Scenes From Game 1...

Whatever It Takes, Boys!
Clement, Clement, Hands of Cement and Messier, right below my section

Let's Get It On...

Time for the Stanley Cup Finals. After vacationing in Ocean City, Maryland, the fam and I are home (at 2 AM this morning!) in time to get my game face on for Game 1 vs my Carolina Hurricanes and the Edmonton Oilers. I'll be meeting some friends there to tailgate, then heading up for the first in what promises to be a great series of games.
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While in OC this weekend, my Dad and I attended the NASCAR Race at Dover, Delaware. Those of you who know me know how much of a smart a$$ I am. So what do I do? Take pictures of all the NASCAR stuff with my jersey and hats on. It was actually pretty interesting. When we got to our parking spot (at 5 AM!!! Yuck!), as soon as I got out, a guy called to me, 'What are you doing with that Hartford Whalers jersey on?' It was my Hurricanes jersey, but I saw his point. Then we chatted for a few minutes about how bitter he was with Kormanos (join the club!), but he assured me he liked to see the 'team' do well. We parked next to 3 guys from NY, and they started in on 'Ending their Sabres' run. Awesome! Later on, my Dad and I walked through some souvenir booths, and got our pictures taken in front of Dale Jarrett's 88 Ford. The people in line behind me shouted, 'Yeah, that's right--the Canes are going to win the Cup!' The guy taking the picture said, 'What's the series now?' I told him we won, and in his Southern drawl, he said, 'Yeah!' See! Hockey (at least Hurricanes Hockey!) is alive and well in the South. And yes, us NASCAR fans can like it as well. Remember, I'm a Northern boy, and most of the license plates of the 140,000 fans at Dover were PA and NY. I even saw a few Quebec, Ontario, and Maine plates.
GO CANES!!!!

Lucy Flava...

Doesn't she just look like Flava Flav from Public Enemy in these shots??

Oooo, Child, Things are Going to Get Easier...

Don't know what it is with me and my song 'titles' for blog titles, but anywho...

Lucy is doing AMAZING! She really seems like a different toddler. She talks non-stop, plays on her own, fights going to bed-->you know, everything a real toddler does. It's truly amazing, and Kerry and I feel so blessed. Thanks to all of you who offered your support, thoughts, prayers, and FOOD for her! She appreciates having such loving friends and family. Her appetite is back with a vengence as well. She wants cheese, fruit snacks, chicken soup (with rice noodles), and mac and cheese (with rice noodles) NONSTOP! It is great to see.
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We will visit with Nana and PapPap Friday in Ocean City, MD for the NASCAR race. Yep, I am a former Northerner, hockey fan, and like NASCAR. Kinda atypical, eh? Or eh, hoser!
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Canes play game seven of the ECF tomorrow night in Raleigh. We need to come out and score a couple on Miller Lite early. We can do it. I tell you one thing--Roddy really wants this--he has worked non stop!! Go Hurricanes!

Hey Hey, Whaddya Say!!

What a game, once again! Just when you think these Cardiac Canes are done in, they do something to rouse the championship feeling once again. Down 3-1 (thanks in part to some non-calls by our friends in zebra stripes), the Canes were the only ones who stayed calm, and battled back, in part due to the awesome leadership of Rod Brind'Amour and others, and sent the game into overtime.
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In the OT, we had to kill 1:30 of PP carry over time. They we received a powerplay, and Cory Stillman, who could've been the goat after some errors early in the game, won it in overtime. Ryan Miller--who cares if it was a whiff. You didn't stop it, we won the game, and take a 3-2 lead in the series. We look to wrap it up and punch our ticket to the SCF on Tuesday in Buffalo.
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What a Playoff Year!

Watched the Ducks--Oil game last night. Phew--I hope Anaheim will take Edmonton a few games further. The Oil definitely looks good, although Anaheim came back. Eight goals scored in the 3rd period last night.
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Game 3 tonight in Buffalo. Canes need a good showing, and need to take the Buffalo crowd out early. 96 Rock took a 'Cane Vic' up, and it looks like some fans will be making the trip--hope they're vocal!

Open Letter to Mr. Rutherford, GM of the Carolina Hurricanes

Went to Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals between my Carolina Hurricanes and the Buffalo Sabres. Pretty sad that approximately 5,000 Sabres fans ventured down from Buffalo. What a sorry impression to give to the rest of the hockey world. "Those darn country hicks can't even sell out their arena to their own fans." Well we did sell it out, just 5,000 of the opposition bought tickets. And it was loud. On all three Buffalo goals, it sounded like we were in Buffalo's home arena. When a Let's Go Buffalo chant started up, the Let's Go Canes chant drowned it out, but still.

And it goes to Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Kormanos. Many people don't know this, but after round two, season ticket holders discovered that their ticket strips for Round 3 went up, way up. Many, like some on the website letsgocanes.com could not afford the $1000+ amount they would need to layout. Some bought individual tickets, some didn't buy any at all. You always can understand jacking up the price for us Joe Blows who buy individual tix, but *YOUR SEASON TICKET BASE?* Is this really the group you want to pi$$ off? (Wow, my first piece of vulgarity on this site. Sorry for those family-friendly viewers, but had to be said!). They said that after round 1 vs. Montreal, the rest would be pure profit. Nothing like raising the amount of profit due to your Mr. Kormanos. Now, like a good owner, will he fork over some of that to resign Doug Weight? Give Peter Laviolette the 1+ million due to him for an awesome job coaching? I am sure not. After an incredible run, much like 02, they will allow all our UFAs to ride out of Dodge, and we'll suffer another lackidasical year next year with average attendance at 12K. With games under 10K. And we'll continue to be the laughing stock of the NHL.

Thank you Peter and Jim. Great job. Way to see us fans for what we are--moneybags.

Twas the night before the Eastern Conference Finals...

and all through my belly...
one could only hear the butterflies
rolling around like they were in a jar of jelly.

my jersey was hung by the door with care,
waiting for tomorrow when Robin would stop here...

we'll go to the RBC Center for a sausage and beer...
then into the bedlam to here the great cheer...

we'll see Staal down the ice in a flash...
Ward check a Sabre into the boards with a mash...

