Adam's blog

Allergies

2012-02-15T16:27:00.002-06:00

I take weekly allergy shots. Actually, I take 3 weekly allergy shots. One for pollens. One for molds. One for food. Even when I take those shots, I have some pretty bad weeks. I am sure they help on an overall basis. Weeks like this one are pretty bad. I couldn't sleep last night. I can't breathe through my nose. I've had a headache for 48 hours straight. Just hope it would all end. I'd just like to feel "normal." I had bronchitis at the end of December and it took me 2 weeks to feel better. It isn't fair that I am already sick again just 6 weeks removed from that disaster.

February thoughts

2012-02-13T13:43:00.002-06:00

I haven't weighed myself in a couple weeks. I was good and lost 3+ pounds in the beginning of January. My diet hasn't been as good recently so I am not sure if I want to see any bad news.
Only in Texas can it snow/freeze overnight Sunday to Monday and then have a 70+ degree day on Wednesday. It is no wonder I have horrid allergies and often don't feel well.
I am starting to get some of my tutorials back but yet I don't want to work on the weekends. :^( I do also have grading to do so I know I'll have to start doing something on the weekend.
Yahoo oped the season of Fantasy Baseball today. I am excited. Can't wait. I always enjoy playing.

Tutoring

2012-02-10T10:18:00.004-06:00

On top of teaching full time, I also do a lot of private tutoring. It can be a good additional income. Sometimes students cancel. It isn't always consistent nor reliable. It works, though. I've got enough tutoring that I know I'll have an extra income every month. It is just hard to assess how much extra income it is because the schedules always change and some students come and go. I like it. I wish it was enough to call a full time job.

Money

2012-02-09T11:51:00.000-06:00

I always try to save a little bit of money. It never works. I always pay my bills. It just seems like "extra" costs come up every month. I have to pay for my car registration and state inspection this month. I had brake problems another month. Something else every other month. I hate cars. I wish Dallas had a decent transportation system like Japan. I'd never drive another day in my life.

Super Bowl Sunday

2012-02-05T16:53:00.003-06:00

Today is Super Bowl Sunday. Giants/Patriots. Winner take all. Championship game. Most watched TV event of the year in the good ol' USA. I honestly don't have any interest in the game this year. Of course I am sad that the Dallas Cowboys didn't even make the playoffs this year. Usually, I still have an interest in the game, the atmosphere surrounding the game and everything in between. I'll still watch the game but I am generally less interested this year than I was in past years. For me, today was really a normal Sunday. I went to the gym and did laundry this morning. This afternoon, I went to WalMart and bought food for the week. I'm enjoying a glass of wine while I write this. I'll probably have another one or two later this evening. No Super Bowl parties for me. Just not interested. Good luck to whomever wins.

SuperBowl weekend

2012-02-03T13:46:00.000-06:00

Someone asked me today if I was going to do anything for the Super Bowl. I am not. When my teams aren't playing, I really don't care about playoff or championship games. I'll probably watch part of it if I don't have anything else to do. Tomorrow I'll be a little busy with a few things to do. I wish I was young again. Care free, free time and had more interests than I do now.

February

2012-02-02T07:32:00.001-06:00

We've had a lot of warm weather recently. For the most part, this "winter" has been very mild. A lot of weather in the 60s and even hitting 70. I love it. I wish it could be like this year round. Technically, this is week 3 of the new spring semester. I guess it is starting to hit my body. This Saturday, I am going to start tutoring again. I'll have some extra work. It'll be nice to have the extra cash but I know I'll be tired. It's rough working on Saturdays after a long week. Life goes on. I'm trying real hard to actually save a little money so things will be a little easier in the future.

Weekend

2012-01-30T10:40:00.000-06:00

I weighed myself on Saturday morning at the gym. I have lost 3 pounds since the beginning of January. I hope I can keep it up and lose a few more pounds. Other than the gym, my weekend was pretty normal. Grocery store, laundry, a little cleaning, a little wine and TV. My life is pretty lame now. Thank goodness it is payday but money seems to go as quick as it comes in my life.

Dr Pepper

2012-01-26T13:41:00.003-06:00

If I could ever say I had one addiction, it would be Dr Pepper. I drink this stuff way too much. I love it like crazy. I always have. I know soda is horrible for people, but we can have one vice, can't we? As I say I want to lose weight, I know I need to cut it out. I drink Diet Dr Pepper but I still need to cut out the sugar. It does help me in the morning but I don't think I get the kick that most people would from caffeine. I have so much that my body may react differently to it.

Health

2012-01-25T14:48:00.003-06:00

I've been back at work since last week. I am doing a pretty good job at going to the gym 4-5 days per week. I need to keep this up. The scale at gym said I lost 2 pounds this month. I am hopeful that I can lose more but that's a start. I just want to build muscle and get rid of fat. Ideally, I want to lose 40 pounds. That's going to take some time. This isn't exactly a walk in the park. We'll see what happens. I'll need some hard work and focus. Hopefully, I won't get burned out.

Weather/Allergies

2012-01-21T10:30:00.000-06:00

This time of year, it can be common for the weather to go up and down a lot. Yesterday's high was about 75. Today's low was mid 30s. It will get into the 50s today. Tomorrow it will get back into the 70s. It has been like this all week. Up and down. No 2 consecutive days are the same. It has made my allergies go haywire. I take allergy shots every week but I still have my bad days. Yesterday, I had a headache so bad that I couldn't concentrate. I took 2 aspirin. It didn't work. 4 hours later, I took 2 more and got into bed. After a period of time, it finally went away. I'm just glad I didn't have my night class yesterday.

The Infidel

2012-01-16T18:34:00.002-06:00

There's a great movie that I've seen on Showtime a few times. It's called The Infidel. A Muslim guy finds out he was adopted Jewish. The story revolves around his reaction to this. While it touches many interesting and tough topics, it was well done. I recommend it to anyone looking for a good movie.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Infidel_(2010_film)

MLK Jr. Day

2012-01-14T11:27:00.002-06:00

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday so I get a 3 day weekend. I took Friday off so it's actually a 4 day weekend for me. On Tuesday, we begin our Spring semester. I am not longer sick so I'm glad I'll get some time off to relax and have fun before I go back to work. This week is probably the 4th in a row that I've gone to the gym 5-6 days per week. I wish I could keep this up when I'm busy. Yes? Keep it up, Adam. My diet is another issue so I'll have to watch that. I'd like to lose 45 pounds. This week, there are NFL playoffs on TV. When the Dallas Cowboys aren't in the playoffs, I tend to not care who plays or wins. The Mavs will also play this weekend so I'll watch those games.

Gym

2012-01-12T12:42:00.005-06:00

I've been working out hard at the gym recently. I am working hard with the weights and using the treadmill for about 30 minutes. I've been to the gym 6 days per week since the fall semester ended. I really need to work this hard on my diet. I've gained about 40+ pounds since 2007. I need to shed as much of that as I can. My waist line just keeps growing. I need to improve my diet, get rid of the fat and build some muscle. I am sure my cholesterol is sky high but I haven't had it checked in a long time. It's my goal to lose those 40 pounds that I've gained in the last 4+ years. If possible, I'd even like to lose more. I just need to take it one step at a time.

