Gustav!

So, as most of you know, most of our family members live in Houston, Texas. So, we are really concerned about all you folks down there! We have been watching the news on CNN and on the Internet. We hope you guys are informed and ready to take action, if necessary! I know that most of you were off from work when Dolly failed to make her appearance. I heard it was a party there in Houston when Dolly was supposed to come through and didn't. But this time, I think Gustav is a much uglier monster. I hope you take all the warnings seriously. And, if they tell you to leave, please do so. But, remember...we are Texans! We are our own breed of folk! So, check on your neighbors, take your pets if you leave, bring food and water to feed your family for 3 days (if necessary), but most of all be kind and helpful. Help those that can't help themselves. Remember to treat people the way you would want to be treated. In times of crisis, people's true colors often come through. So, again, show the world that Texans are better, kinder and just a better breed of folk! Please, don't let me down!

I tell everyone here in Japan that I'm a Texan first, then American. I tell people that I'm from the only state that matters....Texas. So, make me proud. Show the world why the Lone Star State is the best!

Pecan Heaven!

So, Mr. & Mrs. Crash sent us some of the yummiest pecans on the planet. Yesterday we received 3 bags of North Texas pecans covered in yummy yummy goodness. It was the best little surprise package ever. Thanks so much!!

It's amazing how something so small can bring you back home. Eating the pecans reminded me of Texas and all things Texas. I can remember sitting in the Crash's backyard, on plastic white lawn chairs, having a Bar-B-Que, playing catch with their dogs. In my mind, I can hear Husband playing the guitar and the buzzing sound of the Texas sized mosquitoes near my ears. I can even remember the smell of the fresh cut grass from their yard, because Mr. Crash would always mow the lawn before a cookout. It seems like just yesterday, even though it wasn't. I can remember their back yard tree Pecan Pete, and how it used to drop a plethora of pecans every year. I can remember all the cookouts, sipping Texas beer, and later watching bizarre movies we had found at the rental place. I can recall the multiple yard sales we had at their house as an effort to get rid of some of our household goods, I mean crap. I can remember it all so clearly...and it seems so fresh in my mind...yet, it's been over a year, possibly 2. But, the taste of the pecans, and the sight of Mrs. Crash's handwritten note brought it all back. It's amazing how the taste and smell of pecans can bring you home....even if it is just for a second or two.

Thanks so much Mr. & Mrs. Crash and new baby Crash!

There went the sun...

So, yesterday we had one blissful day of sunlight. I should have caught some sunlight and put it in a jar to save for later, but I didn't...I wish I had. Now, it is raining again! The rain is driving me mad! I'm from Texas...I need the sun!! I think it is supposed to rain for the rest of the week. What the hell??? I didn't know it was freakin' monsoon season! Sorry for my complaining!

And, no one seems to complain about the rain but me. I don't get it...am I the only one here that gets aggravated when my clothes get drenched from the pouring rain? Or, am I the only person that slips and nearly falls daily as a result of wet surfaces?? Well, actually I know I'm not the only person who has to deal with that. On Sunday, Husband took the trash to the basement dumpsters and slipped. He totally busted his ass. He said he slipped on the wet tile, and his feet flew up. The next thing he knew, he was on the ground. He walked back into the apartment covered in trash water smelling like garbage. He immediately hopped into the shower to rid himself of the filth ridden water and trash debris. I felt bad, but all I could do was laugh at him. I know, I'm terrible! Poor Husband! He recovered from his fall, but he says his back still hurts.


Just another day in Weenie's World!

Here comes the sun!

So, after 5 days, it has finally stopped raining here. Thank God! We were starting to get cabin fever! Jude has been cooped up for too long! The poor kid was going stir crazy! Usually, he plays outside at school. And then when he comes home from school, I take him to the park to play with his friends. So, the kid was starting to wig out from the lack of sunlight. But, now all is better. The warm rays of the sun peaked through the blinds at about 5:05 AM this morning....that's right I said 5:05 AM....they don't call this place The Land of the Rising Sun for nothin'!

Praise Jesus for the sun!

Happy Birthday Husband!

So, today is Husband's birthday. He is now 38 years old! Man, that's old! Just kidding! As most of you know, Husband is really young at heart. And, the man looks about 24 years old. He is the incredible Asian man who never ages. I guess he can thank his his mom for that!

Anywho, I just wanted to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the man I love...so....HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

By the way, Husband took the day off today so we could spend some "alone" time without Jude.

But, the man is currently sitting on the toilet reading the paper as I'm writing (we have a Western style toilet--not a squatty potty...can you imagine trying to read the paper while squatting????) Poor guy, sometimes I feel sorry for him because he married me...a lunatic. So, back off bitches this man is taken!

Again, Happy Birthday Husband!!!

Hot Nuns!

So, I was reading CNN.com and came across this story:

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TECH/08/25/nuns.beauty.ap/index.html

The story is about an online beauty pageant for Nuns. That's right...I said beauty pageant for nuns! The pageant was a priest's idea. He said it would help promote the nuns' lifestyle and life choices, and it would help to end the stigma that all nuns are old and ugly. Crazy, huh?! So, if you know any nuns, make sure to tell them to register online!!

Man, I knew I loved being catholic before, but now even more...this is awesome!

First the drinking, then the gambling, then the ability to absolve one's sins through confession, and now beauty pageants....Catholicism ROCKS!