When what to my wondering eyes should appear...
The red light behind Miller, and his eyes wide like a deer...

I knew in a moment we'd hear Ric Flair...
Woooo....wooooo.....wooooo....wooooo....

I heard the Canes chant, as they slipped out of sight...
Merry Hockey dear Caniacs, we have a few more games in this fight!

LET'S GO HURRICANES!! LET'S GO HURRICANES!!!

More Sticker Fun...

The girl LOVES stickers. No picture is complete without at least 12. Now we began to apply them all over, so enjoy these pictures!

Celiac Child

Well, we finally discovered why Lucy has not been eating. And why she's been clingy. And the reason for the irritabilitiness. (Phew--that was a tough one). And the hay fever. Seems our little one has Celiac Disease. Now while we're happy to discover the cause of all those symptoms, we can't help but feel depressed over what Celiac is. Thankfully, it is not a life-threatening disease, but rather something that will effect her day-to-day way of life.
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Celica Disease in simpliest terms, is a genetic disorder (hereditary on Kerry's side--her cousin has it) that actually affects 1 in 133 people, although most go undiagnosed. From celiac.com:

Those affected suffer damage to the villi (shortening and villous flattening) in the lamina propria and crypt regions of their intestines when they eat specific food-grain antigens (toxic amino acid sequences) that are found in wheat, rye, and barley

The good news is Lucy can live a healthy, happy life. She goes to Duke (no, not for lacrosse practice--had to thrown that one in there) either tomorrow or next week for a stomach/intestine biopsy to positively identify her with the disease. After that we will meet with a nutritionist to begin to identify what she can eat. I definitely see a large change in our diets as well. You can't really eat a huge brownie in front of a kid who it will make sick. So say a few prayers for us, to have the strength needed to make it through. We'll keep you posted!

What Am I To Do??

Ok, we won last night to wrap up the series with the Devils. Eastern Conference Finals (got my ticket to game 1), begin on Saturday, so now what to do all week? As you can see from my pictures, it's time to decorate the house!!!

It's a fruit pizzzzzzzzaaaa in Raleeeeeeeigh!

Like the cake? Kerry made me a Hurricanes fruit pizza for my birthday. Now, with a Canes win, my birthday will be complete.

Notice the colors--black (blueberries) and red (strawberries). Hee hee! She loves me!

Happy Hurricane Clinch Day!!

Today is such a special day. Yes, it is Mother's Day! But that's not what I meant. It is also my birthday, but again, there's something even more important on this day. Today is Hurricanes' Clinch Day. I feel good about our chances of wrapping up the Devils today. So good, we even did a family Hurricanes portrait. Plus, I need to shave before next round. Looks like Round 3 vs. the Sabres, right here in Raleigh on Saturday. Stay tuned!!

What a Birthday Gift!

So they didn't get the sweep. Well, what is quickly becoming a hockey blog, I will use this forum to discuss my thoughts. Tomorrow, the Canes try to eliminate the Devils for the 2nd time, only this time among the RBC Caniacs. Plus, it's my birthday. Happy birthday to me!
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Marty's tears finally weighed in as NJD received the gift of 11 power plays. Now, I'm not saying they were phantom calls. For the most part, we did the infraction, but when you call 11 pps to around 4-5, you are giving the game to the other team. All I want is consistency.

I Got a Feeeeeelin...

Wow! Is this fun, or what? It doesn't quite compare to the '02 Cup run (yet--heehee!), but what a ride! Canes allowed the Devils to dictate the action, and they beat them at their own game.
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Sad to continually hear a 'great' goalie like Brodeur first complain about players running him, then, after the refs do what he wants, he complains about his own players being in the way. Sad that a goalie I used to respect has to cower behind a bunch of excuses.
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As quoted from Brodeur himself...
"That red light sunburned my neck in Game 1 and I'm playing in a lot of pain."

Wooo...wooo!

Whatta game! Game one of the Hurricanes' 2006 Second Round against the Devils may go down as one of their best playoff victories ever. For all the talk about the Devils being the hottest team in the NHL coming into this second round, we gave them the spank down! I met two teachers I used to work with, Jenn and Robin, and we had the best of times!! It was especially sweet chasing Brodeur from the net!
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It was the perfect end to a busy, busy day. We had our yard sale in the morning. We made a whole $10.50!!! It was so funny, too, because the things we sold were the things we thought we'd just give to Goodwill. Stuffed animals and my old pants. Heehee! Oh well, we made a little money.
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Then I raced over to Jenn's house for her daughter Ashley's 1st birthday party. With gametime at 2 PM, the party was from 11-2. Plus, she lives about a half hour further from the RBC Center. Poor Lucy was ill, so it was just I, the lone Shearer representative.
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From there, Robin and I raced to the RBC, but still had time to down a cold one or two. We parked in the fairgrounds lot, quite reminescent of the 02 Cup Run. This picture shows the crowds walking to the RBC.
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In the game, it was deafening! With the four goals, Marty started to get rattled. When Justin Williams was cross-checked onto him, he came up swinging and earned a penalty. With our 5 power play goals, we stuck the knife in a little further and began to twist. 6-0 was the final score.
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Highlights from the game:

-in the 3rd period, the entire arena did the 'Wave.' I never saw that at a hockey game before
-when Marty was finally pulled, a friend thinks he saw him mouth, "I'm getting out of here."
-the RBC Center was LOUD!!!! At times we were louder than the music being played
-I loved the repeated horn blasts.
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Let's continue to rattle Brodeur and set-up shop inside the crease.

Best of 3

Home ice advantage back to the Canes. After squandering the first two home games, Carolina went to Montreal and won two. Now we've shortened it to a best of 3 series, with home ice back to the Canes. They are back to playing Hurricanes hockey, so we'll see what happens this evening. As you can tell from the pictures, Lucy is ready to go.
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Interviewed with Durham County yesterday. I'm impressed with what they're doing, plus that would be a shorter commute. We'll keep you informed!

