I LOVE to Read

I love to read!!  I remember after unch when our 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Cobb, would tell us to pack our bags we were going on a trip.  I loved it!!! Since then books have transported me many places.  They've allowed me to learn things I never would have known.

However, my heart is saddened as year after year I teach fifth graders who see no value in reading. I'm left questioning what happened that sucked the very love of learning from their souls.  Is it society today?  Is it the standards based movement?  Or high stakes testing?  Perhaps we are so driven by data-based teaching that we've forgotten to love teaching and learning as adults?  Whatever it is we need to find it!!!! QUICK!!!

Every year we get the same library speech...."You can check out one picture book and one chapter book.  You can not checkout anything else until you've tested on the chapter book."  No love for reading, no reading for pleasure...just do what I say.  Personally, I don't have a problem with the librarian, I've got a problem with the statement.

Reading has to be an adventure...it is the key to developing lifelong learners. Last night at Matt's ABAC commencement the keynote speaker said that every year he challenges himself to read 75 new books.  He said he does this just to learn new things.  Why have today's fifth graders lost their love for reading? 

Kelly Gallagher in his book, Readicide:  How Schools Are Killing Rading and What You Can Do About It states the reasons AR is killing a love for reading.  His main point is that students read (when indoctrinated into AR) is to earn points.  If there is no reward for reading they stop!!!  Whoa!!!! I thought we wanted to create life-long readers and learners.  That was what I signed on for in the beginning of this career.  Well there is hope...numerous studies have shown that free-voluntary reading has long had positive results in building lifelong learners.  Unfortunately, as Gallagher says, testing pressure often trumph reason.

So as usual...I seem to be labeled as "bucking the system".  Forget that I had to have a parent conference Thursday about AR and the fact that their child didn't want to read the book, but wouldn't take it back because he didn't want to take a test. 

So what do I want?  I want people in charge to stop saying, "You've got to read a chapter book and test on it before you can check out another book."  I want students to develop a love of reading. I guess I just don't understand, because come Monday I'm being called to the principals office.

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

The Good

1.  I had six students compete to represent our room in the poetry recitation contest.

2.  My low reading babies are hanging through class novels at a 5th grade level and passing AR test.

3.  Gabe's One Act Play won state.

4.  I teach with my best friend; therefore, she shares my misery.

5.  I'm married to the love of my life.

6.  Matt got accepted into UGA.

7.  Drew and Nicole are doing good at UK.

8.  Chiropractor seems to have helped my back (see the ugly).

9.  I've got a week off work to relax.

10. I've got time to read a book for relaxation this week. 

The Bad

1.  I'm not having enough time to test reading, writing, language, spelling, and do massive amounts of RTI data.

2. We've got serious clothing needs around here.

3.  My classroom discipline techniques are going south.

4.  Matt going to UGA = more money needed.

5.  Feeding a family of 4 through the holiday on a budget!

The Ugly

1.  We've got to get on a serious budget in order to survive the remainder of this economic downturn. (A second job might be in order.)
2.  My students call people names, walk around the room, talk, and go through numerous mood swings.  All the time not understanding that if they could settle down we could learn.
3.  Payroll budget cuts are killing us.
4. Trying to figure out how to buy even a meager Christmas.
5.  Trying to determine the differences between needs and wants.

10/10/10

I believe this makes for a perfect day.  So in honor of that here goes:

10 Things I'm Thankful For

1.  I'm thankful that I grew up in a Christian family and learned of God's love at an early age
2.  I'm thankful that no matter what trama existed I always knew I was loved
3.  I'm thankful that I grew up in one town for 25 years of my life. That I grew up where everyone knew your name.
4.  I'm thankful I found the man of my dreams and that we've been together 26+ years.
5.  I'm thankful that I've had three beautiful boys. (and now a daughter in law)
6.  I'm thankful that while others have stayed put, we've lived all over the United States and made wonderful friendships.
7.  I'm thankful that we finally have a home of our own...even if it is on a long dirt road.
8.  I'm thankful I got to stay home with my boys and return to a job that I love on most days.
9.  I'm thankful that we both have jobs in this tough economy.
10.  I'm thankful that God sees fit to continue being merciful to me every day.

10 Things I'm Glad I've Done

1.  I'm glad I went to school at the same school my mother graduated from for all 12 years of school.
2.  I'm glad that I graduated from college.
3.  I'm glad I went ahead and got my master's before I had children.
4.  On most days I'm glad I started this doctorate...now to finish it.
5.  I'm glad I've always had good friends.
6.  I'm glad I've lived on a top notch cutting horse ranch, a 2,000 acre ranch in Colorado, a condo on a ski slope, a farm house in Pennsylvania, and Georgia.
7.  I'm glad I married my best friend.
8.  And that God continued to give me friends in my life to take the place of my extended family.
9.  I'm glad I was old enough to understand my mother's death at a young age and that I have know fear of death.  I'm also thankful that God let's me help other children through this experience.
10.  I'm glad I lived.  I've attended great concerts, I've had fantastic meals, and I've loved unconditionally. I've seen the highest mountains and the ocean.

10 Things I Still Want to Do

1.  I want to get this doctorate behind me and breathe.
2.  I want to teach a college class.
3.  I want to get a job that helps struggling teachers become better.
4.  I want to travel.
5.  I want to lose weight without dieing first!
6.  I want to see my children settled and I'd like some grandchildren.
7.  I want to spend a snowy weekend with Dan alone and just be.
8.  I want to go to NYC.
9. I want to go to Washington DC
10.  I want to have a clean house every day!!!!



I Wish

...that I didn't care so much about my JOB!!! I wish that I could take off and work on my paper and not feel like my students would be sufferring.

...that we didn't have to worry about money so much. I get tired of wondering how in the world we will ever be able to get everything paid. Yes, God provides in the end, but I worry to much.

...that somehow I could lose weight. I'm tired of the constant pain from my back. However, who has time to exercise when they are working 10 to 12 hours a day. If I can't do the work at school...it comes home.

Life According to Seuss Part 4

“Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.”

-Dr. Seuss

That Dr. Seuss who knew he was so wise! I love this quote!! I think this should be my life motto. Lots of things in our lives have ended...death of a parent, death of a business, moving nine times, changing schools, children moving and getting married. All are very sad events, but what a joy the memories were.

Today driving home from Madison I saw a horse trailer. A smile came over my face as I remembered hauling two kids around the country. What a time we had. Sometimes it brings a tear to my eye that God never saw fit to give Dan the success he sooo deserved. However, at the same time a smile crossed my face because it happened.

I've seen death and lived with it...it holds no fear. I've had a promising business, stayed at home and raised a family to see it all end in bankrupcy. I've left wonderful schools and friends and thought I'd never have either of them again. I've watched two boys go off to college, and one get married and regretted that we were so tied to that business that failed. Yet, they have life experiences that others will never get.

So yeah I think I'll smile because it all happened.

