Like I described in my last post, I have a classroom full of characters.
But did you know that I have a superhero in my class?
During reading groups one day this week, one of my boys (we'll call him Bobby), was in the middle of a deep discussion (as deep as third graders can go) as his group was answering questions. I had other groups going on as well, so I was circulating around the room. Without warning or hesitation, Bobby approached me and tapped my arm. This is the conversation that followed (please picture the very straight and serious faces we both had throughout this conversation):
"Mrs. McLaughlin, did you know that I have really tough skin?"
"No Bobby, I didn't. How do you know?"
"My mom told me I have tough skin. It's really hard to cut it."
"Well, I hope you haven't been trying!"
"No, but when I was a baby, just 'borned' in the hospital, they tried to cut my skin and my face was just like this." [insert very serious, stone-cold, third grade boy's face--no pain there!]
"Wow, Bobby. That's impressive."
"Yeah, and I heal really fast, too. Like, it just closes right up if I start bleeding."
"That's amazing! You sound like a superhero or something, Bobby!"
"Yeah, I know."
And then he returned to his seat and continued his reading discussion. And that was that.
I love third graders.
Speaking of amazing things, I am attempting to run a 5k in the morning. New feat? No. But it has been awhile, and I have not been running like I should be! It will definitely be a struggle. But I can struggle for a good cause. The run is for the pregnancy clinic in the town in which Brent and I have been attending church. Speaking of that (as Mrs. Meryhew asked), we have been attending a church for a little over a month now. We are really liking it and are hoping to get involved with a lifegroup this month. This last Sunday was their youth sunday, where the youth served and led, and then the youth minister preached. Aftershocks anyone? It made us a little homesick, but also glad to be involved with a church where youth are given that important opportunity and encouragement to lead. We plan to continue to go there and get more involved. Oh, and bonus (Lydia and Pam, this one's for you!): their women's ministry just started a Zumba class 3 days a week! I do love Zumba! :)
Well, that's about all from the McLaughlin estate for now. Brent is currently trying to take over Reach and I have been grading papers. I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend! We'll be spending the day on Sunday watching football and preparing for the big game Sunday night (the Manning brothers playing against each other, hopefully big brother Peyton will have a better day!). Enjoy the weekend, ya'll! :)
[love&hugs]
Friday, September 17, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Fall officially arrives (ignore the calendar)
Helloooo and long-time, no see, friends!
Sorry about the drought between posts again. I promise, I'll get better!
Since my last post, I have started school. We visited our nation's capital. And, most importantly, football season has started.
YAHOO! I love football.
I went to Pier 1 yesterday and got a fall wreath and a few fall candles (pumpkin candles = best ever). The woman at the register sort of laughed at me, saying "Well, I guess you're ready for the fall already, huh?" There was definitely a hint of sarcasm in her voice . . . I suppose from the pre-autumn purchases I was making (the calendar doesn't officially say it's fall until September 23). But in my head, I was thinking, "Lady? Football season is here. Don't you know that football = fall? Quit making fun of me!"
I didn't say it aloud, but I was definitely thinking it. When I came home and told Brent the story, before I told him what I had been thinking, he actually said "Well, it's football season. I think that means it's fall!"
I love my husband. :)
So, yes, I am a teensy bit excited about the fact that football season has arrived once again. However, it is definitely bittersweet because it just doesn't feel the same here. For one thing, I can't get anything about OSU games and I didn't get to see the Colts-Texans game (ignoring the fact that they lost embarrassingly). It's also very different to watch football without family or friends around.
Anyways, I love football. Truly. Love.
But let's move on to school. What a night-and-day difference it has been in just these first weeks! I am in heaven compared to my situation last year. I am thanking God for the wonderful work environment that I have at my school, and the extremely-reduced stress load. I don't dread going to school every day, and it's just such a relief. I have a very chatty (emphasis on VERY chatty) group of kids. But you know what? It's ok. I can deal with that. It's really not bad at all.
I have a VERY involved group of parents (positives and negatives, but mostly positives) and a very bright group of students. They are quite a characteristic bunch, but so much fun! I love being back with 3rd graders. My favorite story from one of them so far:
Scene: Lining up for lunch (just to show you the complete random-ness of this conversation)
"Mrs. McLaughlin, did you know there are motion-sensor lights in the bathroom?"
"Well, no, Macy, I didn't know that."
