The Waiting Room

That is an understatement.

It is such a ridiculous dance, no? You send resumes, hoping that someone will take mercy on your soul and grant you an interview. You sit and wait, wondering what is going on as your resume is passed from in-box to in-box. You wonder why no one has called or emailed you, thinking maybe your information was lost in some vortex. You check your mail, hoping you don't receive the dreaded "FU" letter.

You start to question your own ability and value.

What drives me crazy are the letters that state "Thank you for your resume. We will be in touch." I received a letter from one law scholl which stated:

Dear Professor Seeking Solace:

We are in receipt of your resume and cover letter for the position of Clinical Law Professor. We will review your qualifications to determine if you are a match with our search criteria.

Excuse me? Is this a job search or an application for Eharmony? Do they have 29 different dimensions of compatibility?

Would it be so hard for those involved in the process to give some indication of the process? I have to give credit to one University that I applied. In the letter, the search chair explained the time-line for thier search, from resume deadline to the granting of interviews. It was comforting to know that someone understood how stressful and frustrating the job search can be.

I sent a follow up e-mail to Alma Mater Law School regarding a position that is tailor made for me, except for the 10 years of experience in curriculum development. (Sorry, I was too busy practicing law. But, at least I did gain some experience at Former College).

Keep your fingers crossed.

Anastasia has this great music meme on her blog. I could not resist!

Name your top 10 most played bands from your music library.

1. Sarah McLachlan
2. Sheryl Crow
3. The Who
4. U2
5. Melanie Doane
6. Jimmy Buffett
7. Dave Matthews Band
8. Shawn Colvin
9. Bruce Springsteen
10. Barenaked Ladies

What was the first song you ever heard by #6?

Cheeseburger in Paradise when I was a kid. I had no clue who Jimmy Buffett was until I went to college and heard Margaritaville in a bar.

What is your favorite album of 2?

Come On, Come On. It has a classic rock sound.

What is your favorite lyric that 5 has sung?

So I have proved, some things can't be moved. And here I wait. But my faith is weak, and the water is creeping up to my chin.And I'm waiting for the tide to turn. Waiting for the tide to take me....away.

Waiting for the Tide by Melanie Doane

How many times have you seen 4 live?

Sadly, only once.

What is your favourite song by 7?

It's a tie between What Would You Say? and Grace is Gone.

What is a good memory you have involving the music of 10?

Their live shows are awesome. Part concert, part comedy! When I saw them in December 2006, they sang God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman. When it came to Sarah McLachlan's part, they announced "And now...Sarah McLachlan!" followed by "I wish!"

Is there a song of 3 that makes you sad?

Not really. They are not known for sad lyrics. But if I had to choose, I would say Behind Blue Eyes.

What is your favorite lyric that 2 has sung?

Strong Enough pretty much describes me. It totally explains my moody behavior. Especially the lyric

When I've shown you that I just don't care. When I'm throwing punches in the air. When I'm broken down and I cannot stand. Will you be man enough to be my man?

How did you get into 3?

They are Husband's favorite band. When we started dating in 1987, he introduced me to them. I have been a fan ever since.

What was the first song you heard by 1?

Possession. I became an instant fan.

What is your favorite song by 4?

One. I think it's the best song they have ever done.

How many times have you seen 9 live?

Twice. Awesome shows! The last show we saw was during the Rising tour. One of Husband's friends got the actual set let written in Springsteen's handwriting. We have a photocopy of it.

What is a good memory you have involving 2?

I saw Sheryl Crow last summer with John Mayer. Awesome show it was also an anniversary present from Husband.

Is there a song of 8 that makes you sad?

I'm Gone from These Four Walls.

What is your favorite album of 5?

Adam's Rib. It's an awesome disc.

What is your favorite lyric that 3 has sung?

That's hard, because Pete Townsend is one of the greatest songwriters. And the Who's songs are very conceptual. But one of my faves is from Baba O'Riley

Out here in the fields, I fight for my meals. I get my back into my living. I don't need to fight, To prove I'm right. I don't need to be forgiven.

Another fave is from Another Tricky Day:

(Just gotta get used to it) We all get it in the end. (Just gotta get used to it) We go down and we come up again. (Just gotta get used to it) You irritate me my friend. (This is no social crisis)This is you having fun. (No crisis) Getting burned by the sun. (This is true) This is no social crisis, just another tricky day for you.

What is your favorite song of 1?

It's a tie between Possession and Adia.

What is your favorite song of 10?

Jane. I also love Pinch Me.

How many times have you seen 8 live?

Once. Just her and her guitar at a small club. Awesome.

What is your favorite album of 1?

Fumbling Towards Ecstasy. It is one of those albums that you can play from start to finish without skipping a track.

What is a great memory you have considering 9?

It's not my memory, but Husband was at the concert in 1983 when Springsteen mentioned that President Regan had mentioned him in a speech. Springsteen's response was "I guess he never heard the Nebraska album!"

What was the first song you heard by 8?

Sunny Came Home.

What is your favorite cover by 2?

Sweet Child of Mine. Some versions of the Globe Session have it. She also does a great version of Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll in her live shows.

I have been tagged by Brazen.

Ten Weird Things About Me:

1. I am extremely flexible. Even at age 39, I can still put both my legs behind my neck from a sitting position.
2. I can belch on command.
3. I eat dry cereal because I am mildly lactose intolerant.
4. I did not learn to tie my shoes until I was nine years old. Somehow, I just could not grasp the concept.
5. At least once a year, I fall down the stairs in my house.
6. I did not play with baby dolls as a kid (I did play with Barbie). Maybe that explains my lack of a mommy gene.
7. I hold conversations with the Boy.
8. As many of you know, I am biracial. My mom is of Polish and Croatian descent and my dad is Black, but many people think I am Asian Indian!
9. I love tomatoes but hate ketchup. And I love cucumbers but hate pickles.
10. I take five different medications a day for my numerous medical problems. I think I am a walking pharmacy!

OK, I am supposed to tag six people, so Pi, Chaser, Joy, Weezy, Bellona and Inside the Philosophy Factory you are up!

Yesterday was a beautiful day. It has been so bitterly cold lately, plus we have received about two feet of snow in the past week or so. So, I decided to take the Boy for a walk.

It was so nice to feel the warm sun on my face. And, it was about 35 degrees too!!! So, that did melt some of the snow. But there are some people in my neighborhood and on my walking route who refuse to shovel their sidewalks, despite the fact that there is a law which says that one has 24 hours to clear their sidewalks after a snowfall.. So, I have to trudge through about six inches of snow in some spots. I know there are some elderly people who cannot get out to shovel, but more often than not, it is mostly well able people who just don't do it. What are they waiting for...the eventual lawsuit that will result if someone slips and falls in front of thier home?

But, I digress....

It was an amazing time. The Boy had a blast. He does this thing where he uses his head to plow through a snow drift. Sometimes, he will just stop and roll in a snow drift. At one point, looked like a headless dog! I will try to get a pic of him doing this. It is simply hilarious.

Oh yeah, I had a good time too.

Did you miss me?

I took a few days off to spend some time with my mom. She was not feeling well, so I thought I would spend some time with her in Hometown. She is doing much better.

I have 197 new posts listed on Bloglines. Geez, you guys were busy talking among yourselves. And I didn't even have to give you a topic!!!!

Well, I have a lot of catching up to do...

ETA: For those of you who were wondering, I was unable to get tickets for the Police. Sadly, the show I wanted to attend sold out VERY quickly. The announced a second show, but no luck. They are adding shows, so there is hope...

Great big hugs to all of my bloggy friends out there!!!!!