Life According to Seuss Part 3

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”    -Dr. Seuss

Okay, perhaps in your day this was true, but I don't know about today. I think we've got to many people in the world saying what they think...movie stars, politicians...with little thought to the fallout.

The Bible has a very different take on this thought.

Ecclesiastes 5:3 As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words.

James 1:26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.

1 Peter 3:10 For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.

Yes, Dr. Seuss there is are times when we should speak our minds, but those times are few in between these days. We now live in a society of people who believe it is their right to speak whatever pops in their minds and it is okay.

Oh, be careful little lips what you say...

Life According to Seuss Part 2

“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”

-Dr. Seuss

After 26+ years of marriage I think this is definately true. One thing about Dan is he is exactly what I prayed for as a single woman of 22. We met when I was 23 in Sunday School and for me it was love at first sight. Which was a very strange experience, considering I didn't see him again for about 5 months because of job obligations. I remember coming home from our first offical date in September 1983 and praying that if he wasn't the one I never wanted him to call again, because I knew it would be too painful to date and then have him move on. By March 3, 1984 we were married!

I wish I could say that the years have all been easy, but they haven't. However, there is a comfort that comes in knowing that I go to sleep at night and wake up the next morning with someone who loves me (in spite of all my faults) and I love him. The other day I made a comment about the fact that he starts the dishwasher and never has all the dirty dishes in it. He looked at me and said, "You know when I look at you I never see anything wrong with you." That pretty much sums up true love. Love is the ability to see on the best in the one you love.  It  is also the security of knowing that the one you have is the only one you'll ever want.

Life According to Seuss Part 1

“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

-Dr. Seuss

Hard to believe the first of July and my thoughts are already turning to a new group of students I've never meet. However, one look over the class role and I know I'm in for a long year. Again I will have the struggling students. Those barely reading at a 3rd grade level. Yet, I wonder how would their life be changed if they really believed the simple wisdom of Dr. Seuss, that they are unique.

When I was growing up my Grandmother always said things like, "You'll be the first woman govenor of Oklahoma, or the first woman president." Then she'd always say you can be whatever you want to be. And guess what...I believed her.

I remember when I was ready to start college, my mom had died, and her boss Sam Noble came for a visit. He said college was taken care of and if I'd go into computer sciences I'd have a job with his company the rest of my life. My grandmother thought I should take the offer. Then I looked at her and said, "But I really want to be a teacher." She truly believed it didn't matter, just be the best you can be. So of course I believed whatever she said.

Wonder if my students ever hear that anymore.One day in a meeting I was discussing how many of my babies were below grade level and what was I going to do. That's when my principal said, "The difference is when they are with you they think they can do it, because you think they can do it."

And you know what..I do!

If they could only see that they are unique and full of possibility and potential. That they are the only "you" that God made. Wonder if there lives would change. Folks it is a class list that would could make a grown woman cry, or become an alcoholic! But for some reason I believe we are all going to be brought together for a purpose. I will need them as much as they need me.

We will be makin' each other into just what God intended.

Happiness 5

Happiness is...
        ...having your husband of 26 years make you breakfast on his day off.
        ...finishing Chapter 2 of your dissertation.
        ...staying in your nightgown until afternoon, because you don't have to go anywhere.
        ...getting a new Southern Living Magazine in the mail.
        ...contemplating reading a book that is not academic.
        ...loving the people who God places in your life.
        ...being ALIVE to see another day.

Happiness4

1. Lunch with friends
2. A WHOLE paycheck after 6 months of furlough days
3. Planning a vacation with Dan
4. Knowing that Summer School is finished.
5. Looking forward to a day off...

Happiness Part 3

1. Afternoon naps
2. Silly Meg Ryan movies
3. Fresh cantelope and watermelon
4. Cooking for my family
5. Planning some down time with family.
6. Planning a trip to a READING leadership conference
7. Hot tamales (the candy)

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude.

- Denis Waitley

Happiness

1. Spending a morning with hubby.
2. Thought provoking quotes
3. Beer Can Chicken
4. Going to the beauty shop.

from the sweeterie

What Makes You Happy?

I'm always drawn to blogs written by really happy people. Those people who find happiness in the simplest things. It makes me feel like I'm missing something big in my life. So today I wondered what makes me happy.

1. Going out with Dan alone (I always have and always will enjoy being with just him)
2. The Boys all together
3. Reading a good book
4. Teaching when it all comes together
5. A clean house

Yet, I think I'm allowing certain things to dominate my outlook on life and rob me of happiness.

1. The failure to be able to lose weight
2. The failure to focus and finish this dissertation
3. The lack of finances

So basically these few things are robbing me of my life. So it is time to do something aggressive.

Everyday Living

These days everyone I know is looking for ways to save money. Yes, we are all thankful to have a job, but  5 months of furlough days are starting to take their toll. We've been told to expect 12 next school year. Makes for hard times to say the least! At my house the only place to cut seems to be in the grocery department, so for days now I've thought of this challenge ove at ALL YOU.

All You is putting forth a challenge to help people come up with creative ways to cut their grocery bills. The challenge involves spending $25 or less per person per week on groceries. I'm intrigued, yet tremble with fear at the mere thought of it!!! Is it possible to feed our family 3 meals per day (summer) on $75 per week. Do I get extra when Matt comes home from college? All very interesting and it does have me thinking!

Now  on $75 per week I don't think we will be drinking Diet Dr. Pepper, or having chips and dip. (Staples at our house). So what do y'all think...is it even possible to eat 3 meals per day at home (no going out) and stay on this budget?

Happy Mother's Day

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving

Or so it is for most of us. I on the other hand had an extremely young mother. She was 15 when I was born. I remember she worked. We went to the Shriner's Rodeo every year in Ardmore. We went to a huge company picnic every year. Church every Sunday. To my Aunt Lennye's in the big city.

Then I remember at 13 the divorce and at 14 finding out she had cancer. The picture on the left is right before they found the cancer. Things changed. She fought to live and I became her caretaker. I had a part time job and went to school. My grandmother lived next door and was always available. My mom worked on good days, and didn't when times were bad. Yet, she never missed a paycheck (thank you Noble Affiliates or Samedan Oil Company as you were known back then.) As a family we never complained. We got up each morning and we faced the challenges that day delivered. By sheer will she lived till I graduated from high school, then she died.

For a couple of years I blamed God. I thought it was wrong to not have a mother and I went more than a little on the wild side. Yet God protected me and became the one who made sure I persevered.

Life has gone on. Grandchildren have been born who will never know her. Some days I have to search my memory to remember her.

So on Mother's Day what a tribute to a wonderful woman who perhaps gave me the greatest gift...she taught me how to live by showing me how to die.

Meant to be

This morning Dan and I were having a discussion about life in general. The hard times, the good times, the what if times...

I found this poem by Bobette Bryan. It pretty much says it all.

We Were Meant to Be...

We were meant to be

long before we were born,

and we came together

to help each other

find who we really are,

and become all thatwe were destined to be. 

We'll struggle through

the hard times and

grow through them.