"Yeah, there are. And if you are ever in there and are pooping and so you have to sit still for more than 2 minutes, they will go off on you and you'll be pooping in the dark."
Me = trying to keep a straight face. Then another student chimes in:
"Yeah, but if they go out on you while you're sitting there, all you have to do is wave your arms around like this." [yes, she did proceed to demonstrate what it looks like to be sitting on the toilet when the lights go out on you and you wave your arms around to get the lights to come back on] "And then, they just, come back on!"
Wow, ladies. Thank you for the information.
It was definitely hard to keep a straight face for this very serious conversation between myself and my two 3rd graders! But that's why I love them.
So, school is going well. What a nice phrase to be able to say! I also had a conversation with a first-year teacher at our school. What a relief and amazing feeling it was to be able to say that 1) yes, I understand how miserable you are and 2) yes, I promise it gets better. No really, it does!
And enough about that for now. This weekend, Brent and I got to go to DC! Neither of us had been, so we had been looking forward to it. The best part was the fact that it was a 20 min. car ride and 35 min. Metro ride from our apartment to the center of DC. Awesome!
As we stepped off the Metro, we headed to the escalator, which took us up into the city, where we were greeted by the bright sunshine and a crowd of protestors marching down the street (remember, it was 9/11). We were amidst a Tea Party Rally!
We headed towards the Washington Monument, with the surrounding flags at half-mast. Truly beautiful.
Then, we walked past the WWII Memorial and the reflection pool, to the Lincoln Memorial.
Sorry about the drought between posts again. I promise, I'll get better!
Since my last post, I have started school. We visited our nation's capital. And, most importantly, football season has started.
YAHOO! I love football.
I went to Pier 1 yesterday and got a fall wreath and a few fall candles (pumpkin candles = best ever). The woman at the register sort of laughed at me, saying "Well, I guess you're ready for the fall already, huh?" There was definitely a hint of sarcasm in her voice . . . I suppose from the pre-autumn purchases I was making (the calendar doesn't officially say it's fall until September 23). But in my head, I was thinking, "Lady? Football season is here. Don't you know that football = fall? Quit making fun of me!"
I didn't say it aloud, but I was definitely thinking it. When I came home and told Brent the story, before I told him what I had been thinking, he actually said "Well, it's football season. I think that means it's fall!"
I love my husband. :)
So, yes, I am a teensy bit excited about the fact that football season has arrived once again. However, it is definitely bittersweet because it just doesn't feel the same here. For one thing, I can't get anything about OSU games and I didn't get to see the Colts-Texans game (ignoring the fact that they lost embarrassingly). It's also very different to watch football without family or friends around.
Anyways, I love football. Truly. Love.
But let's move on to school. What a night-and-day difference it has been in just these first weeks! I am in heaven compared to my situation last year. I am thanking God for the wonderful work environment that I have at my school, and the extremely-reduced stress load. I don't dread going to school every day, and it's just such a relief. I have a very chatty (emphasis on VERY chatty) group of kids. But you know what? It's ok. I can deal with that. It's really not bad at all.
I have a VERY involved group of parents (positives and negatives, but mostly positives) and a very bright group of students. They are quite a characteristic bunch, but so much fun! I love being back with 3rd graders. My favorite story from one of them so far:
Scene: Lining up for lunch (just to show you the complete random-ness of this conversation)
"Mrs. McLaughlin, did you know there are motion-sensor lights in the bathroom?"
"Well, no, Macy, I didn't know that."
"Yeah, there are. And if you are ever in there and are pooping and so you have to sit still for more than 2 minutes, they will go off on you and you'll be pooping in the dark."
Me = trying to keep a straight face. Then another student chimes in:
"Yeah, but if they go out on you while you're sitting there, all you have to do is wave your arms around like this." [yes, she did proceed to demonstrate what it looks like to be sitting on the toilet when the lights go out on you and you wave your arms around to get the lights to come back on] "And then, they just, come back on!"
Wow, ladies. Thank you for the information.
It was definitely hard to keep a straight face for this very serious conversation between myself and my two 3rd graders! But that's why I love them.
So, school is going well. What a nice phrase to be able to say! I also had a conversation with a first-year teacher at our school. What a relief and amazing feeling it was to be able to say that 1) yes, I understand how miserable you are and 2) yes, I promise it gets better. No really, it does!