Wooo....woo....woooooo!

It's a hockey series in Raleeeee! Thank goodness. We just wanted to make this a series. After an embarassing game one (we were there), losing 6-1, and a heartbreaking 6-5 2OT loss in game two, we break out and win in game 3, 2-1 in overtime. Cam Ward started in goal and came up HUGE in allowing just one goal. What a confidence builder for the young 22 year old.
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Now, we better feel comfortable about our goaltending. Our offense and PP looks ok, at times. Our PK unit has been alright. Our defense has been atrocious, so they have the next 48 hours to work on it.

LET'S GO CANES!!!!!

It's the Most Wonderful TIme of the Year...

Playoff hockey has started! Goodness, this excites me! Our Canes enter with the 3rd best record in the NHL and high expectations on their shoulders. Anything less than a repeat visit to the Cup Finals would be a disappointment.
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Kerry and I will attend Game 1 tomorrow night. We're tailgating with some old friends I used to teach with, so that should be exciting as well. We finally have a vehicle (the Kia) that will semi-be good for tailgating, so good food, good friends, and A PLAYOFF VICTORY! Aunt Shannon will be up to babysit, so that will be good!
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Spring Break ends today. )-: We had a great time, just hanging out. I love spending all the extra time just hanging out with my wife and Lucy. I'll miss that next week. Hopefully I get some more opportunities again soon.

A scary thought...

I went for a nice, long run today. A six miler, down the Greenway, out to Durant, back Falls of Neuse, and aroud Bedford. A little sluggish earlier, then I began to run harder. Hamstrings bothered me early, but that went away too. My point of this run, however, is something quite disturbing. Maybe, since I was listening to Stephen King's new book, Cell, maybe not. Every runner/walker/biker has an mp3 player these days. After the recent news about earbuds damaging your hearing, I thought it was pretty amazing that so many people still use them. And use them loudly. Even with my music up at a reasonably loud level, I could still hear his music. How loud must it be in his head? Unbelievable. Like the story in Cell, with everyone going crazy or becoming large bugs, our heads will just explode.
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My Hurricanes continue to do amazing! Playoff tickets for round one went on sale today. We picked up 2 for the first game. We actually also picked up cable, so I can watch all the playoff games. How different a child effects your personal life. I spent over $500.00 in the Cup Run, now, I only buy tix to one game. Definitely worth it though--I love my Lucy!

A bit surprising...I thought I'd be Lisa...

You Are Bart Simpson

Very misunderstood, most people just dismiss you as "trouble." Little do they know that you're wise and well accomplished beyond your years. You will be remembered for: starring in your own TV show and saving the town from a comet Your life philosophy: "I don't know why I did it, I don't know why I enjoyed it, and I don't know why I'll do it again!"

The Simpsons Personality Test

Rocketboom or Rocketbust?

So I'm getting into video podcasts. Well, I guess I'm listening to one for the first time, Rocketboom, the immensely popular one starring Amanda Cogdon. So far I don't see the personal draw of video podcasting. For me, the car and running is the ideal time for podcasts. I cannot find an ideal time to devote to watching content on a small little screen. With that being said, I hold in my hands a Creative 30GB video multimedia player (the Windows version of a video iPod). Another toy. I really want to see the draw on these machines, and if nothing else, use it as a back-up hard-drive.
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Speaking of Rocketboom--what's so funny with it? I just don't get it.

We All Knew It Was True...

How do you like the sign? I actually had two of my friends (sorry Jenn and Robin--I love you both) believe it was real. It's not! (-: But it feels true!

It's Almost April...

Can you believe how fast life continues to roll? I mean, it feels like the Super Bowl just happened (or I'm avoiding reality, being a Seahawks fan!) and next weekend will be April. Simply amazing. Things have speeded up regarding plans for next year. I came home from the conference on Monday, and a message from DPS was on the machine wanting an interview for the IT position. Sounds good. Looks like I will go interview this week.
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Enjoyed the conference. We received our grant check, so I spent yesterday shopping. I actually found some good deals for podcasting equipment. It looks like we will purchase a small mixing board so we can do interviews. My podcast crew will probably interview David Warlick (the edu-tech guy) next month when he arrives. I also picked up a multimedia player (the Windows version of a video iPod) to begin sampling video on a small screen. Should be interesting.
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My girls are doing well. Lucy now is onto bigger and better things--incisors. Makes for some fun days. (-:
But she is a sweetie and so SMART! She signs for about a dozen different things, including motorcycle, giraffe, and cat. She takes after her Mama I guess!

No surprise here...

I Am Coke

A true original and classic, you represent the best of everything you can offer. Just the right amount of sweet, just the right amount of energy... you're the life of the party. Your best soda match: Mountain Dew Stay away from:Dr Pepper

What Kind of Soda Are You?

Off to NCaect!

Another conference, but a good conference in the opinion of David Warlick, whom I asked some questions about the conference. Definitely exciting to network with new tools, ideas, people, and food! (-:
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Our Williford Team will present on how we used technology to make AYP in an inner-city school. I would like to take credit for the effort, but due to Williford's being an IMPACT Model School, the teachers are truly dedicated to the cause of technology.
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We will also accept a grant to purchase more podcasting tools. We began podcasting after NCETC, on a limited basis. Now, as we mastered the basics, we want to share this fabulous medium with other students, teachers, and parents.
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See you at the Westin!

ncaect

The Bugs Slide In, the Bugs Slide Out

Well, I believe my cold is throwing up it's last hurrah. I needed some rest this weekend to get over this completely. It will be nice to be my old, moody self again! The weather is crazy though. We had 80s last week, now it's getting only into the 50s for the next week or so. We'll begin getting some much needed rain. I just want to wash my cars so bad! I've never washed the Kia here before. )-:
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Busy week coming up. Two days of school, then I'll head to Charlotte for the NCaect conference. It should prove interesting. I'll accept my check for $2500 for a grant I wrote for podcasting equipment. Yes, I podcast with my students. Check out the link to see them. Then later in the afternoon we'll present about the great things at our school. Should be good to network with similar minded people and get more tech integration ideas.
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The girls are fantastic. Lucy still will not eat much, but we really think that it's due to her teeth. All molars have poked through, but she still chews on those fingers nonstop. Poor girl! I've hated being sick the past week too. She's getting to the fun age where she really plays, but I really wasn't up to it. Now things will get back to normal. Kerry is awesome, as usual! How I possessed the luck to keep her, I'll never know. I just thank my lucky stars everyday!

