped cool milk from the rosebud china cup.
She was so grateful for the whole day - kept saying, "I can't believe somebody would do all of this, just for me - just so I would have a good day."
I would do it every day if I could.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
hurry up
Not sure how long this link will work - but if you are quick - you might get a chance to see Punk and Kooka's TV commercial online.
Take this LINK. You have to listen to the little speech first. Then hit the button on the left that says, "Event Previews" - and hit the link that says "All Star Kick Off." If you see a white SUV starting it out - you've hit the right commercial.
Take this LINK. You have to listen to the little speech first. Then hit the button on the left that says, "Event Previews" - and hit the link that says "All Star Kick Off." If you see a white SUV starting it out - you've hit the right commercial.
Monday, June 16, 2008
cow and boy
Nobody can ever replace our favorite trouble-makers Calvin and Hobbes. But there is a new kid in town and there is something incredibly familiar about him. Billy is a blonde-haired, homeschooled animal lover, whose best friend is a cow. They are the main characters in Cow and Boy, a comic strip by Minnesota artist Mark Leiknes. Punk an I found it quite by accident in Barnes and Noble. Here is a strip from Punk's new book.
sometimes
Sometimes I cannot keep up.
I would like to write something wonderful about Punk's birthday weekend - but I cannot possibly fit it all in - so here it is in a nutshell - and pictures.
Birthday breakfast; too many presents; overnight trip to Waterpark of America - with flyboy and sport girl; giant keg of rootbeer; peanut butter brownies; arcade; dry corn pops for breakfast; buying hermit crabs; Walking with Dinosaurs at the Excell Center (thanks Grandma and Grandpa); Father's Day presents.
It looked something like this:
I would like to write something wonderful about Punk's birthday weekend - but I cannot possibly fit it all in - so here it is in a nutshell - and pictures.
Birthday breakfast; too many presents; overnight trip to Waterpark of America - with flyboy and sport girl; giant keg of rootbeer; peanut butter brownies; arcade; dry corn pops for breakfast; buying hermit crabs; Walking with Dinosaurs at the Excell Center (thanks Grandma and Grandpa); Father's Day presents.
It looked something like this:
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
suckers
I am an easy target - at least I must look like one. And apparently - it's genetic.
We can't walk 10 yards through the Mall of America without getting pounced. Kooka and I both get hit. "You like pretty jewelry?" Of course she does. "Miss, miss - I make you smell soooo good." She likes to smell good. "Are you a model? I am going to make you a Supermodel." Give me a break.
But the guy at "Magic Hair" has refined his technique. He kneels down to Kooka as we walk by. His eyebrows raise, and in a thick accent he tells her, "You such a pretty girl." Much to my horror - she smiles. She should be running away - she should be grabbing my leg and shouting "stranger danger". But noooooooooooo. She grins, hypnotized by the stranger who says, "I make you even prettier with curls - you like that?" Her eyes glaze over and she nods, hopping into his chair like a migrating lemming.
"What is your name?" he asks.
"Kooka."
"Beautiful name. I, Tony - and if you wonder of my accent - I Israeli. I work hard here and we have no dental insurance, so I make you good deal." Actually - his teeth look fine - not like he's a pirate or anything. I steel myself for the pitch.
He begins to curl her hair. "Now, Kooka's mom. This is space age hair curler. One hundred percent ceramic - not just coated with ceramic - one HUNDRED percent."
I nod.
"This not ordinary curler. It can straighten and curl, and it uses far - infrared technology."
"Really? Infrared?"
"NO! FAR-infrared - much better than infrared."
"Like robot eyes?"
"Yes just like robot eyes. Sends waves deep into hair. Made of same stuff as Space shuttle." I watch Tony spin her golden locks into perfect spirals. They will all fall out by the time he's finished.
"You see this?" Kooka's hair is starting to smoke and sizzle - it's pretty hard to miss.
"Yeah - I see it."
"That not steam - that natural oils, that protect hair. Natural oils are soo good, they keep hair shiny. That not steam - that natural oil."
"Well - where is it all going? I mean doesn't she want to keep that natural oil? Sorta looks like it's all escaping."
"What is escaping? Nothing is escaping!"
"That - that vapor - her natural oils."
"Oh - that stuff not natural oils - that just steam." I do not even know what to say to that. Luckily I don't have to say anything, because Tony keeps right on going. "Now - normally we sell this for 220 dollars, but just for you - and because I have no dental insurance - I sell for sixty-five dollars."