And enough about that for now. This weekend, Brent and I got to go to DC! Neither of us had been, so we had been looking forward to it. The best part was the fact that it was a 20 min. car ride and 35 min. Metro ride from our apartment to the center of DC. Awesome!
As we stepped off the Metro, we headed to the escalator, which took us up into the city, where we were greeted by the bright sunshine and a crowd of protestors marching down the street (remember, it was 9/11). We were amidst a Tea Party Rally!
We headed towards the Washington Monument, with the surrounding flags at half-mast. Truly beautiful.
Then, we walked past the WWII Memorial and the reflection pool, to the Lincoln Memorial.
Then, we had lunch with Washinton and Lincoln (on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial).
We then went to the White House (you've seen enough pictures of that) and then walked a few blocks where we toured the Ford Theater where Lincoln was assassinated. The theater is still putting on plays, and they have the inaugural box set up where you can walk up and look through the door into the room where Lincoln was. It was pretty cool!
And I'll end with 2 more pictures. This last one made us laugh. :)
teehee. :)
Hope you all have a fabulous week! God bless.
[hugs]
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Annapolis
As I said before, Brent and I headed to Annapolis, MD, yesterday. Our good friend, Teeman, attends the U.S. Naval Academy and gave us the best ever tour of the historic city of Annapolis.
We started the day with him driving out to see our apartment, and then we jumped in his car (a pretty blue mustang, I might add) and we drove to Annapolis, which is only about half an hour away. Since he is a senior (also called a 1st class midshipmen, I believe?), we were able to drive onto the Academy grounds and park there. Definitely a privilege! We immediately walked just a few minutes to old downtown Annapolis, which is a really neat, eclectic mix of shops and restaurants located in the same building where colonists and government leaders met to sign treaties and things. Did you know that Annapolis was once the capital of the United States, before Washington, D.C.? Teeman showed us the old national capitol building, which is now Maryland's state capitol building (Annapolis is the capital of MD, now). But yes, downtown was definitely a neat place! We had some amazing seafood for lunch, as well. Teeman definitely knows his way around!
Because it is located right near the naval academy (and because old towns just seem to be more like this), it was very patriotic. Here is a picture that Brent took of one of the streets downtown.
I love being in places like this. It makes me proud. :)
Another neat thing about downtown Annapolis . . . because so many people have dogs, many of the stores keep bowls of water and dog treats outside their doors. I think that's cute. :)
One more fun random tidbit . . . one of the downtown restaurants was host to Food Network's show "Man vs. Food." The restaurant makes 8 lb. milkshakes. Wow! It did seem funny that this famous restaurant was just an old, little, hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Here's the picture posted on the front window of the shop:
After lunch, we walked back over to the Naval Academy campus, where Teeman showed us around all of the buildings. It's amazing how much unique history you'll find there. The chapel basement even comes complete with the crypt of John Paul Jones, the father/founder (I think!) of the U.S. Navy. Take a look, and you'll agree that it looks like it comes from the set of Pirates of the Caribbean!
Crazy, huh?
The end of our on-campus tour ended by the Chesapeake Bay. What a pretty place to go to school! Teeman then surprised us with a run through the Navy's endurance and obstacle courses! Let's just say that the wall climbing, rope bridge-crossing, beam-balancing, and monkey-bar swinging left me sore today! But it was definitely worth it and so much fun!
Best part of the day, though, was just getting to hang out with a good friend. We got to see some cool things in the area, and the boys got to play Halo back at our apartment. :) It's great to have a friend up here! Hopefully Teeman enjoyed himself as much as we did. :)
We started the day with him driving out to see our apartment, and then we jumped in his car (a pretty blue mustang, I might add) and we drove to Annapolis, which is only about half an hour away. Since he is a senior (also called a 1st class midshipmen, I believe?), we were able to drive onto the Academy grounds and park there. Definitely a privilege! We immediately walked just a few minutes to old downtown Annapolis, which is a really neat, eclectic mix of shops and restaurants located in the same building where colonists and government leaders met to sign treaties and things. Did you know that Annapolis was once the capital of the United States, before Washington, D.C.? Teeman showed us the old national capitol building, which is now Maryland's state capitol building (Annapolis is the capital of MD, now). But yes, downtown was definitely a neat place! We had some amazing seafood for lunch, as well. Teeman definitely knows his way around!
Because it is located right near the naval academy (and because old towns just seem to be more like this), it was very patriotic. Here is a picture that Brent took of one of the streets downtown.