Back to work

2012-01-10T09:15:00.001-06:00

This week, I've been back to school. Actually, I came a couple days last week to do paperwork but it didn't take long to do that. This week, we've got meetings and last minute details to sort out. Monday is MLK Jr. Day and we start back on Tuesday. Since I was sick for most of my break, I wish I could have more time off. I guess I've got to go back, though. I think my body is just very used to being busy all the time.

Saturday

2012-01-07T15:17:00.000-06:00

I went to the gym today for the 6th straight day. This is now 3 straight weeks that I've gone 5 or 6 days per week. I'm still coughing a little bit but wanted to go. I wasn't feeling too energetic but I still hit the treadmill for a while. Because of my cough, I haven't been sleeping well lately. The U of Oklahoma played bball against Kansas this afternoon but lost. :^( It was a great first half but OU gave up in the second half. The Mavs play tonight at 8:00. The NFL playoffs begin today but the Cowboys aren't playing. I typically lose interest in the playoffs when my team loses. It's nice having so many sports games on one day. However, it probably isn't good to start drinking wine at 1:00 in the afternoon. It probably offsets my workout at the gym this morning. That doesn't matter, though. The weather the last few days have been unusually warm for January. 60s. I love it. I wish winter was always like this.

Still sick

2012-01-04T09:21:00.000-06:00

I seem to have a cough that just won't go away. My meds aren't helping. I'm having a hard time sleeping at night too. Vacation is the worst time to have a hard time sleeping. I am starting to prepare for the spring semester now but this is the time when I should be sleeping well. I don't want to return to the doctor but I may have to go if this keeps up. I've been sick since Christmas Day, I think. I've almost got everything done that I need to have done for the semester. Next week, we'll have lots of meetings and then we start back after MLK Jr. Day.

New Year

2012-01-01T10:24:00.001-06:00

New Years are usually brought with optimism. It brings a chance for people to make changes and make goals. I have my goals for 2012. Many of them are the same that I had last year. I don't feel as optimistic as I'd like. I don't see the changes happening that I'd like. I will try but good positive changes are hard to come by. I hope I can achieve my goals.

New Years Resolutions

2011-12-29T11:18:00.000-06:00

I think this time of year is a perfect time of year to make goals. January marks a new start and a new beginning. It is a good time for people to make goals. Does the goal have to last for one year? How many goals should one make? I think it is probably best for people to make goals every month. However, it is easy to forget to make new goals during most of the year. I am often too busy to sit down and make new goals that often. I know what I have to do for work. I rarely sit down and make new objectives. Many of the world's most successful people make goals regularly. I need to not only make New Years goals but monthly and weekly goals as well.

Last year, one of my goals was to lose weight. I failed at this goal. Not only did I not lose weight but I also gained weight. Since I returned to Dallas from Japan in April 2007, I have gained about 40 pounds. Wow. I'd love to get back to that weight. In 2007, I thought I needed to lose weight but now I know it is a necessity. I want to make this as a new goal for 2012 but I have to make it right. I can't go backwards like I did last year. Another one of my goals was to save money. That didn't happen. I'd love to make it happen again this year. I teach extra classes on top of my normal teaching schedule. Is it possible for a single man to make and save money as a teacher? I know it is possible but people need to make it a part of their lives. I just wish I had a girlfriend that worked with me, that lived with me and shared our expenses.

Sick

2011-12-27T13:07:00.000-06:00

I have been a little sick the last 2-3 days. I started coughing. Go figure. I am on vacation and I started coughing. I'm getting headaches because of them. I'm getting stronger abs because of the coughing. That's a good thing I guess. I am taking medicine but it doesn't seem to be helping much. I am still getting these cough spurts. I am not sleeping well either. I still went to the gym this morning.

Routines

2011-12-25T13:54:00.000-06:00

I've been on a vacation all week but I am following my usual routine. I always do laundry and clean on Sundays. I usually go to the grocery store on Friday or Saturday. That didn't change this week. I watched the Cowboys yesterday and the Mavs are playing their first game today. I am not saying routines are good or bad but I am just saying that not much has changed for me. Today is Christmas Day and I don't think many places are open. Even if I wanted to do something, I don't think I could. I've got my wine and I'll enjoy some basketball today.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T10:45:00.001-06:00

For those of us who are Jewish, there isn't always a lot to do on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Dallas Cowboys play this afternoon at 3:15. I plan on watching with a couple glasses of wine. There is a 50% of precipitation today and tomorrow and some of it may be white. It is cold outside. I am perfectly content staying at home and resting. This morning I went to the gym for the fifth straight day and for the seventh time in eight days. I wish I could keep this pattern going when I return to my busy schedule in January. My diet still sucks. If I only changed it a little, I know I could easily lose 20-30 pounds. Other than go to the gym, I've watched a lot of movies this week. I've also met some friends for dinner a couple times. Next week, there are a couple more holiday parties I'll go to. Even if today is my fifth day not working, I still don't quite feel fully rested yet. Hopefully, I'll regain some energy soon. I am glad I am not traveling this week because it sounds like there is a lot of bad weather and difficult traveling conditions. I miss traveling like I did in Japan and South Korea. I've got to save more money before I can do that again. It was easier to save money out there.

This week

2011-12-21T12:34:00.001-06:00

Our classes ended on Monday. The first couple days of vacation for me have been uneventful and I hope to have more uneventful days. I haven't slept well but I hope the extra rest during the day has helped. I've been trying to work out hard at the gym. My arms and back are sore. That's a good thing, right? The good news is that we get paid early. The bad news is that we have to make it last until the last working day of January. Don't know if that's good or not. I've been at home watching a lot of movies. I have some cheap bottles of wine and I hope that'll help me relax. It is Hanukkah now. We don't really celebrate it too much. I guess it is more for kids. We had some potato latkes, bagels and some wine. Not many gifts to exchange.

Vacation and holiday season

2011-12-19T16:47:00.000-06:00

I met my students today and gave them their final grades. For the next 2 weeks, I'll have a vacation. It's going to be more what people call a staycation. I am really happy for this. I am sure I'll drink a lot of wine, watch a lot of TV and relax. This is the only time of year I really have some time off. There are lots of things I'd like to do but I don't want to spend too much money. I'll figure it out. I am sure I'll get tired of cheap bottles of wine and TV. It also doesn't mix well with morning trips to the gym. I think my cats will enjoy me being home regularly. They're very social pets and love having their daddy home. After a month or two, my new betta is still alive and kicking too. I still plan on avoiding shopping areas like the plague. I have some shopping to do but I'll get it done. Perhaps I'll do it online.