Look Rice Spice, if you had been sent to a convent as a teenager (as your parents had threatened), I'm sure you would be a part of this!!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Welcome back, Texans!

Some friends of mine just returned from the states. They went on a whirl wind family vacation to Texas, Arizona and Florida. Since they are avid readers of the blog, I just wanted to give them a big Texas....YEE-HAW!!! Welcome back Texans! We missed your smiling faces!!

Sunday Sushi

So, every Sunday we have sushi with Running Babe. We usually go to this place pictured below. It has a conveyor belt that goes around the restaurant. On the conveyor belt are various types of sushi pieces and rolls. For the kiddos, they also have fried chicken and french fries (pictured below). I think this place is called Todo Ya Michi. I have no idea what that means or if I even spelled it right. The name of the place is written in Japanese...and well, I can't read Japanese! Whatever! All I know is that the sushi is fresh and yummy.


(Sorry Running Babe for the not so flattering picture, but I didn't take that many pictures. And, I wanted my readers to see where we ate.)
(Jude saying cheese! Jude enjoys eating sushi, too. He loves the fried octopus the most! When in Rome, do as the Romans. When in Japan, do as the Japanese!)

(Man, we pigged out last night! We ate 14 plates of sushi! No wonder my pants are tight!!!)

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Too funny!

Big D sent me this, and I just had to share. I know, it's mean and ugly...but I just couldn't resist. So, smile...at least this ain't you! Hee-hee!

Wingman!

So, Friday night I went out with a couple of friends to a local bar...I was the designated driver. Can you believe that???!!! I promised to not drink any alcoholic beverage so that my friends could drink the night away...I know, I know, I don't know what I was thinking! How I could I do something so nice and SO out of character! It was a strange sight to behold...me, in a bar without a drink... I know, any moment now the sky will turn black and the world will be filled with locusts and poof...the world will end....sorry, I digress.... It's just that...that was probably the first time in my life that I went to a bar and didn't drink. Crazy, huh?! Any who, one of the ladies I went with is recently divorced and wanted to check out the local prospects. To her delight, there was one decent guy there that was interested in her, and she was interested in him. They hit it off and exchanged numbers and all that jazz. Husband knew where I was going and who I was with. He was okay with me going out with "the girls" and babysitting. He's awesome.



So, they drank....and I watched. I came to the realization that watching other people drink mass quantities of alcohol is no fun! However, I did enjoy watching young women trying their hardest to capture the attention of young successful somewhat attractive men. It was like a cattle call. The women would flirt, smile, giggle and then flip their hair. It was almost like a formula.



I had a good time...but according to Running Babe....I could have a good time anywhere...at a funeral or even at a used car show.



But, I did realize just how lucky I am to have such a loving wonderful husband....and, I'm glad to be out of the "game."



Just another day in Weenie's World!

Technical Difficulties....

Sorry I fell off the planet...my telephone/Internet provider has been having technical difficulties! I think all the rain here is screwing up the server. WHATEVER! All I know is that it is royally pissing me off! I rely on Internet access to chat will all my peeps, and I haven't been able to do that for 24 hours...I think I was starting to go through withdrawal! But, all is better now...the connection has been restored. Yippee!

So, back to Weenie's World!

I think I'm turning Japanese!

So, I just made Tempura vegetables for dinner. Mr. #1 and his wife came over on Thursday for Mexican tacos from a real Tex-Mex Beaner....me. When they came to my apartment, they brought me a gift....6 eggplants and 5 tomatoes. So, I didn't know how to cook the eggplant, and Mrs. #1 suggested Tempura. My attempt was a success. Husband and Jude ate it up. It was yummy but greasy. Tempura is basically veggies, fish or shrimp battered and fried. I enjoyed it, but there is only so much fried food a person can consume. I tell you, there is nothing like a midget Mexican momma making Japanese food!

Stop being stupid, Stupid!

Okay, Rice Spice and I have been discussing the recent surge in stupidness among Americans. We just don't get it! We are supposed to be the greatest nation on the planet, yet we do such stupid shit! Okay, let me change that "we" to "you" or "you, young people." And, if you don't know what I'm talking about just go to YouTube, and you'll see about 50 million acts of stupidity. Or, check your local news, and I'm sure there will be a story about a local jack ass doing something completely stupid.

So, what's the deal??? Rice Spice and I believe all the stupidity out there is a direct result of parents not parenting. It seems like parents are letting their kids do whatever they want without having any consequences for their stupid actions. I just don't get it. I know, as parents, we are all tired and all over worked. But, raising your kid and setting boundaries is the most important thing you can do. I'm not saying I was a perfect kiddo, Lord knows I wasn't! (Right, Rice Spice??!!) I pushed the boundaries, but my parents pushed back HARDER. They put me in my place when I needed it. At the time, I hated them for it. But, now as an adult, I'm thankful my parents gave me rules and boundaries. I think that is what has made me such a well rounded contributing member of society, sorda. (Okay, well rounded might be a stretch...and technically I don't really contribute anything to society, because I'm not paying taxes right now living over seas, but you know what I mean.) So, what's the deal??

