This post could, just as easily, be called "A Series of Things," but fulfilling that title would require way more reading than any of you want to be a part of.
I am on Cloud 9 right now. I am on Cloud 9 because while waiting for lunch today, Marcos Ospina (former student, about to start 8th grade in the fall) facebooked me asking if we (his family and I) could meet for dinner tonight, they'd be passing through O-town. I said of course! This is a great family, one of the (many) reasons that I miss the community at Fireside ES. It was so great to see them! They inspired this post. Them, and a question that I was asked during my interview earlier today.
The question was, "Would you rather be liked or respected by your students?" Of course the answer is respected. Although, I was kinda proud of my answer, as I'd never put a lot of thought in to it. I instantly said respected, and I it's because respect doesn't always follow affection, but affection always follows respect. I say that now unequivocally. During the interview, I pointed out that it can be years later, and we may never know as educators, but the students who respect us always like us later... even though it's sometimes years later. We hope that when that happens, they come back and let us know, but we also know they might not.
Catching up with the Ospina family was wonderful. I realised (even while I was doing it) that I was talking more than listening, but it was awesome! We reflected on old times, and things that had happened back in the day. Pictures were taken, and laughs were had, by all. Advice was given, and then immediately contradicted when stories were told to the contrary. At the end of the night, hugs were passed about, and sentiments shared, when Marcos said (I believe in jest) that one of the great strengths I have as a teacher is that the students don't complain about me to their parents. I laughed, as we all did, but the Ann poignantly and seriously confirmed that, but elaborated for a parent's perspective: Kids in my class want to come to school. Marcos is a high-achieving, talented kiddo, so it is one thing to get him, and kids of his "ilk" interested, but Ann told me that their neighbor, who was also in Marcos' class, ALSO loved coming to school when he was in my class. This particular student is a struggler. Great attitude (most of the time), but really had some serious difficulty in class. He love coming to class. That's two kids that are two totally different learners who both loved coming to my class.
If we're being honest (and I can do that easily behind the cover of a typed blog!) I am getting a bit emotional reflecting on this. It's a great emotional though. I had never been explicitly told, "My kid never liked coming to school until you were his/her teacher." Now, this wasn't about her kid, but when Ann mentioned that about the other kiddo, that meant something. I know how scary of a place school can be when you struggle, how much you dread having to go there. This young man looked forward to being in my classroom each day.
As a teacher, we want to make a difference. Every day we deliver instruction that sometimes is a striking success and sometimes is abject failure. Every day we are charged with the care and education of one of (cheesy/trite forthcoming) what is truly America's greatest natural resource. It's rare (I think) to have the feedback be so immediate. Yeah, it's over two years later, but it set my heart aloft. I've been floating since she said that to me. I've never doubted my choice to teach. Now I never will.
When you like a person without respecting them, that affection is fleeting. When your affection is born from respect, that affection is lasting deep.
Today, I learned I have truly made a difference, even if it was only in the lives of those two families.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Gratitude List June 2012 (aka Holy Cow, Ty Posted Twice in a Week!)
I'll be honest, again, that I stole the Gratitude List idea from Lotus, and have to start by thanking her for the idea! Today is a wonderful time to do this, and I'll start with a thank you to Lotus not only for the idea, but her continued friendship... even if I am her least favorite best friend!
I have been told that I owe David Day Harbaugh the IV the highest debt of gratitude for the amazing birthday present that I got to take advantage of twice! Once when I received it, and once today when I drove in circles at PPIR! David found this on LivingSocial (I think... right Dave?) and then got ahold of Jay and Whitney, Alana, Jeff and Abby, Debbie, Alex and Chris, Brian and Heather, RJ and Carrie, Mary and Brian, and Todd and Allyson who all pitched toward this. I am SO grateful to all of you. It was the most amazing experience of my life thus far. I ACTUALLY DROVE A RACE CAR! And these are legit cars that were used on one of the two national touring series (Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series). They are obviously de-tuned so us idiots don't kill ourselves or one another. The in-car video is available here http://youtu.be/ZXyl7gq_JmY Seriously guys, thank you so much. I am blessed to have such amazing friends, and hope that I am as good of a friend to all of you as you have been to me through the years. I am in awe and humbled by this gesture, and hope that I can show my appreciation appropriately!
I am so grateful to Markeya Dubbs for all the things (Imagine my fist in the air like the meme). You are amazing, and such a blessing in my life.
I am grateful to my parents, Marcia and Gene. I am grateful for the guidance through the years, and the fact that they were wonderful role models. Some day, when I am married and raising a family, the lessons (both intentional and otherwise) that you've taught me will guide my life as a husband and father. If I am half the father that Dad has been, then my life will have been a success. I love you both!
Thank you to all of my Omaha friends and family. You've been integral in making the move away from home easy, and helped make Omaha feel like home. This thank you extends to all of my co-workers at the various jobs in O-town. Thank you!