Another neat thing about downtown Annapolis . . . because so many people have dogs, many of the stores keep bowls of water and dog treats outside their doors. I think that's cute. :)
One more fun random tidbit . . . one of the downtown restaurants was host to Food Network's show "Man vs. Food." The restaurant makes 8 lb. milkshakes. Wow! It did seem funny that this famous restaurant was just an old, little, hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Here's the picture posted on the front window of the shop:
After lunch, we walked back over to the Naval Academy campus, where Teeman showed us around all of the buildings. It's amazing how much unique history you'll find there. The chapel basement even comes complete with the crypt of John Paul Jones, the father/founder (I think!) of the U.S. Navy. Take a look, and you'll agree that it looks like it comes from the set of Pirates of the Caribbean!
The end of our on-campus tour ended by the Chesapeake Bay. What a pretty place to go to school! Teeman then surprised us with a run through the Navy's endurance and obstacle courses! Let's just say that the wall climbing, rope bridge-crossing, beam-balancing, and monkey-bar swinging left me sore today! But it was definitely worth it and so much fun!
Best part of the day, though, was just getting to hang out with a good friend. We got to see some cool things in the area, and the boys got to play Halo back at our apartment. :) It's great to have a friend up here! Hopefully Teeman enjoyed himself as much as we did. :)
Old friends. :)
[hugs]
P.S. Wedding photos are in! Posting those soon! :)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Delivery!
Hello there friends!
I am writing to you today from my NEW computer that was delivered today! Ok, well it was "attempted" to be delivered but unable to thanks to the difficulties of living in an apartment. So, my wonderful husband drove with me to pick it up at the FedEx office! Yep, he's pretty awesome. :)
But, yeah, my new computer is so pretty! It is an HP Netbook, so it is little and white and cute and light and easy to move around, and I just love it! Brent and I have had extensive conversations about the importance of a "pretty" computer (let's just say it's high on my list of necessities for a computer, not so much on his . . . ). But I think he approves of this little guy, so we're good! Here's what it looks like . . . (I know, I just had to post a picture!)
Isn't it so pretty? This pictures is not the greatest, but you get the idea. It's really small (only 10 1/2 inches I think! But it's awesome!)
And, enough about my computer. Sorry. :)
It has been a busy week around here, with me getting my classroom ready this week. It is coming along, though, and Brent has been a big help! It cuts so much time out when he can help me put the high stuff up on the walls instead of me getting up and down off a chair a gazillion times. (Yep, a gazillion) I sure appreciate him giving up his time after work to help me! It is really looking good and I can't wait to post pictures when it's all done! School starts on Tuesday, so it better be done soon! :)
More excitement for the week . . . I went with all of the teachers from my school to a high ropes course/teambuilding day on Tuesday. If any of you know me well, I am not the bravest person, but I did do everything! Brent told me when I dropped him off at work that I had to at least try everything . . . and I did! There was a zip line with ropes to cross to get to the platform (about 25 feet in the air), a giant swing (40 feet in the air), and the low level of the high ropes course (30 feet). The actual physical part wasn't bad (a huge log vs. a 4-in. wide beam, hmmm) but it was just so mentally CHALLENGING even if you know you are harnessed so you can't fall! I called my former coach, haha. I knew he would be proud since I was always the scared one trying new things! It was definitely a good experience though, and allowed me to get to know a lot of the other teachers.
Been thinking about something all week, since church on Sunday. The sermon was about Barnabas (many have heard of him), but I found out that his real name was Joseph. People knew him, though, as Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement." The message was about how people know you. What is your "niche" or "sweet spot"? Each of has a specific role in the church:
"The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts . . . But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? . . . Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." -1 Cor. 12: 12,18-19, 27
As I listened to this sermon, it was impressed upon my heart how incredible it is that each of us was specifically created by God to fulfill a certain role. God molded me to fit a specific need in his church. He may not have created me for the upfront, seemingly uber-awesome position of beautiful-singing worship leader extraordinare . . . but he gave me a role that is just as important in his kingdom and to the body of Christ. I believe that part of that role is to minister to children, which is why it is such a fulfillment for me to teach children and help them realize their potential. And also, to simply love them. Barnabas had the understanding that God gave him specific opportunities to give encouragement to others. What is your role? Are you taking the opportunites God brings, even if they seem like an impossible challenge at the time? Or are you just expecting that "someone else will do it." Newsflash: it's your job!