"Ooooh," Kooka pipes in, "That is a good deal."
"Yessssss," he purrs, "Now you try Kooka's mom. It sooo easy."
It not so easy. In order to make it curl, you have to hold it at the base - and the top, and the infrared technology burns my fingers - not once - but twice.
"Ouch!"
Tony takes it back and scowls. "It not so hot," he says. His fingers are calloused. Looks like he's been herding wild dragons for the past 6 months - no wonder he can't feel anything.
Needless to say, we don't splurge on the space-age hair curler. But Kooka leaves feeling fabulous - and for that, I leave a tip. Not enough for dental insurance - but maybe enough for some burn ointment.
birthdays
We celebrate birthdays like Mardi Gras around here . . . Kooka's first, then family party, Mom's half birthday - which we don't celebrate but seems to excite both kids, Punk's party, and somewhere in there will be the new cousin's b-day too. We eat leftover cake for weeks.
Anyway here are a few highlights from this year's shindig: Kooka performing a magic show (she's surprisingly good), Punk in his element - hanging with the uncles playing with his new catapult from Uncle Psuedonym, and the cake that Punk decorated - a toad for him and butterflies for his sister (one of which is being devoured). Enjoy.
Anyway here are a few highlights from this year's shindig: Kooka performing a magic show (she's surprisingly good), Punk in his element - hanging with the uncles playing with his new catapult from Uncle Psuedonym, and the cake that Punk decorated - a toad for him and butterflies for his sister (one of which is being devoured). Enjoy.
Monday, June 9, 2008
was i wrong?
Read the earlier post . . .it is still true. And if you think I was exaggerating - check out this reunion video:
Anybody wanna tell me why they hired 18 year-old models to drape themselves over 40 year old men? Furthermore, it doesn't even look like the guys are happy about it. They all have this polite "get off me" grin and one of them is actually running away.
Like I said before - poor marketing strategy. The 38 year old women who are pulling out their painter hats and and high tops, do not want to see that crap. These guys have KIDS that old.
And I really cannot believe that they pulled out the old "Hanging Tough" moves at the end . . . who choreographed this? And more importantly why didn't anybody ask me?
Having said that - I have listened to this song like 50 times. It's like the one LFO tune that makes no sense, but that I cannot wash out of my brain.
At least the BeeGees have some street cred. I should just stick to them.
Anybody wanna tell me why they hired 18 year-old models to drape themselves over 40 year old men? Furthermore, it doesn't even look like the guys are happy about it. They all have this polite "get off me" grin and one of them is actually running away.
Like I said before - poor marketing strategy. The 38 year old women who are pulling out their painter hats and and high tops, do not want to see that crap. These guys have KIDS that old.
And I really cannot believe that they pulled out the old "Hanging Tough" moves at the end . . . who choreographed this? And more importantly why didn't anybody ask me?
Having said that - I have listened to this song like 50 times. It's like the one LFO tune that makes no sense, but that I cannot wash out of my brain.
At least the BeeGees have some street cred. I should just stick to them.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
six - by Kooka
Today was my sixth birthday.
When I woke up, I found some balloons and decorations in my room. Then I went to get Punk and we found one of my presents - it was a barnyard for my dollhouse people. Punk gave me a Leapster chip and some new earrings. I also got a ping pong paddle, a new watch, a magic kit, some cherry earrings and nail polish that changes color in the sun, a poncho for Maia and some dollhouse people.
It was a lot of stuff to get for my birthday - I wasn't expecting all of it.
I got to be the Queen for the whole day! For breakfast we had some french toast - and some of it was shaped like mini stars!
Then I listened to my favorite music and watched "Charlottes Web".
Mommy made my special dinner - macaroni and cheese, plus "corn on the hob" plus broccoli, plus chicken, plus garlic croissants, plus strawberry banana yo-j.
After that we painted my nails and mom taught me some magic tricks from my kit so I could show them to Punk and Daddy. Now I am going to have some birthday brownies with rainbow sprinkles. I am going to blow out my candles and make a wish - but I can't tell you what my wish is because then it will not come true.
I think I liked being five more - it was just so fun. But six will be good because I think I will be bigger and can be in more things. I think I will go measure myself to see if I am bigger - I think I am a tiny bit.
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