Out with the old...in with the new!

I can't say I am sorry to have this year over and done. It's been a long tough one.

2015 in a nutshell...

I survived through my first year of teaching 7th graders. I liked it, I might do it again, I might not. It took hours and hours of lesson prep, weekends were dedicated to grading papers, and I spent a whopping amount of my own money on classroom supplies. Between gas money for the commute and a tiny pay-check, I'm not sure I even came out ahead on that one. I loved the kids, they will always have a special place in my heart, and I enjoyed teaching them. Teachers make a pittance and have the weight of the world on their shoulders.

My Mother, who had survived cancer, died unexpectedly in April. What can I say, we all need our Moms, even when we are grown adults. The good thing that came out of this heart breaking experience is that my sister and I are closer than ever now. We sisters need to take care of each other now that Mom is gone. 

My Mom

I was able to spend a whole month in the Monterey, Carmel-by-the Sea area this summer with my daughter and granddaughter. I am now incurably hooked on this part of California. Ahh, the beautiful beach was within walking distance, 10 blocks away. The place is a bit quirky (California is a breed unto itself) but the coast has the best weather in the whole wide world.  

Carmel-by-the Sea

My Father-in-law, who had been ailing for several months died this summer. Again, what can I say, sons need their fathers too, even when they are grown up. My husband is sure missing his dad. My father-in-law is one of the best men who ever existed and he taught his son how to me a wonderful man and husband by his shining example.

My hubby and his Dad, back in the 70's.

In 2015, I lost my job. :(






I got a new job! I was hired by Iasis Health Care (SLRMC) a few months later, better pay and less commuting.....I guess I came out ahead on that one.

I am back working in a medical laboratory specializing in Microbiology.

My Daughter had lots of family problems that still are not solved...yet. We are wary, but hopeful for resolution in 2016.

I went to Comic-con, Fan-con, dressed up like all the other nerds, and had fun!

Here I am with my son, my duds were Victorian-Steampunkish, the skirt is amazing but not shown here. My son made his animal character costume himself. (My second ever Comic-Fan con experience.)

 My health is still up and down but I think I am dealing with it mentally a bit better now, (At least I try to!). Everything makes me break out, look at me the wrong way and my skin will take it personally and break out with swelling and a rash. I even get it in/on my ears for crying out loud. My arms look like a battle zone. It can sometimes be debilitating. If I am to remain like this for the rest of my life, I might not like it, but I am darned well ready to keep fighting to make the best of the good days I have.

Hubby and I have been together for an amazing 36 years. :)


My Christmas present is coming in January. Woohoo! New carpet for the house!

My first ever 'con' experience...yes, that is my son in costume again, choking the storm trooper (he made that costume, too.)