Weather or Whether

Alright, yes, I know I live in North Carolina. Yes, we have a temperate climate. But what is going on with this daily weather? This week we've had temperatures in the 80s, and today, at 11:30 AM, it's currently 49. I am finally getting over my cold, but shessh! Possibility of maybe a little snow the beginning of next week.
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A Real Horror Movie...

Unfortunately, it's a true story going on in the world today. I just finished reading The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman. Many pointed me to this book, as they said it's for anyone in politics or public education. After reading it, while a great read, I must say I wish I hadn't. In his book, he discusses how the global marketplace makes many things obsolete, such as low wage jobs in the US. He goes
into detail on how US corporations are and must relocate their call centers and other operations to other areas, such as Bangalore, India. Many people will scream at this, but by doing this, it allows the Americans to focus on higher-tech jobs and ventures. Unfortunately, as he points out, we're not taking the initiative to do this. Now, these previously thought of as 'third-world' countries established a middle class, so now they're focusing on the higher-skilled positions our Americans are not qualified for.
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You see this everyday in American public schools. We blame teachers. We blame parents. The only ones who do not receive any blame, but are totally in charge of their own destiny are the students. Face it, our students are LAZY. Yes, maybe 1-3% of students do work hard, but as a former educator, I saw it daily in the class. Anytime you offered additional study or a higher level discussion, the students would do enough to 'get by.' Big changes are needed. Big answers are needed. Do you have any?

February Leaving Like a Lion

Whew! Tried to run this morning, around 7:30. It was about 32, so I didn't think it would be too bad. Wrong! Once that wind began, it tore right through me. I hadn't cut short a run in months, but I sure did this morning.
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Olympics end tonight. )-: NBC will probably grin that they finish. I guess the ratings were less than stellar. When American Idol almost doubles up the number of viewers, it might be time for them to quit those 'people pieces.' How frustrating to begin watching something, like the Snowboard Cross, to really become engrossed by it, then NBC switches to ICE DANCING. Nothing against ice dancing, it's a real nice display, but I want to watch the Cross. One thing the network did right was showing USA Hockey (Men's and Women's) in its entirety, commercial free. Probably only to capitalize on NHL hockey after the Olympics.
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Speaking of Men's Hockey--Mike 'Crybaby' Modano became the latest posterboy to show why the rest of the world hates the USA. I only hope most people out there know not all of us feel the same way he does. I do agree with him--they never never never should have taken all those slow slow players. Makes me happy that Lavi and Cole, along with Hedican did so well. Hopefully that will give them a good boost as the begin their quest for the Cup!

An Olympic Sized Edition...

It seems I've been a bit lax of late in my postings. With the marathon road trip last week, I've been trying to catch up on sleep and rest, but we're back at it now!
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Olympics have begun. Until this evening, I did not pay much attention. I usually don't until the NHL takes its sabbatical. Now with the Canes winning this evening, K and I are sacked out on the couches watching luge, snowboarding, and ski jumping. Some observations:

1. What is with the men's snowboarding uniforms? Ok, yes, I recognize the average participant's age is probably 20, but do they really need to wear skate boy outfits? I would think those loose fitting outfits would hinder their efforts too. And I guess it must be a pre-requisite that you have long hair.

2. NBC (and the networks) have TERRIBLE coverage. Yes, I can understand trying to prolong viewership, but it is SO annoying to really get into an event, like we did with snowboarding tonight, then they switch to luge. I hate tape delay.

3. Why do host countries think they must provide an 'artistic interpretation' to the opening ceremonies. These are sports. Athletes participate and we watch. None of us with our low intelligence know anything about art, so why put them on. To me, the excitement came from watching to see if the little sparks would run into anyone else and put the whole thing up in flames.

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Ok, my Seahawks lost. Complain about the refs until you're blue in the face, but we didn't get it done. The game was fun to watch on the HDTV at my uncle's. The party was great too. As you can see, Lucy enjoyed herself with all my cousins! And they enjoyed her. The trip home was tough though. We came straight on the Turnpike from Monroeville and ran into a major whiteout over Somerset Mountain. While, I did. Lucy and Kerry were sacked out. Definitely would not have missed it. We'll get 'em next year!

I got a feeee-ling...

Seattle is going to win the Super Bowl...

Don't you just hate how some people can be such loud mouths. I mean, a professional athlete, making millions of dollars, needs a petty, soap opera squabble to get motivated for a football game. If I was in his shoes, I would seriously question my career choice. Gotta love hot heads. Seriously though...let other people defend themselves. *eye roll*
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Heading up to the 'Burgh tomorrow. I know the uncles will delight in seeing me come over. I promise not to gloat too much for winning. I just want to see a quick score, maybe over Walter Jones' left shoulder! (-:
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Punxsy Phil saw his shadow today. Six more weeks of winter! Or maybe for us down here, that will be just six weeks of winter, since we've been mild around here lately. I just want to see some snow!

Battle to End All Battles

So, the Seahawks and Steelers finally face off, in the Super Bowl no less. I knew this day would come. After the years and years of abuse from 4 uncles, my Seahawks will play their Steelers for the Super Bowl trophy.



Lucy, Kerry, and I will be travelling up to PA to attend a Steelers Super Bowl party. Should be interesting. Bragging rights for the rest of our lives up for grabs.