I am grateful to God. Yeap, I am. I am grateful for all the opportunities He has given me, all the people I am blessed to have in my life, and the His faith in me because the challenges and obstacles He puts out there are nothing more than He knows I can handle!
Umm... I feel like there were a lot more thank yous that needed to go out, but maybe not. Oh, I am definitely grateful to any of you who choose to read this. Thanks!
I have been told that I owe David Day Harbaugh the IV the highest debt of gratitude for the amazing birthday present that I got to take advantage of twice! Once when I received it, and once today when I drove in circles at PPIR! David found this on LivingSocial (I think... right Dave?) and then got ahold of Jay and Whitney, Alana, Jeff and Abby, Debbie, Alex and Chris, Brian and Heather, RJ and Carrie, Mary and Brian, and Todd and Allyson who all pitched toward this. I am SO grateful to all of you. It was the most amazing experience of my life thus far. I ACTUALLY DROVE A RACE CAR! And these are legit cars that were used on one of the two national touring series (Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series). They are obviously de-tuned so us idiots don't kill ourselves or one another. The in-car video is available here http://youtu.be/ZXyl7gq_JmY Seriously guys, thank you so much. I am blessed to have such amazing friends, and hope that I am as good of a friend to all of you as you have been to me through the years. I am in awe and humbled by this gesture, and hope that I can show my appreciation appropriately!
I am so grateful to Markeya Dubbs for all the things (Imagine my fist in the air like the meme). You are amazing, and such a blessing in my life.
I am grateful to my parents, Marcia and Gene. I am grateful for the guidance through the years, and the fact that they were wonderful role models. Some day, when I am married and raising a family, the lessons (both intentional and otherwise) that you've taught me will guide my life as a husband and father. If I am half the father that Dad has been, then my life will have been a success. I love you both!
Thank you to all of my Omaha friends and family. You've been integral in making the move away from home easy, and helped make Omaha feel like home. This thank you extends to all of my co-workers at the various jobs in O-town. Thank you!
I am grateful to God. Yeap, I am. I am grateful for all the opportunities He has given me, all the people I am blessed to have in my life, and the His faith in me because the challenges and obstacles He puts out there are nothing more than He knows I can handle!
Umm... I feel like there were a lot more thank yous that needed to go out, but maybe not. Oh, I am definitely grateful to any of you who choose to read this. Thanks!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
One Year Later
*Glances around shamefully* So, it's been way WAY too long since I last blogged. I'm sorry loyal reader(s). I hope this one is funny, informative, entertaining, and not too long. Guys, the second to last paragraph is very important for you to read. Girls, skip it.
I have put this one off for no particular reason, but it just happens to fall on the day of the anniversary of my move to Omaha. So, here's the thing, this is a somewhat remarkable day for me. My Colorado people will tell you that, outside of David Day Harbaugh the Eye Vee, I was the least likely person to move from Colorado. I was kinda the prototypical Colorado guy. I like outside. I love my mountains. I have the most amazing group of friends a man in his 30s could hope for. (Side track, I meant to say HAD, but my fingers typed have. That tells you something). The opportunity to help the College of St. Mary volleyball program return to NAIA prominence was too much for me to pass up, thus I moved to Nebraska. Like we've already talked about, it was an easier move than I'd expected it to be, and a year later, I STILL really dig Omaha!
I won't give you the run down of what's happened since I moved here. It's been hella crazy. Many of you know the details, but I still love it here! I will catch you up on some happenings since my last post, however. I am currently looking for full-time teaching in the fall, but just (kinda) fell into a chance to work with former Husker great Calvin Jones in multiple different capacities for his companies. Right now it looks like I will be helping him sell both his Forever a Husker gear, as well as space on his new website, Menupedia. It's a long story, but those of you who remember my issues last year with trying to land a job with him, he has actually offered me something this year, not "let's keep in touch". It's not full time, but hell, I'd be working with a Husker... actually many Huskers, most likely! His vision for the company is pretty solid, so I kinda like the idea.
I ran a 10k by myself on Memorial Day. It took me 53 (52.. hell if I remember) minutes. Felt great.
Keya and I attended our first wedding as a couple. It. Was...awful... Wait, I'll redact that. It was tedious. As hell. Holy Jebus. Okay, so let me break this down for you. There was NO ALCOHOL OR DANCING! Now, I won't bore everyone with the details of the wedding. Actually, the ceremony was good, but after that... Not so much. I know the bride and groom won't read this, but I don't want this to be an indictment because I am so grateful to have been one of the few who shared in their day, but... BUT... People who are the bride and groom, understand that the people who are there are SO happy for you, but we need activities. Yes, booze is necessary! Not to sound like an alcoholic, but the reason a LOT of people come to weddings is the excuse to get a little loose! We literally spent the two hours post-ceremony sitting. Yeah.
