Running Red Momma

While strolling through my favorite blow-some-money-wonder-where-it-went-store (Target), I blankly smiled at some twins as I walked by them. Suddenly, their faces were clear to me in a flash. I recalled their names, personalities and the time of day I knew them. A long time ago, I taught in less than ideal circumstances. It was a trial of FIRE I tell you. Kids came in high after lunch, some were on parole. Many of them acted like they had never sat and learned. These twins exasperated me. I didn't have much control and was glad when the year with them ended. I picked myself up and tried to be a better teacher. No, they didn't apologize when they graduated and I never grew to love them. I would not describe them as my arch-enemy. Yet, my brain did say oh the "_______ twins" from 5th period! That was over 15 years ago! Immediately, I checked myself in a full-length mirror. I wanted them to know I had moved-on. I was happy and not in some kind of therapy for ...

A while ago, we had some extra money in our medical savings account which needed to be spent. I was feeling a little bold, so I picked my first pair of designer "Bebe" glasses. I was thrilled. I usually don't do extravagant things like that. So, it was fun. When I walked in the store to pick up my frames, I hopped to the counter to see my new, snazzy glasses. As I pulled out the "couture", I was stunned by how far my pathetic prescription lenses jutted past the frame. Did I mention I am unable to see the big "E"? Suddenly it seemed like a Prada bag was being stuffed with pork rinds. It dimmed the effect. Deflated, I tried them on my face. As I turned to the side, I felt all I could see were those HUGE lenses.  I was transported to those sad days when I would bring a novel to dances so I had company during the slow numbers.  Now, it may seem like an exaggeration to you. But, don't you have something that still kind of lingers from fourteen?...