Courtesy of the lovely Brazen

Your Candy Heart Says "Hug Me"

A total sweetheart, you always have a lot of love to give out. Your heart is open to where ever love takes you! Your ideal Valentine's Day date: a surprise romantic evening that you've planned out Your flirting style: lots of listening and talking What turns you off: fighting and conflict Why you're hot: you're fearless about falling in love

As seen at Arbitrista (formerly Publius

In 1968 (the year you were born)

Lyndon B. Johnson is president of the US North Koreans seize USS Pueblo and 83 man crew in the Sea of Japan Communist troops attack Saigon and 30 province capitals in the "Tet Offensive" Martin Luther King is assassinated in Memphis, TN Senator Robert F. Kennedy is shot in California after celebrating presidential primary victories American troops destroy a town in South Vietnam in the "My Lai Massacre" Peggy Fleming wins Olympics figure skating gold medal The United States Congress repeals the requirement for a gold reserve to back US currency Student protesters at Columbia University in New York City take over administration buildings and shut down the university LL Cool J, Lisa Marie Presley, Jeri Ryan, Lucy Lawless, Celine Dion, Traci Lords, Tony Hawk, Kylie Minogue, and Sammy Sosa are born Detroit Tigers win the World Series Green Bay Packers win Superbowl II Montreal Canadians win the Stanley Cup 2001: A Space Odyssey and Planet of the Apes are the top grossing movies The rock musical Hair opens on Broadway The Beatles' White Album and Simon and Garfunkel's Bookends are released Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, debuts on NBC

I spent part of yesterday wrapping up my law practice now that the Divorce from Hell is now over. It was just a mater of closing out the last file, sending the closing letter to the client, and contacting my insurance agent about my malpractice insurance. As I was working, Jimmy Buffett was singing "Changes in Attitude, Changes in Latitudes". It was the inspiration for my Present Thought located on the sidebar.

That's was pretty much it. No big fanfare, no tears.

I wrote a series of posts about leaving the legal profession last year. The decision to walk away was not easy. I thought I would have wrapped up much sooner. I think I wrote that I had officially closed the practice in December 2005, but the Divorce from Hell changed all that. Plus, it hard to let go of something that is a huge part of who you are. Something that you worked and sacrificed a great deal to achieve.

Don't get me wrong, I have some great memories of my stint as a practicing attorney. I have met some great people, who are not only peers but friends. I have also met some people that I honestly believe there is a special place in Hell earmarked for them. I have helped some people who really needed a voice. I have also given hell to some people who really needed to hear it.

And I am not going to lie, I made good money. But it was never about the money. Money means nothing when your soul isn't in it.

So, that's it. I plan to keep my licence current, just in case. But as far as practicing goes, that's all folks.

But, it has been one hell of a ride.

The Police have announced their tour dates.

Go here!!!

In honor of Valentine's Day, a little list of some of my favorite love songs.

• Your Song by Elton John (This is my and Husband's "song")
• Ice Cream by Sarah Mclachlan
• God Only Knows by The Beach Boys
• Iris by Goo Goo Dolls
• If You Don't Know Me By Now by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes
• My Girl by the Temptations
• Vision of Love by Mariah Carey
• Hello, It's Me by Todd Rundgren
• Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
• I'm Not in Love by 10cc
• Open Arms by Journey

There are so many more... What are your faves???

The Boy loves the snow. When I let him out, the first thing he does is roll around in the snow. Even on days where it is below zero with frigid wind chill, he would be out there rolling and playing in the snow. In fact, I do not shovel a path for him in the backyard. He just uses his head as a snowplow and dives right in!

I am off to file the papers from the Divorce from Hell today. After that, I am free!!! Free from crazy clients. Free from arrogant and nasty attorneys. Free from malpractice insurance payments!!!!! I can now say that I am a former attorney. (More thoughts on this later.)

Husband is taking me out to lunch to celebrate. I think we are going to dine at our favorite Indian restaurant. They have an awesome lunch buffet.

WOOHOO!!!!!!!

ETA @ 2:00 PM EST: It's official...I am done!!!! And the Indian food was absolutely delish!!!

Husband found out that he is getting an end of year bonus. When his division of Big Computer Company was sold to Smaller Company, one of the things that he lost were the huge mid year and end of year bonuses that funded such wonderful vacations like Hawaii and Aruba. We have always saved for our vacations, mostly because we want to avoid getting into debt. So when these bonuses came around, it was, well, a bonus. So we while we were sad to see the bonuses go, it was not the worst thing in world.

But, now it looks like we are getting a bonus. Plus, we are getting a tax refund, something we NEVER get. So vacation here we come!!!

So, now the dilemma. Where to go???? We are thinking of going in March or April. I went through this last year, and you all out there in blog land were very helpful in your suggestions. So I am asking for your suggestions again. Here are some of the criteria that Husband and I must have:

• We love the beach!
• Warm weather, at least 80+ degrees.
• I like the idea of the all-inclusive. It is a little more expensive, but you don't have to worry about paying for anything. This is not a deal breaker, but would be nice.
• I don't like people bothering me or trying to sell me something while I am on the beach.
• We are not into touring too much. We just like to slug on the beach.

OK, inspire me!!!!!

I have received a couple of letters from potential employers, acknowledging the receipt of my resume. What is interesting is that many of them are address to "Dr. Seeking Solace."

I do not have a PhD. I have a JD. JD stands for Juris Doctor. Some also call it a Doctor of Jurisprudence. Does that mean I have the right to call myself Dr?

You can't hold a banjo and not smile!

• Dueling Banjos by Eric Weissberg
• Squeeze Box by the Who
• Take it Easy by the Eagles
• Goodbye Earl by the Dixie Chicks
• Angry Any More by Ani Di Franco
• Perfect World by the Indigo Girls
• Don't Come Around Here No More by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
• The Lucky One by Alison Krauss
• Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy) by Big and Rich
• On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
• I Know Why by Sheryl Crow

• I am not really into the game this year. Probably because my team is not in it this year. What is really funny is that people paid a ton of money to sit in the rain!!!!
• Is it just me or are the commercials really lame this year?????
• Prince was pretty cool. I liked the bluesy version of All Along the Watchtower.
• The Puppy Bowl is the best thing on TV!!!! The Boy is getting a kick out of watching the action!!! Here is the Boy watching TV!

GML just emailed me this pic of little Frankie! I guess he thinks the dishwasher is a spa!!!!

David Lee Roth is back with Van Halen. And, Eddie's kid is going to play bass on tour.

OK, I am taking bets. How long before Eddie kicks Dave out of the band AGAIN?!?

• The rodent did not see his shadow. For his sake, I hope he is right.
• I grew up near Punxsutawney, PA. Let me tell you, the people who made Groundhog Day got it so wrong!!!
• Thank you "ER" for interfering with my sleep last night. Great episode, but damn......
• Pink Cupcake is back!!!! Welcome back !!!!
• I got some good news on the "Divorce from Hell" front. The judge signed the judgment!!!! The court is going to mail it to me today. So, all that is left is to make the copies and file it. Then, this madness will be over! That means only one month of malpractice insurance payments!!!!!
• I have been a bad girl on the workout front.
• GML appreciates all the comments about her new baby! She is one proud mom!!

Some of you may recall that my friend, GML, lost her beloved Zoey last month. (She and her husband really appreciated all the comments!). Well, GML and her husband are the proud parents of a baby boy...

Frankie is a nine week old Golden Retriever. According to GML, he is a very good puppy. He sleeps through the night and has absolutely no fear. And he loves the snow!!!! This is my favorite pic.

GML's other boy, Eli Blue, is having a tough time with his new little brother. He wants know when Frankie is going home! It's funny because Zoey acted the same way when Eli came to live with the family!

I can't wait until summer. Eli and the Boy are buddies, so I am sure there will be some tail wagging fun when Frankie joins the mix!

I finally figured out how to send photos from my cell phone to my computer.


Isn't he just the cutest???? The Boy (his blog nickname) is a 6 1/2 year old German Shepard-Lab mix. Husband and I adopted him when he was a year old.


Here he is with his favorite toy...a stuffed goose!



More to come!!!

It is rumored that The Police may tour in 2007! That would be so freakin' cool! I wonder how Andy and Stewart convinced Sting to go for it?

I would pay to see them! Would you?

As mentioned in the post below, I am feeling rather cranks today. Yeah, it may be a little manic-depressive, but that's how I feel right now.

• Manic Depression by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
• Pinch Me by Barenaked Ladies
• Narrow Daylight by Diana Krall
• Learn to Fly by Foo Fighters
• Piece of My Heart by Janis Joplin
• Waiting for the Tide by Melanie Doane
• Elsewhere by Sarah McLachlan
• Behind Blue Eyes by the Who
• I'm Gone by Shawn Colvin
• Grace is Gone by Dave Matthews Band
• Lonesome Day by Bruce Springsteen
• Hell Yeah by Montgomery Gentry

To quote B*, I am cranks today. Why?

• I have monster cramps! Enough said
• IT'S FREAKIN' COLD HERE! Once again, enough said

I had my hair straightened on Saturday. Two hours spent in the chair. But it looks great. The only thing is that I can't wash my hair until tomorrow.