I'm going to brag on my parents for a minute. I won't share all of the details, but they have recently accepted an opportunity that is giving them the chance to love and care for someone whose needs are great. It is a huge task to take responsibility of another, without knowing exactly how things will go or what may transpire along the way. I'm proud to have parents who put others' needs above their own, in order to make a difference in another's life and show God's love to them. What an incredible opportunity! Pray for them as they continue along their journey.
My point here is to challenge you also to accept the challenges that God places in front of you. I am trying to embrace that thought as well as I settle into a new role, new church, new school, and new home. No one else has been placed in your same situation with your talents and abilities, because God designed you to fill that spot. Take God's word that He will be the "light to your path" as you trust Him to help you succeed. Accept the challenge and watch God work in your life!
Sorry about the long post! Lots going on this week. :) And just think, tomorrow's Friday! Oh, happiness! :)
I am for sure excited that it's almost the weekend! :) (Ok, so I just wanted to try out my new webcam!)
Next post: Our trip to Annapolis and the naval academy with a personal tour from Teeman himself!
I hope you all have a blessed Friday and weekend! [hugs]
P.S. Here's a shout out to my girl, Brittany! Miss you friend. Btw, check my first post. ;)
I am writing to you today from my NEW computer that was delivered today! Ok, well it was "attempted" to be delivered but unable to thanks to the difficulties of living in an apartment. So, my wonderful husband drove with me to pick it up at the FedEx office! Yep, he's pretty awesome. :)
But, yeah, my new computer is so pretty! It is an HP Netbook, so it is little and white and cute and light and easy to move around, and I just love it! Brent and I have had extensive conversations about the importance of a "pretty" computer (let's just say it's high on my list of necessities for a computer, not so much on his . . . ). But I think he approves of this little guy, so we're good! Here's what it looks like . . . (I know, I just had to post a picture!)
And, enough about my computer. Sorry. :)
It has been a busy week around here, with me getting my classroom ready this week. It is coming along, though, and Brent has been a big help! It cuts so much time out when he can help me put the high stuff up on the walls instead of me getting up and down off a chair a gazillion times. (Yep, a gazillion) I sure appreciate him giving up his time after work to help me! It is really looking good and I can't wait to post pictures when it's all done! School starts on Tuesday, so it better be done soon! :)
More excitement for the week . . . I went with all of the teachers from my school to a high ropes course/teambuilding day on Tuesday. If any of you know me well, I am not the bravest person, but I did do everything! Brent told me when I dropped him off at work that I had to at least try everything . . . and I did! There was a zip line with ropes to cross to get to the platform (about 25 feet in the air), a giant swing (40 feet in the air), and the low level of the high ropes course (30 feet). The actual physical part wasn't bad (a huge log vs. a 4-in. wide beam, hmmm) but it was just so mentally CHALLENGING even if you know you are harnessed so you can't fall! I called my former coach, haha. I knew he would be proud since I was always the scared one trying new things! It was definitely a good experience though, and allowed me to get to know a lot of the other teachers.
Been thinking about something all week, since church on Sunday. The sermon was about Barnabas (many have heard of him), but I found out that his real name was Joseph. People knew him, though, as Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement." The message was about how people know you. What is your "niche" or "sweet spot"? Each of has a specific role in the church:
"The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts . . . But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? . . . Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." -1 Cor. 12: 12,18-19, 27
As I listened to this sermon, it was impressed upon my heart how incredible it is that each of us was specifically created by God to fulfill a certain role. God molded me to fit a specific need in his church. He may not have created me for the upfront, seemingly uber-awesome position of beautiful-singing worship leader extraordinare . . . but he gave me a role that is just as important in his kingdom and to the body of Christ. I believe that part of that role is to minister to children, which is why it is such a fulfillment for me to teach children and help them realize their potential. And also, to simply love them. Barnabas had the understanding that God gave him specific opportunities to give encouragement to others. What is your role? Are you taking the opportunites God brings, even if they seem like an impossible challenge at the time? Or are you just expecting that "someone else will do it." Newsflash: it's your job!
I'm going to brag on my parents for a minute. I won't share all of the details, but they have recently accepted an opportunity that is giving them the chance to love and care for someone whose needs are great. It is a huge task to take responsibility of another, without knowing exactly how things will go or what may transpire along the way. I'm proud to have parents who put others' needs above their own, in order to make a difference in another's life and show God's love to them. What an incredible opportunity! Pray for them as they continue along their journey.