We'll overcome

whatever obstacles

life puts before us,

and we'll only get better

with time.

And as the years pass,

our love will grow and blossom,

because we were meant to be!

Tight Times Ahead

Today it finally hit. The pain of our furlough days. There is just more month than money and we only got started. Unexpected expenses of baby showers, wedding showers, and mother's day have depleted the funds. Add to that one in college and one in private school and Help me Jesus. Now our preacher sent out a newsletter wanting us to all dig deeper and come up with $65,000 extra dollars. (While he's been on a week long vacation to Disney World!)

This is where I'm torn. I want to support my church, but with all the cuts in our own paychecks, just taking care of my own family is a struggle. Others in our SS class are in the same boat. Some are losing their second jobs and wondering what to do to make up the differences.

Add to our expenses extra medical bills and we are beyond strapped. Jesus has a plan....I'm looking for it!!!!

Where I'm From...

Tomorrow is going to be a great day. We are going to use George Ella Lyons poem Where I'm From as a mentor text and write our own poems. I'm going to use this as a hook...



I think I'll even write a new one for me...

I'm from the land of the red man,
from all night preaching and tent meetings.
I'm from peanuts poured in an ice cold RC Cola.
I'm from the memosa tree that stood between my house and my grandmother's house. The place where we sat every summer night and watched fireflies dance.

In light of all the budget cuts, state mandated testing, etc...I think it is time to have a little fun again.

If it weren't for Bad News...

...there'd be no news at all.

A very depressing day here in GA. Makes you wish you "had your toes in the ocean and your ass in a chair."

Last night the School Board held an open forum meeting and trust me things are bad. There is talk of cutting all the fine arts out of schools to save money. Our district is about 1.9 million in the hole. This is nothing compared to other counties. Our budget cuts are fixing to go deep to make up the deficit. UUGGHH! Not fun. Of course, I guess the only place individuals can make up the deep cuts to our paycheck is in the grocery store, and I don't think that's going to happen.

Today while I was giving that infernal CRCT a friend left me a voice mail. I looked at the number and knew it was not going to be good news, but I never expected what she said. A good friend of ours from over in Augusta was going into his pawn shop yesterday morning and interupted a robbery in progress. They shot him several times and killed him. One of the nicest men around. It was shocking.

Then when I got home the doctor's office called and said we needed to talk about a test I'm scheduled to take next week and my insurance. What??? Trust me if they are wanting $500 I won't be taking the test.

So in honor of all the misery. I'm making roasted chicken, roasted carrots, and squash casserole. Bon appetit! Oh yes, and I've opened a bottle of wine!

GLAD

Today SIL posted on FB that she didn't know what to do, because two year old would not sit in the chair to get his hair cut without throwing a fit. I suggested MeMe (Her MIL who was a beautician) and that I sat with mine in the chair and it worked out okay. Then...

Her friends started posting. They had the same trouble...what to do. They would have their mothers take them, plan sneak attacks during nap time, etc....

At this point I danced around the computer saying thank you Jesus that I am 50! That I spanked my kids to make them mind. And (holding breath....) it freakin' worked. And...they did not grow up to be drug dealers or child abusers. They are professional, college graduates, types....

Dear Jesus how did we all survive with mothers and fathers who believed in spankings........perhaps young ones you should check out the BOOK again.

Weekends-An attempt at poetry

Weekends

Alas the weekend arrives,
full of activities and drive.

Yet some welcome it with open arms,

Knowing the rest will help them recharge.

Unfortunately, there are the rest of us,

who know that weekends only mean more fuss.

There are clothes to wash, houses to clean, papers to write, and papers to grade.

There's work to be done, Sunday School lessons to study, and lawn to be mowed.

No recharging for these folks.

Just a lot more work.

Perhaps our lives are too busy and that's why we stay so sick,

we are overcome with worry and stress.

I think we need classes so we can lick

our weariness.

Newest Addition

Life is Good!!! New cookbook just arrived.

Love Confession...

...okay, I'm in love with a blog. I know it is like crazy!!!!

If you haven't seen The Lettered Cottage then go there immediately. For some reason I look at her beautiful pictures and I find peace. The cottage look is so me. She shows a picture of a white bedroom with bold splashes of green and I melt.

Now here's my problem, love of my life does not appreciate the beauty and serenity I find in the cottage look.

Dan's taste in design...

My taste in design...

I wonder if these two designs can ever merge?

Spring Break

We are on Spring Break this week, and yesterday we literally slept the day away!! So this morning started with sweet hubby bringing me breakfast. How sweet was that! However, today must be dedicated to writing. This dissertation has drawn out way to long. Too many things have pulled at my mind ( CRCT, classroom work, and my own children). I need to stay focused this week and accomplish this goal. Wednesday is hair appointment day. Then my week will be winding down.

On a bright note our taxes are finished and there is a small refund involved. So that will be very nice. Matt is doing much better this semester at college. He seems to have found his niche...in journalism.

In a crazy moment I signed up to teach summer school. So my next break will start June 24th.

Spring is HERE!!!

Let me start by saying in my Southern world spring arrives when the weather is warm enough to warrent one of these...a Sonic Cherry Limeade. I love them. I got one Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For anyone cost conscience...Happy hour is from 2-4 and ALL drinks are 1/2 price. Gotta love it!!!!!!!!

Anyway we've been super busy here at the homestead. Dan was off Friday and worked in the yard. I got off at noon and went for my reflexology appointment, then went shopping. Unfortunately, my back did not enjoy shopping. So I've been in tremendous pain since then. Saturday I finally took the loratab in hopes of being able to cook. It worked.

Saturday I went for a pedicure. I go to this super little place in Covington. People have standing appointments there, just like at a beauty shop. However, I'm too busy listening to conversations while there to relax. Every time I go there are some true Southern Belles and they are young girls. They talk with a drawl, and put on airs, really it is great entertainment. How do you get that full of yourself in today's world? But I love it!!!

Sunday we went and had Easter dinner with the Stork family (our in-laws) and got to see Drew and Nicole. It was wonderful. I loved seeing my big kids. We even played a game. We got home and Matt finished laundry. He got up this morning to go back to Tifton, made it in time for class, and made a 91 on his last test.

**note Nicole has on a good 3 inch heel in this photo.**

Happy Easter

Day 31 - Why Slice?

How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live.

Henry David Thoreau

I think the most important thing about writing "slices of life" to me is that it is a record that I lived. Growing into adulthood without a mother made me often wish she had left me something...like letters. I wish she could have comprehended the impact her death would have on me and left me her story. I write to leave my boys my story.

I started keeping journals years ago. Then about three years ago I found TwoWritingTeachers. I started small, doing a few Slices and Monday Memoirs. I've also tried to complete the challenge every March, but this was the first year I've finished it. I think that it is moment worth celebrating. 

I've realized through the years of reading Stacey and Ruth's entries that as a writing teacher I must be a writer. I feel like the whole experience has helped me grow as a teacher of young writers. Next year I'd like to include my students in the challenge.