Look, if you don't want to be a parent, don't have kids. It's that simple! And, if you don't know how to parent, ask someone for help. There are tons of resources out there that can give you helpful ideas on how to parent. I know it's hard. I'm dealing with my own 3 year old. But, he has been raised in an environment where he knows that there are consequences for his actions. He knows that if he is mean, disrespectful or does something stupid, like throw a rock at someone, Momma is gonna let him know that what he did was wrong. Luckily, I don't have to beat the kid. He's very sensitive, so a stern talking to usually makes him cry. But, he knows that if he steps out of line, I will be there to put him back in line, no matter what it takes. Yes, it takes time and lots of energy to discipline. But, in my opinion, you are putting that time and energy into your investment for the future. After all, all these crazy kids will soon be taking care of us, and that is a horribly terrifying thought!

On another note, people from all over the world see YouTube and read the news on-line. They see all the stupid shit young Americans are doing, and they judge us on that. Keep that in mind when your young 18 year old kid wants to jump off the roof and post it on YouTube, or your kid wants to quit school to be a professional Guitar Hero player, or you kid passes out from playing a video game for 18 hours straight. The people of the world see this and think "What a bunch of morons!" And, I know this because my Japanese students tell me about all the stupid Americans they see on YouTube doing stupid stuff. It almost makes me embarrassed to be an American!!

So, for the love of God...stop being stupid, Stupid!!

This is such crap!

So, I read a news story on-line about people playing a video game for such a long time that they were passing out. What the freak?? The article mentioned that the fans of the video game were pissed off at the video game maker for making the game so difficult to beat. In order to beat the game, you must play for 18 hours.

Here is a link to the news story:
http://videogames.yahoo.com/feature/new-game-enemy-takes-a-solid-day-to-defeat/1238418


Look, if you play a video game so long that you pass out, then you are a moron and deserve death by punta. I'm not sure what death by punta is, but Popo says it's some bad shit!! So, to all you freaking morons out there...GET A LIFE!!! Stop playing video games and grow up!!

I'm growing a testicle!!!

Okay, okay...so, I went to the dermatologist for my mange again. This time I have a new ointment to apply. I feel like a guinea pig! They just keep prescribing ointments and none of them seem to work. Oh well! Maybe this time this doc got it right. The doc thinks that the hard water here in Japan is drying out my skin, causing dry itchy spots similar to eczema. I had a similar skin rash when I was pregnant with Jude, but it cleared up after I delivered him. But, I'm not prego...I'm sure of that. So, it must be the hard water causing the itchy spots. I'm typically a greasy Mexican, but since we moved here, my skin is really dry. So, it has to be the damn Japanese hard water! According to the doc, Japan does not add any water softeners, like they do in the states. As a result, Americans with asthma and allergies typically get some type of skin issue, allergy or rash while living here. Gee, thanks!! I wish someone would have told me that before I packed my bags to move to the Land of the Rising Sun!!

So, I have this lump on my inner thigh...the doc said it was probably just a fatty mass tumor, as I suspected. Nothing serious at all, just a lump. But it is on my left inner thigh. You can't see it unless I wear a super short skirt or running shorts. It doesn't bother me at all. It's just there. Popo had something similar removed a few years ago, and turns out that these types of things are hereditary. So, thanks Popo...for the testicle....(hee-hee).

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Popping out those puppies!

So, every female I know, with the exception of a few...like those going through menopause...are having babies. And, they are all having girls. What's the deal?? You would think with the economy going to crap, people would reconsider. But, they ain't!! I'm excited for all my friends who are experiencing the birth of their first baby. There's nothing like it in the world! Your whole world will be turned upside down, but for the better. You may not realize it one month after the birth, but you'll realize it when your sweet little angel gazes into your eyes, and says..."I think there is poop on my finger." There is nothing like it in the world!

For those of you out there without kids, you might feel left out of the "Mommy Talk." But, if you have a pet, then you are a parent, too.

And, sooner or later, like it or not, we will all be responsible for our parents... in one way or another. I am thankful that my parents have planned their future so well. It seems like they were planning for their retirement even before I was born. Now, they can bask in their glory knowing that they have done everything necessary for a great retirement. I'm blessed to know that they will never be a financial burden on Husband and I. It is a great relief to know that they can sustain themselves as they get older.

So, to all of you new parents out there, welcome to the brave new world! A world filled with poop, pee, spit up, breast milk, sleepless nights and love. A love beyond anything you have ever known. And, if you don't recognize the one you gave birth to, just wait...they will grow into the person you have always known you would have. And, if they don't, rest assure, they will become someone better. Well, at least in my case, I know this to be true. Jude is the most awesome little boy. He says the craziest crap. We laugh our asses off daily. He's a smart little shit with the biggest heart. Just yesterday he told me again that I was the best mommy ever. My heart melted. Hearing that makes all those sleepless nights worth it. So, be patient new parents! There will be difficult times when you will want to choke your kid, but don't do it. Just wait it out and the bad will pass.

So, again, welcome to parenthood!! Hold on tight and close your eyes!!

Weenie got her groove back!

So, since I quit job #1, I feel rejuvenated! I feel like myself again. I get to hang out with my family more, I'm not constantly on the go, and I'm not having to create lesson plans for little ones. Instead, I just hang out at home, picking up Husband's mess or working out or doing what ever the hell I want to do. Man, why did I ever start working hard in the first place?? What was I thinking???


