Day 26-Carbs

Geez, why is it the bad things are what we crave! Day 4 and I made it through the taste of North Texas! Booths and booths of food and I managed to stick to meat and veggies. 

Well and two beers which made my maximum carbs today. 

Great day! I am in phase 1 of Atkins, just a little over a week and I will be in phase 2. (Kinda cheated with the beer) that isn't introduced until phase 2. Apparently by phase 4 I will be able to reintroduce almost everything. But I will also know how much is too much and what makes me gain weight. We shall see. 

Day 24- Technology

I usually am the one that is needing assistance in this area. Recently my dad asked me for help and out of amazement I was able to help him. 

He needed to fax some documents and was going to go to a place where he could have them faxed. I couldn't figure out why he wasn't using his scanner and sending them himself. 

So he confessed he really didn't know how to do it and we'll he didn't want to bother anyone. 

5 minutes and I was able to show him how to scan from his printer and attach it to an email. It was simple and that was that. 

The next day I asked if his documents had made it? Well he sounded a little embarrassed because he said he couldn't remember exactly how I had showed him and it was different from when he worked for the city and used to fax.

I wanted to tell him he needn't be embarrassed it was easy but like many things we have to practice and after a few more times he would be a pro. 

Today I received an email - test... He wanted to try to attach a document and

Send it to me to show me he could do it. 

I emailed him back it was a success! 

He followed it up with an additional email explaining that his documents made it and that he was very thankful to me. 

It's hard for me to express my feelings about my dad, in fact I wasn't going to write about it because I feel very vulnerable right now. 

I admire my dad he was my first teacher and he was my teacher after school when I needed help. He always made sure I had all the books I needed to practice my "reading."

He always supported me and he always told me I would be successful. In fact he even had s chosen career for me I was supposed to be a lawyer! 

But that made it hard to just be. I don't think he told me enough times it would be ok to fail and that I could get back up and do it again. Not that he had a mean bone in his body. My father would give you the shirt off his back, I don't think he knew any better. 

In fact i didn't know better. It took a lot of reading and a little therapy before I realized I had to change my mindset or I would pass in the evil trait of perfection and nothing else to my children.

Today I like to think I have taught my dad a little something too! That we aren't perfect and it's ok to ask for help that's what I am here for. Giving back the love of learning and being his teacher. Life is a full circle! My heart is full. 

Day 23-Monday it was alright

First day back and it was alright! Met with my groups, planned with my principal and then planned with a few teachers after school. I would call it a successful day. I also managed to eat right did not cheat! Miracle for me! 

 

The house is coming along! The sales manager texted and sounds just as excited as we do. I know we still have a long haul but it is really exciting. 

Makes going to work a little more exciting I can see our subdivision from the fifth grade teachers room in which I mentor. 

If I start to feel down I just look out the window and I remember what I have to look forward too! 

Day 22- Where did the time go?

Well here I am typical Sunday not enough hours to get all that needs to be done, done. 

Lessons have been planned, resume created and meal plan organized. 

My hubby is the cook so he helped in that. 

I look forward to a new day and successful week. Hopefully I will stay positive! Good luck to all my fellow teachers returning to work after a weeks vacation. 

Day 21- long day short blog

Today was a long wet day. The roofers started the roof and when Mother Nature gives us some sunshine I am sure they will finish. 

Tomorrow is the last day to enjoy before we have to return to work. Date with my little one, we will go to the movies. Can't wait! 

Day 20-late post

Tonight my husband and I saw Insurgent. It was not a disappointment and I stayed awake! That is definitely a sure sign it was good. (I usually fall asleep in the movies if I am bored)

I have to admit I did not finish the end of the book I was s little shy of the ending. I wanted to take advantage of the babysitter and a movie so I chose to go ahead and see it. Tomorrow I will finish the book....can't wait to start the third one. 

By the way I am not giving away any details except that Tris and Tobias are a very cute couple who really know how to defend themselves! 