The Gym

2011-12-17T16:32:00.000-06:00

I joined Gold's Gym yesterday. I've been exercising at the Addison Athletic Club for the last 4 + years. I will now have 2 gym memberships. I like the AAC. For one, it is free. Secondly, it is just a couple blocks from my home. Very convenient right? I guess it isn't totally free. It is paid by my local taxes. The one thing I don't like is the fact that on Sundays it is only open from 1-5. It is also closed on all holidays. I need all the motivation I can get. I hope that by having 2 gym memberships, I'll exercise more and have more motivation to weight.

This week

2011-12-14T08:59:00.001-06:00

I got new glasses this week. I had a pretty bad headache all day yesterday as my eyes were trying to adjust. They still feel a little strange today but I don't have a headache....yet. This is finals week and our grades are due soon. If I don't get a headache from the glasses, I am sure I will from the pressure of getting everything done this week. I keep reminding myself that the semester is almost finished and I'll have a vacation soon. I cannot wait.

TransSiberian

2011-12-13T18:36:00.000-06:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transsiberian_(film)

I like to watch low budget movies sometimes. They often have a better story and are better films than their more expensive counterparts. The story covers a couple who takes the TransSiberian train from one side of Russia to the other. I've always wanted to do that. Sounds like an exciting thing to do.

The movie was good. The couple gets caught up with another couple who was smuggling drugs. Woody Harrelson was in it and he did a good job. I definitely recommend this movie.

Sports

2011-12-12T16:08:00.001-06:00

The Dallas Cowboys had another late 4th Quarter loss last night. They are so inconsistent it is annoying. They look so great sometimes and so horrible other times. Not sure if they can make the playoffs or not. I was saddened to see DeMarco Murray get injured. He's got real potential and has been the Cowboys strongest RB. He will be missed. I am glad that Miles Austin is back. We need everyone to be strong at the same time if we want to make a playoff run. 

I am glad the NBA lockout finished. Their shortened season will begin Christmas Day! Can the Mavericks repeat as NBA champions? We'll find out soon enough. They've lost a couple guys I had hoped would stay (JJ Barea) but gained some strong new players (Lamar Odom). With a shortened season and almost no pre-season nor training, I am interested to see how the players start off the season.

Near the End

2011-12-11T07:46:00.001-06:00

The end of our semester is Monday, December 19, 2011. One more week. On that last day, all we do is meet the students to tell them their final grades and finish up any paperwork. This week will be the stressful and busy week with finals. I am glad everything is almost done. I am glad that I'll actually have 2 weeks off. I need it. I don't plan on going anywhere. I need the rest and I need to save $$ too. It has been a good semester but everyone needs a rest, right? Dallas has been cold lately and I hate that. I am looking forward to 2012. Any year should be better than the one I had this year.

Birthdays

2011-12-07T09:58:00.001-06:00

My 34th birthday was yesterday. I guess I feel my age. Even though I didn't have my night class last night, I didn't do anything to celebrate. I went to the gym after work, ate dinner and had a glass of wine while I watched Scarface. Not very celebratory, I know. Thought about doing something. I think I'm just going to celebrate on the weekend when I know I'll have more time and more energy.

Saturdays

2011-12-03T14:46:00.001-06:00

I am so tired of having a busy lifestyle....and never having anything to show for it either. All I ever do is run around like crazy. When I'm not, I am too tired to do anything. I had a busy Saturday morning. It's raining and I am tired. This is the perfect excuse to lay around, drink wine, order a pizza and watch TV. OU plays OSU tonight. It should be a great game.

December

2011-12-02T10:04:00.001-06:00

What does December mean to me? It means that there will be colder weather and a potential for ice. I hate this. From a work standpoint, the next 2 weeks are going to be horribly crazy busy. Then I'll get some much needed time off. The end of December is usually the only time of the year where I can have about a week off. I rarely get more than 2-3 days to rest. Usually I only have 1 day a week. My body is tired and I can't wait for the time off. I don't have any plans and I like it that way. I doubt I'll do anything at all. I don't have a whole lot of money to spend on entertainment anyway.

Thanksgiving week

2011-11-27T09:26:00.001-06:00

The good part of having a few extra days off is that I exercise more. This week I exercised 5 days. I also have the chance to sleep more. Unfortunately, I have had trouble sleeping at night. Go figure. I have some time off and can't sleep. I also ate way too much. Too bad I don't have the same motivation with food that I have with going to the gym.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T09:04:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving was nice yesterday. I ate lots of food. What's new, right? I eat too much food on the other 364 days of the year too. It was nice seeing my sister for the first time since last Thanksgiving. The Dallas Cowboys had another exciting win. I might be starting to have faith in them again. I have been a good boy and had a nice walk/jog the last 2 mornings. I always exercise more when I have the free time. I wish I could keep it up when I am busy again. 3 more days to relax. I am really happy about that.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T08:46:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving is tomorrow. In the morning, I'll be off to San Antonio for the 4 day weekend. It'll hopefully give me some much needed rest. It'll be nice to see my sister after several months (It might have even been a year since I last saw her). I love that turkey. Hope the Cowboys will win tomorrow too. As typical for me, I want to avoid all shopping establishments for the next month. If I need to buy presents, I want to buy them online. If I need to buy something for holiday gifts, I might shop at Wal Mart at 2am to avoid the crazy crowds. I'll be back in Dallas on Sunday. I have someone coming to check on the kittens while I am away. I wish I could take them with me. They don't like to be alone and I like their company when I have time off.

This week

2011-11-19T07:57:00.001-06:00

Earlier this week, I got quite sick. It hit me like a truck. Coughing, nose issues, and headaches all came at once. Meds helped but my already overly exhausted body still hasn't gotten the rest it needs. I haven't been sleeping well. Today, we have to read essays from other classes for our prompts. This isn't exactly the best condition I want to have this morning. I guess it'll do. The Texas weather is still like a roller coaster. Warm, cool, warm, cool. Up. Down. It drives me crazy. AC one day. Heat the next night. Hopefully today's essay grading will go as quickly and well as it can. I've got Dr Pepper to help me get through the day. It's cloudy today and we're expecting storms tomorrow. It'll be a perfect excuse to stay at home and in bed.

Sick

2011-11-15T13:45:00.001-06:00

I've been a little sick the last couple of days. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. I haven't been sleeping well. I'm working a lot. Texas has strange roller coaster like temps in the fall season. I was coughing pretty bad yesterday and had a killer headache. I have a headache again today but I'm not coughing as much as I was yesterday. Coughing can really be a great workout for abs. I've had to bring water bottles to class and leave in the middle of class to get extra water. I hope it'll go away soon. There's nothing I can do about this crazy Texas weather. Warm and sunny. Then rainy and cooler. Up again. Down again. Blah.

Sunday mornings

2011-11-13T08:07:00.001-06:00

Sunday mornings are supposed to be relaxing, right? Sadly, I didn't sleep well last night. I haven't slept well in quite some time. I am unsure if it is stress related or if my CPAP machine isn't helping my sleep apnea. I might have to go back to the doctor for an update. Hopefully, I'll be able to take a nap today and relax while watching TV.