Still waiting on the job front. Having an uncertain future makes me feel somewhat inadequate.

Another possible position at Alma Mater Law School was just announced. Question...how do you say that being a graduate of the school would be beneficial to the position without sounding pretentious?

I had a strange dream last night that I taught a seminar at Alma Mater Law School about how to survive studying and taking the Bar Exam, particularly if you have to take it a couple of times. Hmmm...possible book idea or job idea????

Dear Retailer with the Three Letter Name:

Thank you for your promptly shipping my two long sleeve tee-shirts. I have always enjoyed shopping in your store. I decided to try your on-line store and was happy to find the items I sought.

However, I am quite disgusted with the manner in which you ship your products. The bag in which you shipped my order REAKED of cigarettes. The pungent smell was not only on the outside of the bag, but on the inside as well. Thankfully, the items I purchased were wrapped separately and were not affected by that offensive odor.

It's not that I fault someone for being a smoker, if that's what a person wants to do, so be it. But to ship a package under the circumstances I mentioned lacks professionalism and good business sense. Don't you have quality controls in place? Didn't anyone notice the smell?

Sadly, I will never order an item from your on-line site again. It is a shame because I would have probably spent an obscene amount of money at your site over my lifetime.

Regretfully,
Seeking Solace

bcc to the Blog World: The name of the retailer has an "a" in the name!

One of Lake Effect Snow Central's congressional representatives was attending Mass this past Sunday. The deacon used the homily (sermon) to publicly rebuke this Congressman for supporting stem cell research and other pro-choice causes. The deacon even had the nerve to tell the congregation that if they had any issues with the Congressman's stance, they should talk to him after services.

Needless to say, the Congressman and his family walked out of the service.

Now, the priest and the bishop have apologized for the inappropriateness deacon's remarks. But the deacon has remained silent. The buzz on local talk radio is mixed. There are those who say that the Congressman was fair game, because he is a Catholic that does not follow the Catholic Church's firm stance on life issues. Others say that the deacon was WAAAAY out of line. Regardless of the opinion, decency dictates that if the deacon, or anyone else, has issues with one's viewpoints then such comments should be made in the proper forum.

I think the Congressman had every right to walk out of Mass. He was not elected to Congress to support Catholic issues alone. He was elected to support the People's issues. The last time I checked, not all of People in his district are Catholic and not all People in his district are pro-life.

I am pro-choice and I make no apologies for it. I am also Catholic, baptized, confirmed and married. I have not attended Mass is some time now. I have struggled with my beliefs, prayed about them and came to the conclusion that I cannot blindly follow a doctrine that I do not believe. I know that makes me what some consider a "Cafeteria Catholic", where I pick and choose those things that I believe. Would it be better for my soul if I just faked it and supported the Church's views?

Isn't that a bigger sin?

Even though my birthday was two weeks ago, I got to enjoy Husband's present last night. Husband took me to see Shawn Colvin at a small club in Lake Effect Snow Central. There was about 100 people in the audience and we were sitting about 50 feet away. It was just her doing an acoustic set. Just a fantastic show!!!!

I married a great guy!!!!

On Saturday, I cleaned out my closet and my dresser. I go through this exercise two or three times a year. When I mean clean out, I mean I took EVERYTHING out of the closet and drawers. I dusted and vacuumed the inside of the closet. Then I went through every item of clothing, getting rid of the old, not worn in the last six months or what-the-hell-was-I-on-when-I-bought-that stuff. In the end, I filled three tall kitchen bags of clothes and one bag of shoes and accessories for donation. The majority of the items were way too big for me.

I wasn't always this disciplined. I used to have trouble justifying getting rid of clothing. If I paid a ton of money for it, It felt like I was throwing money away. Kind of like what your parents used to tell you about cleaning your plate because of all the staving children in those commercials with Sally Struthers. Then, there were times when I would buy an item because it was a good deal. How can you pass up a good deal? Well, it's a problem when that good deal sits in the closet because you don't have anything to wear with it!

I would also go through the "I know I will fit into those size 8's someday!" Well, another year would go by and I would be no closer to fitting into those size 8's. I would keep telling myself that I would. I thought that keeping those items would be incentive to lose weight. The flip-side of that mentality is that I kept a supply of "fat clothes" for those times when I would fall off the exercise wagon. There was a time in my life where I think I had clothing from a size 6 to a size 14 in my closet. I should have opened my own boutique with that kind of selection. The end result was clutter and frustration.

A few years ago, I decided that I would only purchase clothing that I absolutely loved. Also, if I found a particular item that was on the trendy side, I would think of three other outfits where I could wear the item. It really cuts back on the impulse shopping. I do stock up on the staples of a good wardrobe, but I don't go crazy with the trendy stuff. They are trends for a reason!

The other rule that I use is that I only keep clothing that is my current size. I don't own any "fat" clothes or "wish" clothes. For me, the idea of "fat" or "wish" clothes is counterproductive. It either gives me an excuse to be lazy and not maintain my fitness goals or causes me to spiral into a fit of depression because I can't fit into the size that I want.

When I shop, I use the one in-one-out rule. For every new item that comes into my house, one item must go out. I keep a shopping bag in my closet to hold all those items. When I conduct the Big Sort, I classify stuff as "Keep", "Donate", "Trash" and "Do Something". "Do Something" usually means dry cleaning or tailoring. Luckily, my best friend, Piglet, is one hell of a seamstress. All I have to do is ship the item to Hometown with instructions, and she takes care of the rest!

So now, my closet and dresser is organized with things that I love. I'll be back in six months to tackle the summer wardrobe!

It's too damn cold here! Need some warm weather music!

• Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett
• No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems by Kenny Chesney
• Soak Up the Sun by Sheryl Crow
• California Dreamin' by the Mamas and the Papas (RIP -- Denny Doherty)
• Hot Fun in the Summertime by Sly and the Family Stone
• Jamming by Bob Marley
• Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince
• Vacation by the Go-Gos
• Drift Away by Doby Gray
• Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
• Beautiful Day by U2
• Kokomo by the Beach Boys
• It's Five O'clock Somewhere by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett

AHHHH.....

• Following Philosophy Factory's advice, I started looking on-line teaching positions. I like the idea of sitting at home in my PJ's while teaching! If anyone out there knows of any job sites, let me know.
• I am a godmother. GML and her husband are the proud parents of a nine week old male Golden Retriever! He is just the cutest puppy! (Notice I had to add "puppy" in case the Boy has suddenly learned to read!)
• I just finished "The Secret Life of Bees". What a great book. I am not a huge fan of sequels, but it would be nice to see what happens to Lilly.
• I am starting "Cross" today. I am a huge James Patterson fan, especially the Alex Cross series. I understand the this one is supposed to be very good. I hope so. The last couple have been lackluster, although I did enjoy "Mary, Mary".
• Snow has returned to Lake Effect Snow Central. That also means that the Boy's alter ego "Snow Dog" has returned. He is having a blast outside! I have to figure out how to transfer photos from my cell phone to my computer, because he is just too funny! Ah...a project to help combat boredom!!!

I am bored!

One would think that being at home would be a blessing, but not me. I am one of those people who feels like she is not productive unless she is doing something. I have read, cleaned, worked out, cooked and even stooped so low at the try to find something entertaining on daytime TV. (Thank God for Law and Order reruns.) The cold weather does not help. Today, it is 22 degrees, but the "real feel" temperature is 9 degrees. So, taking the Boy for a walk is out of the questions. The joints would be VERY unhappy at that prospect.

What makes matters worse is that I can't just jump in my car and go somewhere. For those of you new readers and lurkers who may not know, I am visually impaired and cannot drive (I have sight, but it's like 20/200). Getting around can be quite difficult and expensive. Of course, there is public transport in Lake Effect Snow Central, but again, I refer you to the paragraph above where I talk about the weather.

I am going stir crazy here.

Being unemployed really sucks this time of year. If if was summer, I would not care. I would be outside reading, working in my garden or doing something with the Boy. No worries or cares. But right now, it's really tough.

