In weird news, I am now donating plasma. I've done it twice now in the last week. The first time was a long process (included a physical) but it went well. The second time wasn't bad but I wasn't as comfortable. My arm was still sore from the first donation but I have to admit they are decent at inserting the needles without it hurting. I went on Tuesday to support Dan as donating plasma was a plan for him to earn some more money. The local center has been offering coupons throughout the all. $300 for your first five donations. I didn't think I'd be eligible. It was Dan that was ineligible (poor veins) and I was accepted. I'm hoping to have continued success as it is easy money. I'm also hoping I can figure out how to read a book while donating (one-handed). Most people play on their phones but I find that to be boring after awhile. I also have to be sure I stay distracted because I know I'm screwed if I look at my arm/machine or any of the others around me.
Thanksgiving went well. The night before, I did prep for green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. I just had to put them in the oven to heat them up before the meal. I made the ham in a crock pot the morning of as well. The cherry pie from my realtor was good but I didn't get much. Dan's mom brought a turkey (very good), sweet potatoes, rolls, and some desserts. We had plenty of food that's for sure. I feel pretty confident about making the full meal in the future. Maybe next year in my new house?
I signed a new lease for my apartment and have to be out by the end of May. Let's hope I have a house by then. A shorter lease is making my rent rise in price come February but it makes no sense to renew for a year.
Gavin did his first major trip with friends yesterday. They drove up to Minneapolis for the day. Spent a fair amount of time at the Mall of America and went to a NBA game in the evening. They got back to Ankeny at 3:00am. He had fun though and his team won the basketball game. The other parents seemed to be a lot more worried about the trip than I was. I was worried traffic would be nuts due to it being Black Friday but Gavin said the mall wasn't bad at all.
The remainder of the semester has its ups and downs. The after school program is over until February so my Tuesdays and Thursdays are much easier schedule-wise. Both of my DMACC classes are wrapping up nicely too. I will have over 115 unit plans to grade soon though. Slow and steady will win that race. I have a day full of grading to do tomorrow (Sunday) too as I've been less than motivated to grade during my current break. Shame on me.
I'll be blogging again about said unit plans and complaining a lot, that's for sure.
FYI, your birthday present is coming, but it'll probably be late! Sorry!! 35 shouldn't be too bad; you have a lot of cool stuff coming up -- new house and a wedding. I hope you find a house. I'd be nervous about having to be out by the end of May, especially with work keeping you busy.
ReplyDeleteSo Gavin didn't stay overnight in MN? For some reason, I thought he did. It's good he got there and back safely! I'm glad I didn't Black Friday shop. I did some online shopping, might have to do more tomorrow (Cyber Monday).
It'll be exciting to host your own Thanksgiving next year. Tony's grandma made a pumpkin cheesecake, and it was delish! We are down to stuffing, turkey, and green bean casserole leftovers.
Wow, $300! That makes me wish I wasn't so squeamish about needles and losing blood. That money could be very helpful! Was Dan mad/sad about not being able to donate?
I hear ya on the grading. I didn't do any over Thanksgiving break. I'm hoping for a good, fast four weeks until Christmas break!!