Now, that I've got my head back in the right place, I can do things that I used to enjoy....like making my family yummy food. When I was working a lot, I had no desire to cook. But, now I look forward to preparing yummy, healthy food for my boys. And, now I have more energy to work out. My swimming has been great, as you know from my previous blog entries.


So, my conclusion is this...work sucks! Don't do it unless you absolutely have to!


Just another day in Weenie's World!

Work out buddies on-line!

So, I'm a bit fluffy through the midsection. I can admit that. I'm not as lean as I used to be. So, my buddies back in Texas are helping me get back in shape and train for the Tokyo Marathon. We are e-mailing each other daily about our exercise and food for the day. We are e-mailing out a complete list of everything we ate during the day, even beverages are listed. And, we are holding each other accountable for not exercising or for eating crap. Basically, we make fun of each other and humiliate the other person until they stop eating crap and start exercising. We are like a support group on crack! We are mean and truthful, but only because we care about one another. And, we want our friends to succeed at their goals.

I know this has already helped me. Yesterday I had to confess to my peeps that I ate two pieces of chocolate candy, and I was embarrassed. No one harped on me for faltering on the first day, but I knew they wanted to. So, today I ate better and exercised just so I could report back to my peeps and be happy about my report. I know it sounds silly, but it seems to be working. It's one thing to try and get healthy alone, but when you have crazy people to tease and harass you, it makes it easier to stay on track!

Thanks Texas peeps! You guys rock!

Michael Phelps' Mojo...

Michael Phelps sent me some of his swimming mojo through the television! I went swimming today and kicked ass! I swam about a mile at a much quicker pace today. I wasn't a shark, but I was an eel!

Thanks Mr. Phelps for sending some swimming mojo my way!!

Dwarf Olympics!

WARNING!!! THIS BLOG ENTRY IS NOT POLITICALLY CORRECT. IF YOU ARE A DWARF, YOU MIGHT BE OFFENDED. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!

So, I'm short right...4 feet and 9 1/2 inches standing up right with no shoes. To be considered handicapped in America, you need to be 4 feet 8 inches or shorter. So, I'm pretty close to being considered handicapped in America.

I was thinking again...I know, watch out, I could hurt myself doing that--- well, I was thinking that I should try again for the Dwarf Olympics. Why, you ask?? Why not, I say!!?? I'm special, right??? And, I'm too small to ever compete with average folks and do well. And, I'm sure I would beat the crap out of the dwarfs.

This is what the DAAA (Dwarf Athletic Association of American) web site said: "People eligible for competition are disproportionate dwarfs (usually those with a chondrodysplasia) that are less than or equal to five feet in height and proportionate dwarfs less than or equal to 4 foot 10 inches in height."

So, according to this, I am short enough to compete. But, the only problem is I'm not clubby and I don't have a chondrodysplasia. My appendages are not clubbed, and I'm normal...well, I'm not really normal, you should know that by now. And, in order to participate, they want you to send them copies of your x-rays showing your clubbiness or shortened appendages.

Oh well, better luck next time!

My feet hurt!

I have the flattest, fattest feet on the planet! When I stand, my arch collapses and my feet look like these pictured below. I run in very expensive shoes made specially for people like me. But, living in Japan is killing me! As most of you know, you must take your shoes off when you enter most places. As a result, I go barefoot. And, in doing so, my feet get no support. So, at the end of the day my feet are killing me. There has got to be a better way!! Will someone please send me some orthopedic slippers to wear???!!! Please???!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By the way, these are not my feet. These belong to another poor sole...hee-hee!

Swim like a fish!

Phelps is amazing! He is truly inspiring.

Before we moved to Japan, Husband and I were avid swimmers. We would swim about 3 times a week. And, by swimming, I mean lap swimming. We used to love it. But, since we moved here, we haven't been swimming much. But, no longer. This morning, after I dropped off Jude at the bus stop, I went to the local indoor pool and swam. I swam about a mile or so. It was hard in the beginning. But the more I swam, the better it got. The pool here is 50 meters, much longer than the one in Texas. But, I like it. It makes me work harder. It felt good, refreshing. My arms are sore, but I'll stretch it out.

At the last triathlon I did, I recall someone calling me a shark. I swam really well that day. Today I was more like a guppy.

I'm a quitter!

So, I quite job #1. I just couldn't keep working there. I really like my students, but I just didn't care for my employer's working standards or ethics. I feel so much better now. In fact, I wish I would have done it sooner. Now, I can focus on things that matter...like my family. My job was taking too much time away from the one's I love. I was feeling guilty for not spending enough time with them, but now things will change.

I kind of feel like I couldn't hack it in the real working world. Oh well, I will get over it.

And, I think I got caught up in the money. I like money, but thankfully Husband is able to provide for us. And, I don't HAVE to work. But, the extra money was nice. Now, I'll have to cut back on the shopping and eating out. I guess my priorities got out of whack. I apologized to Husband for letting my job get in the way of our family time.

I still have job #2 in Ome. So, I will have a little extra money in my pocket. But, that class is only 2 hours a week. So, no time will be taken away from my family.

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Party like a rock star!

When Sister was here, Jude grabbed Sister's giant bra and put it on his head. He said he looked like Mickey Mouse with it on his head. It was hilarious! Here are some pictures of the event...



(Jude was running around like a maniac with the bra on his head.)
(Sister caught him and took it away. Hee-hee)

Sister has left the building!