I've enjoyed getting to know each of you and look forward to this digital journey as we continue writing.

Day 30 - Growing Up

This last battle with strep throat has reminded me of growing up. Until I was six, we lived with Mymomma (my grandmother). So she took care of me while my parents would work. I can remember when I'd have a sore throat she would swab my throat. This involved something on the end of a stick, painted on the back of my throat...very unpleasant! We would also have a poultice boiling on the stove. This permeated through the air and was suppose to help me breath better. Finally, a doctor said I needed my tonsils out and my grandmother said, "NO". In our little world that was equivalent to a direct word from God, so I never had my tonsils out. Instead I started seeing old Doc Boyd.

Now to a young child I remember thinking he had to be 102 years old at least. Doc Boyd didn't see patients in an office, you went to his house. I remember the house had wood floors and a normal size living room/waiting room. Doc Boyd's office was in a room similar to a large walk-in pantry. Anyway, I remember going into the office and having him feel my swollen neck glands. Then he would take a bottle of sugar pills and start to make a potion that he would pour over the sugar pills. They came in a small bottle with a cork on the top. Now I have no idea what was in the potion, but it worked. As a child allergic to penicillian, Doc Boyd's potions got me well in record time; therefore, my tonsils were never removed.

This last few days I've thought a lot about Doc Boyd and his magic potion. We lived 10 miles from town and we drove into town for me to see him. I know we had to have passed by other "modern" doctors to get to him. However, the best thing is I know he made me well!!! I miss Doc Boyd, so I Googled him. I wanted to see if there were any historical records of him in Carter County, Oklahoma. Well I found a picture...

Wish I could find out what was in that potion, because I think I need to keep a bottle handy!!! Doc Boyd, I will forever be a faithful testimony to your healing potion!

Day 29 - Time

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.”   Harvey MacKay

We've approximately been in school now for 140 days. However, this year in 5th grade our administrator choose to put us on an A/B schedule, so as of today I've had 10-11-12 year olds basically 70 days. It will be a total of 75 days before we start our high stakes testing. I will not lie, I'm concerned this year. Very concerned!

How can a logical thinking person believe that this was doable. I've never had over 5 children fail the test, and that was the year I taught the inclusion class (they had paperwork that said they couldn't pass). I don't think this year will look that good. I've got the lowest of the low. I've had beautiful little girls sit and look at me and go, "I just don't get it because I'm stupid." I've taught and retaught, but that was only every other day, because they had to rotate.

See one of the screwed up ideas in NCLB was what constituted "highly qualified" teachers. My best friend next door isn't considered "highly qualified," because she has middle school certification in math, science, history, plus a gifted endorsement. The year NCLB came out my best friend was recognized as the best elementary school teacher in the county and her name was put on a plaque hanging in the board office, because she had 100% of her students pass the writing test and the CRCT. Yet, under NCLB she became "Not Highly Qualified". Sucks doesn't it!!!!

Well for years we worked through this because I taught all the ELA/history to her class and mine, she taught all the math/science. We had a great thing going. Then administrator decided it was unfair that ALL students couldn't see us. We were able to take the lowest of the low and keep a 90%+ success rate on that damn test. Problem was we were beating the other teachers scores by a considerable amount. Enter A/B days for 5th graders. We've lost precious time we can never get back, because adult educators couldn't do their job.  And now the test is 10 days away or 5 in our A/B world.

This leads me to today. Here I sit with time ticking nursing strep throat and extremely high blood pressure, not at school with my babies. In my world the answers are simple. If you have teachers who cannot perform take the steps necessary for them to improve or get rid of them. At the very least do not let the teach your critical years. I am NOT for merit pay, but I am for doing your job! I had a fourth grade teacher bring me the content descriptors last week and say, "You mean they are suppose to know this?" Well YES!!!!!!!!!

Are my kids ready? This year I don't think so. The consistancy hasn't been there. They are struggling. They needed time and time was the one thing they weren't given.

If you are a praying person, pray for a struggling class of students in rural Georgia on April 19-23rd. We will be needing a direct intervention from Above.

Day 28 - Every Woman Should Know

I got this the other day from http://www.theletteredcottage.net/ I thought it was great and wanted to share it.


Every Woman Should Have

Enough money within her control to move out and rent a place of her own, even if she never wants to or needs to.

Something perfect to wear if the employer, or date of her dreams, wants to see her in an hour.

A youth she's content to leave behind.

A past juicy enough that she's looking forward to retelling it in her old age.

A set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra.

Every Woman Should Know

One friend who always makes her laugh...

...and one who lets her cry.

A good piece of furniture, not previously owned by anyone else in her family.

Eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems, and a recipe for a meal that will make her guests feel honored.

A feeling of control over her destiny.

How to fall in love without losing herself.

How to quit a job, break up with a lover, and confront a friend without ruining the friendship.

When to try harder...and when to walk away.

That she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents.

That her childhood may not have been perfect...but it's over.

What she would and wouldn't do for love.

How to live alone...even if she doesn't like it.

Whom she can trust, whom she can't, and why she shouldn't take it personally.

Where to go when her soul needs soothing; be it to her best friend's kitchen table, or a charming Inn in the woods.

What she can and can't accomplish in a day...a month...a year.

There are a couple of things I'm going to work on, but for the most part I've finished the list and life is good.
Now to get well and be able to swallow something. You've got to love teaching and parents who send their kids to school with strep throat.

Day 27 - Was Going to Be Great

For months I've planned today. First, I was going for a pedicure. Then to Catherine's to look at clothes. I was hoping to top off today with a trip to Macon to hear Atlanta Rhythm Section play at the Steet Party to end the Cherry Bloosom Festival.

Instead, I've gone to the doctor AGAIN. To find out that my blood pressure is still up and I have Strep. I can't even swallow spit! So another day in bed. The doctor said I'm to stay here through Monday. Biggest problem I've got today is how to eat something so I can take the medicine!!!

I hope your world is looking much brighter.

Day 26 - Friday

Well what I thought yesterday was exhaustion, turned out to be something a little more! I tried to drag my pitiful self to work, but made it an hour. I've been in bed ever since! Fever, aching, headache, yuck...This was not my plan for the weekend.

I had to leave sweet student teacher with a sub. This made me more than a little uncomfortable, because yesterday was a bad day for her. I hope she perservered!

Hopefully tomorrow I will feel like writing more.

Day 25 - Is it Friday Yet!

I've got a great ambition to die of exhaustion rather than boredom....Thomas Carlyle

Okay Thomas, I must be channeling you today. Fourteen hours later I've finally returned home. I'm so tired my eyes hurt! However, like you I will probably die of exhaustion, because I have one of the most exciting jobs in the world.

Lord, please help me stand all the excitement!