Someone suggested to me that I do some volunteer legal work. OK, I know I am going to catch some heat for this but here goes...Been there and done that and it just sucked the life out of me. I have always been generous with donating my skills as an attorney, and I enjoy doing so. But in my experience (notice the qualifier there), it often becomes even more stressful than dealing with paying clients, mostly because many clients either expect you to solve ALL of their legal troubles, not just the one case you are assigned. Or you are put in a position to solve the client's life problems. I guess I could be a total bitch and say "Well, there is X agency for that." and be on my way. But, the Catholic guilt in me always gets sucked in. Sometimes, the agencies that assist people figure that you are at their beck and call and make it difficult for you to turn down a case. The end result is that I feel used and disillusioned.

Does that make me a bad person? I hope not.

American Idol is back.

I felt so sorry for the first girl, the one who sang the Jewel song. Note to Simon. Sometimes being mean is so counterproductive!

More commentary to come!

Update #1: Someone should tell the opera-dude that if you want to be taken seriously, don't dress like Apollo Creed. You look like a jackass!

Also, the Shakira wannabe is going to get on my nerves, I just know it!

Update #2: I would not take voice lessons from that dude either. But , I would not be so nasty about it.

I think the girl who came to the auditions with her boss is probably doing her boss.

Final Update: God, this is just painful. I did feel sorry for the last kid.

Michelle asks me about Plan B. Well, I am trying to figure that out, but I do know that I want to find another job SOMEWHERE. Preferably, I would like to stay where I am, mostly because the thought of packing up all the stuff in my house and going through the moving thing scares that crap out of me. Also, I think GML, and others, would kidnap me in order to keep me from leaving. At the same time, I have to be realistic about the prospects in my area. They are few and far between.

That leads me to my next point. What the hell do I want to do now? Do I want to stay as an academic? Do I want to stay in adjunct-land, or do I travel into uncharted territory and go on the tenure route? I really do not want to go back to practicing law. Suddenly, I feel like Admiral Stockdale when he said "Who am I?" "Why am I here?"

Gah!

In January 1987, my father and I were interviewed by a newspaper located near my Hometown about our perceptions of Dr. King's dream. I was 19 years old and in my second semester of my freshman year of college. My father was 45 years old and in failing health. The interview dealt with whether Dr King's dream was realized some 19 years since his assassination? Was the world better for my generation than it had been for my dad? We talked about our life experiences.

My dad recalled being a young boy growing up in Hometown. Hometown was a primarily White community. Although Hometown is located "up North", my dad grew up knowing that there were places that he could and could not go. He talked about how he and his siblings could not use the public swimming pool because it was segregated. When I was may dad's age, my bother and I went to that same swimming pool with no issue or denial. My dad would just drop us off, never saying a word.

My father did not attend college. No one in his family did. There was no one to encourage him to do so. Instead, my dad worked many jobs. He told the reporter about working as a bartender at the local county club the night that Martin Luther King was assassinated. He remembered how some of the patrons said to him "Well, now your Commie leader is dead," referring to the notion by some that Martin Luther King was a Communist. That infuriated my father. How could a man who stood for peace and equality be a communist? That night, he told my mother that his four month old baby girl would go to college someday.

When I was a senior in high school, I wanted to attend Georgetown University. I was an honor student and an athlete, so I figure I had a chance. When I told my guidance counselor my plans, she told me that people like me would never be successful in college. I knew what she meant. I went home crying. My dad told me that I had a choice. I could either believe that crap or I could prove her wrong. So, I decided to prove her wrong. I didn't attend Georgetown (There was no way my dad was going to let his 18 year old daughter move to D.C.), but I did attend college and earned my degree. I ran into that same guidance counselor, coincidentally on the same day I received my letter of acceptance to Grad School. I told her about my success. She just hung her head, and walked away.

Since then, I earned a Master's degree and a Law degree. I have worked to share my knowledge and experience to all, not just those of color, but to anyone who has felt the sting of prejudice. I pass on the same wisdom that was given to me by my parents. They taught me that there will be those who judge you based on who you are rather than what you have to bring to the table. Education is something that no one can take away from you. Use your knowledge to guide you.

But I still think about the original question that the reporter asked some 20 years ago. Have we reached the dream? Are things better now? I guess it depends on how you define "better." I see more opportunity, more than either my father or I experienced. But I still see ignorance. Even with all the success I have attained, I am still followed by White sales clerks in certain department stores.

I guess there is still more work to be done.

Today's playlist is in honor of Dr King.

1. Pride (In the Name of Love) by U2
2. Love Train by the O-Jays
3. What's Going On? by Marvin Gaye
4. People Get Ready by Curtis Mayfield
5. We Shall Overcome (So many versions to choose from!)
6. Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday
7. Dancing in the Street by Martha and the Vandellas
8. Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now by McFadden and Whitehead
9. Ball of Confusion by the Temptations
10. Living for the City by Stevie Wonder
11. Get Up, Stand Up by Bob Marley
12. Every Kind of People by Robert Palmer
13. Waiting on the World to Change by John Mayer
14. World on Fire by Sarah McLachlan
15. Imagine by John Lennon

I spent the weekend battling some flu-virus bug. I spent the weekend traveling between my couch, my bed and the bathroom. It was the poopy-flu, not the barfy-flu, which is a good thing. Throwing up is such an unnatural thing. Husband kept me company as we watched the Godfather I and II and reciting lines from both. ("Don't ask me about my business.")

I have not heard from Local Community College. I don't think I will get the job. But I don't think anyone else will either. I heard a rumor that there is a freeze on hiring. So, it looks like I will be unemployed for an indefinite period of time. So I guess I have to go to Plan B for now.

Thanks everyone for the birthday wishes!!!!! I spent a blissful day of shopping and eating. I had a gift card from Ann Taylor Loft that my dear best friend, Piglet, gave me for Christmas. So, I got a pair of ATL's new regular boot cut jeans. Very nice and not too low rise. Perfect for us gals who have hips and a butt, but a small waist. I also got a seafoam green top. (Looks like seafoam green is the hot color this spring). I also did some damage at Victoria's Secret, Bath and Body Works and the Body Shop. Husband took me for a lovely dinner at my favorite Italian restaurant. It's a little local place that has the best tiraminsu! I had penne with shrimp in a vodka cream sauce! And of course, lots of vine!!!!

Who says you can't engage in pure sloth on your birthday?

It's my Birthday. I am 39 today.

Wow!

I don't look 39.
I don't feel 39.
I definitely don't act 39.

So, I guess I just follow Jimmy Buffett's advice and just enjoy this ride...

"Councilperson X does not have the scrotal circumference to deal with the real issues affecting Lake Effect Snow Central!"

I so have to use that one!

• I got an email from the former Dean, who now works in another part of the college. She had not heard about my termination. She felt really bad about it and apologized on behalf of the college! She said that the students who were lucky to have me as an instructor gained so much from my knowledge and experience. Plus, she offered to be a reference for me. Woohoo! (Take that, evil bitch current Dean!)
• I have to contact my former employer because I did not receive copies of my student evals from last semester. I am getting my portfolio in order, so I want to have all my ducks in a row.
• Since I am home, I get to watch Rachel Ray's daytime talk show. I made this. I substituted turkey bacon for regular bacon, because I gave up pork for New Year's. You may want to add a couple of tablespoons of flour to get thick chowder. Very yummy!
• I spoke to my dear friend Ellen yesterday. Ellen, Husband and I attended the same college. It was so great to get caught up. One of the great quotes from the conversation came from Husband. In describing dealing with those in administration, Husband created the term "Moronic Administrative Fuckwits." Simply brilliant!

After a brief hiatus, the Music Monday Play-list is back.

Shawn Colvin does a great remake of the Bee Gees song "Words" on her latest CD "These Four Walls." I forgot how beautiful this song is, so I dug up a old Bee Gee's Greatest Hits CD. People seem to equate them with the disco-Saturday Night Fever era, but prior to that, they wrote and performed some great tracks.

• To Love Somebody
• Words
• I Started A Joke
• Lonely Days
• How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?
• Jive Talkin'
• Nights on Broadway
• Fanny Be Tender
• How Deep is Your Love? (I had to have one from Saturday Night Fever and this one is my favorite).
• One

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I have not had much to say. But, I am doing better. I started looking for jobs, both locally and away from Lake Effect Snow Central (Sorry, GML!). I am still waiting to hear from Local Community College and Alma Mater Law School. I also applied for a position in Midwest State, which seems tailor made for me. Today, I sent a resume for a position at a L aw School in Southern State. (I won't post which schools, but if you are curious, you can email me at seeking_solace@adelphia.net).