11/11/11

2011-11-11T07:59:00.001-06:00

Today is November 11, 2011. 11/11/11 for short. I've read that some people think the number 11 is good luck. If they believe that, I hope something good works out for them. I can't say I am a believer in random lucky (or unlucky) numbers or anything else of that matter. Today is also Veterans Day. That should hold special meaning, especially with 2 US wars right now. Thank goodness that the unnecessary war is finishing at the end of December. I just hope Obama keeps his word on that one. My vote is counting on it.

New Betta Fish

2011-11-08T17:42:00.001-06:00

I got a new betta fish this evening. It is another girl. She is a baby betta too. My last one lasted for about a year. I hope this one can last at least a year or longer. I don't know what to name her. Any ideas? I am just not good with pet names. My cat's names are "Mama" and "Baby." You can guess their relationship. I have had them for 3 1/2 years and their names will always remain the same.

Daylight Savings

2011-11-05T15:38:00.001-05:00

Tonight at 2 am, we go back in time 1 hour. I never understood the logic of Daylight Savings Time. It just never made sense to me. It is more of a hassle than it is worth. It doesn't help any workers of the world. It doesn't save much if any energy for people. It is nothing more than an inconvenience that our governments have decided to put us through twice a year.

November

2011-11-04T07:50:00.001-05:00

Temps are finally getting cooler and I had the heat on last night. I miss our temps in the 70s. That is perfect weather. 70 and sunny. Too bad I am always too busy to enjoy it. Work Work Work. Then too tired to do anything. I am looking forward to Thanksgiving. We'll be in San Antonio again. And once we make it to that point, I'll be counting the days until the end of the semester. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy teaching. Even the best need some time off, don't they?

Sleep apnea

2011-10-30T09:45:00.002-05:00

I have sleep apnea. This affects my ability to sleep well at night. For those more interested in it, Wikipedia can explain it better than me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleep_Apnea

I went to a sleep doctor probably 3 years ago for a sleep study. I got a C-pap machine and it helps me sleep better at night. I didn't realize how much it helps until I didn't use it one night. I can't sleep much at all without it now. I probably need to go back to the doctor for a checkup. I am not sure how often I should return for that. I am glad the machine does help me now. I guess I'll need to use it every night for the rest of my life.

Not such a great day

2011-10-28T17:04:00.001-05:00

What can happen to make a person not have a good day? Today was supposed to be payday for all of us within the DCCCD. However, something happened. Those within the district admit something happened but they claim we now are getting paid late because of our banks. Blah I was luckily able to change some things so I averted overdraft fees. On Monday, I may not be so lucky if we don't get paid yet.

If that wasn't rough enough, my car had break problems. I had to take it to the shop for repairs. $700+ That's money I don't have by the way. Don't know what I'm gonna do really.

Last night the Texas Rangers lost game 6 of the World Series. If they had won, they'd be the champs. It was a great game but very devastating for those of us cheering on the Rangers. Just when I thought the Rangers would win, the Cardinals caught up and eventually hit a winning run in extra innings. A win tonight might be able to lift my depressed spirits.

My Betta fish

2011-10-23T09:44:00.001-05:00

A few days ago she seemed very weak. She was only swimming and hanging out at the bottom of the fish bowl. I changed the water and made sure I saw her eat. I guess there really was something wrong with her. She died overnight. I had her for about a year. She's the second Betta I've had since I moved back to Dallas. The first one committed suicide by jumping out of the water. I want to get another one. Maybe I need to read a book so I can learn how to better take care of them. I guess 1 year isn't bad. Many fish die pretty quickly. I just hope to better take care of the next one I get.

Betta fish

2011-10-21T16:58:00.000-05:00

I have a very special Betta fish. I've had her for the last year. She usually swims all over my bowl happily. The last month she has been spending a lot of time at the bottom of the bowl. I actually thought she died. I had to poke and check to make sure she was alive. Nothing has changed. Is there something wrong? I hope she's okay. I like having a fish. No, I don't think it is my cat that has scared her.

EDIT: It seems like a little water change has helped boost her spirits. Maybe that is all she needed. I've got to keep up with that more often.

The Middle East

2011-10-20T10:55:00.002-05:00

Over the last several months, there have been so many revolutions in the Middle East. So many new governments and new leaders. Today Ghadafi was killed in Libya. There is no doubt he was a cruel leader and Libya will be better off without him.

I am still concerned about the region. It has been unstable for a long time and has the possibility for more battles and even a bigger conflict. There is also so much anti-Israel sentiment that I worry that many of these countries could make a war like effort to start something. Unfortunately, I think Obama isn't as kind to Israel as past US presidents so I am not sure how the US would handle such a situation. Israel is the US's best ally in the Middle East and needs to help when something arises. I am not putting 2+2 together here. I am just concerned about the possibility for a greater conflict.

World Series

2011-10-19T17:11:00.001-05:00

For the second year in a row, the Texas Rangers are going to the World Series. Game 1 is tonight against the St. Louis Cardinals. Of course I am teaching my evening class so I am going to miss the first half of the game. I'll be home to catch the end of it. I just hope it is exciting. The Rangers have a better team this year than they did last year when they lost to San Francisco. I predict the Rangers will win in 6 games but it won't be easy. This is the first calender year that the Super Bowl, NBA Finals and World Series have all been in the same city. It is just too bad the Cowboys couldn't play at that Super Bowl. I'd love to see a second team from Dallas take a championship!

Weekend routine

2011-10-16T15:31:00.001-05:00

My life is all about routines. The only days I have time to go to the grocery store or do laundry are on Saturday or Sunday. It wasn't like that when I was living and teaching in Japan. Then again, I only had 1 job then. I am teaching extra classes now. I'm also usually so physically exhausted on Sundays I only want to watch movies while I do my laundry. I did take a walk outside this morning. I love this fall weather. I walked for about 31 minutes. Got to keep exercising. (I just need to stop ordering from Pizza Hut).

Gym

2011-10-15T15:53:00.001-05:00

For the second week in a row, I've been to the gym 4 days. I need to keep this up. I need to change my eating habits. While I enjoy exercising, I also enjoy food. I am usually too busy and/or physically exhausted to make anything good for myself. Tonight will be another one of those nights. Oklahoma/Kansas @ 8:15 and the Texas Rangers/Detroit Tigers ALCS @ 7:00. I am too lazy to make anything so I'll probably order a pizza. I also got wine. Wine is healthy in certain doses. Right? That's what I keep telling myself. I need to go to the eye doctor. I've needed a new pair of glasses for a while but just recently noticed that my vision has changed. I really need to take care of that.

Back to the Future

2011-10-14T10:48:00.001-05:00

The Back to the Future series has been on HBO this week. I saw parts I and II over the weekend. The Rangers didn't look all that good last night so I saw part III last night.