My point here is to challenge you also to accept the challenges that God places in front of you. I am trying to embrace that thought as well as I settle into a new role, new church, new school, and new home. No one else has been placed in your same situation with your talents and abilities, because God designed you to fill that spot. Take God's word that He will be the "light to your path" as you trust Him to help you succeed. Accept the challenge and watch God work in your life!
Sorry about the long post! Lots going on this week. :) And just think, tomorrow's Friday! Oh, happiness! :)
I am for sure excited that it's almost the weekend! :) (Ok, so I just wanted to try out my new webcam!)
Next post: Our trip to Annapolis and the naval academy with a personal tour from Teeman himself!
I hope you all have a blessed Friday and weekend! [hugs]
P.S. Here's a shout out to my girl, Brittany! Miss you friend. Btw, check my first post. ;)
Friday, August 20, 2010
The Lazy Days of Summer
Well, my lazy days of summer officially ended this week as I began doing some work up at my school. I worked summer camp for 3 days and then had 2 days of new teacher orientation. Not the most exciting week, but I did find out which classroom is mine, so I can finally start organizing and planning it! It is very bright and cheerful, with 2 walls of just windows! While I don't like the lack of wall space, I love how bright, open, clean, and airy the room feels. I will definitely post photos on here once I get it going.
Of course, Brent also continued work this week, and he is still really liking it. I guess they like him, too (I mean, who wouldn't?) because they asked him to go with them to recruit at MIT! He is super pumped and I am happy for him, too. He'll be gone overnight to Boston and spend all day talking to students at the career fair. He'll also get to catch up with friends there, so that will be nice, too! That happens in September.
Spent time today just taking care of more business, and am happy to say that I am officially a Maryland driver and also have a joint account as Mrs. Allison McLaughlin. Whew! Glad to have most of that process done. And I have to share, the woman from the credit union (who had all of the OK questions last time) had one more funny one today. She was telling me that sometimes schools cancel classes for the day in Hawaii if there are really awesome waves, so that everyone can go surfing (jealous!) and then proceeded to ask me if, for religious purposes, we ever cancelled school due to pow-wows in Oklahoma.
Um, no.
Another funny story about moving from OK . . . we were going through orientation stuff at school yesterday, including the fire drill, bomb threat procedures, etc. I was so confused as I was flipping through the book, searching for the tornado drill procedures. I almost raised my hand to ask, and then the lightbulb turned on . . . OH! They don't have tornados here! They don't have to do tornado drills. Isn't that weird. I have been doing tornado drills in school since I was a kid, and even went through actual tornado procedures while student teaching in Stillwater because the tornados were that close. Needless to say, it's weird that we won't have to talk about tornado drills here.
Other updates . . . let's see. We pretty much finished our apartment on Sunday, aside from hanging pictures on the wall because I am still waiting on family and wedding photos. It is so nice, though, to come home to a clean, decorated, and cozy apartment every night. We love it! When it is completely finished, I will post pictures . . . be looking for those!
For now, I will end with a few pictures of our dear cat, Pumpkin, who is currently sitting on my lap, making it very hard to type. I took these last week (with our new, awesome camera that we love!) and I think they pretty much sum of the phrase "lazy days of summer" . . .
Of course, Brent also continued work this week, and he is still really liking it. I guess they like him, too (I mean, who wouldn't?) because they asked him to go with them to recruit at MIT! He is super pumped and I am happy for him, too. He'll be gone overnight to Boston and spend all day talking to students at the career fair. He'll also get to catch up with friends there, so that will be nice, too! That happens in September.
Spent time today just taking care of more business, and am happy to say that I am officially a Maryland driver and also have a joint account as Mrs. Allison McLaughlin. Whew! Glad to have most of that process done. And I have to share, the woman from the credit union (who had all of the OK questions last time) had one more funny one today. She was telling me that sometimes schools cancel classes for the day in Hawaii if there are really awesome waves, so that everyone can go surfing (jealous!) and then proceeded to ask me if, for religious purposes, we ever cancelled school due to pow-wows in Oklahoma.
Um, no.