Day 19 - Home sweet home

We made it home and it is nice to be home. I do wish life could be a vacation but then again I would probably weigh hundreds of pounds over what I should! 

Oh my the scale was not nice this evening. But tomorrow I will get back on track, I wouldn't have changed a thing. 

We went by the house and we actually were able to walk through it! 

We are so exited but we know it will take a while and we will have to be patient.

We had the pleasure of meeting some neighbors they came over and introduced themselves. Very sweet makes things feel even more special. Can't wait to see what comes next. I promise to keep everyone posted. 

Day 18-Peaceful

Today has been a good day. We did a little shopping. Found some good deals and now we rest until we begin our journey home tomorrow. Last night I caught s beautiful picture of a rainbow.

It was a perfect and peaceful. As I start to begin to mentally prepare for work again I want to keep this picture in mind. How beautiful and how peaceful it seemed. Visiting with my good friend Christine reminds me of how joyous life can be when you relax and not take life so seriously. 

Met this girl nearly twenty years ago and even though we no longer can visit each other everyday, every weekend or even monthly when we do see each other it's like we were together everyday.  Love her  and feel blessed to call her and her lovely family, my family. 

God sure does put wonderful people in my life and everyone of them has their special place in my heart. I am a lucky girl! 

 

Day 17- A little bit of Gruene Hall

Today we visited Gruene. Stopped to eat at the Gristmill.

The food was good, service was great. It is a unique place. There was a live band pretty nice! 

Pit stop in Lakeway to visit a dear friend! Loving vacation! 

Day 16- San Antonio Missions

Today we visited two missions. Concepcion and San Jose. 

Wow! Is all I can say. Although it was hard to read all I would have liked to have read about them (with a 4 year old) I was truly amazed. 

From the stone to the exceptionally tiny rooms it was amazing to think that families once gathered within these missions. 

Michael decided he had had enough and we went back to the river walk and took a boat tour. This of course was what he had been waiting for. 

He was obviously content. It was a good day here in San Antonio. The day was even better when I received the following picture of Lauren they have finally made it to Virginia. 

Looking forward to tomorrow. We will see what the day will bring. 

Day 15- culture and heritage feeling blessed!

Today we started our vacation in San Antonio with baby Michael. He proved that he is no longer a baby. 

We were happy listening to the music but he was determined to get out and dance. 

Gosh, I feel blessed. He loves music as much as his parents and it doesn't matter the language he loves the beat. 

The one thing my grandfather was good at ( very talented ) was music he played various instruments and could write songs. That hooked you. 

Tonight my baby boy made me proud not only to be his mom but also a reminder as to how important it is to pass on culture. He is his mothers child! 

Day 14 - Happy Anniversary

Six years ago today I married my best friend. Since I have met him he has truly taught me what patience is (or looks like, I am still working on it), he has believed in me when I didn't believe in myself, and he always supports any new adventures I may attempt to do. He reminds me everyday that he loves me.
I love him, Without him we ( the kiddos too) would not have the life we have. I do not mean material things I mean the caring, nurturing and full life we have. Because of Brandon we are able to dream and accomplish many things together.
He doesn't always see the things I do, he also doesn't believe he could be so important. But he is and I thank God for everyday he allows me to share with him. He truly is a blessing.
I want to dedicate the following song to my best friend who together we complete each other,
We are grateful for the past and wouldn't change a thing. Lucky to have the now, in which we cherish everyday.

The next video is our wedding song....it says it all, when he chose this song it was perfect and we live it.
I fall everyday....in many ways.....and he is always there. Feeling like the luckiest girl in the world.

Rest - Day 13

Tonight I am sitting here enjoying a glass of wine.
My head is empty
words are just not flowing.
So I will keep this short
As I relax with those I call mine.
Tomorrow is a new day and I am sure I will awake
with a fresh new glow
and a brain that will create a new line.

Day 12 - Countdown to Vacation

I don't think I have ever been so excited to take a vacation. We won't be going far or for long but I am ready for the break. This week has been fast and furious and I am looking forward to a break. Tonight will be short but look forward to touching base tomorrow.

