How to Stay Awake During a Meeting

Actually, I should have titled this "How Do You Stay Awake During A Meeting?" I have dosed (thankfully with my head up and the drool IN my mouth) for two meetings this week. (And one was kind of important: I'm in charge of a new grant and I was being trained on how to qualify students for it).

I once had a history class in college that I couldn't stay awake in, either. I did everything in my power to concentrate, and couldn't for the life of me. I would eliminate all sleep-promoting activities. I made sure I went to class with a full bladder, a Dr. Pepper, I sat in the front section of class, and still fell asleep. And it was not a pretty sight when my snore woke me up, I got disoriented, and my papers and Dr. P fell off my desk. Thankfully I didn't pee my pants. And the nice, kind professor, despite his monotonous voice, really did give me every chance to succeed. If he hadn't let me take the tests 2 or 3 times each, I wouldn't have passed the class.

And now I'm having the same problem at work, but just during meetings. I did find that if I had a coughing fit, I could stay awake a little bit. Any other ideas, though? I'm kind of desperate.

Friday Five:
1. I called in sick yesterday (I had a migraine) and my daughter asked if it was because I was homesick. She's so cute!

2. My nice ex-neighbor (Hi Ange!) who I can drop in on anytime and feel welcome. You are the best!

3. Birthday parties this weekend! I'm really excited: we're doing a girl party and a boy party on Saturday. I can't wait!

4. Walking. I've probably already mentioned walking before, but really, what better way is there to relieve stress, bond with your daughter (if she's your walking partner), get a little exercise, and notice potato bugs? There are so many benefits!

5. Snickers. Peanuts really satisfy.

What I Missed Yesterday...

1. My bus pass. Right before I walked out the door to go to work yesterday, I realized my bus pass was nowhere to be found. It was a moment of sadness: no morning and evening nap, no comfy seats, no tour of the Avenues, and a $50 replacement fee. The good news: my sister lives close to the U so I could park at her house and she gave me a ride (thanks Liz!), and I had a valid excuse to get a Diet Coke. And, last night, I found my bus pass. It had somehow got squeezed into my first aid kit in my purse.

2. Hairsray. Yesterday I had to go without, and my life wasn't the same. I gelled my hair back into a pony tail and suffered through the day as best I could. Which was awful because I had to conduct job interviews throughout the day and I was too self conscious about the greasy looking hair. The good news is that I got more hairspray last night, and, despite the greasy looking hair, I was able to find someone to hire.

3. Family Night. You all know I'm a lover of the good old FHE. Last night we decided to take picts for the upcoming triple baptism we have. The kids were so silly, and could not stop bugging each other long enough to get more than one picture. So hopefully that picture will work.

What I'm missing today: my keys. And my mind...

Tuesday Five:
1. Hairspray
2. Bus pass
3. Three happy normal kids
4. A very patient husband
5. A turkey avacado sandwich for lunch

Possibly the Best Phone Call I've Ever Had in My Career

Note: names, ID numbers, and genders have been omitted to protect the identity of the student. Plus it's illegal for me to tell you that information. Plus you don't care anywhay.

Phone rings. I answer it. Professionally.

Student: "Yes. I would like to specify my gender please."

Me: "Can you hold please?" Put student on hold. Laugh hysterically. For awhile. Dry my eyes. Do meditation practices and deep breathing to calm myself down. I am professional once again.

Me: "Thank you for holding. What is your name and Id number?"

Student: Gives me that information. Plus states gender.

Me: "Thank you. We will get that changed for you - I mean...fixed...er...bye." Click. Laugh hysterically once again.

Yesterday was a great day.

Here's my five:
1. B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L. weather. Love it!
2. It's FRIDAY!
3. My sister is bringing me a diet Dr. Pepper for lunch. I'm thankful in advance. For my sister and for diet Dr. P.
4. The Second Grade program. We went last night to watch the kids. They did a great job!
5. Birthday invites are out. Once less thing to think about.

Have a great Friday everyone!