*Girls, I understand you skipped directly to this paragraph, before you read anything else. Why can't you follow rules? I am already re-thinking typing this.* Gentlemen, this paragraph is for you. Girls are right. We should share our feelings. Ugh, this hurts just to type. I'll give you the story. I was in Wood River with Keya and her family, and she could tell that I was down. She badgered me (verb win) into telling her what was going on. I finally told her. I felt better. Okay, that's really all that happened, and and the verb badger makes her sound meaner than she actually was. I just liked that verb. Now, for the record, I am sharing with her more than I've ever shared with a woman. It's ridiculous how easy I find her to talk to. Those of you who HAVEN'T picked up on it, I'm beyond twitterpated with this woman. She's amazing. Anyway, guys, it's really worth actually sharing... from time to time... I felt much, much better. It was kind of a revelation for me. Stupid girls, knowing more about human relationships than us.
Okay girls, welcome back. Yes, I'm pretending you didn't read the paragraph you weren't supposed to. Anyway, we come to the end of this blog. Thanks, again, for reading all! Happy summer! Stay cool and safe!
I have put this one off for no particular reason, but it just happens to fall on the day of the anniversary of my move to Omaha. So, here's the thing, this is a somewhat remarkable day for me. My Colorado people will tell you that, outside of David Day Harbaugh the Eye Vee, I was the least likely person to move from Colorado. I was kinda the prototypical Colorado guy. I like outside. I love my mountains. I have the most amazing group of friends a man in his 30s could hope for. (Side track, I meant to say HAD, but my fingers typed have. That tells you something). The opportunity to help the College of St. Mary volleyball program return to NAIA prominence was too much for me to pass up, thus I moved to Nebraska. Like we've already talked about, it was an easier move than I'd expected it to be, and a year later, I STILL really dig Omaha!
I won't give you the run down of what's happened since I moved here. It's been hella crazy. Many of you know the details, but I still love it here! I will catch you up on some happenings since my last post, however. I am currently looking for full-time teaching in the fall, but just (kinda) fell into a chance to work with former Husker great Calvin Jones in multiple different capacities for his companies. Right now it looks like I will be helping him sell both his Forever a Husker gear, as well as space on his new website, Menupedia. It's a long story, but those of you who remember my issues last year with trying to land a job with him, he has actually offered me something this year, not "let's keep in touch". It's not full time, but hell, I'd be working with a Husker... actually many Huskers, most likely! His vision for the company is pretty solid, so I kinda like the idea.
I ran a 10k by myself on Memorial Day. It took me 53 (52.. hell if I remember) minutes. Felt great.
Keya and I attended our first wedding as a couple. It. Was...awful... Wait, I'll redact that. It was tedious. As hell. Holy Jebus. Okay, so let me break this down for you. There was NO ALCOHOL OR DANCING! Now, I won't bore everyone with the details of the wedding. Actually, the ceremony was good, but after that... Not so much. I know the bride and groom won't read this, but I don't want this to be an indictment because I am so grateful to have been one of the few who shared in their day, but... BUT... People who are the bride and groom, understand that the people who are there are SO happy for you, but we need activities. Yes, booze is necessary! Not to sound like an alcoholic, but the reason a LOT of people come to weddings is the excuse to get a little loose! We literally spent the two hours post-ceremony sitting. Yeah.
*Girls, I understand you skipped directly to this paragraph, before you read anything else. Why can't you follow rules? I am already re-thinking typing this.* Gentlemen, this paragraph is for you. Girls are right. We should share our feelings. Ugh, this hurts just to type. I'll give you the story. I was in Wood River with Keya and her family, and she could tell that I was down. She badgered me (verb win) into telling her what was going on. I finally told her. I felt better. Okay, that's really all that happened, and and the verb badger makes her sound meaner than she actually was. I just liked that verb. Now, for the record, I am sharing with her more than I've ever shared with a woman. It's ridiculous how easy I find her to talk to. Those of you who HAVEN'T picked up on it, I'm beyond twitterpated with this woman. She's amazing. Anyway, guys, it's really worth actually sharing... from time to time... I felt much, much better. It was kind of a revelation for me. Stupid girls, knowing more about human relationships than us.
Okay girls, welcome back. Yes, I'm pretending you didn't read the paragraph you weren't supposed to. Anyway, we come to the end of this blog. Thanks, again, for reading all! Happy summer! Stay cool and safe!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Self-Reflective Much?
Do I get self-reflective on here too much? Hmm. Okay, I honestly don't care. Suck on it, there sunshine. Anyway, I was saying how I've been feeling self-reflective, so here we go...
I wonder often if I'm different than others in the way that I look at myself. I think we all think ourselves superior in one way or another to other people. Hmm... maybe I shouldn't have started off in such a self-centered way. Oh well, if you wanna read on, please do. If you don't, I'll see you later. I... should stop starting my sentences with I... ANYWAY... The preceding descent into unadulterated narcissism was only to say that I know I spend a lot of time thinking on me. The fact that I spend a lot of time thinking on me leads me to wonder how that compares to others. I feel like I prolly spend more time doing it than others do, but what if I don't? In reality, that's probably not of terrible import, but it is definitely something I've reflected on of late.