I am trying to keep a schedule so that I don't succumb to a state of ass-horizontal-ology on the couch. It's easy to sit around and mope about one's circumstance. But, I just can't do that anymore. So, I blocked out time for job searching, writing and updating my teaching portfolio, working out and doing stuff around the house.

I had a good laugh the other day when GML told me about the mandatory adjunct training at my former college. All adjuncts, regardless of the number of years of service had to attend. She said that it was three hours of information that any of the veteran adjuncts could have conveyed. Plus, some dude who was hired last month spent a significant amount of time telling the adjuncts that it is THEIR responsibility to contact a student if he or she is absent. Good God, I am SO glad that I am not working there anymore. I now know where a portion of my salary went!

I don't have much to blog about lately. With the end of year heinousness, I have not given much thought to anything else.

It's weird. I should be stressing about getting my syllabi ready for the semester or bitching about the upcoming faculty development session. And maybe if something comes up between now and the next two weeks, that may happen. (I am waiting to hear from Community College about a job). But for now, it just seems weird.

I am one of those people who gets bored really quickly. I am not great at long, extended vacations. I get ancy after about a week. I have some things planned in case of an extended job hiatus. But, I fear the boredom that extended unemployment can bring. The fact that I cannot drive does not help matter either.

On a lighter note, I think the Divorce from Hell is almost over. I say almost because the way this has gone, something could come along and mess everything up. The judge's clerk called and told me to submit the documents without the insurance information. The court does not want to hold up finalizing a divorce because of missing information that they can subpoena. That is good news. So, I will send the docs today and by next week, I will file them with the County Clerk. Then I will be free my friends, free!!!!

Also, I got a clean bill of health from my Rheumatologist. No progression of the RA or joint damage detected. She thinks my exercise routine has helped. I couldn't agree more. I have a new workout buddy now that I can't work out with my girls.

So maybe 2007 is starting out better.

Thanks, Addy N.

The Joker You're evil this much: 73%

You're a cool villain because you're very, very crazy, and you're proud to be very, very crazy. There's no prediction in your actions, it's just a convoluted mess up there. Taking over the world is not as big a priority nor is making money as much as killing a bunch of people, for fun. "Yer a real sonabitch, I'm glad yer dead!"

And I am so glad to be home.

My visit to Hometown was an emotional roller coaster. This time the stress came from my mother-in-law who decided to use me as an emotional punching bag. It was all the result of a misunderstanding about a family gathering that just turned into a huge mess. I ended up on the receiving end of her wrath. Her words were so venomous that she actually made me cry. Husband was out with his brother, so he could not shield or defend me from the attack. In the 19 years that Husband and I have been together, she has never done anything like that. What really hurt was she has still not apologized for hurting me or making me cry.

I did not tell Husband what happened until today when we were driving home I knew he would be angry and I did not want him to lose his temper. He felt really bad about the whole incident. He believes that his mother's tirade was meant for him, not me. I don't know if he will confront his mom about what happened or just let it go. At this point, I really don't care. I don't think it will really make any difference.

I am SOOOOO glad that 2006 is over!

Husband and I are getting ready to leave for our trip to Hometown for the weekend. It helps that Husband and I grew up in the same town and our families are still there, but that's where the ease of such a trip ends. There is the constant pressure to visit people and there is just not enough time in a weekend to do so. And even though family members say that they are not upset that Husband and I did not visit, I know it's a crock because I end up hearing about it later through the family grapevine.

This weekend it going to be interesting because Husband has plans with his brother for Saturday. I also have plans with Piglet for Saturday as well. So, I figured that Husband and I could visit with my family on Sunday. Since we are staying with Husband's parents, we will be spending a great amount of time with them. But, NOOOOO. Husband informed me that his mother and his brother's wife are planning this family dinner thing for New Year's Eve, despite the fact that we have other plans. This dinner is going to be held at his brother's house which is in Burg City, an hour from Hometown. This dinner thing is not optional because we did not visit for Christmas. So, this means that we will have to stay at my brother-in-law's house overnight and leave on Monday to return to Lake Effect Snow Central.

On top of all of that, I have not told my mom or my in-laws about my losing my job. I am not going to tell them just yet. I just don't want to deal with the fallout. My mom will insist that my losing my job was racially motivated. My father-in-law will have his 20 questions about what happened. Then, I will hear "Why don't you just go back to practicing law?" or "Well, can't you just get a job at X?" And then, to make things worse, my father-in-law will start sending me job information, especially if the job is located in or near Hometown. My father-in-law has been on this quest for the past 15 years to get Husband and I to return to Hometown. Yeah, like that is EVER going to happen.

So, off I go, biting my tongue all the way.

This will be my last post for the year. Have a Happy New Year and have a drink on me!

I spent a lovely two days with Husband and the Boy. The Boy was too cute on Christmas day. He instantly knew which presents were his. I think his favorite is a stuffed Canadian goose with a squeaker that honks like a goose. He spent most of the day walking around with it in his mouth. Sometimes, he can be such a Lab! (FYI: The Boy is German Shepard-Lab mix)

Husband and I decided to go light on the gifts this year, mostly because there really wasn't much that either of us wanted. Husband thinks I spoil him! He is right of course. I love buying gifts for people! I think his favorite is this book. I also bought him some cold weather workout gear, so he can continue running, even when it's cold. I also bought him some clothes from Old Navy and some CDs.

Husband did a good job. He gave me:

• "Cross" by James Patterson (I love the Alex Cross series!!).
• Two piano books; one was a Sarah McLachlan song book.
• "From This Moment On" by Diana Krall and "These Four Walls" by Shawn Colvin (Both great CDs!)
• Fumbling Towards Ecstasy Live with Sarah McLachlan
• This sweater and two V-neck tees from Ann Taylor Loft
• Sweats and a hoodie for lounging
• Body Shop stuff

Yesterday, we saw "The Pursuit of Happyness." I laughed. I cried. I felt better about my own circumstance. Go see it!!!!

Today, I am meeting LB for lunch. It will be nice to get out of the house with a good friend. Friday, Husband and I are traveling to Hometown to visit and exchange belated Christmas gifts. Plus, my dear best buddy, Piglet, and I will partake in our Boxing Day Shopping Spectacular, albeit a few days late.

It's getting a little better 'round here.

Taking a few days off to enjoy Christmas with Husband and the Boy.

Merry Christmas and peace to all of you!!!!

Thanks to Addy N. for helping me get into the holiday spirit!

1. Eggnog or hot chocolate? hot chocolate with whipped cream
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just put them under the tree? Absolutely wrapped. I love to wrap presents. I probably should get a job as a gift-wrapper.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? Colored
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No
5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually as soon as I find the time to do it.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Stuffing!
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? One year, my dad decided to get back at my brother for opening presents before anyone else. He locked my brother in his bedroom until 7 AM. Then, he made my brother wait until after breakfast and church before he could open his presents. It was about noon before my brother could enjoy his gifts!
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What truth?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No, but Husband's family does. I think it sucks the fun out of the whole experience.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? Lights, ball ornaments and beaded garland. And of course my Hallmark "Snoopy " ornaments. I get a new one every year. This year is Snoopy as the Legal Beagle!
11. Snow! Love it or dread it? Love it. Sadly, we will not have a white Christmas in Lake Effect Snow Central.
12. Can you ice skate? Yes. I used to take lessons as a kid. I used to be able to do some of those jumps you see on TV, with only one rotation. I would probably break my neck if I tried them now!
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? The Barbie Camper - 1974
14. What's the most important thing about the holidays for you? Spending it with family and friends.
15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Sweet Potato Pie!
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? We used to drive through the neighborhoods in my hometown to look at all the lights.
17. What tops your tree? A star with lights.
18. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving? Giving.
19. What is your favorite Christmas song? Anything from "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
20. Candy canes? Yep!
21. Favorite Christmas movie? "It's a Wonderful Life"

I am at a place where I can talk a little about what happened. So here goes:

I posted that I was required to report to work on Wednesday, despite having all of my grades submitted. I was told that FW (Fuckwit for those of you who are new or forgot) was coming in to challenge the plagiarism. Plus, I, along all the other adjuncts, had not received my schedule for the next semester. So, I literally sat on my ass for most of the day.