The Sports Championship Trifecta

Wow! That's all I'll say. After years, and I do mean years, of cheering for the old nags, my teams are pulling together this year. First the ChiSox pull of the World Series. Got the sports blood in me flowing. When we were up in PA, I went through all my old stuff and brought down a few artifacts from my days as a huge Frank Thomas/Robin Ventura fan. Now the Seahawks march toward the NFC Championship game. Again, I pulled out all my artifacts ("Stevie Largent--what a good receiver!") and took some pictures. Apologies to my father-in-law for the win over his Skins. Of course we play Carolina this week. Not that I'm worried about the team, but I LIVE in Carolina and work with some pretty big fans. Makes for a long week. Be interesting to see the Hawks meet the 'Stillers.' I guess we'd be making a Pittsburgh road trip for a Super Bowl party!

Now the Canes have the best record in the NHL. We actually go to a game Thursday night, then we'll head to DC Friday and I'll attend the Caps-Canes game. My Canes jersey and Seahawks hat will probably get me mugged, but that's alright.

PodcasterCon 2006

Hello Chapel Hill! Many of the world's famous podcasters will descend to UNC-Chapel Hill for an open source conference on podcasting. As I've just recently begun my involvement in the world of podcasting, I'm excited to go and rub elbows with many of the people I listen to and read about. At the conference, some of the participants include Rob of Podcast 411, an instructional cast on issues in podcasting, Me and the Bean, a favorite cast of mine as they discuss the events of a young, married with children relationship, and some educational podcastings. Should be a good time. Drop by!! Best of all--it's free!! (-:

PodcasterCon Link


podcastercon

Agua: A Fossil Fuel in Raleigh

Phew! You would think water is gold down here these days. Here we begin 2006, and Raleigh still faces water restrictions. Ok, so what does this mean? Well, I cannot wash the new Kia or my filthy, Northern-driven through the salt and ash Focus, but HEY!!! I can water my non-growing lawn twice a week. Whooo hoooo!
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Ok, so we all know Raleigh and the Greater Triangle area are great places to raise a family. That's why over 5,000 students join the public school system each year. We find ourselves unable to build schools fast enough. What does that mean? Wake County ignores purchasing more technology, increasing teacher and paraprofessional staff pay, and other things that would benefit the students. Do a google for Wake County reassignments. Heehee! You want to start a fist fight, bring that subject up between a repub and demo. It is ludicrious. So, where exactly am I going with this? Well, we can't build schools fast enough, we're running out of water...here comes Chris' Common Sense Moment of the Day:::::STOP ALLOWING MORE SUBDIVISIONS to be built in the county. We don't have enough water. We don't have enough schools. So let's allow a developer to build 500 houses in East Wake. Sure, go ahead and put in a plantation-style development in N. Raleigh. Come on Raleigh leaders...stop the insanity.

Happy 2006!

2005 is over and 2006 has just begun. Kerry, Lucy, and I rung in the new year together last night. Ok, well Kerry and I rang it in together. At least until 10:30, then we went to bed. We watched Willy Wonka (new version), then went to bed. We are quite the party animals. Oh well, we had a tough day! (-; As we start a new year, here's to hoping it's just as good or better than 2005. It was a good year for us, so here' to a new start!!!
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Enjoy our new Kia too--up to 48 miles now!! Better park it for awhile!

Ready to Head Home

Our Christmas will be officially over tonight at 7. That's when we'll be leaving Jen's house for Raleigh. We decided to travel at night so the Beast will sleep! (-: It will be a long night, but I'll be chock full of Sheetz tea. Mmmmm...
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Going to the Canes game tomorrow night. Meeting Robin, Kapp, and some others. Let's go Canes!!!

Merry Holidays To All

Heehee! That should make the conservatives angry! It is Christmas day, and I'm here sucking off someone's wireless network here in Vienna, VA at Kerry's folks. It's 36 and raining here. Had a great 5 miler this morning--in a downpour with some ice pelting down. I've put together a string of 3 good runs, so the OBX Marathon is looking possible--we'll see.
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Lucy made out with toys this morning! Her Grammie and Grandpa got her a huge kitchen, with plates and utensils. She loves it! Watch out Emeril!! I made out as well. I'm getting ready to rip my new 3 Doors Down cd to my laptop. Good tunage! Plus we'll be listening to that on the way to PA tomorrow. Christmas, Round II! I guess we'll be renting a U-Haul for the way home!

WHY IS HE ON INSTEAD OF CHEVY CHASE?

How does this man sleep? He spies on us? He has ties to oil rich countries who kill. Grrrrrr!

Have A Holly Jolly...

Well, it's the last week of school. It has been a busy time, with our 'World in Every Classroom,' all the typical holiday-type things, then everything else. We've seen some funky weather too, so that makes for even more interesting circumstances. But we're on the homeward stretch toward Christmas vacation. The family will make our annual pilgrimmage over the river and through the woods to Grammie and Nana's house. It will be a fun Christmas though--LUCY IS WALKING!
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The World In Every Classroom went well. We did a lot of neat, creative technology integration activities. A third grade teacher adapted Hansel and Gretel into a play starring our PE, Art, and other special teachers. I aided two of her students completing the audio using Audacity. I recorded a fifth grade class singing 'Deep in the Tomb of Egypt' and turned it into an mp3 for them to access. Teachers used digital microscopes, music, and a lot of other creative things. Lots 'o experience for Chris!! Each day secures me more and more of an authority, as we're even beginning a weekly podcast on writing, with more planned.
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Lucy does not pause very often these days. The weekend after Thanksgiving is when she took her first steps. I guess she waited until Daddy came home from his conference. She definitely wanted to wait until she had it mastered. Now she tears around the house, neighborhood, and pretty much Raleigh, uncontrollable. We took her to the NC Museum of Science, and it was so awesome to see her tearing around. It is still hard to believe it's our little girl walking! Where does the time go?
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Well...time for Nat'l Lampoons Christmas Vacation--heehee!

