Today I am grateful for:
1) Darian has decided to go back to Missouri as a magabook leader. I think she will be nothing short of spectacular and I am so so glad that she's chosen this path. It has been a rather long decision-making process but Charity gave her a deadline and so tonight she had to make the final call. Once the decision was made, she was so relieved...and so so excited. I can't help but feel a twinge of sadness as I know this girl of mine is going to leave this nest and fly. I'm not sure where life will take her, but my bet is...it will be extraordinary. She is one amazing kid and I am so so proud. :)
2) I made banana bread this evening. I haven't done that in awhile but six bananas were wasting away on the counter and I felt productive so...I pulled three loaves out of the oven at 9:40. YUM!! (And? I made grapefruit orange........ :) I shared some of both with those adorable Anderson people.
3. We had a class discussion today on Romeo & Juliet as we have officially finished the play. I intended for it to be about ten minutes of classtime, but as it turned out, they talked for over 20 minutes. They were respectful of each other and everyone participated--Everyone. So I just let it go. Those kids do amaze me.
4. I had a long talk with Philip this evening in the cafeteria as I was leaving to come home. He is such a genuinely great guy and it was fun talking to him. Earlier Rick said that we need to have a campus cook-out. We do have a great group here and we need to take more time to spend time with each other doing fun things and chatting it up. So this evening in the cafeteria I was reminded of how many good friends we really do have here in North Carolina. And that's a good thing.
5. Today had lots of great moments actually. I talked to Jeff on the phone and the $1000 is in the mail; I talked to Tami (my sister) for awhile and that's always just so fun; Sue Nelson sent Jace a gift card for Dunkin Donuts so I took him. He bought one donut. With sprinkles. And it was priceless watching him figure out just what he wanted. Gosh I love that kid so much.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Day 63: Inspiration
Ok--not going to lie. My favorite highlight of today? Realizing that Savana commented on my last post. Aw....Love that.
Other than that, here are the highlights:
1. Today I attended the funeral of Rick Anderson's mom. I can't exactly say that was a highlight as funerals are never fun. But it was absolutely a celebration of a life. Honestly, I've never met her but she raised an amazing son. And I read every word of the obituary. Twice. It talked about how she loved flowers, loved cooking, loved kids and often included them into the family. And as I read about this woman whom I didn't know but knew that, if I had, I would have liked her, I wondered about how my obituary will read. Sometimes--well, to be honest, oftentimes--I forget to live purposefully. I tend to let the responsibilities or even the selfish desires of my life dictate my day to day living. I don't want to get to the end of my days and realize that I spent too much time texting or facebooking or simply being lazy. I want to be remembered for more than that. So I was inspired today--inspired to make a difference; to make each day count for something beyond myself.
2. Tonight we had faculty meeting with Kathy. She brought us each a couple of books that discuss motivating students that don't want to learn. I leafed through them, looked at the activities and ideas that the authors suggest, and thought--I need to become a bit more innovative. We have so much at our fingertips these days--so many opportunities with media and such. I love teaching, love my students. I want them to gain something from my class that goes beyond the events of Romeo & Juliet. I want them to realize how capable they are--that they are only as limited as they think they are. I want to be more creative, more effective. I want so many, many things when it comes to the classroom. It's almost overwhelming really...but at the same time, it's exciting. It's a whole new world out there when it comes to education. I don't want to be left behind.
3. So today I saw this article on an Oprah Winfrey link about writing our own story. I really want to do that--I want to get 'my story' in writing. Honestly probably nobody will read it but me. Well, maybe my kids someday...but I want to get it 'on paper.' When we put things into words, it makes us think succinctly, put into words what we really believe or how we really feel about things. So much has happened--at least in my head--the past couple of years. Writing my story might help me make sense of it all. But beyond all of that? I think it would be fun. I'm weird like that.