Around 2 PM, the Dean called me into her office. She got right to the point in telling me that there were enough instructors to cover my courses and she was choosing not to renew my contract. The chill in her voice, was clear that this was not the entire reason. She began to give me some song and dance about enrollment for the next term being low. I told her that I could not help but think that the real reason had to do with a certain student (FW), and the two other cases of plagiarism that I found. (One case involved a student who was supposed to graduate this semester and needed my Survey of Law course to do so). She said that could not say if it was that, only that she was not going to renew my contract. There was no "I am so sorry" or "I wish I could have kept you". Nothing. It was cold, unsympathetic and unprofessional.

[Let me divert into a little primer on employment law. My status at the college is as an "at will" employee. As an "at will" employee, the employer can fire you for any reason without notice.]

So, I walked out of her office. I knew I was going to cry, so I headed to a stairway. I lost it. GML happened to see me and asked what happened. I told her and I just fell apart. A couple of other colleagues saw me and gave me comfort. Even one of my students saw the commotion and tried to help.

Just then, the Dean comes by and see me crying with my colleagues comforting me. She walks up to me and says "Seeking Solace, what is wrong?" Just like that.

I wanted to punch her in the mouth. I wanted to go off on her. I wanted to say "You insensitive bitch." "You just fired me and you have the balls to ask me such a stupid fucking question?" What kind of crack are you on?"I wanted to leave with some shred of dignity and professionalism, so I literally counted to ten and said "I will be fine." and I headed back to my work area to clear out my stuff. As I cleared out, I told some of my colleagues what happened. The shock on their faces was more than words could describe. And that was it. GML, LB and H helped my carry my stuff out to Husband who was waiting for me. I cried the entire way home.

The truth is, I know why I was fired. People can say what they want about numbers, enrollment, retention. or whatever buzz-word you want to use. I was fired because I set high standards for my students. I have ethics and integrity. I will not tow the line because it makes the college look good. I know it had more to do with FW and plagiarism than any of the bullshit the Dean tried to sell me.

And that is truly sad.

I feel like someone ripped out a piece of my soul. I feel like I am mourning a loss. Everyone keeps telling me that this is for the best. But right now, I just can't accept that rationale. Maybe in a few days, but not now. I am trying to sort through all of this. I cancelled my plans to visit family for the Christmas weekend. I don't want to deal with any of it right now. Plus, I have a horrible head cold. Talk about insult to injury. So, Husand and I are going to spend a quiet Christmas at home with the Boy and maybe travel to Hometown next weekend.

Words can not express my gratitude to everyone for their comments of sympathy and kindness about my job loss. You all are truly the best. Thank you so much!

Well, that's it. I don't have too much more to say right now.

I was fired today.

I will let you all know what happened, but right now, I need some time.

So here I sit. I finished writing two letter of recommendation for students. I am supposed to meet with the Dean about FW sometime this morning, but no one has indicated when.

Husband gave me one of my Christmases presents today. He figured that since I am stuck at work, I might as well have something enjoyable to read.

So I graded my last paper, dealt with all my plagiarism issues, calculated and doubled checked all of my grades and signed off on my grade reports. You would think that I would be doing the "I am done for the semester" happy dance. Right?

Oh, no my dear friends. That would be too easy.

Since tomorrow is still a class day, I still have to show up for work in case a student has a question. That's right, my friends. Even though my grades are turned in and none of my students have anything to submit, I have to show up for work tomorrow and Thursday and sit on my ass on the off chance that a student may have a question. Even though my students know that I do not tell them their grades and my college has a policy that prohibits the posting of grades, I have to go and sit from 8: 30 to 2:30 because a student may have a question or want to discuss something with me. What question could possibly come up remains a mystery and so far, no one has given a satisfactory example.

So, I thought to myself, "OK, I can work on my syllabi for the next semester, right? Wrong again. None of the adjuncts received their schedules for next semester. The administration will not tell us. They will not even give us an idea of what any adjunct will be teaching, even if you have taught the course in the past. Their reason? No clue. The administration keeps back-peddling and waffling. Many of my fellow adjuncts are seriously considering quitting because of this.

Oh and of course I can't forget FW. Yesterday, he met with the Dean to discuss his plagiarizing his paper for my class. He admitted that he did it. Case closed, right? You know where this is going! He called today to say that he is going to fight the charge and he is going to bring an English teacher with him to prove that I don't know what I am doing.

If this is someone's idea of a joke, I am so not laughing.

Addy N had a post about feeling guilty about the grade distribution in her courses. Why does it bother us as instructors if there are a few C's and/or D's in our courses? It almost seems personal. I am not sure why. I often wonder if I am being too hard or am I not requiring enough of my students.

How much control do we have when it comes to student outcomes? If a student chooses not to do the work, despite all of our efforts to assist him or her, should we just write them off? My gut reaction is yes. If you don't complete the work, then you deserve the consequence of a low or failing grade. Then there are those who fall into what I call the "hard C" category. The "Hard C" is those students who come to class, do the work, and get extra help. But the best they can do is a "C". You want to reward the fact that the student really tried, but at the same time, you risk the fear of grade inflation, which ultimately rewards the "D"and "F" students.

The administrators at my college seem to think that the lack of student success is the fault of the faculty. My colleagues and I are bombarded with "What have you done for the students lately?" Graduation rates a down, so in addition to our regular responsibilities, we have to track down the students in our classes to find out why they are not doing well. I teach at a small college with about 1100 students. It would be impossible for me to contact all of my students to find out why they are not doing what they are supposed to do. And, it's not my job.

I have a situation in one of my classes where two students attended regularly and completed any in class work that I assigned when I was absent. I have to have a substitute instructor either teach my classes or give the students busy work. Since not too many of my colleagues are qualified to teach my law classes, I am stuck giving the students busy work. That work was to be submitted upon my return. I use that work as extra credit toward the final grade. Well, there is one student who did complete any of the additional assignments. He also has not submitted a good portion of the course work. As a result, he has an "F" in my class. If I just give him the points that he would have received had he completed the extra assignments, he will pass. (70% is passing at my college). If I don't, he will receive an "F". I am torn, because this student is a pain in the ass and thinks that I treat him unfairly. I did not allow him to turn an assignment that was late because he had a questionable excuse and could not provide documentation to support it. So, do I just pass him to get him out of my hair, or do I fail him because it is not fair to the two that did the extra work?

I don't get any of it.

Two more cases of plagiarism. One student did the usual cut and paste job. The other cut and paste sections from a website but cited it as a different website.

Plus, my Divorce Form Hell will continue into next year. Opposing counsel did not provide me with the information I need by the 4 PM deadline. So, I will have that hanging over my head.

LB just told me the FW is pissed because I busted him for plagiarism. He says he is going to bring an English teacher with him when he meets with the Dean to prove that I have no clue what I am doing.

Here are some of my holiday faves. Nice to listen to when you are grading.

Enjoy!

Christmastime is Here byVince Guaraldi
Blue Christmas by Elvis Presley
Silent Night by The Temptations
This Christmas by Donny Hathaway
O Holy Night by Mariah Carey
What Child is This? by Sarah McLachlan
River by Joni Mitchell
The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole
Let it Snow by Diana Krall
God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman by Barenaked Ladies with Sarah McLachlan
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by U2
Santa Claus is Coming to Town by Bruce Springsteen
The Chanukah Song (Version I and II) by Adam Sander
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Frank Sinatra
Happy Xmas (War is Over) by John Lennon (Too bad you can't download it.)

I don't blog much about my family. In the past, I have written about my dad and I mentioned that my mom has cancer. Honestly, I think the drama that goes on in my family could fill a whole separate blog or be plot in a Lifetime movie

But I have to blog about this.

My mom has this annoying habit of leaving cryptic messages on my answering machine. "Call me right away, it's important." Usually, it's not that urgent, but I am always afraid that it will be the one phone call where my mom does not cry wolf.

So, I call her, thinking that someone has passed away or is in jail. (Yes, I have family member who have serious trouble with the law. That's why I do not have a license to practice law in my home state. All my clients would be family members.) Anyway, here's the conversation.

Mom: K is pregnant again. She is due in January/ (K is my brother's baby's mama. My brother cheated on his wife, the end result being my Nephew, which my brother does not aw knowledge).
Me: So...
Mom: Well, this is her fourth child. (Nephew was the third) I can't believe she has four kids to four different men.
Me: Mom, you called to tell me this. I thought someone died or something.
Mom: Well, I thought you should know. How is Nephew going to deal with this (Nephew is three years old).
Me: Mom, I don't know. But, it is not our problem.
Mom: I spent the entire day crying over this.