Another funny story about moving from OK . . . we were going through orientation stuff at school yesterday, including the fire drill, bomb threat procedures, etc. I was so confused as I was flipping through the book, searching for the tornado drill procedures. I almost raised my hand to ask, and then the lightbulb turned on . . . OH! They don't have tornados here! They don't have to do tornado drills. Isn't that weird. I have been doing tornado drills in school since I was a kid, and even went through actual tornado procedures while student teaching in Stillwater because the tornados were that close. Needless to say, it's weird that we won't have to talk about tornado drills here.
Other updates . . . let's see. We pretty much finished our apartment on Sunday, aside from hanging pictures on the wall because I am still waiting on family and wedding photos. It is so nice, though, to come home to a clean, decorated, and cozy apartment every night. We love it! When it is completely finished, I will post pictures . . . be looking for those!
For now, I will end with a few pictures of our dear cat, Pumpkin, who is currently sitting on my lap, making it very hard to type. I took these last week (with our new, awesome camera that we love!) and I think they pretty much sum of the phrase "lazy days of summer" . . .
Isn't she just precious? Oh, how I love summer.
Loving and missing all of you! [hugs]
Friday, August 13, 2010
Novelty
So, for those of you who are not married, or have been married for awhile, I feel the need to explain the supreme hassle that defines the name-changing process (and everything else that has to have your name changed officially on it) compounded by the fact that I am changing states as well. Everyone wants to have some sort of official something that says "Allison McLaughlin" on it, but there it's so hard to get that first! I finally got my new social security card in the mail today, which I am hoping will make the rest of the process a little easier! Last week we spent 2 1/2 hours at the DMV getting new plates for my car (which are way more expensive in MD, in case you were wondering) and attempting to get the title changed with my new name and to have the car registered under my name. Difficult, to say the least. But, we got it figured out. Brent is the lucky one! He just has to hand in his old OK stuff and they just change it for him (along with a small [I mean rather large] fee)! Lucky kid.
Our next challenge was settting up our new account at the APL credit union. The woman we worked with was super nice, and quite in awe of the fact that we were from OK. She thought we were "just so cute" as newlyweds and then proceeded to ask us about our beloved Oklahoma.
"How is OK different from MD?"
"Well, MD has trees, and hills. Um, OK does not."
"Oh, really?"
"Well, we do have some trees. And, it's really hot there right now. Like, really hot."
"Well, it's hot here. [Let me interject, that they have not gotten above 95 since we've been here.]
"They've been around 110 or so for the last month."
"Ooooh. And don't they have those, what are they called [picture her spinning her hands around in the air] those spinney things?"
"Tornadoes?"
"Yeah. It's called Tornado Alley."
"Wow! Have you ever seen one?"
"Not in awhile, but we go under tornado warnings all the time." . . .
. . . And the conversation continued from there. I am not trying to make her out to be ignorant, it was just interesting to dialogue with someone who had such a different perspective on what is so familiar to us. She was also incredibly nice, helpful, and stayed past closing to explain everything to us and get us set up. People here in Columbia are incredibly nice for the most part. Aside from their driving that is. In general, turn signals are simply not in use. In the words of I believe it is Kayli's mom? (Correct me if I'm wrong!) "They must not have made them that year" (referring to turn signals). Haha. What a true statement here! I feel so out of place when I use my turn signals (which I will continue to do, even if it does make me stick out)!
Despite the changes and funny things that are different here, I do like it. It is beautiful and scenic and everyone is very kind. Brent has a job that he likes, and we are celebrating his first week with a delicious lemon-garlic roasted chicken dinner tonight that we are in the process of making right now. If only you could have a sniff in our apartment right now . . . it's delightful! Other good things . . .I have a job that is sounding more and more ideal everyday, and we are hanging out with another couple tomorrow that Brent has become friends with at work. Bonus: the wife is a teacher! So we are making friends . . . Movin' on up!
Counting my blessings. :)
[hugsfromMD]
Our next challenge was settting up our new account at the APL credit union. The woman we worked with was super nice, and quite in awe of the fact that we were from OK. She thought we were "just so cute" as newlyweds and then proceeded to ask us about our beloved Oklahoma.
"How is OK different from MD?"
"Well, MD has trees, and hills. Um, OK does not."
"Oh, really?"
"Well, we do have some trees. And, it's really hot there right now. Like, really hot."
"Well, it's hot here. [Let me interject, that they have not gotten above 95 since we've been here.]
"They've been around 110 or so for the last month."