I feel more comfortable in my own skin than I have in a long time... if not ever. Those who've known me for a long time probably realise that I had big time self-esteem issues in middle school, high school, college, early (emerging) adulthood... and realising the source of those problems helped me begin to overcome them. To be honest, I was doing a decent job with them before I moved, but holy hell, moving threw me into a whole new zone of discomfort... and I couldn't rest on my laurels there. Between moving a solid day's drive away from everything that I'd really ever known, and not knowing what the hell I was going to do... It kinda pushed me, and stretched me at the same time. It's made me try different things to make friends! All of that has gotten me to a point where I truly have my head in a better place than it's ever been. Ah hell, okay, I feel better about myself than I ever have.
As I told her that it is worthy of not only acknowledgement, but also celebration, I should tell you all that Markeya and I marked six months of being together last week. If you get sick to your stomach when people talk about their significant others online (ya know, like I used to- nay, still tend to- I'll try and keep this to a minimum), skip the rest of this paragraph. She is an incredible woman. I can't tell you how blessed I feel. Not only is she beautiful, but she's athletic as hell, pushes me (I mentioned this in my last blog... ah hell, I'm becoming that guy), she's smarter than I am (Stop, I know I'm smart... I get it... I'm not saying this to be self-deprecating, this is legit), and is faithful and devout. She really is exactly the kind of woman I didn't know I had been looking for. Keya and I will be in Denver on the 10th of May, leaving the 14th. I am pretty sure I've made mention of this trip previously, but I'm working on getting plans in place, so I'll let people know as plans develop.
For some reason, I feel the need to throw some unabashed advertising in here. Visit Jay's blogs (jnoblepeteranetz.com, thereckoning2005.com). It will help him a SH!#ton when it comes to his comic future. His work is amazing, and it looks like he's on the brink of things really taking off.
Welp, once upon a time I had a hilarious end to this blog, but I have forgotten it. I HATE it when I do that. Jeezy Creezy. I guess I'll end it with this profound sense of "meh" and catch up with you all later. Thanks for reading! Oh, and final thought. Y'all still know me. I haven't changed THAT much. If you wanted to laugh at part of this EFFING DO IT! Good lord, I still don't take myself all that seriously!!!
I wonder often if I'm different than others in the way that I look at myself. I think we all think ourselves superior in one way or another to other people. Hmm... maybe I shouldn't have started off in such a self-centered way. Oh well, if you wanna read on, please do. If you don't, I'll see you later. I... should stop starting my sentences with I... ANYWAY... The preceding descent into unadulterated narcissism was only to say that I know I spend a lot of time thinking on me. The fact that I spend a lot of time thinking on me leads me to wonder how that compares to others. I feel like I prolly spend more time doing it than others do, but what if I don't? In reality, that's probably not of terrible import, but it is definitely something I've reflected on of late.
I feel more comfortable in my own skin than I have in a long time... if not ever. Those who've known me for a long time probably realise that I had big time self-esteem issues in middle school, high school, college, early (emerging) adulthood... and realising the source of those problems helped me begin to overcome them. To be honest, I was doing a decent job with them before I moved, but holy hell, moving threw me into a whole new zone of discomfort... and I couldn't rest on my laurels there. Between moving a solid day's drive away from everything that I'd really ever known, and not knowing what the hell I was going to do... It kinda pushed me, and stretched me at the same time. It's made me try different things to make friends! All of that has gotten me to a point where I truly have my head in a better place than it's ever been. Ah hell, okay, I feel better about myself than I ever have.
As I told her that it is worthy of not only acknowledgement, but also celebration, I should tell you all that Markeya and I marked six months of being together last week. If you get sick to your stomach when people talk about their significant others online (ya know, like I used to- nay, still tend to- I'll try and keep this to a minimum), skip the rest of this paragraph. She is an incredible woman. I can't tell you how blessed I feel. Not only is she beautiful, but she's athletic as hell, pushes me (I mentioned this in my last blog... ah hell, I'm becoming that guy), she's smarter than I am (Stop, I know I'm smart... I get it... I'm not saying this to be self-deprecating, this is legit), and is faithful and devout. She really is exactly the kind of woman I didn't know I had been looking for. Keya and I will be in Denver on the 10th of May, leaving the 14th. I am pretty sure I've made mention of this trip previously, but I'm working on getting plans in place, so I'll let people know as plans develop.
For some reason, I feel the need to throw some unabashed advertising in here. Visit Jay's blogs (jnoblepeteranetz.com, thereckoning2005.com). It will help him a SH!#ton when it comes to his comic future. His work is amazing, and it looks like he's on the brink of things really taking off.