When I finally calmed my mom down, I hung up the phone thinking "I could have gone the entire night without having to know this information." As soon as I got off the phone, Husband says "Let me guess...K is pregnant." "Someone get that girl some birth control!"

Honestly, did I really need to know that K is pregnant? I would probably figured it out when Husband and I stop by during Christmas to visit Nephew. And I am not going to get into the fact that K has another "baby's daddy."

Nothing like family drama at the holidays.

I have been in this funk for the past week.

• The loss of GML's dog really hit me hard. Partly because I am a dog mom too. But, it took me back to when I had to put Duke to sleep five years ago after he was losing his battle with cancer. Even though I have dealt with the loss of a pet before, Duke's passing was very hard. So when GML's dog died, it brought back a flood of memories.
• I am disgusted with the insensitivity of the people I work with. I think I mentioned that for our faculty luncheon, we are having roast beef (which I don't like) and chicken piccata (which I can't eat because the restaurant makes it with mushrooms). Then, they are serving red potatoes and garlic potatoes and a chef salad. I am not paying $10.00 to eat potatoes and a salad! I can't believe that my colleagues voted this way. So, I am not attending the luncheon as my form of silent-passive-aggressive protest. If GML is on campus, maybe she and I can do lunch. Besides, we can drink!
• The Divorce From Hell is still alive and kicking. I found out that all judgements must be in the judge's chamber by close of business on the 18th. So, I have been frantically running around trying to get opposing counsel and the law guardian to get off their asses and sign off on the judgement, which I wrote to them about TWO WEEKS AGO and have been stalking them ever since. Then, there was this matter of my misplacing my copy of the trial transcript (VERY BAD!). I spent part of Thursday trying to get another copy. Today, I received opposing counsel's approval letter. Now, I am just waiting for the law guardian.
• Grading, grading and more grading. 'Nuff said.
• My right shoulder is almost non-functioning. I don't want to pull out the friend card with my chiropracter (she is a good friend and I have never used our friendship to get a rush appointment). But I am desperate! Drugs and Biofreeze only work for so long.
• I still don't know what I am teaching next semester. All adjuncts at my college are pissed because we don't have our schedules yet. Retention is really down, so some of us may only have one or two classes. On a positive note, I got a call from Community College who said that my application is being forward to the CJ department.

So, in order to get de-funked, Husband and I are going out to a local tree farm and we are going to cut our own Christmas tree. Having an artificial is sacrilege in my house. Pre-cuts don't last as long. But, we always have fun.

Now, I just hope the lights work!

So much has been going on the in Waiting Room this year. Here are the highlights.

January 2006: Blogging about the Boy, getting back on the workout track and an new course that is just not working.
February 2006: The usual student insanity and lots of shopping! And of course, the Boys in Black and Gold won the Super Bowl!
March 2006: So much evil in the world, from students to people on the subway.
April 2006: Aruba, baby!!!
May 2006: The glory of being a dog mom.
June 2006: Tribute to my dad
July 2006: The continuing saga of a Ding Dong Student and Doggie Date Night.
August 2006: One of the worst emails I have ever received.
September 2006: A new boss, a little prissy brat joins the faculty and a faculty member who does not see a good opportunity when it is right in front of him.
October 2006: Introducing...FW!
November 2006: How I kicked FW's butt and my 20th high school reunion.
December 2006: End of semester student insanity, a missed concert, a flooded basement and the loss of GML's beautiful Zoey.

I just finished teaching my last class for the semester. One of the students in that class gave me a Christmas present. She gave me a beautiful candle. How sweet!

Now, I have to dive into the pile of research papers. Any suggestions on what to drink? I am thinking about Bailey's on the rocks in honor of the holidays!

Last Monday, I had my Employment Law class draw numbers to determine who would be first for the oral exam. Average Student chose the first slot, Lazy Student Who Cheats chose the second, and Awesome Student chose the third. I told them that they would not know the questions in advance. I also told them that they would not get the same questions. Lazy Student's face turned white. He had this look of fear on his face. I had set up the exam so that he could not cheat his way through it. Plus, he could not press Awesome Student for answers. He would have to study.

Today was the exam. Average Student did quite well. Awesome Student did awesome, as usual. Lazy Student crashed and burned. I kept throwing him a bone to help him out, but it was clear that he did not study. He kept confusing the words "subjective" and "objective", so I had to stop and explain the difference. Later, Awesome Student stopped by to see me about a recommendation (which I was happy to give. I would clone her if I could). She told me that Lazy Student pumped her for information about her questions and bitched because Lazy Student thought that her questions were easier.

I have not completed their final grades yet. But, I really want Lazy Student to fail. I know that sounds bad and I know that I will see him again, but I don't think he deserves to pass. It will probably screw up my karma, but I can't help thinking that way.

FW submitted a paper filled with plagiarism. But what makes this so frustrating is that when he submitted his rough draft two weeks ago, I marked the sections that were plagiarized. I also had a discussion with him, reiterating what constitutes plagiarism and what he needs to do to fix the problem. I reminded him what the consequences would be for submitting a paper containing plagiarism. You would think after all of that, he would correct the mistakes.

Did I mention that his paper was about ethics in the accounting field?

It's 9:30 AM and already I need a drink.

Sadly, GML's dog passed away yesterday. She had a massive tumor. She was only six years old.

There was no warning, no symptoms of a problem. No one could have predicted it.

There was still so much left to enjoy. So many years left...

How do you reconcile that? How do you wrap your mind around it?

Why now?

For GML, Zoey was more than a pet or a friend. She was part of who GML is, someone who gives of herself unselfishly, is always up for a good frolic and displays unquestioned loyalty. For GML, I think she lost a little of herself yesterday.

Many of you know "Rainbow Bridge" which was written to comfort those who have lost a beloved pet. I know deep down that Zoey is there, frolicking in a meadow and swimming in a pond with the sun shinning on her. That thought alone reassures me that all dogs do go to Heaven.

Godspeed, Zoey.

Only two out of eight students submitted research papers in my Critical Thinking class. FW submitted his, but he added "I don’t think I cited all my sources." Gee, do you think you should have checked that BEFORE you decided to submit the paper?

Student in my Employment Law class is still whining about the oral exam. I think for the first time, he is actually afraid that he may not pass my class. He is also mad because I will not accept an essay he submitted two days late.

We are having a faculty luncheon next week. We had to choose two entries with the top two being selected. The top two are chicken picatta and roast beef. I can't eat the chicken picatta because the restaurant makes it with mushrooms, which I am allergic. I can't pick them out either. And I do not like roast beef. So, I guess I will have to load up on veggie and salad.

My colleagues are not sensitive to the needs of others. One of my colleagues told me to just pick out the mushrooms. GML is a vegetarian and gets a great deal of grief because of it. She is not militant or judgmental about being a vegetarian, but she would like others to consider that there are people who would like a meatless option. Although I am a former vegetarian, I often opt for meatless option. (I think I mentioned before that I had to return to eating some meat after my RA diagnosis, just to get back in balance. I am considering going back o being a veggie.)

Speaking of GML, her pooch is very sick. She may need surgery. GML is really upset. Sending positive thoughts to you and your little girl!

My right shoulder is killing me. I dislocated it several years ago and it did not heal properly. Around this time of year, it is very painful from carrying my shoulder bag and sitting at the computer. I am on the cancellation list with my chiropractor. But it still HURTS. I guess I will have to break out the BioFreeze.

Husband and I are going to see these guys. At least this time, we will not have to travel far and the weather is supposed to corporate.

So to honor them, here is today's playlist:

Brian Wilson (Live version)
One Week
Grade 9
Pinch Me
When I Fall
It's All Been Done
The Old Apartment
Another Postcard
If I Had A Million Dollars
Wind it Up
Thanks That Was Fun
Jane

I had this version of White Christmas on my blog last year. I loved it so much that I just had to post it again!

I love the reindeer back up singers!

Enjoy!

Christmas shopping is 90% complete. I have to go out an get gift cards for the older nieces and godchildren. I also have to buy wine for those who are getting the gift of a good buzz for Christmas.