"Ooooh. And don't they have those, what are they called [picture her spinning her hands around in the air] those spinney things?"
"Tornadoes?"
"Yeah. It's called Tornado Alley."
"Wow! Have you ever seen one?"
"Not in awhile, but we go under tornado warnings all the time." . . .
. . . And the conversation continued from there. I am not trying to make her out to be ignorant, it was just interesting to dialogue with someone who had such a different perspective on what is so familiar to us. She was also incredibly nice, helpful, and stayed past closing to explain everything to us and get us set up. People here in Columbia are incredibly nice for the most part. Aside from their driving that is. In general, turn signals are simply not in use. In the words of I believe it is Kayli's mom? (Correct me if I'm wrong!) "They must not have made them that year" (referring to turn signals). Haha. What a true statement here! I feel so out of place when I use my turn signals (which I will continue to do, even if it does make me stick out)!
Despite the changes and funny things that are different here, I do like it. It is beautiful and scenic and everyone is very kind. Brent has a job that he likes, and we are celebrating his first week with a delicious lemon-garlic roasted chicken dinner tonight that we are in the process of making right now. If only you could have a sniff in our apartment right now . . . it's delightful! Other good things . . .I have a job that is sounding more and more ideal everyday, and we are hanging out with another couple tomorrow that Brent has become friends with at work. Bonus: the wife is a teacher! So we are making friends . . . Movin' on up!
Counting my blessings. :)
[hugsfromMD]
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
My husband, the engineer!
OK, so I'll take a break from being the center of attention for a few minutes (ha) and tell you about my awesome husband and his new job!
Brent started his new job at the Applied Physics Lab at Johns Hopkins University (APL) this week! Since we currently only have one car, I get to take him to and from work everyday, which is good, because that means I have to get up and around and can be productive with my day, too! But back to Brent . . .
So, he goes to work on a computer, and codes for different projects. Unfortunately, his security clearance deems his work "classified" and he is therefore unable to tell you or me about what he is doing. So . . . what does Brent do at his job? Um, I don't really know! But it sounds awesome, even if I don't really know! Could make dinnertimes a little awkward though, kinda like tonight:
A- "So, how was work today?"
B-"Good."
A-"What did you do?"
B-"Classified."
A-"Oh. Well, what kind of projects are you working on?"
B-"Defense stuff."
A-"What kind of defense stuff?"
B-"Classified."
A-
B-
A-
B-
A- "I think you just like saying "classified."
B- [smiles]
Oh well, I'm sure I'll have some interesting stories from my classroom once I get started that I can share at the dinner table. Kids never cease to provide you with funny and interesting stories to impart. Until then, I guess Brent will just have to listen about my fairly boring days of running errands and getting ready for school! That's definitely not classified.
Anyways, he really like the job so far and seems to like everyone with whom he is working, which is always a plus! I think he also enjoys the fact that the dress is casual, so he gets to wear jeans everyday (jealous!). :)
Hope you all are having a fantastic week! :)
[hugsfromMD]
Brent started his new job at the Applied Physics Lab at Johns Hopkins University (APL) this week! Since we currently only have one car, I get to take him to and from work everyday, which is good, because that means I have to get up and around and can be productive with my day, too! But back to Brent . . .
So, he goes to work on a computer, and codes for different projects. Unfortunately, his security clearance deems his work "classified" and he is therefore unable to tell you or me about what he is doing. So . . . what does Brent do at his job? Um, I don't really know! But it sounds awesome, even if I don't really know! Could make dinnertimes a little awkward though, kinda like tonight:
A- "So, how was work today?"
B-"Good."
A-"What did you do?"
B-"Classified."
A-"Oh. Well, what kind of projects are you working on?"
B-"Defense stuff."
A-"What kind of defense stuff?"
B-"Classified."
A-
B-
A-
B-
A- "I think you just like saying "classified."
B- [smiles]
Oh well, I'm sure I'll have some interesting stories from my classroom once I get started that I can share at the dinner table. Kids never cease to provide you with funny and interesting stories to impart. Until then, I guess Brent will just have to listen about my fairly boring days of running errands and getting ready for school! That's definitely not classified.
Anyways, he really like the job so far and seems to like everyone with whom he is working, which is always a plus! I think he also enjoys the fact that the dress is casual, so he gets to wear jeans everyday (jealous!). :)
Hope you all are having a fantastic week! :)
[hugsfromMD]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)