Other than that, here are the highlights:
1. Today I attended the funeral of Rick Anderson's mom. I can't exactly say that was a highlight as funerals are never fun. But it was absolutely a celebration of a life. Honestly, I've never met her but she raised an amazing son. And I read every word of the obituary. Twice. It talked about how she loved flowers, loved cooking, loved kids and often included them into the family. And as I read about this woman whom I didn't know but knew that, if I had, I would have liked her, I wondered about how my obituary will read. Sometimes--well, to be honest, oftentimes--I forget to live purposefully. I tend to let the responsibilities or even the selfish desires of my life dictate my day to day living. I don't want to get to the end of my days and realize that I spent too much time texting or facebooking or simply being lazy. I want to be remembered for more than that. So I was inspired today--inspired to make a difference; to make each day count for something beyond myself.
2. Tonight we had faculty meeting with Kathy. She brought us each a couple of books that discuss motivating students that don't want to learn. I leafed through them, looked at the activities and ideas that the authors suggest, and thought--I need to become a bit more innovative. We have so much at our fingertips these days--so many opportunities with media and such. I love teaching, love my students. I want them to gain something from my class that goes beyond the events of Romeo & Juliet. I want them to realize how capable they are--that they are only as limited as they think they are. I want to be more creative, more effective. I want so many, many things when it comes to the classroom. It's almost overwhelming really...but at the same time, it's exciting. It's a whole new world out there when it comes to education. I don't want to be left behind.
3. So today I saw this article on an Oprah Winfrey link about writing our own story. I really want to do that--I want to get 'my story' in writing. Honestly probably nobody will read it but me. Well, maybe my kids someday...but I want to get it 'on paper.' When we put things into words, it makes us think succinctly, put into words what we really believe or how we really feel about things. So much has happened--at least in my head--the past couple of years. Writing my story might help me make sense of it all. But beyond all of that? I think it would be fun. I'm weird like that.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Day 62: Dreams
I am writing this on Monday morning...but yesterday was just such a spectacular day that I want to give it the credit it is due. First of all, Roy and Darian were gone Friday and Saturday on a gymnastics tour and didn't get home until 1:00 Sunday morning. I had company all of Saturday after church--Tina, Guerin, Lillian, Spen, Nick Cord, Zach & Riley. It was such a fun fun day. But anyway, Roy and I got up at 7:00 Sunday morning and headed out by 8 to look at a touring motorcycle that was 310 miles away. Quite the jaunt but it was just so much fun. We talked the entire way--he caught me up on every detail of the tour, I told him about my two days, and I don't know what else--but there was rarely silence. It was just so. much. fun.
And then we arrived at that place--I don't remember the name of the town but it is on the outskirts of Myrtle Beach. When we both saw that motorcycle, we couldn't believe it. It was almost too good to be true. Honestly--it's beautiful. Immaculate condition with every bell and whistle imaginable. Prior to looking for a motorcycle, I wouldn't even know what that means but I've become a bit more educated as Roy has eaten, slept, and breathed motorcycles for the past few months. And the price is unbelievable. So? We didn't bring it home but it's ours and we'll pick it up over spring break. I Can't Wait.
A whole new Seals era begins. :)
And then when we got home, Jace and Darian had so many stories so there was endless chatter. And Anna called Darian and offered her a job with magabooking as a leader. She was giddy with excitement so...my bet is, camp is off and magabooking is on. She's such a trouper and I think she'll be spectacular as a leader.
So this day reminded me of dreams and how we all have them. Sometimes they get buried beneath the day to day living but when we manage to find them, peeking up their heads, well...they make life worthwhile.
And then we arrived at that place--I don't remember the name of the town but it is on the outskirts of Myrtle Beach. When we both saw that motorcycle, we couldn't believe it. It was almost too good to be true. Honestly--it's beautiful. Immaculate condition with every bell and whistle imaginable. Prior to looking for a motorcycle, I wouldn't even know what that means but I've become a bit more educated as Roy has eaten, slept, and breathed motorcycles for the past few months. And the price is unbelievable. So? We didn't bring it home but it's ours and we'll pick it up over spring break. I Can't Wait.