Lucy and Jarrod

 

Lucy had a great time playing with Jarrod at our 'Pre-Christmas' shindig with the neighbors last week.
 

Let this speak for itself...

Cha Ching...

Taken from the 3 Dec 2005 News and Observer:

Closing a 'casino'

I'm sitting here at the N.C. Education Technology Conference in Greensboro. This conference is a great way for teachers and administrators from all over the state to share ideas, learn new technologies and find better ways to use current technology. The conference lasts all week, and seemed to be calm; it's a conference full of educators after all.

Apparently not. For years, the NCECT people have hosted a Casino Night for teachers to unwind and play some games and mingle with each other. Instead of money, tickets are won to put into raffles for prizes. Earlier this week, state Alcohol Law Enforcement officials came, trying to shut the Casino Night down.

They returned the next day, threatening to arrest the coordinator and cite each person (over 1,000 at my estimate). Instead of Casino Night, the organizer scrambled to put on Activity Night. It was a success, but had many people scratching their heads.

As a busy educator, I scratch mine as well. We know there are numerous underground casinos and raffles going on in our state. Instead of going after these real gamblers, ALE officials go for educators. In a state that just passed a lottery and is contemplating allowing another tribe to run a real casino, our tax dollars go toward shutting down an innocent night of fun for our teachers.

I think I'll cash in my chips now.

Day 2 of the Pre-Conference

I'm sitting here in Day 2. This session is on Podcasting, and I get a free mp3 player. I was pleasantly surprised to walk in and see Juice and Audacity on the laptops. That's what I've found to use so far. I tried to ask a lot of people what they were using for podcatching and recording, but in at least podcasting, Raleigh, NC is behind the times. People look at me blankly when I mention it. Gives me hope, as I can help bring podcasting to Nash-Rocky Mount and the surrounding areas.
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Dinned at BoneFish Grill last night. If you have one nearby--GO! I had mahi that was sooooo fresh and tender!
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Going over to GUilford Courthouse to run after this session. Looking forward to it. The best of both worlds!

ncetc

Sitting in the Pre-Conference

Ok. I made it to Greensboro for the NCECT Conference. I'm impressed with the conference center and hotel.

I'm sitting in my first pre-conference on Windows Movie Maker. Yes, I've made a movie already (the four star 'A Day in the Life of Lucy'), but I'm looking for some tips for classroom use, adding video to a webpage, etc. What has shocked me is the wealth of really good material out there for use. Sites like freeplaymusic.com and ibiblio.org (a site with free video clips) can really help students and teachers learn the process. It's nice to see some free resources, instead of hearing about copyright, copyright, copyright. I hope to see more of these sites!

Tomorrow I go to a podcasting workshop, where I'll get a free mp3 player. Thank goodness, mine is fairly limiting. I am actually listing to a podcast on blogging now. What a tech nerd I am.

ncetc

Gobble Gobble Goodness

Another Thanksgiving, come and gone. It was our first as a family, staying in Raleigh. I must say, while missing family, it was nice to stay here, relax, and enjoy each other. Put up the tree and lights yesterday, so it's been fun keeping Lucy away from it. Went for a run, took Lucy to the playground, and just caught up on some reading.
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Conference in Greensboro Monday
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Lucy's baptism on Sunday
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Just finished Stephen King's The Regulators. Interesting read. Especially after reading Desperation this summer and seeing the connection. Wonder what the experience is like reading Desperation first. Stephen King is really underrated. Reading mastery. Even if you don't like horror, the creative story lines are amazing. Especially how he connects these two stories. Well, him and Richard Bachman. (-;

Bad Boys Bad Boys...

Whatcha gonna do? I gonna fight it!
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Got a speeding ticket on my way to work this morning. Only about 4 miles from home. I'm actually going to try to fight this one. He wrote down it was raining (it wasn't), so I wouldn't have been able to stop so quickly at the upcoming red light if I was speeding. Also, he wrote I was going both 54 and 59 in a 45 zone. Is this a technicality I can get off with? Hope so! Let me know if any of you have any suggestions!

Canes do it again. Beat Ottawa 2-1. They have done twice what only one other team has done. Then the Ottawa media makes remarks that a 'good' team doesn't lose 9-0. That either makes Ottawa bad, or us good. Canadians.

Taking Lucy to the Raleigh City Christmas Parade Saturday. While there will be no Clay Aiken (haha), we're looking forward to it. I think it'll be cold. It has been warm, it was 74 about 30 minutes ago, then we had about 10 minutes worth of showers, now it's down to 57. Friday's high is 48, so brrrrrr....Winter is back!

Ladies and Gentlemen...Elvis Has Left the Building...

What is up with the Hurricanes? EIGHT game winning streak? Phew! I thought they *may* sneak into the playoffs, but I had no idea they would do what they're doing. Just read an NHL article re: their great start. I definitely agree--it is a good combination of players. Cannot wait to make another game, probably in December.
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Have off tomorrow for Veterans Day. Just in time too! The past two weeks have been insane. It has been non-stop at Williford. We've had people in from DPI, NC State, our IMPACT Visit in Wadesboro. What a stretch. Things will stay busy, but a little less so.
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Lucy B is as cute as always. She took another step on her own today. Then she was pushing her hippo and 'bonked' me on the head. Then she let go of the hippo and clapped, standing on her own. It is such an awesome feeling to see your daughter do that!!

The Truth Comes Out...

See...I'm losing my Yankee heritage! The results are in, I don't speak "Yankee-ese" as well as I used to. Click the link below to see what language you speak!

Your Linguistic Profile:

70% General American English

15% Yankee

10% Dixie

5% Upper Midwestern

0% Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Also--two candidates that are in favor of busing won in Wake County elections today. All I have to say is Thank God! I guess that's an ironic phrase, since the conservatives are against busing. It seems they would like to deny the progress the county made (and receives national attention for) and resort back to the good 'ole days of segregation. Makes you wonder if you'll find a white cape and hood in some of their closets. Anywho, that's not a nice thing to say, so I apologize. Scares me though, as I know the ultra-conservatives like Cynthia Watson (?name) of Assignments By Choice will be going full force from now until the next elections.

