"Summer Cat" Is Back

It's the first day of summer and already, I feel different. There is just something to be said for 9 full weeks off with nothing to do except what you choose. Today, no one talked to me, I didn't have to break up any arguments, and I didn't have anyone ask me any questions except, "How do those fit?" It was a joy to go shopping by myself and not have to feel rushed to finish before the mall closed (like I usually do on a weeknight, or when I am with my husband). I ate lunch and didn't have to ask anyone else what they wanted, or try to cram in some extra work while I shoveled in my food. I watched Rachael Ray and got a pedicure. Tomorrow I may go to the beach by myself. Life should be like this all year long. Man, I love summertime. :)

IT'S ALIVE!

Metaphorically speaking, that is. When we bought our house two years ago and started to fix it up, it took on a life of it's own. Today I am the proud parent of bathroom tiles. Yes, that's correct. We are actually putting on finishes in this living, breathing, money sucking monster! Here is a picture of my father-in-law (sitting in the bathtub) putting up the first row of tiles. I was so excited, I almost cried. There actually IS an end in sight. :)

The Jelly Fish

You know how when you get stung by a jellyfish, you don't always realize it right away? They brush over your skin all silky and gentle and then wham! red, hot pain. That is how almost every conversation I have with my principal ends up. She has a way of complimenting you that has the same effect. You leave her office feeling pretty upbeat and then wham! she gets you. For instance today, after complimenting me twice in one week, she was telling me about my new co-teacher for next year and the subject of demo lessons came up. Here is how the conversation went:

Principal Ronnie: We've seen a lot of demo lessons lately and some of them were real duds.
me: Really?
Principal Ronnie: Yes...Did you do a demo lesson for us?
me: No, actually I was hired in the summer and there were no kids in school at the time.
Principal Ronnie: Thaaaat's right. You snuck in without having to do one. (chuckle)
me: I guess so. I hope you haven't been disappointed with what you've seen thus far! (jokingly)
Ria (asst principal): No, no, of course not! hahaha
Principal Ronnie: No, but you can really see some things when people come in for a demo. Things you might not see in an interview.
me: Hm.
Principal Ronnie: If you had done a demo, I would have seen things. (smug smile)
me: Riiiight...

Basically this passive aggressive tone creeps into every single conversation I have EVER had with her. And luckily it isn't just me. ALL the other teachers in my school have left her office with a sting. She makes it a point to compliment us as a whole (during staff meetings, for example) and then makes us feel so down trodden and unworthy that we're greatful to even have a job when we speak with her alone! She's like an abusive spouse, making you believe you are such a piece of shit that no one will ever want you, and convincing you that they have done you a favor by keeping you around, so you never leave. Let me just say, I can't wait until next year when I try to get pregnant so I can get the HELL outta there! Has anyone else ever had a boss like this?