We just took Sister to the train station. She is headed back home to Akita-ken Prefecture. She has to work tomorrow. Here are just a few pictures from her visit. We had a great time together, and she only abused Jude a few times. She is quite a potty mouth, and Jude learned many new ways to use the "F" word. Now, he can use it as an adjective, noun, and in idioms. Thanks Sister!

(This is us in the van going to eat.)
(This picture was taken outside our favorite restaurant. We treated Sister to a nice meal, because she helped me teach during the week.)

(This is us up close...I don't think we look alike...)
(Sister leaving our apartment.)

Mt. Mitake from Mr. #1

Here are some pictures that Mr. #1 took from our Mt. Mitake misadventure. Enjoy!


(Here is the beautiful view from the top. You can see Ome City.)
(Here is Jude and I taking a rest and eating a snack.)
(Here we are with Sister.)
(Here we are climbing up the mountain. It was really beautiful but very, very hot!)
(Here is Sister at the top near the Shrine. She was tired and about to puke.)

We had a great time, but the heat was more than we could handle. We hope to return to the mountain later in the year when it's cooler.

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Lunch in Ome

These pictures were taken Wednesday when my Ome class took Sister and I out to eat. The people in this class are incredibly sweet and kind. They were so happy to meet Sister and chat with her. They found her entertaining and funny. My #1's wife wants her son to date my sister...we'll see...



Here is Mr. #1, Sister, another student, and I outside the restaurant.

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Mt. Mitake Misadventure!

So, yesterday we went to this beautiful mountain with Mr. #1 and his wife. (Mr. #1 and his wife attend my English class in Ome.) It was Jude, Sister, Mr. #1, Mr. #1's wife, and I all piled into my small Honda Civic. We were like sardines. I hadn't planned on driving, but I felt more comfortable taking my car since we had a booster seat for Jude. But, unfortunately, my car only had 1/4 tank of gas. And, going up a 15% grade mountain road, sucked gas like a mosquito sucking blood! I was tempted to tell my sister to get her fat ass out of the car and help push, but luckily we found a parking spot in the nick of time. After driving for 45 minutes in traffic and up steep hills, my fuel gage on 'E'.


It was hot, too! It was 94 degrees Fahrenheit with a heat index of 104. It was hot and humid. Sister, Jude and I were sweating like pigs. Sweat was pouring down us like waterfalls. We are fat, inactive Americans, and it showed yesterday! After walking around for about 2 hours in the heat and up stairs, Sister got sick and puked. She said she felt nauseated. Then, all of a sudden she gagged, and that was it. The flood gates were open. She puked up about a gallon of water on some sacred plants near the bottom of the Shrine pictured below. I thought she was having a heat stroke, but she recovered a few minutes later. Thank God! I would hate to have to explain to my parents about how I killed my sister after her 2nd week in Japan. Mr. #1 and his wife felt bad for nearly killing us. We walked slowly, but the heat was just too much for us. We typically stay indoors during the hottest time of the day, and we are not acclimated to the heat, unlike Mr. #1 and his wife. For being 70 ish years old, they left us in the dust!

After the puking incident, Sister was okay. We had lunch and made our way down the mountain. It was quite beautiful, but it was hard to see with sweat pouring down our brow.

Jude made out like a bandit! Mr. #1 and his wife were gracious beyond belief. They bought Jude a metal car from a souvenir shop for about 1,000 yen or 10 bucks. They also paid for everything else: tram ticket to the top of the mountain, lunch, souvenirs, water, and gifts. They were the best hots/tour guides we could have asked for.

I am incredibly thankful for my new Japanese "Grandparents". They have showed us kindness from the bottom of their hearts. They are wonderful people with a great sense of humor and graciousness. I am lucky to have met them and teach them.

After we climbed the mountain, we piled back into my car. We coasted down the mountain in neutral with no air conditioning for fear of running out of gas. Luckily there was a Mobil gas station at the bottom of the mountain, about 5 Km away. I purchased fuel, and then we turned on the AC and drove home. When we got home, we all took a nap to recover.

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Slacker no more!

So, yesterday morning I got my fat butt up to run. I laced up my running shoes and headed out the door. Husband was running with his work buddies, and I thought I would join. Since Sister is still here visiting, we asked her to stay with Jude.

I knew it was going to be a bad run, because I was huffing and puffing while running to meet up with the other people. It was really hot and humid. I ran about 3 miles, but I had to walk a few times. I ended up finishing with the fat girls. It was embarrassing. And, to top it all off, I was wearing an old half marathon shirt I had earned after running a particular half marathon a few years ago. Here I was dressed like a real runner, wearing a shirt that proved I was distance runner, yet I could barely do 3 miles without puking. I finished hot, tired, sweaty and stinky. I was beat to hell. I guess all of my inactivity has caught up with me. It sucked! But, on a good note, at least I was out there.

So, now I am determined to run with those people again...but to run like a real long distance runner. I don't want to finish with the fat girls again! So, let the real running begin...

Backwards and inside out!

So, yesterday Jude got off the bus and was tugging at his shorts. I looked at them, and they were backwards. Then, I checked his undies. And, they were also backwards but also inside out. The skid mark was visible in the front.

This is what he said:

"Mommy, I got dressed all by myself after swim lessons!"

He was so proud!