Welp, once upon a time I had a hilarious end to this blog, but I have forgotten it. I HATE it when I do that. Jeezy Creezy. I guess I'll end it with this profound sense of "meh" and catch up with you all later. Thanks for reading! Oh, and final thought. Y'all still know me. I haven't changed THAT much. If you wanted to laugh at part of this EFFING DO IT! Good lord, I still don't take myself all that seriously!!!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Nitty Gritty Update
So, I suppose part of my M.O. since I moved out here has been posting only when big things go down. This is not one of those times. I figured there are a few nitty gritty things that have been going on that I just wanna throw out there.
I ran 5K in 25:00 yesterday. My training has been happening by accident. It's actually freakin' weird. Now, the girlfriend has been pushing me, both intentionally and otherwise, and I have to admit I've never looked or felt any better. Granted, since becoming a personal trainer, I've more of an idea of how to do it than I would have in the past, but I also have cause to push it. We are running the FlatOut 5k at FlatIron Crossing when we're in Colorado for Wicked in May. I will out run her.
So, I called Southwest Rapid Rewards yesterday. I figured I had enough points to at least get a decent price on a ticket. Frankly, I didn't want to drive for just a weekend. I wanted to fly. It's usually cheaper/as cheap to fly, but with two people, that would clearly not be the case. Here's where the fun begins. It turns out that I had a free round trip issued in 2010 that I had let expire... cause I didn't know about it! For $50 bucks, reactivated! I also had more than enough points for another free ticket! So for $50 (plus airport fees) Markeya and I are flying back for the weekend in Denver. Thank goodness! We get in on Thursday night and leave on Monday morning. Oh, I supposed I should tell you that our tickets are for May 12. You all do the math!
I will ALSO be in Colorado around the 10th of June. I am driving a car in circles at Pikes Peak on that Sunday morning courtesy of my incredible friends! I'm excited to do it!! Additionally, I'll be in Colorado for sure the 9th - 12th of July for a volleyball camp at Regis U. And then again around August 4th for Alex Sanders's wedding. I don't know how much time I'll spend around those dates at home, but I intend to spend some time there.
The weather here has continued to be gorgeous. Winter skipped us. It sucked, but I'm definitely ready for summer right now. It's weird... This is going to be a wicked mean tease though, as the bugs are not a part of the equation yet. It has been BEAUTIFUL here, riding the bike to school the last two days. It's awesome!
Okay, I suppose I should tell you about the girlfriend (granted, many of you already know). We've been dating since October and she is AMAZING! For starters, she is the most motivated, driven person I've ever known. Did I mention that she's incredible. She is freakin' brilliant and, like I said, the catalyst for me changing my work out habits. Of course she is beautiful. Oh, I should tell you we met coaching at the UNK volleyball camps (yeah, I was dating someone else). I love this woman a LOT. She will be back in Colorado for Wicked with me as well as at the Regis camps. Wow, that sentence is awkward, but I want to leave it there. I hope you all had to read it twice to make sense of it... or just because I talked about how awkward it is. ANYWAYS, just wanted to throw that little bit out there.
Okay, I think that's it. I did get to see some of the amazing migrations that take place in Central Nebraska with waterfowl and the cranes. It was something remarkable to see.
Also, volleyball has somewhat taken over my life like I didn't intend it to. I blame Keya (baha!) because i have this weird thing where I want to spend time with her, and she coaches a 16s team. Oh, and I was in Colorado a couple of weeks ago for Colorado Crossroads volleyball tournament.
Okay, nothing else, I don't have an "Only in Nebraska" today. I'll catch you all laters.
I ran 5K in 25:00 yesterday. My training has been happening by accident. It's actually freakin' weird. Now, the girlfriend has been pushing me, both intentionally and otherwise, and I have to admit I've never looked or felt any better. Granted, since becoming a personal trainer, I've more of an idea of how to do it than I would have in the past, but I also have cause to push it. We are running the FlatOut 5k at FlatIron Crossing when we're in Colorado for Wicked in May. I will out run her.
So, I called Southwest Rapid Rewards yesterday. I figured I had enough points to at least get a decent price on a ticket. Frankly, I didn't want to drive for just a weekend. I wanted to fly. It's usually cheaper/as cheap to fly, but with two people, that would clearly not be the case. Here's where the fun begins. It turns out that I had a free round trip issued in 2010 that I had let expire... cause I didn't know about it! For $50 bucks, reactivated! I also had more than enough points for another free ticket! So for $50 (plus airport fees) Markeya and I are flying back for the weekend in Denver. Thank goodness! We get in on Thursday night and leave on Monday morning. Oh, I supposed I should tell you that our tickets are for May 12. You all do the math!
I will ALSO be in Colorado around the 10th of June. I am driving a car in circles at Pikes Peak on that Sunday morning courtesy of my incredible friends! I'm excited to do it!! Additionally, I'll be in Colorado for sure the 9th - 12th of July for a volleyball camp at Regis U. And then again around August 4th for Alex Sanders's wedding. I don't know how much time I'll spend around those dates at home, but I intend to spend some time there.