It really was a great series. I am not a fan of most sci-fi flicks. LOTRs and Harry Potter just never interested me. Back to the Future was just a great series. It was a great story and had great acting in it too. I'd love t o have the chance to go back to 1885 and visit the Old West.

Texas Rangers

2011-10-13T09:48:00.002-05:00

The Texas Rangers are now 1 win away from another trip to the World Series. Their pitching still needs some work, but as as overall, they have looked great. I missed most of the game yesterday because of my evening class. I made it home in time to see the incredible win in extra innings. Today's start time is 3:19 local time. I'll have to miss the first part again. There's nothing I can do about that. The Rangers are up 3-1. If they do lose today, it won't be the end of the world because the last 2 games are in Texas. I would love the win today so they can have a few days off before the WS begins. Dallas has a realistic chance of having 2 professional sports championships in one year. Wow.

Weekend

2011-10-09T09:47:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, Oklahoma beat Texas 55-17. I wish I could have seen the game. What a game! Last night, the Rangers won game 1 over the Tigers 3-2. I watched the first part of the game but fell asleep. There was a rain delay. There is more chance of rain today. This rain is really needed here in this area. Yesterday morning I went to my collaboration session at Richland. I am a bad Jew. I didn't do anything this year to celebrate Yom Kippur. I wish I had a stronger religious life. It is too bad I am not sure I believe in the centerpiece of religion. The Cowboys have a bye week today. I will do the usual laundry and cleaning today. Hope there are some good movies on TV. I've got some wine to help me relax. My cats always love it when I am home more and I must say that I love their company. I walked for about 30 minutes this morning. This week I exercised 4 days. I need to do this more often. I need to keep it up.

Saturday's events

2011-10-07T10:54:00.003-05:00

Let me see here. What is happening tomorrow?

Yom Kippur begins tonight at sundown and ends tomorrow night.
Oklahoma/Texas game. Red River rivalry. It begins at 11:00 am.
Game 1 of the ALCS between the Texas Rangers and Detroit Tigers. According to the internet, the game time hasn't been announced yet. Probably will be an evening game.
I have to be at my school in the morning from 9:00-12:00 for collaboration.

Why does there have to be so much going on in one day? I got a sub for my class that I'm supposed to be teaching. I wish I could attend, watch, and do all 4 things tomorrow. I need to be at work, I want to watch my sports and need to ask for forgiveness at the synagogue for life.

Random thoughts for the day

2011-10-05T10:58:00.002-05:00

It takes me about 15-20 minutes to drive from my home to where I work. Overall, I am really glad the gas prices have been going down recently. However, I don't understand how some gas prices in the same city can have a fairly large degree of differences. Near my home in Addison, there is a Chevron charging $3.19 a gallon for regular unleaded. There is another Chevron near Richland College. They charge (when I drove by yesterday) $3.05 a gallon. Within a 15-20 minute drive, the price of gas changes about 10 cents to the gallon. It has been this way for as long as I can remember. The gas stations near my work are always cheaper than those near my home. Obviously, when I need gas, I'll get it at the gas station near my work whenever possible.

The Texas Rangers won their ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays yesterday. They had an afternoon game. I hate afternoon games during the workweek because I can never watch the games. It was an exciting win for sure. Now we have to wait to see who wins between the Detroit Tigers and NYYs. If Detroit wins, we get home field for the ALCS. I am not sure who I'd prefer to play. Things are looking good for our guys!

Texas Rangers ALDS game 3

2011-10-03T10:22:00.000-05:00

Game 3 of the Rangers ALDS with the Rays is today at 400. Odd time for a game on a workday. I have a night class tonight so I am not going home until 830. I guess I'll have to follow it online. It is a 1-1 tie right now and the game is in Florida. I think the Rangers have a good chance at winning. At least I hope they're motivated to do well.

Exercise

2011-10-02T12:37:00.000-05:00

I had a nice 30 minute walk this morning. The fall weather in Texas is just beautiful. I'll tell ya something...I am out of shape. With these 12 hour days, I just don't have the energy to exercise. I like to exercise. But when I don't have time, it is frustrating. It is something I like and it is healthy. My diet is already bad so I need to exercise. Plus I think it helps get rid of stress. Mine is really sky high.

Saturday thoughts

2011-10-01T10:46:00.005-05:00

In game 1 yesterday, the Texas Ranger didn't only look bad. They looked horribly bad. The kind of bad that will get a team swept in 3 games. Game 2 is tonight and I want to see the team that I know is WS capable. The North Texas weather is beautiful today! On the weekends, if I exercise, I need to do it in the morning or else it won't get done. I am teaching my class today and we're currently on break. After I get home, I hope I have the motivation and energy to do something outside. I've got to the enjoy this weather while we have it.

Texas Rangers

2011-09-30T07:30:00.000-05:00

The first game of the ALDS between the Texas Rangers and the Tampa Bay Rays is today at 4:07. The first round will be tough but I think the Rangers can win the series. They've been on a high recently and I think that will certainly carry on into the playoffs. The Rangers finally have playoff experience after last season and won't have any nervous bugs in their systems. It is time to play ball and show the sports world that Dallas can bring two championships to it's city in one year.

Paydays

2011-09-29T08:24:00.002-05:00

Paydays bring me a slight sigh of relief. It is nice to see money in my bank account after working so hard for so long. It doesn't last long but it'll give me a chance to hopefully do something fun this weekend. My bills have been sent out so I am good to go. Getting paid once a month can be frustrating. I pay all my bills immediately. What I have left is for food/gas. Would like to have more of an entertainment life but that's a bit much. Only sometimes. I am usually too tired to do anything fun anyway.

Keeping busy

2011-09-28T11:11:00.002-05:00

I am always so busy that I don't know if I'd know what to do with myself if I had several days off at a time. We'll see if I remember when winter break comes around this year. I wish I could go to the gym more. I enjoy going to the gym. I also really need to go because I am overweight and have a horrible diet. Rosh Hashanah begins tonight. On top of the holidays, I wish I went to synagogue more. I have wanted to be an active member and a good Jew. If I am not busy, then I am very tired. Not a good excuse to be non-religious. I often think about whether I believe in the existence of God. That's an argument for another day. The Texas Rangers have done very well at the end of the season. I hope they can keep it going into the playoffs. The last game of the regular season is today and the playoffs begin Friday, I think. They have looked like World Series champions the last two weeks. Don't want to see any arrogance or a sudden slump once the playoffs begin. Texas is just Texas. Just when I think the fall season has arrived, the weather goes back up to the high 90s. This is not good for my allergies.

Weekends

2011-09-26T07:40:00.003-05:00

The weekend just doesn't give me enough time to recover from the long workweek I have. Yesterday, I bought groceries, did my laundry and spent most of the day either in bed or on the couch watching TV. I'd like to have 2 days like that. Unfortunately, I won't get such an extended break until winter. I just don't see how some people have the energy to go out and stay out late every weekend (Not to mention, if they are teachers, where do they get the extra money??).