A Much Quicker Week

I just had to post about a slow week. Well, this one was anything but. I spent Monday at Williford preparing for this roller coaster ride of a week. Tuesday we presented at DPI. Part of the IMPACT Model states that teachers should collaboratively plan with specialists (Media Coordinators, Tech Facilitators-me, etc). So our IMPACT Advisor asked us to present to the area Technology Directors on the benefits of collaborative planning. I prepared a PowerPoint, even including some video of a teacher, and some handouts. The presentation went GREAT! The people were very receptive toward what we were discussing. Yes, we received a grant for 1.35 million to install this model, but we really tried to focus on the collaborative piece and ensure them it could be done without money.

On Wednesday I had QTL in Raleigh. It was interesting, as I was given a possible job offer for another county at the county level. The man actually saw our presentation at DPI the day before and emailed questions to me regarding the program. Not sure if I'll follow up on that or not.

Wednesday night I headed south to Wadesboro, NC for an IMPACT Meeting on Thursday. Went by the Rockingham/North Carolina Speedway and past Pinehurst Golf Club. Wadesboro was this cute little town in the foothills, about 50 miles due east of Charlotte. It was neat to meet all the other schools and hear what they've done with their portion of the grant. I even had met some at QTL and other places, so I'm being to network with others in technology.

Came home Friday to our NCSU evaluators. It was a busy day, as our Awards assembly was that day as well, but it all went smoothly. Now this week we collaboratively plan, have two DPI people coming Wednesday, and a Chamber of Commerce event Thursday. Thank goodness Friday is a holiday!!

Our little monkey is still flying around. She is getting so steady with her walking, usually only using one finger. She loves being out in our backyard. We were out there yesterday, just kicking a ball around, eating hay, the normal!

A Slow Week

Enjoy the picture. Lucy and I are happy the Pens got their first win. Although we're happier that the Canes ARE LEADING THE EASTERN CONFERENCE! And ERIC STAAL is LEADING THE LEAGUE IN SCORING!!! Although one of their past five wins came against the Pens, the Canes are doing some spectacular things!
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I wanted to post something this week. Not much going on around these parts though. I have quite the busy week. We present in front of DPI on Tuesday. Last QTL on Wednesday, then the IMPACT meeting at Wadesboro on Thursday. It looks like this will be the busiest week. I will stay pretty busy through December. Then a well-deserved slow down. I have a week long conference in Greensboro the last week in November. We decided to Give Thanks in Raleigh this year, so it'll just be the three of us! (-;

Hockey, Spaghetti Monsters, Jim, N'at

Ok. So I don't live in Pittsburgh anymore. I can still use Pittsburghese, right? (-:

What's been going on this week?

Hockey is back. I find myself watching games, listening via internet radio, keeping up with stats--as much as Lucy Beast allows. I try to follow the Canes and Pens equally, but I see myself watching the Pens more. At least until THEY WIN THEIR FIRST GAME. Shesh. I'll vent more on that another time!
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Firefox made 100 Million downloads. I am doing my duty--spreading it among friends, colleagues at Williford, Wendell, and much more!
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Since Kansas, PA, and now Wake County, NC are trying to teach Intelligent Design along with Evolution in Science Classrooms, the Flying Spaghetti Monster is trying to take some of the steam out of the Religious Fanatic steamroller. Check it out here, and become more of a pastafarian!
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Anyone watching Martha's Apprentice? Is Jim not the most psycho guy in the world! Definitely a put on. People will tune in just to hope he gets kicked out.

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I guess now that all the hurricane names for 05 are taking, we begin various names. Probably name them from sponsorship deals.

Hurricane Budweiser
The Los Angeles Hurricanes of Anaheim
RBC Hurricanes Centre
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Yes, you've guessed it--Kerry and Lucy are in DC--and I'm bored!

Lucy on her Birthday Party (Unbirthday Party with her Playgroup)

Let it rain, let it rain, let it rain

Thanks goodness we're getting rain. We need it. It is so dry and dusty around Raleigh. I've been watering my new lawn out back each and every day. I actually finally got to cut it yesterday with the new ELECTRIC LAWN HOG. It was really easy and looks great now!
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Lucy had her play group birthday party. Boy, does the girl like cake! We're excited about having the Shearers and Flaniganes next weekend for her real party. Oh, and TOMORROW IS HER FIRST HOCKEY GAME!! How appropriate--Pens vs Canes!

The State of the Shearers

Ok. Sorry it's been so long since our last post. Things have been busy busy busy. With the new job, Sylvan, and Lucy getting ready to walk, we haven't a spare moment. I wanted to just drop a few lines to update all those keeping score at home.
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The job is GREAT! I'm enjoying it. Lots to do, especially since this is the final year of the grant, but I love what I do. We've prepared staff development opportunities for technology, collaboratively planned technology-infused units, and just provide support to the teachers. The teachers are incredible too. Each and every one is really an advocate for technology, which is amazing to see!
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Lucy is getting around pretty well. She's walking when pushing her hippo pal and when you hold her hands. She's actually pretty speedy. She can get up both flights of stairs pretty easily, so we keep gates up at the top and bottom. Every question gets her patented, 'Dah' response. Amazing how one word can mean so much! She'll celebrate year One in a few weeks. Hard to believe! The Shearers and Flanigans will be in attendance. Fun times!
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The great state of North Carolina provided us with a generous 2% raise. Don't know where we'll spend that--probably the Dollar Store. We did FINALLY get the lottery, so hopefully that will help the schools. If the bible thumpers don't kill us all first.