I am picking out some things for the Boy for Christmas. Yes, I buy gifts for the Boy! He was a very good dog this year. Of course, he will have treats and toys, but I am thinking about a new bed for upstairs. He has one for the living room and one in our bedroom. Our bedroom has hardwood floors and since the Boy is getting a bit older (He is six), I am concerned about his joints. I did see a cool bed here which has heat and massage. Sweet. But I think I should have one of those before my dog! Drs. Foster and Smith have some nice ones that are orthopedic and have a bolster. The Boy loves having a bolster!

• I just returned from holiday shopping with GML. Always a good time. But I so want this! Maybe Husband will get it for me for Christmas???
• I got the invite to change over to Blogger Beta. Is that supposed to be a good thing?
• I can't believe that I have a light work weekend. I think it is the calm before the storm of research projects that are due next week.
• My neighbor is having new siding installed on her house. The Boy does not like the guy doing the work. He growls and barks at him!
• None of the adjuncts have their schedules for next semester yet. Hello...I would like to know what I am teaching and when I am teaching it!!!
• It is FREEZING COLD here!!!!
• And finally...

Telling me that the coffee machine was broken. That was 9:00 AM

And then it went downhill from there.

10:00 AM: Massive headache and no Tylenol. Plus, the coffee machine is still broken. Had to run to the store.

11:00 AM: I gave my Critical Thinking students a work day for their research paper. I told them I would be in the classroom if they wanted to meet with me. FW stopped by and asked me why I stated on his rough draft that a particular section was plagiarism. I explained to him that the information he used was not cited in the body of his paper or in his reference page. He claimed that he listed some dictionary as his source. I then explained that the source in question was the information regarding the Enron scandal. He then told me that he cited that source as a web page in the reference page. I told him that web-page that he cited was not the source for the Enron article, but another source properly documented in his paper. He then said "I guess the rumors were true. You do check EVERY source." (Don't worry, I made a copy of his draft and the website where he plagiarized...just in case)

11:30 AM: Student does not show up for his meeting with me. I guess he is OK with failing my class. (Thanks everyone for your input. I would have done a combination of both options.)

11:45 AM: One of my colleagues told me that a student in my law class has announced to her and other students that he intends to cheat on next week's oral exam. He plans to sit in the room and listen to the questions asked of the other students. He figured that I have to ask the students the same questions because it would not be fair. Of course I had already planed for such an event. I put in the information packet for the exam that I would be using the Dean's office for the oral and that students would wait in the Dean's reception area until I escorted them to and from the exam. Plus, any student found lurking around during the exam will receive an "F" and be subject to further disciplinary action. (I have spies who are working for me).

12:30 PM: Faculty meeting in which I, along with my colleagues, are reminded that the low retention numbers and the sudden increase in student absences are our fault. Faculty does not do enough to encourage the students to stay in class. Also, adjuncts are now required to attend faculty development seminars, which we are not compensated and there are no plans to compensate us in the future. Plus, adjuncts must attend their own faculty development meeting, which we will not be compensated for, in January when we have not even signed our contracts for the next semester. Then, senior adjuncts (like yours truly, are "encouraged" to act as facilitators.

1:30 PM: Massive headache, upset stomach (from the disgusting pizza and wings served at the faculty meeting) and cramps results in my ripping off the heads of my law class.

3:00 PM: I get cornered by a member of the administration to serve as a facilitator for the adjunct development. Felt to sick to work out.

3:30 PM: I realized that I forgot to write the take home exam for my Criminal Law class. They are supposed to get it tomorrow.

4:30 PM: Headed home, having not accomplished anything with the take home. My only consolation was big sloppy kisses from the The Boy, a nap on the couch until 6:00 and Husband with dinner cooked and a sympathetic ear.

8:30 PM: Still have not written the exam. Needed to vent. I guess I better get to work.

Suppose you have a student who is failing your course. He is currently at 23%. There is a research paper and an oral presentation left to do, which is a combined 30% of his overall grade. Even if he earns a perfect score on the remaining assignments, he will still fail the course. The student wants to know what he needs to do to pass.

Do you:

1. Find a polite way to tell him that he is screwed, or
2. Encourage him to complete the work, making no promises of passing the course, but you know that he is going to fail?
   

• Attendance drastically drops because student loan refund checks were distributed. (I call it "Check Day")
• When you ask a student if they have an assignment that is due, he or she looks at you like you are speaking Swahili.
• Only one student in a class of 15 turns in an assignment on time.
• A student who has not attended class since mid October asks you what he or she has to make up.
• A student who has not submitted any work all semester asks you what he or she needs to do to pass your class.
• The dreaded "Do you give extra credit?" comes up at least once a day.
• You need hard liquor to get through grading a stack of papers. (I use whiskey)
• The number of papers you have to grade equals or exceeds the number of loads of laundry yet to be done.

Feel free to contribute!

Had to miss seeing the concert because my neck of the woods is in the middle of a nasty snow storm! (six inches and counting since 5 PM!)

FUCK!!!!

And we had such great seats too! We were within request distance! Hopefully they will do a second leg of their North American tour in the spring.

Hey Prisca, bet you don't miss the Lake Effect stuff!

Husband and I are going to see these guys tonight. Today's playlist is in their honor.

Long Live Rock
Can't Explain
Substitute
Squeeze Box
Baba O'Reily
Eminence Front
My Generation
Magic Bus
5:15
Love Reign on Me
See Me, Feel Me
Another Tricky Day
Won't Get Fooled Again
Behind Blue Eyes
Who Are You?
Mike Post Theme*
Man in a Purple Dress*

*From the new CD "Endless Wire"

I am thinking about giving an oral exam in my Employment Law class. I have a small class (three students), so I think it would work well. Plus, it would be interesting to see if they can think on their feet. I would tell the class what chapters and topics will be covered. No notes or outlines will be permitted. It would kind of be like an interview in which I will ask them about different topics, either by explaining a particular concept or asking them to respond to a hypothetical.

Have any of you used an oral exam for your content area? Do you have any comments or suggestions for me? Also, my college is big on rubrics (I hate rubrics), so if you have one, could I "borrow" it?

Thanks everyone for your concern regarding my water-logged basement. Luckily, there was no serious damage. We were able to get the important stuff out of harm's way, like the golf clubs and the Boy's food container! Poor Husband spent the time outside in the rain, trying to divert the water flow in the right direction towards the street. Meanwhile, I was sweeping the water the came into the basement towards the sump pump.

This is just another slap of crazy weather we have experienced lately.

Hey GML, what's next....locusts???

My basement is flooding as we speak. It is raining really hard. It is supposed to turn into snow tonight.

Oh crap, now it's beginning to thunder...

Holiday bullets:

• My father-in-law has grown a mullet. That's right, a mullet! I am trying to figure out why a 65 year old man would even consider such a horrendous thing. One guess is mid life crisis. Someone asked me if he has purchased a Corvette yet. That leads me to my next guess which is he is too cheap! I have threatened to cut it while he is sleeping.
• My mom is doing great with her cancer treatment. I think what has helped her is her cat, a beautiful Maine Coon cat. There is truly a link between animals and healing.
• I was able to do some Christmas shopping while I was away. It helps that there is no sales tax on most items in Redneck-ville State.

Other bullets:

• I am one step closer to finishing the divorce from Hell. I submitted the papers for the Judge's signature. Once I receive them, I can file them with the court clerk. Yippie!!!! Only one more month of malpractice insurance payments!!!!
• It is raining like crazy here. It is supposed to change to snow tonight. I had to laugh at a Dallas woman I saw on the new yesterday. She was "afraid" of the snow. I told Husband that we should move there and bring winter gear and sell it. We would make a killing!!!
• I had to knock some sense into a couple of my students in my Employment Law class. I have one student who is just phenomenal. She is an excellent student. She gets A's on all of her work, plus does any extra credit that is offered. She is the president of her honorary fraternity and an officer in other clubs. Plus, she is a divorced mom with six kids. She doesn't brag about her grades or complains about her life. But two students in my class know that she does well and they give her grief because they believe she is "killing the curve." One said something so disrespectful that I had to step in and address the issue. I told them that I don't grade on a curve, I have never graded on a curve and will never grade on a curve. I also told them that the grade you get is the grade you earn. You give crap, you get a crap grade. I also told them that treating this student they way that they do is not only disrespectful, but extremely childish, and if they continue to act like children, I would treat them as such.
• Go here and vote to name the Atlanta Zoo's new baby Panda "Bright Star" after the lovely Bright Star!