Becky Comes to Town

The last year or so, I have spent very little time with my best friend, Becky because she moved to New Jersey to pursue a grad degree in International Studies at NYU. I can't tell you how proud I am of her and how lucky I am to have such an amazing friend. She really is one of those friends that just "gets" me; she's someone who I can totally be myself around!

Becky surprised me a couple months ago by letting me know that she would be at my bridal shower in Urbana this weekend. I was so excited that I was literally counting down the days. She arrived today at Willard Airport (which was quite a haul from me, since I live so far away (; ). We kicked off our weekend of fun by getting mani/pedis at Pretty Nails in Urbana. It was so much fun to relax in rattling massage chairs next to each other and catch up in person for the first time in months. 

That afternoon, Becky and I went on a shopping trip to the lovely Champaign Marketplace Mall, where I irresponsibly bought Ray-Ban aviators. I would say I regret my splurge, but I cannot honestly say that. I L-O-V-E them. It also helps that Al told me I look like a celebrity in them. 'Nuff said. That's good husband material. 

Later that evening, Becky, Al and I hit up KoFusion to satisfy Becky's craving. We got fancy martinis and a few delicious rolls to share: the New Zealand lobster role (in honor of Al's heritage!), the dragon roll, and my and Al's fav-the mango shrimp roll. YUM!

After that, our trio headed over to Guido's to meet up with some of Al's friends. Becky was quite tired from her trip...

We had such a blast together, only to be continued at my bridal shower and bachelorette party the next day...

Mexican Fiesta Night

A tradition in the Monteer household, soon to be a tradition in the Nuku household!

Woo-hoo!

Today was a very good day.

During the massive snowstorm at the beginning of February, I had begun to look for a new job. The drive to Danville was getting tedious and expensive. Although I love my students and coworkers, I was definitely ready for a change!

I began sending my resume and applying to schools closer to home. I was lucky enough to receive a call from Monticello High School (about 20 minutes from home) at the beginning of April. I was somewhat nervous for my first interview, but felt like it went incredibly well. The staff on the interview panel seemed incredibly supportive and welcoming. I walked out feeling very confident!

I was delighted to receive a call just a few days later letting me know that I was one of the final candidates for the position. I headed over to MHS for my second interview, where I took a tour of the building, met briefly with another English teacher, then headed in to meet with the superintendent.

I was relatively intimidated, but feeling confident in my credentials and experience. I about jumped out of my skin when the superintendent offered me the job! I filled out a few pieces of paperwork, then headed out the door to call my people and let them know!

I called Al to pretend as if the interview didn't go terribly well, but couldn't hold in my excitement long enough to make the ruse worthwhile. I burst out with something like, "I GOT THE JOB!" Al was just as excited as I was and quickly suggested that we go out to celebrate.

We headed to KoFusion for dollar sushi and sake. (I also got a delicious fruity beverage to complete the night's celebration.) I had such a blast celebrating with my fiance and best bud! Al and I just feel so incredibly blessed that everything seems to be falling into place. I know that working closer to home will ease my stress and give me so much more time at home to enjoy my new marriage. Hooray!

Twelve Angry Men

This semester, my students read the play Twelve Angry Men and researched court cases and proceedings. I noticed that they were getting a little wily the week we were reading this though, so I decided to plan a fun out-of-your-seat activity so that they could get spend a little of that energy in a positive way.

Hence, Twelve Angry Men character drawings:

Pretty sweet mustache. And head to body ratio.

Baseball overload.

This is how I found my husband-to-be this afternoon. He finds innovative ways to satisfy his infatuation with baseball. I wouldn't be surprised if he's wearing baseball undies too! He's a superfan!