I just giggled and told him how proud I was, too! (Hee-hee)

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Rediscovering the Love...

So, yesterday I taught my Ome adult class. Actually, Sister talked, and I just held up a map of the U.S. for her. I rediscovered why I love teaching. My students treat me with respect and listen to me. They enjoy my lesson and appreciate the work I put into it. They make me want to continue teaching. Seeing their 70 year old faces light up when I tell a silly story makes me happy. It makes me happy to know they enjoy seeing me and my hearing lessons. They told me yesterday that I am their favorite teacher of all time. I was honored to hear that from them. It made my heart smile. I felt appreciated and wanted. I'm glad to have them as my students and now my friends.

Sometimes I loose my way and get aggravated with things. But, now I have found the love again...I have found the love in teaching someone something they will have with them for the rest of their lives. It's very rewarding. I guess I lost my way teaching at my other job. At job #1, I'm not respected. I'm just a worker, not a teacher or Sensei. And, as a result of that, I will be quitting soon. Job #1 stresses me out, does not compensate me for my extra time and effort, and they simply do not respect me. They have been taking advantage of me and my kind heart....but no more. I feel bad for leaving my students, though. I have developed a friendship and relationship with them. I like them and enjoy teaching them. But, I cannot continue to work in an environment that I don't enjoy or that doesn't make me happy. Life is too short for that. And, I don't HAVE to work. So, that is that.

Just another day in Weenie's World!

I lost my mojo...

So, my unofficial start of my Tokyo Marathon training was a flop. I ran a few times, but it wasn't serious running. It was "Oh, God, PleaseDon'tLetMeDieWhileI'mRunning" running. It was painful....more painful than I can remember. Running used to be fun and enjoyable, something I looked forward to. I used to love to put on my running shoes, shorts, shirt and fuel belt and run for 2 hours on the road or off. Now, I can't get my fat ass to put on my running shoes. My running mojo is gone....it's lost. I was hoping that the Olympics would give me a boost, but it hasn't. I think I'll just quit work and start training again, seriously. My life always seems happier when I run, and I could use some of that now.

And, by running, I mean jogging for hours. I'm not one of those serious runners that is always trying to beat a PR (personal record). I'm just a social jogger who likes the high at the end of a 2 hour run. Or, the accomplishment of finishing a race in a decent time.

I guess because I don't have my running buddies here to kick me in the ass, my running has turned to to shit. What I really need is Big D! I know that if Big D were here, he would personally come to my home, beat me with my running shoes, drag my ass outside, tie me to his truck, and drag me behind it until I ran. He wouldn't take my shit. He wouldn't take my excuses. I could really use a friend like that here. Someone whose threats I can take seriously. Now, Big D threatens me and calls me names over e-mail and the phone, but it's not the same. I mean, I'm a bit embarrassed by being such a slug, but it still hasn't given me enough "umph" to actually get off my ass and run.

Sorry, Big D! You know I love you!!!

So, could all of you out there please send me back my running mojo?? Maybe I left it in Texas. Please look for it, and ship it back to my lazy ass in Japan. I need it!

Thanks!

Working Moms

I'm so tired! I don't know how working moms do it!! I'm beat to Hell, and it's only Wednesday. This working crap is for the freakin' birds. I thought being a stay at home mom was tough, but being a working mom is way worse!! It sucks big fat donkey penises. And, dealing with other people's children, sucks too!!

This was my busy schedule yesterday:

7:45-8:15 Take Jude to the Bus stop for school

8:30-12:00 Summer School Preschool Class

12:45-2:45 Private Lesson

3:30-5:00 Pick up Jude from the bus stop; I took Jude to the park

6:15-8:30 PM Going away party for a friend at Job #1

I never sat down yesterday, and now my fat flat feet are killing me. All I want to do is curl up in bed with Husband and snuggle...or do what most married do in bed.....SLEEP!! (Hee-Hee)

Today should be less hectic. I don't teach summer school today (Thank God), but I do have to teach my adult class in Ome. But, I like them...I don't have wipe their ass when they poop. And, I don't have to feed them their lunch, either. Praise Jesus for that!

Just anther day in Weenie's World!

Teaching Monkeys...

So, I'm really tired and just finished teaching my summer school class for the day. Sister went with me and thinks I should quit. It's like trying to teach monkeys how to wipe their own ass....and it just ain't happenin' and it's driving me mad. All I want to do is neuter/spay all of these sweet little Japanese ladies so they can quit breeding these little monsters. Okay, okay, they aren't all bad...there are a couple that I actually like and enjoy teaching. But, the others act like animals, and I want to choke them.

I believe the way a child acts in public is a direct reflection of the parents. Therefore, if a little one can't behave, it's usually the parents fault. But, I have to deal with these kids, and all I want to do is smack the parents for letting their kids misbehave. And, in most cases, the parents are near or in the classroom.

In Japan, the young mothers have a different way of handling their kids than Americans. They don't discipline them. They just ignore the kids and hope the behavior stops. Since I have been here, I have seen a 3 year old boy choke his mother, a 4 year old girl spit at her mother, and a 5 year old boy slap his mother in the face. In every one of these cases, the mothers did nothing. And, it took every ounce of me to not react to these situations. I wanted to smack the kid, and then ask the mom what the hell she was doing by letting her kid abuse her in such a way in PUBLIC, of all places. So, I have a hard time dealing with ill behaved children, especially when the parents do nothing...