Day 24 - Over medication

     Today I had a rare moment with one of our more difficult students. In the classroom full of activity it was just the two of us. He has had a rough time. All year he has been so medicated it is scary. The medications made him more than a little defiant and mean, kind of like a grizzly you didn't want to bother. Last week the doctors decided to take him off his long list of medications. Let's just say I'm not a fan of medicatiing teachers or students, and I will always remember today as a reason why. Anyway, we sat and he talked to me no yelling, no drama. He realized that his flip book looked bad, because (back in his drug induced haze) he had crumbled it up and tore it. He asked if he could make a new one. I said yes, but I didn't know how (student teacher had made it). He assured me he could do it. And he did. Then with me sitting there he proceeded to ask for a help doing the project. We talked about what he could do and he did a great job! (This kid hasn't done anything all year, but break pencils, throw them at people, and refuse to do work. This was while on medication.) While we were working he asked me for some crackers because his stomach hurt. He thinks it is strange that since he quite taking the medicine he has this stomach ache. However, the crackers seem to work. I asked him if I could see his agenda I wanted to write grandma a note and tell her how much he did at school today. He said she is very proud of him. I told him I was too. 

     I think to often we are medicating our little boys to make them fit a certain mold. Perhaps it is because I grew up in the 70's, but somedays I feel like school resembles the Nickelback song "Rockstar"..."everybody's got a drug dealer on speed dial"...(even if it is a pharmacist). This year we have way to many students on long lists of medications. One student literally is on uppers during the day and strong downers at night to put him to sleep. I don't know but this can't be good for anybody, muchless a child of 10 and 11.

   

Day 23 - Spring

It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so! ~Mark Twain

What is it about spring that makes us think anything is possible? Dogwoods are blooming here in the South and the day is a little longer.

Today coming home from work I thought man...I should start exercising, this might really be the year I could lose weight, I really think I can finish this dissertation...the list is endless.

Every song on the radio makes me remember being younger and feeling like the whole world was ahead of me. I don't know what magic spring sprinkles on us, but it makes me think that just perhaps 128 fifth graders really can pass the CRCT. It is spring...anything could happen.

Day 22 - What Does My Music Say About Me

Yesterday for some reason I started thinking about the music I listen too. Then I started thinking about when I'm dead what would I want them to play. Then I thought they could play my Playlist, but after the first few songs I think folks would be falling out of the pews in shock.

I listen to a wide range of music...country, contemporary Christian, soft rock, R&B, folk...pretty much whatever hits my fancy. However, do they say something about me as a person?

1.  Tiny Dancer by Elton John...one day I am getting out of my car and dancing in the road to that one.

2.  A Whiter Shade of Pale by Procal Harum ... I had to look up what it meant to "skip the light fandango". Here's the meaning "To skip the light fandango is to let loose, let one's hair down and be done with the opinions of the stuffy." Okay I've definately done my share of this. No wonder my skips been broken lately!!!  LOVE IT!!!! (This is my new favorite old song.)

3.  RockStar by Nickleback...I don't know what it is about this song, but I sing it at the top of my lungs and dance in the shower. This could be dangerous, but so far I'm okay.

4.  I'm Gonna Take that Mountain by Reba...This should be the national teacher's theme song. If you haven't heard it you need to youtube it. I play it driving into the parking lot.

5.  Anything Bonnie Raitt...If you live and breath you should listen to Bonnie Raitt...just because. There isn't anyone better.

So I don't think any of my friends will be brave enough to play this list at my funeral, but wonder if I could get F. to play it at the viewing (a very Southern thing)? Oh well until then...you can find me just south of I-20, I'll be in the house with the booming music...who can say it has been a GREAT life.

Day 21 - God Winked

WHAT'S A GODWINK?
A godwink is what some people would call a coincidence, an answered prayer, or simply an experience where you'd say, "Wow, what are the odds of that!"

It was kinda of a weird moment yesterday, so let me explain. You remember me telling earlier of there being "more month than money" at our house this month. Well I had a bit of pressure taken off, but still needed to get college boy back to college, which meant spending money and gas money. I wasn't sure how it was working, but I just kept plugging along. Yesterday when I went and got the mail that was when it happened. GOD WINKED!

I got the mail and in it was a check for $30. It was from the dividends of stock my mother left me when she died 38 years ago. I had some trouble getting them to change the address when we bought the new house a year ago, so the check hadn't been coming. I know $30 seems so piddly, but it meant the world to me. It was like a "if I had been there I would have helped" from my mom.

It was a GODWINK!!! I hope this week you are blessed and unexpectedly God Winks at you!

Day 20 - Growing Old

This year I teach a very unique autistic boy. He is a joy to be around, but 5th grade has really been stressful for him. We've seen a lot more crying and accidents than in the past. I think this comes from him KNOWING that he doesn't get it. Anyway the good out weighs the struggles most days. Yesterday he didn't want to his work, so he started looking for distractions.

Student Teacher was teaching away, when he grabbed her hand, looked at her and said, "I'm so sorry Ms. L. you have really old hands." Student teacher is 53. She regained composure quickly and moved on. I on the other hand had to turn my back and laugh! For some reason it was hilarious. Perhaps because I remembered my great aunt looking at me when I was about 18 and saying, "You have such young hands." Student Teacher maintained composure and replied. "It is okay Mrs. L is trying to grow old gracefully."

Well not to be left out, as the the students were working I started circulating the room and came by his desk. He grabs my hand and says, "Oh No! Your hands are old too, but don't worry I will be here for you." I hugged him and assured him that old hands were a good thing and all was well.

As the day went on I couldn't help thinking about old hands. My mind traveled back to an email poem I got the other day and a line that said...

"Every woman should have a youth she is content to leave behind."

Well that line so fits me. I've lived a very full life. Probably haven't vacationed as much as I'd like to, but all in all its been good. So now I'm more like this line from a poem...

"Grow old with me for the best is yet to be..." or as Brigitte Bardot said, "It is sad to grow old but nice to ripen."

Here's to getting ripe!!!! Have a great Saturday.

Day 19 - Small Town Blessings

I have a confession to make. This has been a tough month. You know the kind more month than money! Well all week I've fretted over a bill that was due and there just wasn't anyway to pay it till next week. I've literally worried myself sick. So today after the kids went home, I was sitting at my desk looking at the bill in my purse. Worry was piling up! I didn't want to be late and wondered if it had a "grace period". You know, it is due now, but if you pay it in 10 days your still okay. However, there is nowhere on this bill that states that. Finally, I gave up and called.

A friendly voice answered the phone. I asked the question trying to remain anonymous. Then she says, "Who am I speaking to?"  UGG!! Confession time. So I told her and told her I'd have the money there next week, but not this week. You know what that friendly voice said, "Don't worry. You are okay."  Relief filled the air.

Why hadn't I called sooner? Pride, I suppose. Once I hung up the phone I thanked God again for life in a small town...where everybody knows your name.

Day 18 - Student Teacher

Whoa Nelly...Thursday has been a busy day. My student teacher has been doing a great lesson for two days on adjectives. The kids have been making using adjectives to make a menu to a make-believe restaurant. The kids have really enjoyed it for the most part. The last two days have been full of activity.