A whole new Seals era begins. :)
And then when we got home, Jace and Darian had so many stories so there was endless chatter. And Anna called Darian and offered her a job with magabooking as a leader. She was giddy with excitement so...my bet is, camp is off and magabooking is on. She's such a trouper and I think she'll be spectacular as a leader.
So this day reminded me of dreams and how we all have them. Sometimes they get buried beneath the day to day living but when we manage to find them, peeking up their heads, well...they make life worthwhile.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Day 61: I Love Fridays
Friday.
I love Fridays. I think it just might be my favorite day of the week.
1) My freshmen were in top form today. They were relaxed and happy and every single one of them read a book during independent reading time. I don't remember that ever happening in my life! Normally someone forgets theirs...or asks if they can do homework...or tries to sleep...But not today. Love these freshmen.
2) Rick asked me to join in on a phone conference with David from 3W--the company that we are joining hands with to get students from China. It was so so so exciting! We have been approved and so now we just have to sign the contract and preparation will begin to send kids our way. Spectacular news. Why? Because I am now officially full-time for next year. Yay!!!!!!
3) The guy who put our stereo in our car came and replaced it with a new one so now I can talk hands free on my cell phone or listen to music that is on my cell, etc. Since we've purchased this car, that aspect of the stereo hasn't worked--except for the first couple of weeks. So I am just so happy to have it back. And the icing on the cake? The backup camera comes up immediately instead of having to wait for the stereo to cycle through. Love it.
4) Roy finished the stereo that he has been working on in the gym. He took me down to show it to me and, once again, I stand amazed at this man and his talents. How he has the ability to fix anything and everything astounds me. This system was completely demolished by the previous pe teacher. It's worth several thousand dollars which, of course, means we don't have the money to replace it. So Roy asked for $1000 to fix it...and then he did. I could never begin to effectively put into words what all he has done: rebuilt the carrying box, wired in extra jacks, etc. He has spent countless hours on this stereo but now it looks and sounds brand new. It is amazing.
5) I have almond milk in my frig, the car is filled with gas, my house is clean, I found a 'new' lamp for my living room and it creates a really nice ambiance, and life is good on February 8, 2013.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Day 60: The Joy of Comments
1) So I can't help but say one of the absolute best things about today? Reading all of the comments that Lori wrote on my blog! She comments every time she reads one and I love that. Of course, Lori, you're probably the only one who reads this but...that's ok. I do appreciate that you take the time to leave a little note. :)
2) Today Roy had a doctor's appointment. He goes every six months for a skin check since the melanoma drama. It always makes him nervous as it's rare he walks away without them finding something--even if it's small. And today was no different. Dr. Rackoff cut off a mole from his arm that she thought looked suspicious. But the good news is: it's not melanoma. At worst, it's just a type of ulcerous cancer that irritates. But when she doesn't find anything that resembles melanoma? That always makes me happy.
3) Today I organized my files--well, almost. I still have an hour left to get it completely finished, but I'm almost there! Oh. My. Goodness. It's a great feeling. I've needed to organize these files all year. I threw away several folders and combined some as I had several of the same (you know--like 3 folders that say 'Winter Dreams Quiz.') So just walking in my office feels much more refreshing now.
4) Lori told me about a new series that she really likes called Scandal. And I started it today. Oh wow--what a great show! Now that I'm caught up with Downton Abbey, I need another series to take its place and I do believe I've found it--though they aren't even remotely similar. But it's so well done. I'm amazed at the creativity of people--how they come up with these plot lines and such. It's remarkable.
5) I exercised today!! 20 minutes on the elliptical. I felt so good afterward--energized--and I accomplished so much! I made a huge bowl of grapefruit-orange, folded the laundry and put it away--all after 8:00. That's pretty rare for me. So now? I just need to keep it up!