So, sorry for the bitching again, but I just needed to vent. Thanks for listening. (Hee-hee)

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Visit with Sister...

So, Sister is here for the week. Husband picked her up yesterday from the train station. I would have picked her up, except I was in bed sick with the pukies. We really haven't done much because I'm not sure how my stomach/bowels will behave. They are still a bit testy.

So, we took her to eat lunch and to the grocery store. We are just having a lazy Sunday afternoon. I'm trying to rest because I have teach again all week. Again, I don't know how you people do it...I mean, working everyday sucks! I know, I know, I should quit my bitching. But, coming out of retirement is very difficult to do. Maybe someday I'll get used to working....nah...I think I'll just quit and be retired again. That sounds much better!

I Finally Felt One!!

So, Friday afternoon at exactly 1:00 PM, I was home with Jude. We were on a lunch break. So, I was sitting at the computer checking e-mails, and Jude was sitting on the toilet pooping, and then it happened. We had an earthquake. It wasn't like the other earthquakes I missed. It was quite jolting and scared the peejeebeeze out of me. At first, I heard my washer and dryer banging together, and then I heard the stuff in our closet rattle...I think it was the hangers shaking. Then, I felt about 4-5 jolts. It took about 2 seconds for me to figure out that we were having an earthquake, because I've never felt one before. As soon as I realized what was happening, I raced to get Jude. Since he as sitting on the toilet pooping, I was debating whether or not to wipe him. I was afraid stuff might fall from the cabinet above the toilet and strike him on his head. But, at the same time, I just couldn't bring myself to take the kid of the pot without wiping. I know, priorities...right??!! So, I wiped a few times and then the quake stopped. I was scared shitless. My heart was racing, and I was shaking. The quake wasn't a low little rumble that people had warned me about. Instead, it was a jolting motion, like someone had grabbed my the shoulders and trying to "snap me out of it," if you will. I was so scared. I called Husband, and I told him how I didn't like it one bit. He just laughed. It took me about an hour to finally calm down.


I checked the JMA (Japanese Meteorological Agency) Website, and it was only a 4.5 earthquake. But, it's epicenter was only about 10 kilometers from here. And, since I live on the 5th floor, we seem to feel the earthquakes even more.

I thought earthquakes were no big deal, but this one was quite strong and scary. I was scared of earthquakes before, but now I'm REALLY scared of them. So, now I'm almost tempted to sleep outside in a tent for fear of another one. I even added extra water to my disaster/earthquake provisions, just in case. I know I'm a nut, but now I'm a scared nut...which is even worse!

Here is a link to information about the quake
http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/08125900389.html

So, if you hear that a major earthquake has hit the Tokyo region, please send a search party for my family and I. Thanks!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Yucky!

So, after our evening out, I got a rumbly in my tummy. I must have eaten something really bad on Friday. I was sick on Saturday. I was throwing up like I was prego--but, I'm not...I'm sure of that. I went to the Urgent Care clinic because I just couldn't stop barfing. The doc said that it must have been something I ate on Friday. And, I ate all kinds of crap on Friday. Whatever it was, it was haunting me and making it known that my system wasn't pleased to have it. So, now I'm even more tired from all the puking. But, I'm better now...praise Jesus! Thank God for modern medicine. And, I got a free barf bucket from the doc! I'm so excited about that. Now, whenever I get food poisoning, I don't have run to the toilet to puke. I can just use the bucket. Woo-hoo!


Just another day in Weenie's World!

Karaoke Night!

(Me drinking beer.)
(Sing it boys!!)

(This is the group of people that went with us. We had a great time!)
(Sorry for this, but I was trying to show off my cleavage. Unfortunately, it's not that impressive....) Hee-hee

So, one of Husband's co-workers is moving. They decided to have a Karaoke party for his "going away" party. These are some pictures from the event. We got a babysitter for Jude, and we got a designated driver, too.

Enjoy!

So tired...must stay awake...

I am one tired Mexican/American beaner. I have been working all week teaching summer school to preschool aged Japanese children, and it is wearing me out. I'm not used to working every day, and I forgot how much it sucked! I don't really care for it much. I don't know how you people do it out there. Going to the same place everyday, staying there working for hours on end. It sucks!

I mean, I love my job, but I'm feeling a little blah about it right now. I guess the problem is I'm feeling under appreciated by my employer. They are raking in the dough because of me. For some reason, small Japanese children love me and so do their parents. Maybe it's my playful nature or petite size that makes me nonthreatening. Whatever it is, it seems to be drawing in new students...which means more classes...which means more work. I really put my heart into my lesson plans and teaching and it shows, I think. But, at the same time, I don't HAVE to work. I work to give me something to do while Jude is in school. But, my energy needed to raise my energetic 3 year old boy is being sucked out and given to Japanese kids. I don't think that's fair to my son. He deserves a mommy at 100%. Not one who is too tired to chase him around or finger paint with him. The money is good, but not great. I want to ask for a raise, but because of the differences in culture, I don't think I would get one. I think if I was paid more, I wouldn't feel so blah right now. I guess in a way, I feel my employer is taking advantage of me and my kindness, willingness to help, and playful manner. I guess it's my own fault. I should have put my foot down earlier. Whatever!