The weather here has continued to be gorgeous. Winter skipped us. It sucked, but I'm definitely ready for summer right now. It's weird... This is going to be a wicked mean tease though, as the bugs are not a part of the equation yet. It has been BEAUTIFUL here, riding the bike to school the last two days. It's awesome!
Okay, I suppose I should tell you about the girlfriend (granted, many of you already know). We've been dating since October and she is AMAZING! For starters, she is the most motivated, driven person I've ever known. Did I mention that she's incredible. She is freakin' brilliant and, like I said, the catalyst for me changing my work out habits. Of course she is beautiful. Oh, I should tell you we met coaching at the UNK volleyball camps (yeah, I was dating someone else). I love this woman a LOT. She will be back in Colorado for Wicked with me as well as at the Regis camps. Wow, that sentence is awkward, but I want to leave it there. I hope you all had to read it twice to make sense of it... or just because I talked about how awkward it is. ANYWAYS, just wanted to throw that little bit out there.
Okay, I think that's it. I did get to see some of the amazing migrations that take place in Central Nebraska with waterfowl and the cranes. It was something remarkable to see.
Also, volleyball has somewhat taken over my life like I didn't intend it to. I blame Keya (baha!) because i have this weird thing where I want to spend time with her, and she coaches a 16s team. Oh, and I was in Colorado a couple of weeks ago for Colorado Crossroads volleyball tournament.
Okay, nothing else, I don't have an "Only in Nebraska" today. I'll catch you all laters.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
A day (month) late and a dollar (or a few) short...
... So nothing's changed.
I have to rant for a hot second. I sorta did it on fb the other day, and I know it's late, but I have to monologue about the Whitney Houston stuff. I know it's late, but I also haven't really had time to get on my computron of late... at least not long enough to blog. Here's my problem. Whitney was treated by millions of Americans (and many parts of the media) as nearly infallible. She made the choices that led, ultimately, to her early passing. Now, don't get me wrong, I think it's terribly tragic, especially seeing as she has a daughter emerging into adulthood, needing a role model. And truly, it's tragic any time that a life is cut short, but Whitney made choices to use illicit drugs (which ones are up for debate) and whether or not any are found in her system upon her passing, that habit most likely was part of the cause. I'll be shocked if she was clean. As Americans, we love to forget the terrible things that a person did, or the fact that they just weren't good people (Al Davis) all because they died. We raise them to the level of hero.
I want to tell you about some of my heroes. Mikeal Hocevar chooses to protect the people of Shafter, CA as a police officer. My dad, Gene Peteranetz, made the same choice as a reserve sheriff's officer for years in Boulder County. Daniel Hunter and his dad, John, served as volunteer firefighters in Lafayette, CO. So did John Happs. Matthew Sanderson served in our military protecting us overseas and now serves as a sheriff's deputy in Boulder County. Jessica Freeman is still serving in Korea. Dave Shafer protected us by serving in the armed forces. The Giggey boys have been in the military and/or police officers. Ben Rouley is in the Air Force. These people are heroes. I am so grateful that I can count them as friends, and even more grateful for the choices that they've made to selflessly serve the rest of us, often thanklessly. Thank you, all of you. I know I may not have that information 100% correct, and if you are reading this and have served in the military or as a cop, firefighter or rescue personnel, please let me know, and I will rectify whatever mistakes or omissions I've made in this blog.
Okay. Most of you know this, but as this blog has been my official/unofficial sounding board for announcing big changes, I'll put it on my blog that I GOT A REAL BOY TEACHING JOB! I am teaching 2nd grade at Neihardt Elementary here in O-town. The job is (wait... was... I took it. It's not available any more) available because the teacher who was in that position went on maternity leave and then decided not to come back. The long term sub couldn't stay in the position for whatever reason. I have it now! I started a friggen month ago, and now I am blogging about it. OOPS! It's been phenomenal, and yet another reason that I continue to feel so blessed about my move to Omaha, and am 100% positive that this was the right move for me.
Okay (new goal, start the rest of the paragraphs in this blog with "Okay". Goal accomplished if this is the last one...). I have to ask... WHERE IS WINTER?! It's nearly spring already, and it's as though winter just left Omaha off its winter itinerary. WTF?! As a lover of winter, I feel like a jilted... well... lover. Welp, that sentence didn't go like I'd hoped. Oh well. Anyway. I WANT WINTER! I rode the motorcycle last month, and in December. That's not entirely true. We've had a couple of solid snow storms, but many nights, the overnight low hasn't even made it below freezing. Now, certain people who are in the room with me RIGHT NOW will tell me that it's fine. She'll tell me that we could go without winter any way, but she's WRONG! And pretty. She's wrong, but pretty. Holy side track Batman.