Test Test

Test Test

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All I can say is I didn't vote for him...
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Chris' Blog:
http://hurricanesfan66.blogspot.com/

It's the Most Wonderful...

time of the year, for parents. Definitely not for kids or children. Teachers come back to school this week, which means students will be close behind. Another school year. But no classroom for me! Hehe! I can definitely live with that. I've been doing a lot with the webpage, and I truly believe it to be my best ever. There's a racing theme at our school this year, so that will be pretty easy for me to theme various technology projects around.
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Just came back from the 'Burgh. We had a picnic with both sides of the family. It was a lot of fun, but boy was it hot! Yes, I live in NC, but PA doesn't have the amount of central air we do. Phew! Poor Lucy was all red and flush all day. Then being passed around from one person to the other was pretty tough on her, but she definitely enjoyed her time at Nana and Pap Pap's!

Chris, Your Friendly Neighborhood Tech Facilitator

Well, by my title, I guess you can assume I've taken the position at Williford as a 12 month Tech Facilitator. I started working this week, and while awfully busy, I'm thoroughly enjoying it. I also LOVE the thoughts that I won't be preparing my room, doing report cards, scheduling parent-teacher conferences, or any of that mess. Woohoo!

The school and staff I've met so far are very professional. There's a lot of work to be done, and they do it. With this being the final year of the grant, there still remains a ton of paperwork for staff development and purchasing equipment, but what a refreshing change.

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All good on the family front as well. Lucy is keeping us busy, as if we're not busy enough. She is crawling on her knees now and picks herself up on EVERYTHING. She also crawls up two stairs before tuckering out.

It's a Hockey Resurrection in Ralllllleeeeigh!

Finally, the rich and richer have come to terms on a new collective bargaining agreement. Boy, as an educator in the South, wouldn't it be nice able to have a union negotiate a fair and market-value contract? Heck, I'm talking making a salary comperable to the rate of inflation, allowing me, Kerry, and Lucy to make ends meet. And both sides of this deal are arguing over multi-million dollar salaries. Anywho...

Sidney Crosby, say hello to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh, after winning the rights to draft #1 (and pick the most touted player since Mario Lemieux), will surely put his skills to good use. Could it be the second coming of a savior in the 'Burgh? I know the Novaks hope so!

I'll be posting about the job I've decided to take soon. I'll be a 12 month tech facilitator at a school in the next county over. Lots of room for advancement. I'm excited!

Judge me lest ye be Judged

Ok. I try to stay neutral, but with the government the way it is these days, I can't help but lean. Come on. What is going on in Iraq anyway. Yes, I certainly understand the negatives to having a specific timeline of withdrawal. What this has done though, has shielded us from the true fact that there is no PLAN. When do we know the 'mission' is over? How to we begin bringing back the troops? It really scares me that our national security is in the hands of a man who used to run a military supply company.
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Now we also receive word that O'Connor will resign from the Supreme Court. That will probably give conservatives two choices for justices. Can you say 'Stone Age?' Yes, I agree that after so long, a fetus is technically a being that could survive outside the womb. However, who are we to deny women who have been raped from erasing the proof of that? How can you even suggest that a woman keep that child/put it up for adoption? Conservative more and more means 'lacking common sense.' Should be interesting.

Lucy and Daddy on his first Fathers' Day. 

Google's Plot to Take over the WORLD

Wow! Just downloaded Picasa2 (well, at around 9PM--it's 11:53 PM now). So what have I been doing? Totally organizing 3 years worth of digital pictures. Wow! Picasa makes it so easy to organize, move pics, print, burn, publish to Hello or Blogger Bot. My little Cool Whip head below was published through Picasa.

Do you think Google will develop an OS soon? I mean really, all this stuff totally makes sense. Their maps (maps.google.com) easily beat MapQuest, googleworld is unbelievable, and all this other stuff. In the words of a very wise man, WOOF!

I'll be posting soon about my busy past two days. To sum it quickly--I have two interviews next week and begin part-time at Home Deepot.

My Little Cool Whip Head 

Summer Plans

Just wanted to give y'all some info on our summertime plans. Starting next week I'll work at Home Dee-pot for a few hours a week. Something for just a little extra money (and that discount card!) Kerry's still working at Sylvan. Lucy still isn't working, but there's hope for her yet.

Meeting the Flanigans in Topsail the middle week in July for the annual Drink Shoe Polish Fest '05. Lucy wasn't really sure of the ocean in OC, Md a couple of weeks ago, so this time we'll ease her into it more.

I'm working towards receiving my certification for web design this summer too. And redesigning my school website. So we'll be pretty busy.

The State of Education

It's really sickening that we, who educate and know the best about education, cannot publically comment on everything going on in this state right now. With the budget problems, both at the county and state levels, education in North Carolina is really going downhill.

Of course it began with "No Child Left Untested." As if one arbitrary test (and each state uses their own--how is that for validity and reliability?) can tell if a student learned in the course of a year and if the teacher taught in the course of a year. What this program does not account for are all the what ifs? Maybe the child's father passed away. Maybe she's not living with her parents. Maybe she watched the police arrest her dad. All of those things happened to people in my class this year. Ridiculous.

Anyhow, my employment is pending still. Many of the tech positions available have been converted from teacher assistant positions. The problem now is the great state of NC may reduce funding for TAs. So my dilemma is that if I accept a tech position now, and come fall the TA positions disappear, I could be stuck in kindergarten, first grade, etc. Blah!

A Real Redneck...

Yep, I'm from the North, but I've been redneckin' it the last couple weeks. We have been soooo busy! Went to a NASCAR race in Richmond with Kerry's dad (thanks for the sweet NEXTEL hospitality Luanne!). Then went to a Carolina Mudcats game where I threw out the first pitch. Kerry and Lucy went, along with Jenn, Tim, and Ashley, Robin, and family. Had a great time and definitely look to do that again! This past weekend met my folks in Ocean City, MD for the NASCAR race in Dover. Had a great time sharing the beach for the first time with Lucy Bea. She didn't eat too much sand, but seemed a little afraid of the ocean. Guess we'll try again in July when we meet Kerry's family at Topsail Island.

Still trying to finalize plans for next year. The DPI job didn't materialize as I would hope, but we have a few other possibilities. Keep us in your thoughts, and we'll keep you updated.