Today Student Teacher's professor came for another evaluation. I'm very impressed with this university and their expectations of their student teachers. Also, I thoroughly have enjoyed the professor's visits. There are a lot of similarities about us. We've all traveled and lived lots of different places. We all have older children (and I've got an eighth grader). We all love teaching and enjoying talking "shop" talk.

Overall I'm enjoying this student teacher experience. She is going to be a great teacher. I feel sorry for her - looking for a job in this economy. I so hope she gets a job. The world will be missing out on a great teacher if she doesn't.

PS. Student Teacher was just named Outstanding Early Childhood Major at her university.

DAy 17 - Life

It is raining AGAIN!!! This was suppose to be a little shower, but it has turned into a steady rain. I really don't mind rain even when 5th graders are restless all day. However, on my way home middle son calls and says, "Hey some of my buddies are in town, can the come over?" My reponse was to eat? Of course he didn't know. Another problem with this is my plan for the evening was to grill out. (Remember we weren't having a big rain.) Oh well...defrost some hot dogs and we'll enjoy. This all passes way too fast.

Day 16 - For the love of Reading

I love books! I married a man who loves books, so together we have rooms full of books. We've been blessed to have 2 out of 3 children who share our love of books. So basically we are a just a bookish type family.

Recently, I read Kelly Gallager's new book, Readicide: How Schools Are Killing Reading and What You Can Do About It. The book is chalked-full of statistics that make a teacher cring and a must read for educators. However, the book has raised a lot of questions in my head. How did I develop a love for reading? What did my teachers do? What makes me sad about my own teaching?

As I've thought back I can still remember the year it all clicked. I was in Mrs. Cobb's fourth grade and our room was right beside the library. (We also had a bookmobile from the public library that came every month.) Anyway, Mrs. Cobb valued reading. She gave us time to read. She allowed us to talk about what we were reading and then would ask us to explain why others should read the book. It was in her class that I first read about Czar Nicholas II and became fascinated by the Bolshevic Revolution. I remember reading of far away contentients and marveling at different cultures. I think this was the year I became addicted to history as well.

Perhaps I've been remembering because of a recent incident at school. Last week the media specialist (and I use that term loosely) told one of my students she couldn't read Number the Stars because it would lower her AR reading level. Dear Bessie!!!!! I couldn't take it. I walked over to my book cabinet and pulled it out. I told her to read the first chapter. Then I asked her if she liked the book so far, she said yes. I looked at her and said, "You need to read what interest you." She finished Number the Stars and came back this week wanting another book. I gave her Letters from Rifka.

Heaven help us when we as educators do not encourage our children to read great literature. I know Mrs. Cobb would agree.

"You don't have to burn books to destroy culture. Just get people to stop reading them." Ray Bradbury

Day 15 - Random

I was late for work this morning. Okay it was only 2 minutes, but at our school that is considered 1 strike against you. They don't figure in the hours you spend after school. Nope, they don't matter. All that matters is getting there on time. Luckily it was the first time I've been late this year. I guess the time change isn't working for me.

However, my life wasn't very calm today. My best bud next door is sick. This has all started last week and hasn't gotten any better. I think a big part of it is stress. So Obama is going to losin' up on NCLB, but will it really change our lives. High Stakes testing isn't going away. My best bud is sick because she teaches all 5th grade math and this group of kids could careless. High Stakes testing is only High Stakes to those of us held accountable. Those of us having our test scores flashed in front of the whole school in faculty meetings.

We are all trying to help. I'm taking a math element per week and trying to make sure they get it. However, I'm afraid their reading is going to drop. These are tough days. We've got about 4 weeks before the test and I hope I can find some balance and help my students find some as well.

Day 14 - Rest

Sometimes I sneak over to a place called Zen Habits. Not that I'm into any type Existentialism, but the older I get the more I want to throw off THINGS.  I want a lot less in life now than I did in my 30's and 40's. Plus, with this economy I think we are all going to have to learn to live with a lot less.

Anyway the other day on Zen Habits they had an article about rest. It had me at the first sentence. I was raised believing a day of rest was important. Yet, my life is consumed with activity. I am working 10-12 hours a day, usually bringing work home too. Then there is all the cleaning, laundry, cooking, church...etc. At times REST seems like a four-letter word (not the good kind). When I grew up my family held to a day of rest. There were even Blue Laws when I was growing up (most stores were closed and those open could only sell certain items.)

I listen to my students and friends as they talk about how they are running around doing things all the time. Rec sports, extended church activities, exercise, all kinds of things take up our rest time. No one talks about family meals or peaceful days spent resting.

Bottom line...I've basically lost my way where rest is concerned.

The article gave these ways to reclaim rest:
1. Find contentment in your current life.
2. Plan your rest.
3. Take responsibility for your life.
4. Embrace simplicity.
5. Include your family.
6. Live within your income.
7. Realize the shallow nature of a results-oriented culture.

Ben Franklin once said, "He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities." I'm not there yet, but I'm trying.

Day 13 - Family Time

Middle Son came home from college on Spring Break yesterday, so today we went on a mini road trip. We loaded up and went to the Andy Warhol exhibit in Madison, GA. It was fantastic.

I loved the John Wayne, Annie Oakly, and the Wicked Witch of the West.

After that we went and ate Mexican, followed by a trip on to Lowe's to look at paint samples. I've got some projects in mind. On the way home we took the long way and went by the best Dairy Queen in the world. We don't do many family activity things, but this was a lot of fun.

What Makes A Song Move You

Every time I hear this song I'm transported back in time. Suddenly I'm 18, graduating from high school, looking ahead and seeing only possibility.

One day I'm going to hear this song, get out of the car, and dance in the rain.

Day 12 - Furloughed Again

Today we were furloughed half a day. We literally went to school ate breakfast, did math, went to the bathroom, specials, ate lunch, and went home. All because the GEA said, "If you are going to furlough us and dock our pay, then we are only working 1/2 a day...so we are going home at 11:15am." County Office was shocked that we wouldn't take the 1/2 pay cut and work another hour for free. (Hmmm...how many hours do I already work for free.) All in all it was no biggie.

So I decided to go get this man/boy and take him to lunch.

I also bought him some jeans and then took him to Target to get more of my beloved Method floor cleaner. (Something must be wrong with anybody who calls their floor cleaner beloved, but it is true I can't live without it!!!!!) Soon the man/boy's brother will be home from South Georgia...

So our house will be full for a week. There will be lots of cooking and lots of laundry and lots of remembering that these days pass so fast...

Day 11 - The Waifs

Tonight when I got home one of the hip, young teachers at work texted me. She had just heard a song that was so me. It was "When I Die" by The Waifs. Well I listened to it on itunes and it is a cool song. And she is right I really like them. I can so see me sitting in the screened in porch listening to them on a summer night. So I just might have to get me a cd of this music.

If you don't know them here's you a little taste...

Day 10 - Parent Conferences

This is the week educators in my county are working 12 hour days to fit in parent conferences, so we can be furloughed 1/2 day on Friday. WooHoo another month of my pay being docked. Oh well...Que sera sera...