On a brighter note, the Texas Rangers have repeated as AL West champions! Glad to see them go to the playoffs again. We'll have to see if they have what it takes to make it back to the World Series. They've been playing very well the last 2 weeks.

Monday

2011-09-19T12:32:00.003-05:00

It is a Monday afternoon and I am already exhausted. I chose to have a class and tutor on Saturday for the extra cash. But it just adds pressure to my already burned out and physically exhausted body. People need to choose what is more important in life. If only I had a little extra cash to get by, life would be so much easier and better. I do budget but it is always hard to plan for the unexpected. And it seems like I always have something unexpected every month. If I could only win the lottery, I'd not only do what I needed to do but share it with others too. All I'd do is sleep if I had the chance to take a short vacation. No real time off until X-Mas/New Years. Is it too early to start planning ahead and getting excited? (Smart answer is no. Take life one day at a time.)

Oktoberfest

2011-09-18T17:41:00.001-05:00

It isn't that often that I go out and do anything. If I ever go out, it is usually to a restaurant or a bad. Oktoberfest was in Addison this weekend. I went for a bit last night. The weather was not too hot. Well, 90ish. As long as it wasn't 100, I was happy. I got my beer and had some nice food. It is interesting people watching and seeing the people and music and dancing. I only stayed an hour and a half. I was tired from my usual busy week. Would have liked to have stayed longer.

Recent updates

2011-09-13T07:24:00.001-05:00

After cooling off after Labor Day, Dallas reached the 100+ yet again. We tied the 1980 record of most days of 100 degrees or more in one year (69). Today's high is 105 so we will easily break the record. Should I cheer or not? Go 2011! Summer of hell. Will be cooler again in a couple days. This is North Texas for ya. If you don't like the weather, come back in 5 minute.

The Dallas Cowboys lost their season opener Sunday night by 3. I always cheer for my Dallas teams. I think the Cowboys will do better than last year. However, they should have beaten the NYJs last night. The Cowboys were better. My only concern before the game was being on the road in NY on 9/11. That's a rough road game for anyone.

The Rangers are still doing well. They're 3 games up and looks like we're going to be the 2011 AL West champs! (Don't make me eat my words guys.)

Since I returned from Japan in 2007, I've gained 40 pounds. My weight and waist are unfortunately still getting bigger. I need to do something about that. I enjoy exercising. MY diet still sucks, though.

Weekend activities

2011-09-10T16:46:00.001-05:00

Even if this was a short week, I've forgotten how Saturday morning activities just knock me out cold. Not to mention, an afternoon drink has made me realize I am a lightweight in my elder age. The Rangers are playing the A's this afternoon. It is a beautiful day for a game. Too bad I just don't have the energy or stamina to do anything.

Be careful what you wish for

2011-09-07T16:06:00.004-05:00

Life is full of ups and downs, isn't it? Choice people need to make. I am already dead tired because of my schedule. 2 13-14 hour days and 3 normal days a week. I've thought about tutoring or having a class on Saturday mornings too for the extra cash. I've got it. I wanted to have my Saturday mornings to sleep in and rest and relax. It looks like I'll have this class. I'll get the extra cash I want but not the rest I want.

The end of a 3 day weekend

2011-09-05T18:06:00.003-05:00

The 3 day weekend of Labor Day has come to an end. It has been nice but just not long enough. The weather has cooled off and is still sunny. I had a nice walk outside this morning. I've had a nice rest this weekend. I could just use an extra day or two. My body still hasn't recovered from that hellacious summer schedule. I still have evening classes two days a week and *may* start doing something on Saturdays too. Damn I am suicidal. I enjoy teaching. I wish it paid more. I need a career path that will actually give me a decent salary. 

I've watched TV a lot this weekend. The Rangers lost today but played well earlier in the weekend. There has been some good movies and shows on TV. I've had lots of wine. Unfortunately, I haven't slept as well as I wish I could have. Life goes on. Back to the grind tomorrow.

Labor Day weekend

2011-09-02T12:59:00.001-05:00

There are many good things about this coming weekend.

The Oklahoma Sooners have their first football game of the season.
We're supposed to get cooler temps.
I can sleep in and rest for 3 days.
I can hopefully have a little fun.
My cats will be happy that I'll be home.

September

2011-09-01T08:38:00.001-05:00

With September comes cooler temps. If the weathermen are correct, we will reach 67 days of 100+ temps and stop there. The record was 69 in 1980. I am looking forward to cooling off but would like us to get the record since we've suffered all year long. The best thing about early September is Labor Day weekend. My body needs the extra day. So does my mind. If I do anything more than sleep, it'll be a miracle. Gym, store, cleaning are my normal weekend activities. The Oklahoma Sooners have their first game this weekend. I am excited to see them play. They have the pre-season #1 ranking if that means anything. With just a few short weeks left in the baseball season, the Rangers are showing some drama. They are 3.5 games up right now and I'll be thrilled if they can keep it.

Various

2011-08-30T07:33:00.000-05:00

Since I left Japan, I've gained 40+ pounds. When I left in 2007, I was at about 170 pounds. At that time I wanted to lose weight. Now, I really need to do so. Old pants don't fit. I've kept them all but probably won't ever wear them ever again.

Yesterday was my first day of class. For my evening class, I am teaching a level 3 grammar and writing. All of last year, I had a level 2. Out of 19 students, 6 are students I've had before. It is nice having these students again.

This weekend, the temps are supposed to get cooler. This means our summer of 100+ will probably come to an end. It'll come, I think, just a couple days shy of the record.

The fall semester

2011-08-25T12:59:00.000-05:00

It seems like the summer semester just ended (It did). Next week we begin our new semester. I hope to see some enthusiasm from the students. Learning a language is hard, especially if the students have to work also. They always do better if they really want to learn (and actually study outside of class). I'll be back to my normal routine of only having 2 evening classes a week. This will still give me time to go to the gym and not go crazy from exhaustion.

Texas Rangers update

2011-08-21T16:45:00.000-05:00

The Texas Rangers are such an up and down team. Some days they look great. They look like World Series champs. They not only win games but they win them in stunning fashion against good teams. Other days they look like a low rate sub-.500 team. One of those games was today, a 10-0 loss to the CWS. 4 hits. With the bats that the Rangers have, this is unacceptable. I can understand an occasional bad day by a pitcher but all the Rangers batters can't be bad all on the same day. The Rangers should win the AL West. There are so many head to head games left against the Angels that they need to do well when playing other teams as well. This is not only about the Rangers and Angels. Hopefully they've learned their lesson and will do well when playing the Red Sox, a potential playoff foe.

Summertime

2011-08-16T15:40:00.000-05:00

There are many reasons why summer is my favorite season.

While the weather is way too hot, I prefer warmer weather to colder weather.
I love having a game to see almost every night. The Rangers have impressed me and I love watching them play. Currently, they have a 4 game lead.
The only time I can take some time off is either in the summer or in the winter. My time off is limited but it is nice. This week I haven't worked but I have still had a lot of crap to do.
When possible, I like to exercise outside rather than in the gym. It is nice being able to take a walk or go to the nearby park to play basketball. I wish I could walk my cats. I am sure it is possible if I trained them.