Day 11- Physical Properties

Left a to do list on my desk, just hope I make it in on time to complete it.
I love my job - well most parts. My favorite is mentoring teachers, sharing curriculum and lesson planning. I love unpacking the TEKs and starting with the end in mind. To me the highlight of my day is when someone walks away confident in what and how they need to be teaching.
But, today was a challenge I had to do some research and relearning of physical science. Wow! is all I can say.
The vocabulary alone is enough to make a grown woman want to cry! But after studying and comparing LA to Science TEKs I realized it would all work out. I have a plan integrating reading and writing has always been my favorite. But it took about 2 hours becoming familiar with the topic and now I can help her plan it out. That will be about another two hours sometime between now and Friday. The joy of teaching, you are truly a life-long learner! That is why I continue to do what I do!

Here's a little taste...
What 3 things can you observe. ( Using vocabulary words that have to do with Physical Science)
Now define those three words and give an example of each word from your observations.
Now make a connection between them.

P.S.
Its hard to observe use the appropriate vocabulary and then write about it. At least for a reading specialist!

New beginnings - Day 10

Brandon and I have been married 6 years on the 14th of this month.

Because we both had been married we both have had our share of bumps we have had to cross over. There were times we thought we would never see the light at the end of the tunnel. But this year has started out pretty good. We are in the beginning stages of what will one day be our future home.
We put a lot of thought into the structure.
Yes, I drive by everyday and everyday I am amazed. My heart is warmed with the thoughts of one day sitting on the back porch with family and friends and enjoying life. Sometime this summer we will own a home that we both built. (well not literally)  It will be a first of many milestones I hope I am blessed to share with my loving husband, a truly kind and loving man.

Writing is the Sum of our Experiences - Day 9

This evening while watching a movie I heard the following words, "Writing is the Sum of our experiences." It really resonated with me maybe because I had just finished planning writing with 4th grade for the week after Spring Break.
I thought about how hard it must be to write about things you know little about. I think of my daughter who is a great writer and it hit me she is so blessed to have traveled around the United States. She regularly visits Virginia, D.C., she has been to New York, Tennessee, Mexico, so many other places I can't even remember them all.
her experiences are endless....she could explain the feeling of losing her best friend. Her first dog Sadie, she could write about being from a divorced family, gaining three siblings within two years, Just from those experiences, she has experienced so many other things.
As I sit here I wonder how does one create experiences for students who have never traveled, who have never had a pet, who may not have that special person that inspires them?
I guess in my perfect world, I would set up Skype with different schools around the US, perhaps outside the country. Maybe set up a pen pal system. Maybe apply for grants to take my kiddos on field-trips, bring in guest speakers, introduce them to people I admire. Let them see how I light up when I feel special and how I put those feelings into words.
I know, what you are thinking....but remember I said my perfect world.
But how can a teacher focus on experiences when there is a test that blinds the creativity and forces stress upon shoulders of the models, the teachers.
Maybe we should let them write about what they know. I see the topics as; Write about the time you were bored, Write about how you feel the STAAR test prepares you for the future, Explain how ditto sheets expands your knowledge.....What is your favorite not so favorite moment?
I believe these topics could be a few in which our students could "sum up their experiences."

Day 8 - Golden Rule

One of my favorite rules is the Golden Rule. I truly believe in treating people the way you would want to be treated. Especially those in need. Some would say it has maybe led to times when I have been taken advantage of, but I would say it's the human part of me that truly believes there is good in all people. Sometimes it takes time to see the good comes full circle.

I have taken the "True Colors" assessment and supposedly I am pretty equal in blue, gold and green. I am sensitive, want the best for everyone, and can be emotional ( not because I am a baby) but because I am passionate and truly believe everyone can succeed. I am organized and well I want to solve problems and sometimes I am not the most patient. (All of these are descriptors of those colors) 

Those around would say I was all blue.... Maybe I like that quality, maybe I like to think we all live by the Golden Rule. 