Because one of our team members is out on maternity leave the rest of us have split her class and now we are doing her conferences as well as her own. This comes on a week when all of us have had to get 128 grades ready too.

I don't mind conferences, but today I had one of those that breaks your heart. The little girl is a spitfire. She's brassy to say the least, but I like her. I knew she lived with Grandma, and today I found out the rest of the story. It seems that life has made this little one tough. She was born to drug addicts (daddy's mom is the gaurdian), and had traces of drugs in her system. She was in and out of foster homes when her Grandma finally found her. It seems that her last foster home and was being abused. Grandmother has had her now four years. Today the little girl got in a fight and will be in big trouble tomorrow. As we talked I found out that Biological Mom was thrown in jail again Saturday. Seems little girl, age 10, is put out with adults...wonder why?

I tried to encourage Grandma. Little Girl is smart, but hurries through her work. She doesn't do anything she doesn't want to, and struggles with adults (teachers) who seem put out with her. Wonder Why? Then I asked myself what wonderful plan God must have for her. Some would say why would God make her suffer, and I see her as someone who can do great things. I'd like them to move her to my room, so that for nine weeks I can love her and help her find her spot in this world.

On another note. Does anyone remember Kenny from last March? His mom died with cancer. Today I found out his grandaddy died. What's to become of Kenny? I don't know. My husband said I needed to be an advocate for children like Little Girl and Kenny. Funny that's all I've ever wanted to be!

Day 9 - My Thoughts Turn Toward Oklahoma

Way down yonder in the Indian Nation...my heart is roaming my Oklahoma Hills tonight. There's a storm brewing in Georgia tonight and is so much like home right now.

My third cousin Richard called to tell me that his father had passed away. Lowell Kenmore has struggled all my life, as far back as I can remember, with muscular dystrophy. At 89 years of age his struggle is over. It was good to hear Richard's voice again, and to remember all those big family reunions. Now our family isn't so big anymore. But somehow I think heaven got a little rowdy last week! (I know those Whitfields)

Then last night I spoke to my step-mom who is suffering from a rare form of cancer. Because of the high cost of out of pocket expenses she has asked to be removed from a clinical trial at MD Anderson. She is in good spirits. They found her a similar trial that is closer to home, so her out of pocket expenses won't be so bad.

My best friend from high school (we've been friends for 45 years) just threw her father-in-law a surprise 75th birthday party. I wish I had been there. I've seen pictures thanks to Facebook. Even after all these years they are my roots.

So for tonight my heart is roaming those Oklahoma Hills where I was born. Tomorrow I'll wake up to a rainy day in Georgia, and I hope it washes my melancholy mood away.

Day 8 - Come Monday

I tried to think of some witty song lyric that would describe today. There isn't one! So I guess it is what it is...Monday.

This week we are starting a marathon week at work. We are having to fit in parent conferences whenever we can, because there will be no special day for them. Budget cuts = furlough day for teachers. Then my precious student teacher is still sick and it is time for her to start her unit. It was tough on her today. (Teaching is hard enough when you feel great!) Plus, I tried to get together a PLU class on Writing for tomorrow.

However, I did sit and have lunch with 7 boys today. We talked about WWII and books. They like reading war stories. They were pretty funny.

I also talked to MeMe who is dealing with a rare form of cancer called "carcinoids". She is doing well and it made me feel connected to hear her voice.

Got home after my 12 hour day and my sweet husband had supper ready for me! Now it is time for House and 24. I might make it to Tuesday.

I hope your Monday was melodious!

Day 7 - Boy Momma

There are a lot of things that make being the mother of all boys very different from my counterparts who have had girls. One of the biggest things at our house comes over the television. I'm a HUGE football fan, so from September to January we are at harmony. It is when we go into that lull period from February through August and we try and watch a television program togetther that things get complicated.

They like to think I choose the program, but nothing could be further from the truth. Stations like Style, Lifetime, Hallmark, Oxygen, LMN, or WE are met with constant comments. They prefer our TV time to be met with LOTS of action or something with a science fiction theme. The more things are blowing up and being shot at the better they like it. In all they are just being boys.

Here at home they have always been allowed to explore, get dirty, read war stories, and watch things blow up. They are allowed to be boys.

There'll be plenty of time for "girly" movies in five years when Gabe goes off to college, but for now I think there is a Die Hard marathon coming on.

Day 6 - A Sunny Lazy Day

If today's post is suppose to be a slice of life then this is a totally lazy day! I got my hair done at 9am this morning. Honestly, I think my beautician is a miracle worker! Color, trim, and then some how she straighten this mass of wavy hair into movie star hair. I only wish I was that good. (I also knocked out a parent conference while there.)

After that I went to the grocery store in our small community. I love our grocery store, everyone is so friendly and shopping is a pleasure. I came home made lunch and then took a REALLY long nap.

We are going to grill out tonight:  steak, potatoes, and salad. It is a perfect day to grill out.

There is only one hitch in my day. I've got to get this house straightened up (YUCK), and to do that I need some Method hardwood floor cleaner that is only sold at Target which is a good 20 miles one way from me. I'm just not sure I can swing it!!!

I hope your Saturday was equally relaxing.

Day 5 - It's FRIDAY!!!

It's been a tough week! I didn't feel good last week, had some flu like symptoms that carried over into this week. This was followed mid-week by the stress of the 5th grade writing assessment. Which could only be topped by getting 128 individual grades ready for report cards, schedule parent conferences, and try fit all those conferences in after hours next week. It was a full week.

And that's why I TRIPLE HEART FRIDAY!!!!!!! WOOHOO.

What will I do??? The sun is suppose to shine this weekend. I don't want to stay inside that's for sure. Tonight my sweetie had supper ready when I got home at 7. How sweet is that?

Tomorrow I've got a 9am hair appointment. Wonder if I can fit in a pedicure???? It is a short drive to beautiful Madison and an Andy Warhol exhibit I've been dying to see. Would it be possible to get groceries and have a little fun?

Right now I'm not sure what the weekend might hold, but it seems like things are looking brighter!!!

Day - 4 Student Teachers

I have a student teacher this semester. She is a wonderful woman in her 50's who has traveled the world and then decided to go back and finish her degree. She is a sweetheart and will make a great teacher. However, she is very soft spoken and fifth grade boys can be a handful. And today they were two handfulls!!

For me the hard part of a student teacher is when to step in and when to allow her to handle it. She has been with me for a month now and today she was really sick. I ended up convincing her to run to the doctor. She did and came back. Unfortunately, the 10 and 11 year old sharks started to circle. Isn't it funny how kids know when you're sick and they'll push every button you've got. Today I let her try and work her way out of it. It didn't go so well.

Tomorrow will be a new day. I hope my student teacher feels better and is ready to start a fresh.