Okay. I was hoping to close this out being funnier, but I got nothing funny right now. OH! My new favorite thing is my 4" memory foam mattress topper. Epic win. My bed FTW now. It's SOO comfy. And also a little warmer than I usually like. It's okay though. I approve.
(Okay) Thanks again for reading this. Hope this blog finds you all well. I'll be in Colorado next weekend recruiting at the Colorado Crossroads volleyball tournament. I might well have time to hang with a few of you, so lemme know. LATE!
I have to rant for a hot second. I sorta did it on fb the other day, and I know it's late, but I have to monologue about the Whitney Houston stuff. I know it's late, but I also haven't really had time to get on my computron of late... at least not long enough to blog. Here's my problem. Whitney was treated by millions of Americans (and many parts of the media) as nearly infallible. She made the choices that led, ultimately, to her early passing. Now, don't get me wrong, I think it's terribly tragic, especially seeing as she has a daughter emerging into adulthood, needing a role model. And truly, it's tragic any time that a life is cut short, but Whitney made choices to use illicit drugs (which ones are up for debate) and whether or not any are found in her system upon her passing, that habit most likely was part of the cause. I'll be shocked if she was clean. As Americans, we love to forget the terrible things that a person did, or the fact that they just weren't good people (Al Davis) all because they died. We raise them to the level of hero.
I want to tell you about some of my heroes. Mikeal Hocevar chooses to protect the people of Shafter, CA as a police officer. My dad, Gene Peteranetz, made the same choice as a reserve sheriff's officer for years in Boulder County. Daniel Hunter and his dad, John, served as volunteer firefighters in Lafayette, CO. So did John Happs. Matthew Sanderson served in our military protecting us overseas and now serves as a sheriff's deputy in Boulder County. Jessica Freeman is still serving in Korea. Dave Shafer protected us by serving in the armed forces. The Giggey boys have been in the military and/or police officers. Ben Rouley is in the Air Force. These people are heroes. I am so grateful that I can count them as friends, and even more grateful for the choices that they've made to selflessly serve the rest of us, often thanklessly. Thank you, all of you. I know I may not have that information 100% correct, and if you are reading this and have served in the military or as a cop, firefighter or rescue personnel, please let me know, and I will rectify whatever mistakes or omissions I've made in this blog.
Okay. Most of you know this, but as this blog has been my official/unofficial sounding board for announcing big changes, I'll put it on my blog that I GOT A REAL BOY TEACHING JOB! I am teaching 2nd grade at Neihardt Elementary here in O-town. The job is (wait... was... I took it. It's not available any more) available because the teacher who was in that position went on maternity leave and then decided not to come back. The long term sub couldn't stay in the position for whatever reason. I have it now! I started a friggen month ago, and now I am blogging about it. OOPS! It's been phenomenal, and yet another reason that I continue to feel so blessed about my move to Omaha, and am 100% positive that this was the right move for me.
Okay (new goal, start the rest of the paragraphs in this blog with "Okay". Goal accomplished if this is the last one...). I have to ask... WHERE IS WINTER?! It's nearly spring already, and it's as though winter just left Omaha off its winter itinerary. WTF?! As a lover of winter, I feel like a jilted... well... lover. Welp, that sentence didn't go like I'd hoped. Oh well. Anyway. I WANT WINTER! I rode the motorcycle last month, and in December. That's not entirely true. We've had a couple of solid snow storms, but many nights, the overnight low hasn't even made it below freezing. Now, certain people who are in the room with me RIGHT NOW will tell me that it's fine. She'll tell me that we could go without winter any way, but she's WRONG! And pretty. She's wrong, but pretty. Holy side track Batman.
Okay. I was hoping to close this out being funnier, but I got nothing funny right now. OH! My new favorite thing is my 4" memory foam mattress topper. Epic win. My bed FTW now. It's SOO comfy. And also a little warmer than I usually like. It's okay though. I approve.
(Okay) Thanks again for reading this. Hope this blog finds you all well. I'll be in Colorado next weekend recruiting at the Colorado Crossroads volleyball tournament. I might well have time to hang with a few of you, so lemme know. LATE!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Random and Coherent ramblings
Some of you saw this earlier, some of you did not. I promised a new blog this morning on my Facebook status update. If you didn't see this earlier, then... SURPRISE!
Last week, I was confirmed into the Episcopal church. For some people, you'll be all like, "What the hell? Really?" To you I'd answer, "Yes." This move to Omaha has been marked by a few fairly remarkable changes, shifts and personal learnings on my part. In this case, I felt drawn back to the church and found this phenomenal, friendly and welcoming community here in West O/Elkhorn. The bishop was coming through town, and based on the fact that I was raised Episcopalian, Fr. Mark thought it'd be okay for me to be confirmed without all of the formal classes. My mom and dad surprised me by driving out for the weekend, and attending the service with my aunt and uncle. It was a great service (Fr. Mark's opening line- "This week the congregation is in for a real treat- a good sermon.") and I am very confident and comfortable in this decision. Now, before some of you get to freaking out, wondering if I've somehow change and will be prostheletyzing (sp?) all over the place, don't friggen worry about it. I've changed in a lot of great ways, but rest assured The Ty is still here.