6) My family is happy today: Roy went out with Rick for some guy time, Darian has a friend over to watch some Downton Abbey, and Jace is on cloud nine because Harrison will be spending every Monday and Wednesday with us through basketball season. Savana had some drama today but she has rallied and Guerin is joining her at Southern on Friday for the eweekend so...everybody is in a good spot. I like that.
2) Today Roy had a doctor's appointment. He goes every six months for a skin check since the melanoma drama. It always makes him nervous as it's rare he walks away without them finding something--even if it's small. And today was no different. Dr. Rackoff cut off a mole from his arm that she thought looked suspicious. But the good news is: it's not melanoma. At worst, it's just a type of ulcerous cancer that irritates. But when she doesn't find anything that resembles melanoma? That always makes me happy.
3) Today I organized my files--well, almost. I still have an hour left to get it completely finished, but I'm almost there! Oh. My. Goodness. It's a great feeling. I've needed to organize these files all year. I threw away several folders and combined some as I had several of the same (you know--like 3 folders that say 'Winter Dreams Quiz.') So just walking in my office feels much more refreshing now.
4) Lori told me about a new series that she really likes called Scandal. And I started it today. Oh wow--what a great show! Now that I'm caught up with Downton Abbey, I need another series to take its place and I do believe I've found it--though they aren't even remotely similar. But it's so well done. I'm amazed at the creativity of people--how they come up with these plot lines and such. It's remarkable.
5) I exercised today!! 20 minutes on the elliptical. I felt so good afterward--energized--and I accomplished so much! I made a huge bowl of grapefruit-orange, folded the laundry and put it away--all after 8:00. That's pretty rare for me. So now? I just need to keep it up!
6) My family is happy today: Roy went out with Rick for some guy time, Darian has a friend over to watch some Downton Abbey, and Jace is on cloud nine because Harrison will be spending every Monday and Wednesday with us through basketball season. Savana had some drama today but she has rallied and Guerin is joining her at Southern on Friday for the eweekend so...everybody is in a good spot. I like that.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Day 59: Happy for the Journey
Today has been a really good day. Here's why:
1) It started this morning when I declared today a "Les Miserables" day. Translation? Let's sing everything! Of course, I was the only one who participated as Jace complained and rolled his eyes and begged me to stop. It was a tad discouraging but...I persevered.
2) Today in ESL I had Michael and Lisa complete a worksheet on context clues. Michael got every single answer right. He has absolutely grown in his command of the English language. I find it amazing. And he's just so sweet. I am so thankful for Michael. And Lisa, for that matter.
3) Ricky texted me today! It was good to hear from him and know that he's doing well. I miss that boy.
4) Today I overheard someone talking and stating that atheists will burn in hell. I would imagine this person is clueless that I heard this statement though it really doesn't matter either way. But it stopped me in my tracks a bit. I am just so 'over' that thought process. And I'm absolutely not judging them for saying it--there was a day when I would have agreed. But I don't anymore. My thinking regarding such issues is fairly out of the box, I would say--and it made me realize that I'm so happy about that. I believe much more in the 'live and let live' philosophy. It makes more sense to me. It lets me live my life as I choose while allowing others to do the same. It brings peace and acceptance. So--though I was a bit taken back by those words today, it reminded me that I like where I stand on this issue. It's a good place to be.
5) This evening when I was walking home from the caf, I couldn't help looking around at this beautiful place in which I live and feeling grateful. It's a bit chilly but I have a jacket--a cute one actually. And I have friends to laugh and talk with who joined me in the caf this evening. And I was heading home to an adorable ten year old boy whom I adore. I have a life that I love and, truly, I'm happy to be alive--happy for this journey that I believe is eternal, happy to be me.