Texas Rangers

2011-08-14T11:29:00.000-05:00

The Texs Rangers have looked good in their series with the A's. They won 9-1 and 7-1. Game 3 is today. The series this week against the Angels is one that interests me and most Rangers fans. We have a 4 g ame series. The Rangers currently have a 3 game lead. This series will definitely change things. While I would love to see a sweep, I will take at least 2 wins out of 4. The Rangers need to win as many of these head to head games as possible. It is crunch time and if the Rangers want to go to the playoffs, they need to win. The pitching needs to be as good as it has the last 2 games against the A's. The Angels have good pitching. The Rangers pitching needs to respond with consistancy and the batters need to stay hot.

Rain

2011-08-13T10:01:00.001-05:00

For the first time in a very long time, we have a bit of rain in Dallas. It is great because we really need it. Unfortuntely, it didn't cool the tempratures one bit. It is still supposed to be 100 today. I don't need to go to my gym to use the sauna. I can just walk outside.

Last Stop for Paul

2011-08-10T09:41:00.000-05:00

I like independent movies. They show a different side to movies. Hollywood is all about spending money that they don't always have the best stories.

I saw a good movie on TV last weekend. It's called Last Stop for Paul.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Last_Stop_for_Paul

Here is the plot:
Two buddies set out on a low-budget road trip that will take them around the world in this independent comedy drama. Charlie and Cliff are two close friends who work together selling bathroom supplies. Charlie loves to travel and spends as much time as he can seeing the world on the cheap; Cliff, however, gets nervous about the prospect of going far away from home, and while he often promises to tag along with Charlie, he never does it. However, when Charlie proposes that they go to Thailand for the monthly Full Moon Party, the request coincides with the passing of Cliff's old buddy Paul. Paul had been planning a global journey at the time of his death, and Cliff decides to honor his friend's wishes by scattering Paul's ashes in the four corners of the earth. With two weeks available, Charlie and Cliff set out to visit as many nations as humanly possible, scamming room and board whenever they can, and releasing a bit of Paul's remains at every stop.

The acting wasn't great (but not totally terrible either). The story was still entertaining. I think any traveler would enjoy this film. It just seems odd that these around the world travelers would travel so fast. I would love to take an around the world trip but it would be difficult to only stay in each place for a day or two. This movie is definitely worth seeing.

Tattoos

2011-08-09T10:13:00.000-05:00

Yes, I will admit that I have 3 tattoos. I got my first one traveling in Israel when I was a senior in college. I got a yin-yang on my left shoulder. Then when I was living and teaching in Japan and South Korea, I decided to get one more from each country. I wouldn't want to get one every time I travel. That would be too much. I don't want to look like a rocker or anything. I have been thinking about getting a new one. I've always had a thing for maps and globes so I was thinking of getting a tattoo of one. I just don't want it to be too big or anything. Any ideas?

Vacation

2011-08-08T14:59:00.001-05:00

I like to travel. I really do. I just have a few issues. Like many teachers (and other people in other professions), I don't quite have as much money saved as I would like to have. Secondly, Americans don't get as much time off as other countries. I read somewhere that if Europeans worked as hard as Americans, we wouldn't have to work a day after October 31. It temps me to want to move to Europe. Work hard, get at least the same salary and have some more time off. Planning ahead is the key to a good vacation. I worked my way to Japan and South Korea and have seriously thought about doing it again somewhere else.

Gym/sports

2011-08-07T12:21:00.000-05:00

I went to the gymn 4 times this week. That was my first time since early June to go 4-5 days in a week. Now that my schedule has lightened up, I'll be back on my normal routine. I'll only have an evening class 2 nights a week in the fall so this routine should hold in the future.

Now, what can I say about the Texas Rangers? Can we say inconsistancy? One day they look like a team that could make it back to the World Series. The next day they look like the don't deserve to go to the playoffs. It mostly comes down to pitching. The NFL lockdown is over and preseason is about to begin. I honestly don't think the players have enough time to get ready for the season. I don't know how the Cowboys will do.

In college, OU has a ranking of 1 or 2, depending on the poll. Stoops is a great coach and I am more excited about college ball than professional ball.

Hobbies

2011-08-04T14:46:00.000-05:00

I would really love to have a hobby. I enjoy going to the gym but when I have a real busy schedule, it becomes a hassle. Even during my "normal" routine, I don't have time for a hobby. I would love to have something that would keep my interest and give me something to focus on when I have free time. I love traveling but I need a hobby that is a little more cost effective. I like to read but I am often too tired to very very much. I like the outdoors but the heat is getting to me as well. Can my cats be a hobby? I always enjoy being around them even if I am just watching television? I'll figure it out. I hope I can find one.

August

2011-08-03T11:31:00.000-05:00

My evening class ends on August 11. The fall semester begins on August 29 and I need to be at school the week before that for beginning week activities. I'll get to take a week off between the end of the summer session and return week. I'm also taking the next two Fridays off because I don't have Friday classes. I have been so busy recently that I don't think I'll know what to do with myself during the time off. I need to get some rest. I know I'll sleep, watch TV and do any activity that will allow me to catch up on much needed rest. After that, I'll have to think of what to do. It's been so long since I've had any free time. I need to make myself start going to the gym regularly again. But what about fun? What can I do for fun and entertainment this time off?

The gym

2011-08-01T10:04:00.000-05:00

I used to go to the gym 4-5 days a week. That was when I only had evening classes 2 days a week. When the summer session began, I had evening classes 4 days a week. Then I have only gone to the gym 1-2 times per week. No bueno. In addition to just being good for one's health, I actually like going to the gym. My day class is done now and my evening class is almost done. I need to get back into that habit of going more regularly.

Texas summer

2011-07-31T18:50:00.000-05:00

The DFW area has had 30 consecutive 100 degree days and probably there were 10 more days before that. The record was 69 days during the summer of '80. This week won't just be hot but super hot. Highs in the range of 105-108. We have record high lows every morning. Some of my ESL students from the Middle East complain. They said it is the humidity that makes this feel so much worse. It is exhausting me. I feel drained and weak after briefly going outside. My car feels like a microwave if it isn't in my garage.

Partially Done

2011-07-27T15:39:00.001-05:00

My day class will finish tomorrow. We have to meet to students to give them their final grades. This summer class has been a pretty good group. I still have my night class for another 2 weeks. My schedule will be lighter and I am sure this will help make me feel much better. I do need a full vacation, though. I can take a week off the week of August 15. Then I'll need to return and get ready for the fall semester that begins on August 29. I hope to get out of Dallas and go somewhere for a few days. We'll see. I'd also like to win the lottery. It seems like I've always got something that I need to pay. It would be nice if I could actually spend some money on myself (other than just bills and grocery shopping).