None of this changes the fact that I'm tired! And, I have so much to do today:

Summer School Preschool Class 8:45-11:00

Adult Lesson 11:00-Noon

Preschool Class 2:45-4:45

Running Club Meeting 6:00-7:00 PM

Friends Going Away Party at Karaoke Club 10:00 PM-1:00 AM

I really want to go to the Karaoke Club tonight. We even got Running Babe to watch Jude for us. But, I'm just so damn tired. And, I have to teach tomorrow from 9 AM-1 PM. And, I need to get a run in (I'm training for the Tokyo Marathon). And, Sister will be here tomorrow at 1 PM. And, I need to clean up a bit, too. There just isn't enough time in the day to fit in a nap. And, Jude doesn't want to go to school today. His teacher is on holiday, and I don't think he likes his class without her. So, I will be taking him with me to my class.

By the way, as I am writing this, Husband just mooned me. There's nothing like a bare ass moon at 7:55 AM, right?! Gotta love it.

Sorry for that, but that's just how things roll around here.

Back to my bitching...oh yes...I'm one tired midget Mexican momma living in Japan....

Closure...

Have you ever had a moment in your life that didn't quite end the way you wanted it to? Maybe you missed a friend's funeral, or had a bad break up, or quit a good job, or hurt a friend.

Well, I've only had a few moments in my life that I feel didn't end the way I wanted them to. But, now I can cross one of those moments off my list. I kept having this reoccurring dream where the ending was different. I was almost haunted by the situation. Not daily, but enough to make me realize that I wasn't pleased with what had happened. I guess I was disappointed with my actions more than anything. And, my horribly guilty conscience wouldn't let me forget it...not even in my dreams.

But, now I can move forward and get beyond the situation. I now know and feel that all has been forgiven. I feel as if a load of bricks is no longer sitting on my shoulders. I feel rejuvenated and free. I feel happy the situation was revisited and resolved. Resolved in a manner I can be proud of. Life is short. I usually live with no regrets, but this particular situation was holding me back. But, no longer....

I'm free...free at last!

Thanks Azul!

Men who love dolls!

This is the weirdest thing I've ever seen in my life, and I just have to share!!

So, the other day I was watching BBC and stumbled across this program about grown men who live with and love dolls. They are realistic dolls the size of an average woman. They have mouths that work, eyelashes, and kooters. The men live with them and pretend they are real women. They even claim to "love" them. It is so bizarre! They talk about them as if the dolls are alive and have personalities. They name them and even have sex with them, since the dolls are anatomically correct. All the men interviewed seemed a bit "off," if you will. They certainly weren't "normal.'' Basically, they have given up on finding love with a human woman, so they found that love in a doll.

Here is the link to BBC:

http://www.bbcamerica.com/content/245/

This is so weird!

The Pits!

I've been walking around lately and seeing tons of people wearing sleeveless shirts. Look, I don't care who you are, I don't want to see your pits. Even if you they are cleanly shaved and groomed, I still don't want to see your armpits. Nor do I want to smell them!! There are some things in the world that should be outlawed and sleeveless shirts should be one of them. Even if you are a woman, and you wax regularly and use clear deodorant....I still don't want to see your pits!

I NEVER wear sleeveless shirts--not even when I run. That is simply a common courtesy to you people out there. Look, show your boobs, your ass, your tummy/gut even. I'm okay with that! But, I'm not okay with seeing a bunch of men running around with Buckwheat in a headlock!

This is just food for thought!

Domestic Diva

So, I've been cleaning my apartment since I got home from work. Sister is coming to visit this weekend, so I feel the need to clean. I've been picking up Jude's toys and Husband's clothes. Since I'm the only one with a vagina in the apartment, this place can get pretty dirty. And, most of the mess isn't from Jude but from Husband. Oh well, you have to take the good with the bad....and, that's about the only thing I can complain about when it comes to Husband. I'm pretty lucky to have such a good man on my hands, but he is a slob. Oh well!

And, I was really domestic today. I glued Velcro to Jude's super hero cape today. I was using a safety pin to keep it on him, but I didn't think it was safe to use one near his face. So, I went to a craft store today and bought Velcro. Unfortunately, I'm not really THAT domestic, and I can't sew worth a crap. So, I glued the Velcro down using seam/fabric glue. I'm not sure if it will work or not, but it was worth a try. If Martha Stewart were to see my handy work, she would bend me over and....ummm....she would cane me.

So, off I go to continue my domestic housework.

One question: which is worse...little boy streak marks in under roos or man streak marks??? I haven't decided, yet. (Hee-hee)


Just another day in Weenie's World!

The Incredible Jude Poo Poo

(There goes the super hero!)
(Cute, isn't he???!!)

(This is The Incredible Jude Poo Poo super hero saying cheese. The kid is so silly.)

YaYa sent Jude a super hero costume in the mail. He named himself The Incredible Jude Poo Poo--what do you expect...the kid is 3 years old.

I remember when I was his age, I wanted to be Wonder Woman. So, YaYa made me a Wonder Woman costume for Halloween. It was a leotard painted like the American flag. And, I had ankle and wrist bracelets made of aluminum foil along with silver painted Ked's tennis shoes. It was awesome!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

****In the original post, I misspelled the title. Sorry for that!! I've been hanging out with my Japanese friends, and I've lost my ability to spell English words. What the hell!! Sorry for being a retard!