1) It started this morning when I declared today a "Les Miserables" day. Translation? Let's sing everything! Of course, I was the only one who participated as Jace complained and rolled his eyes and begged me to stop. It was a tad discouraging but...I persevered.
2) Today in ESL I had Michael and Lisa complete a worksheet on context clues. Michael got every single answer right. He has absolutely grown in his command of the English language. I find it amazing. And he's just so sweet. I am so thankful for Michael. And Lisa, for that matter.
3) Ricky texted me today! It was good to hear from him and know that he's doing well. I miss that boy.
4) Today I overheard someone talking and stating that atheists will burn in hell. I would imagine this person is clueless that I heard this statement though it really doesn't matter either way. But it stopped me in my tracks a bit. I am just so 'over' that thought process. And I'm absolutely not judging them for saying it--there was a day when I would have agreed. But I don't anymore. My thinking regarding such issues is fairly out of the box, I would say--and it made me realize that I'm so happy about that. I believe much more in the 'live and let live' philosophy. It makes more sense to me. It lets me live my life as I choose while allowing others to do the same. It brings peace and acceptance. So--though I was a bit taken back by those words today, it reminded me that I like where I stand on this issue. It's a good place to be.
5) This evening when I was walking home from the caf, I couldn't help looking around at this beautiful place in which I live and feeling grateful. It's a bit chilly but I have a jacket--a cute one actually. And I have friends to laugh and talk with who joined me in the caf this evening. And I was heading home to an adorable ten year old boy whom I adore. I have a life that I love and, truly, I'm happy to be alive--happy for this journey that I believe is eternal, happy to be me.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Day 58: Work Stuff
1) Today I am thankful for Olive Garden salad dressing. We buy it at Sam's and it is divine. So every day for lunch I have a huge salad: croutons, rings of onions, and a salad concoction heaped in a large bowl and topped with that little bit of perfection. Yum.
2) This morning Laurie came to my office and showed me -- yet again -- how to complete some 'jobs' for alumni ie make a query and other such foreign tasks. She is always so patient and willing and helpful. And I am always thankful for that. She also gave me a heads up on some things I need to start considering in preparation for alumni weekend. The good news? I'm caught up on some things I was procrastinating due to ignorance. The bad news? My 'to do' list seems to be lengthening with each passing day. But that's okay. I'm thankful I have a job. :)
3) Today was our first school-improvement committee meeting. I can't exactly say I'm a fan of meetings...but I'm excited about this committee. I think we definitely have a chance to make some positive changes in our ever-evolving culture. And so many intelligent people sit on the committee. So, I'm looking forward to being a part and making a difference.
4) I spent quite a bit of time with Tammy today! She helped with alumni so we got several things accomplished on that end and then she was in the committee meeting with me--and filled me in on some things that didn't make sense. Anyway--it was good to see her and have some time together--even if it was centered around work!
5) It was a beautiful day outside. I love that.
2) This morning Laurie came to my office and showed me -- yet again -- how to complete some 'jobs' for alumni ie make a query and other such foreign tasks. She is always so patient and willing and helpful. And I am always thankful for that. She also gave me a heads up on some things I need to start considering in preparation for alumni weekend. The good news? I'm caught up on some things I was procrastinating due to ignorance. The bad news? My 'to do' list seems to be lengthening with each passing day. But that's okay. I'm thankful I have a job. :)
3) Today was our first school-improvement committee meeting. I can't exactly say I'm a fan of meetings...but I'm excited about this committee. I think we definitely have a chance to make some positive changes in our ever-evolving culture. And so many intelligent people sit on the committee. So, I'm looking forward to being a part and making a difference.
4) I spent quite a bit of time with Tammy today! She helped with alumni so we got several things accomplished on that end and then she was in the committee meeting with me--and filled me in on some things that didn't make sense. Anyway--it was good to see her and have some time together--even if it was centered around work!
5) It was a beautiful day outside. I love that.
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