Jury Duty

2011-07-25T14:57:00.000-05:00

I had jury duty this morning. I waited for 3 hours and then was dismissed. All I did was wait. The same thing happened the last time I went to jury duty in 2008. For whatever reason, I always get high juror numbers. I don't want to get picked for a jury but one of these times, it may be interesting to see what it is like to be a part of the selection. They always need to be prepared to have more jurors than needed just in case of an emergency.

Thursdays

2011-07-21T15:15:00.000-05:00

Thursdays have become the most difficult day of the week for me. With 14 hour days, Monday-Thursdays, Friday seems like half a day. I can go home by 4:00-ish in the evening. Even if I have work to do over the weekend, I can do it from home. With the heat and long hours, each day becomes a little more difficult. Fridays aren't too bad. I have the energy to make it because I know I can get home at a decent hour. Thursdays seem even more awkward when I bump in my ex. Nothing bad but just the strange walk-by and odd greeting.

Summer in North Texas

2011-07-18T16:54:00.000-05:00

Today is the 17th consecutive 100+ degree day and the 24th total this summer. The record of 69 was set in 1980. This is really exhausting me. As if 14 hour days Monday-Thursday weren't bad enough, the heat has to drain whatever little energy I have left. My head has been pounding, I am tired, I can't sleep so well and I just hope I can make it through the end of the summer session. I'll have a few days off (maybe up to a week) before I have to turn around and prepare for the fall semester.

Sleep

2011-07-17T11:16:00.000-05:00

I don't sleep as well as I used to when I was younger. I have my night classes. It takes my body a very long time to relax before I can lay down and fall asleep. Usually, I am exhausted at night but need some time before I can get to bed. Then I have to wake up early. On the weekends, I need to catch up on rest but still don't sleep as well as I want.

I love my cats. They are wonderful. They follow me everywhere and I love their attention and company. The only problem is their idea of space. Mama cat always wants to literally be on top of me and cuddle. She'll sit on my computer if I am trying to use it. She'll sit on top of my lap when I am on the couch. When I am trying to get something done, it makes it rough. I like their company but I just need some space.

This coming weekend

2011-07-14T13:48:00.000-05:00

Usually, my evening class is Mon-Thurs evening. Because of scheduling and hours, we need to have class this Friday. The other 4 weeks, no Friday class. What to do? Well, I plan on giving a test. That way, we can start the class by studying, take the test and if they finish early, then we can go home earlier than on usual nights. Being at my school on a Friday evening is not my cup of tea but I guess I have to do what I have to do. That just means that I'll be a little more incoherent than usual on Saturday morning.

The All Star Game

2011-07-13T14:36:00.000-05:00

I wish I could have seen the All Star Game last night. I am sad the AL lost. I am sad it was CJ Wilson that gave up the 3 run HR. I am glad the Rangers were well represented but an AL win would have been nice. Now back to business. The Rangers can still take the AL West and hopefully make it to the World Series for the second straight year. I am very worried, however, about Anaheim passing us.

My health

2011-07-11T09:05:00.002-05:00

I've never had a good diet. This needs to change. I know that. I enjoy exercising. With my summer schedule, I am only exercising 2-3 days a week. Before, I would exercise 4-5 days a week. I need to get back to that schedule and work on that diet. Bad family history for hearts and I need to  take care of something. 

My weekend

2011-07-10T13:47:00.001-05:00

This weekend, I have done little more than sleep, go to the gym, get groceries and have a few drinks. 1 summer class down. A new one to go. And my normal one still continues. It is just nice to have an occasional weekend without grading or preparing to do. The heat is still strong and that makes difficult schedules more difficult. My body is literally feeling the heat. Another plus to weekends is the company of my kittens. They always bring a smile to my face. I wish I could bring them to work. That would certainly make my day and week go better.

3rd day

2011-07-04T10:57:00.002-05:00

Today is my third day off on a 3 day weekend. I still don't feel totally rested. I hope I can make it through the rest of the summer session in one piece. This heat is really getting to me. I've been taking 3 showers a day. Kaboomtown was great last night but it was tough sitting through it, even at 930 at night. Walking home with lawn chairs was also rough. I had a hard time breathing because of all the cars leaving at the same time.

A 3 day weekend

2011-07-03T18:49:00.002-05:00

It is nice knowing on a Sunday night that Monday is a holiday. I do have work to do at home and I hope I'll have the motivation to do it all. I am still physically tired but I am feeling better than before. Long weeks are hard. Add 100 degree heat to that and I am not always feeling so well. I am sure that sounds like a broken record on here. The other day, I truly felt light headed just after going to the grocery store. Tonight is KaboomTown, Addison's July 3rd firework display. According to USA Today, it is the 3rd best in the country. That's nice. I am sure it'll still be hot as hell tonight. Thankfully, I can see everything after just a 2-3 block walk from my home.

I have been to the Texas Rangers July 4th game 2 times in my life. I would love to go again. It is just so hot. I am sure I am going to die tonight after just a short excursion outside.

Friday July 1

2011-07-01T11:12:00.002-05:00

It is the Friday before a 3 day weekend. I have tons of grading to do. I've done some but not as much as I should. I know I'm going to bring some home with me. The best thing to do is to finish as much as possible now. I'm just having motivation issues. Being the only workday without a night class, I am sure I'll be sneaking out a little early today.

I am looking forward to a few days off, even if I have to work from home. And again, I am glad Addison will have fireworks on Sunday, July 3. I like to stay close to home for events when possible.

Speeding ticket

2011-06-30T17:11:00.001-05:00

Yeah, I got a speeding ticket today. My first one in years. I was driving 31 and I guess in construction, the speed limit is 20. I don't remember seeing a sign but the cop says there was one. I honestly had no clue why he stopped me when he did stop me. Opps. I guess I need to pay more attention.

Kaboomtown

2011-06-30T10:37:00.002-05:00

Like most people in this country, I am ready for a 3 day weekend. I am lucky to live in Addison because I have one of the best firework shows right in my backyard. I only need walk a couple of blocks to get a better view. It has been ranked as one of the best in Dallas and anywhere in the US. BTW, I'd love that job. Going to various firework shows and ranking which one I thought would be the best. Addison does things right. I am also glad it will be on July 3. They do it differently, but yet it works. Many people come. I'd rather see fireworks on the 3rd than the 4th because I don't want to be out late the night before I have to go back to work. I just hope it isn't too hot outside. 

Time

2011-06-28T16:43:00.001-05:00

I would just love for there to be more time in the day. So much to do yet so little time to do it in. Life has to move on. We do what we can do.

Busy Busy

2011-06-23T10:23:00.003-05:00

I hate having a busy schedule. I don't have time to go to the gym. I don't have time to do much of anything. 15 hour days and 100 degree heat are catching up my body. I am not sleeping much either. Will the paycheck be worth it at the end of the month? Probably not. Not as much as I'd like it to be. Can I hope for a lottery win or some kind of big payout? ha I hope so.