I've mentioned previously how much I really like Omaha. I think I need to reiterate that I still have every intent of moving back to Denver some day, don't you worry. Things have just been going so well here that I really need to give O-town a go.
I've posted this once, and I'm even more excited about this now, but Markeya and I are going to be at Wicked in Denver on May 12 at 2:00 pm. Mom, Dad, she and I are sitting on the Mezzanine level, but I definitely want to extend the invite to anyone who's reading this. Please come. If you've seen it, you know you want to see it again. If you haven't seen it, you know you want to. I'm sure we'll go to lunch beforehand (or we won't, let me narrow the possibilities). Almost immediately after the show, the four of us will go up to Grand Lake, which I obviously cannot invite everyone and their mom to, this is more informative so that e'eryone knows that we won't be going out in Denver on Saturday night (Friday, though maybe?...). Ummm... I will be in Denver, most likely, for a week the end of Feb - early March.
Other things. I am asking for good juju sent my way. I have an interview on Monday for a full time teaching job that will take me through the end of the school year. I am working on getting my big boy Nebraska teaching license, and if that happens in time, I'll be paid as a full time teacher with full benefits. If not and I get the job, it'll be as a long term sub job. I am super excited to maybe be a real teacher again. It'd be second grade, which would be super awesome. I had a meeting with the HR recruiter for Millard PS on Wednesday, and I'm feeling fairly confident in my chances to get a teaching job in the fall. I have really liked every school I've been in in Millard, and feel very comfortable there. As I've said, I desperately miss teaching. OH, and my Hodgkins people, I love the Broncos pic Gould sent me yesterday! AWESOME! I am teaching Kindergarten all week next week. I'm super excited and nervous.
Only in Nebraska!!
Only in Nebraska do they put signs along a US highway stating that you cannot shoot waterfowl from your car....
PEACE KIDS!
Last week, I was confirmed into the Episcopal church. For some people, you'll be all like, "What the hell? Really?" To you I'd answer, "Yes." This move to Omaha has been marked by a few fairly remarkable changes, shifts and personal learnings on my part. In this case, I felt drawn back to the church and found this phenomenal, friendly and welcoming community here in West O/Elkhorn. The bishop was coming through town, and based on the fact that I was raised Episcopalian, Fr. Mark thought it'd be okay for me to be confirmed without all of the formal classes. My mom and dad surprised me by driving out for the weekend, and attending the service with my aunt and uncle. It was a great service (Fr. Mark's opening line- "This week the congregation is in for a real treat- a good sermon.") and I am very confident and comfortable in this decision. Now, before some of you get to freaking out, wondering if I've somehow change and will be prostheletyzing (sp?) all over the place, don't friggen worry about it. I've changed in a lot of great ways, but rest assured The Ty is still here.
I've mentioned previously how much I really like Omaha. I think I need to reiterate that I still have every intent of moving back to Denver some day, don't you worry. Things have just been going so well here that I really need to give O-town a go.
I've posted this once, and I'm even more excited about this now, but Markeya and I are going to be at Wicked in Denver on May 12 at 2:00 pm. Mom, Dad, she and I are sitting on the Mezzanine level, but I definitely want to extend the invite to anyone who's reading this. Please come. If you've seen it, you know you want to see it again. If you haven't seen it, you know you want to. I'm sure we'll go to lunch beforehand (or we won't, let me narrow the possibilities). Almost immediately after the show, the four of us will go up to Grand Lake, which I obviously cannot invite everyone and their mom to, this is more informative so that e'eryone knows that we won't be going out in Denver on Saturday night (Friday, though maybe?...). Ummm... I will be in Denver, most likely, for a week the end of Feb - early March.
Other things. I am asking for good juju sent my way. I have an interview on Monday for a full time teaching job that will take me through the end of the school year. I am working on getting my big boy Nebraska teaching license, and if that happens in time, I'll be paid as a full time teacher with full benefits. If not and I get the job, it'll be as a long term sub job. I am super excited to maybe be a real teacher again. It'd be second grade, which would be super awesome. I had a meeting with the HR recruiter for Millard PS on Wednesday, and I'm feeling fairly confident in my chances to get a teaching job in the fall. I have really liked every school I've been in in Millard, and feel very comfortable there. As I've said, I desperately miss teaching. OH, and my Hodgkins people, I love the Broncos pic Gould sent me yesterday! AWESOME! I am teaching Kindergarten all week next week. I'm super excited and nervous.
Only in Nebraska!!
Only in Nebraska do they put signs along a US highway stating that you cannot shoot waterfowl from your car....
PEACE KIDS!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)