Day 3 - 26 years

Twenty-six years ago today I married the love of my life. When you say 26 years it sounds like a long, long time, but most days I feel like it was yesterday. We've lived through an awful lot in these past 26 years, but we've done it together. I can say that for us our love has grown stronger through the years. My heart still skips a beat when I see his face, and that is the way I want it to always be. He is the place where my heart is anchored.

I think Emily Dickinson must have felt this way as well...

Wild Nights! Wild Nights!
Were I with thee,

Wild Nights should be

Our luxury!

Futile the winds

To a heart in port,

Done with the compass,

Done with the chart!

Rowing in Eden!

Ah! the sea!

Might I but moor

To-night in Thee!

(Who knew Emily was so racy!?)

Day 2 - Snow?

This morning started out a terrible muddy mess. It started to rain around 2am and was really coming down when I got up at 5am. Thankfully, hot coffee was waiting on me! I was able to shower, dress, and make lunch in record time. I even caught a little of the weather and saw some northern schools were closing because of the impending snow.

I persevered and get to work on time. Only to be held captive by the fingerprint machine that is our time clock. For some reason I am its number one target and this morning it took ten minutes to clock in. Still I was determined to make the best of my day. I had a wonderful lesson planned for the day, and it is the day before the writing test. All is good!

So life pretty much perked along till snow starts to fall. We live in Georgia just south of Metro Atlanta and we don't really get a lot of snow. And these were big old flakes coming down, but not sticking. Unfortunately, little southern children are fascinated by snowflakes (whether they are sticking or not), and suddenly I held no magical spell on them. Visions of snowmen, a day out of school, and (if they were lucky) getting to go home early were all they could think about.

Sadly, my grownup self could only think "we've got one day before the writing test."  My students only wanted to look out the window and be 10-11 year old kids. I wanted them to write a persuasive piece and have one more day of practice before tomorrow. Why couldn't they see how important it was to me that they produce a great masterpiece tomorrow? All they could do was look out the window.

It was then that I decided I don't like the pressure of high stakes testing. It is only high stakes to me! Ten and eleven year olds need to get to look out the window and see snow (Something they don't see very often, I've lived here 18 years and this is only the fourth snow I remember.) They need to be children and enjoy life!

So I'm glad the writing test wasn't today, because I think I'd be in trouble with all the non-writing that was going on. If my kiddos are lucky tomorrow we will have snow (but I doubt it), and that would be a good thing!

Day 1 - Destressing

Mondays are always stressful to me. I leave the house before the sun even comes up. However, I had a full cup of coffee and a full moon to light the way. Plus, I was a little early. Life looked pretty okay at 7:00 this morning.

Then I took the walk down the hall and things got stressful. I was meet with F saying, "Come here, I've got something to tell you." And before I knew it the stress was washing over me. My day flew by going from one stressful situation to the next. AAAAGGHH! Why can't I just let things roll off my back. I know that internalizing all this stress is wrecking havoc on my body. (Hence the upcoming trip to the gastrologist.)

Finally, tutoring was over and school was out. I picked up my own 13 year old, six foot child and realized today was my appointment with the reflexologist. I called my super wonderful husband who was able to take six foot man/child with him. Then I was off to my appointment.

I walked into the quiet dark room with candle light flickering and immediately started to breath a little easier. I took in the relaxation music like a sponge. Quickly my shoes and socks were off and my feet were on a cloud of pillows. As Cindy (my wonderful reflexologist) began to go to work. I relished in the quiet atmosphere. I needed this time!

I came home to that wonderful husband and six foot man/child and supper on the stove. I ate and no one expected me to do anything. It is bliss to be home.

Tomorrow again will be hectic. The 5th grade writing test is Wednesday, so my stress level is high. Tonight I am calm and relaxed and ready to face whatever comes my way.

Injustice-violating the rights of another

Today I taught a fun lesson using the song "Where is the love" by the Blackeyed Peas as the hook. It was great except fifth graders didn't know what injustice was. They didn't know that in America we have worked to overcome injustice. So we learned...we danced..we sang..and then they started to write. Only they had to leave and change classes before they even got started good.

However, I was changed. I looked at my classes today and realized that to me the biggest injustice we commit is when we deny our students knowledge in the quest of test scores. YUCK!!!!

I think it is an injustice that this year my students have not read Number the Stars, Letters from Rifka, Charley Skedaddle, or Snow Treasures. That they don't understand the concept of "sacrificing ourselves" for the greater good of others.

I think it is an injustice that the librarian refuses to encourage reading for fear they will mess up the library shelves. Telling one of my students that she "better not read" Number the Stars or she wouldn't meet her AR goal, because it was below her reading level.?.?

I think it is an injustice that every year I have fifth graders who do not know how to read above a third grade level and no one has ever found out why.

I think it is an injustice that our students do not have a love for reading or writing.

I think it is an injustice that in order to get a student the help they really need we are required to jump through 12 weeks of hoops. Or that this process is so painstaking and has such holes in it that has turned into a process that never has an end. I feel like I need a secretary to keep up with the paper work!

So what am I going to do about it...

Color

The beautiful weekend weather has made me want color in my life. Yes, my toes are crying, "Paint me and show me off." I feel the need for new flip flops. Spring are you coming? However, all these voices are also saying, "Paint the bathroom. You will be happier." I know it is true.

So today I found a scrap piece of tile. I'm taking it with me to the paint store. Maybe the paint store by Sonic. Because I hear another voice saying, "Cherry limeade will make life better. Also, a cheeseburger would be good."

Anyway I'm thinking that some how these colors have to come together to make my life complete.

The bedroom is green and those blues are calling me. I hope I can find some sunroom cushions that will match my color scheme.

Count Down!!!

Eight, seven, six,...

Let the count down begin. Only eight more days till the 5th grade writing test. I'd like to be sitting confident that the state will provide all fifth graders with a prompt they can write too, but who knows. It hasn't been that way in the past. (For example: Explain how why it is important to live a healthy lifestyle.) So my stomach continues to hurt.

Today Dan is sick and that is not a good thing, because I have no time for anyone to be sick in my world! Not till about May!

After the DREADED (my principal wants 90% of the 5th graders to pass it) writing test, we will be celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary. WOW! 26 years seems like a long time. Then again it seems like yesterday. The sad thing is I think he gets better looking and I get fatter and look older! Kinda unfair!!!

Writing more on research propsal. I'm about sick of all the rewrites and ready to do the research. 

Love is in the air

I love a lot of things:

God

Dan

My Boys

My Daughter in Law

My Friends

Books

Teaching kids to read

Coffee

Cooking

Good Food

Learning something new

Pictures

Good Art

Antiques

Cross Stitching

Football

Sooners

Cowboy Decorating

Woodwork

MeMe

CW, Kate, and Carter

Carl

Dan's parents

Ocean

Mountains

Being alone with Dan

Being alone

A clean house

Decorating

Living

Mexican Food

Pasta of all kinds

Pickup Trucks

New Clothes

Cheap Wine

My Church Family

Flipflops

Monochromatic clothing accented with classic jewelry

Diamonds

Ecclectic jewelry