Unfortunately I know it's not always true, so my next go to is the Serenity Prayer. This prayer sits behind my desk and when I am stuck, when I feel like I could erupt I take a breath and read it. It reminds me that it is out of my hands and I must let it go. 

Work, life, and the world around us can sometimes cloud the good, sometimes make people forget the "Golden Rule," and forget to accept what cannot be changed and courage to change what can. Life "springs forward" and we continue the cycle of trying to figure what will be. 

Well another favorite is "Que Sera, Sera, whatever will be, will be" I want to dedicate this blog to my baby brother. That he will remember to pray the serenity prayer and sing the lyrics to Que Sera, Sera. That he believes in the good of people and that this too shall pass. 

To everyone like myself, wishing for just an extra weekend day to get it all done- I also want to share my three favorite go-to's and that tomorrow when it all starts you find yourself singing "Que Sera, Sera." 

Saturday fun in the sun- day 7

Starting the day with some of the most amazing women! So blessed to know so many wonderful life experienced women! 

Alone I am ten percent alright, add a handful of wise women and I am 100 percent human.

Forty years, it's a number, seriously! I don't feel any older than 35 but birthdays happen for a reason. 

If anything I am very emotional because life is great! 

Day 6- Almost forgot!

Today is the beginning of what I hope to be a fantastic weekend! Mother Nature did not allow me to celebrate last weekend  so birthday celebrations start tonight! I am so looking forward to dinner with friends. Tomorrow we will head to Grapevine do a little shopping and have a glass or two of wine.
As I was driving home I was thinking about how different my life is and how my children are being raised. I don't remember my mom ever going away for the weekend with friends. Knowing what I know now and how hard it can be being a mother, I wish I could go back and give her that time.
Not sure how she did it, without friends to call up and vent too. Well she had her sisters and brothers only 10. So maybe I wasn't always around when she did.
Although writing this does spark memories of family sitting in the kitchen and all of  us kids hang around in our bedrooms or outside.
I do remember the typical "go over there this is adult talk!" Geez, I sound like my mother!
I am rambling but I really am thankful to our parents. My children have not ever gone to daycare and on nights like tonight we know we are leaving them in the best care.
Hope everyone enjoys their evening and until tomorrow!

Snow day... slow day - Day 5

Today was a restful day. Played with the kids, reviewed some data and walked on the treadmill. In my book productive. I picked up a new book, Fish in a Tree, I am excited to read it, Tomorrow is Friday and we will once again assess. We are giving the Science Release test. I have taken that test myself, it is definitely rigorous. I missed 4!
I will pray for a peaceful  and safe environment where our students will believe that this is only to see what they know and where we still need to adjust our teaching to meet their needs.
Here's to a wonderful Friday and beginning of the weekend. Looking forward to hanging with some good friends.

Headache rules, blog blues - Day 4

Tonight my headache wins. This post will be short. I wonder if a bad headache is a sign? And if it is what kind of sign?
I had began a blog and well somehow deleted it. My  eyes and ears burn and I just can't seem to win  this fight. So I decided to be honest and  keep it short.
Today was another testing day...I think we know how those days end. That's right with a headache!
I am hoping for a snow day tomorrow to rest and slow the pace down and the  pounding  inside my head will all be forgotten.

Simple Moment Simple Day 3

Being enough....

I decided to dare greatly....as my very good friend Tenille would say. I left the giant work bag at work tonight. Omg! I know there are many people who know just what that bag looks and feels like. The weight of all the papers I should look at, the data that I need to look at and plan the perfect instruction, the books I need to read. (I have carried them around for 6 months!) The Educational Leadership and Reading teacher magazines I know I could pick up just one more best practice. Of course I won't forget the to do list I made....pay the bills, attend cheer meetings, sell auction tickets for Pre-k, use that coupon before it expires and on and on.

Well I left it all at work! Yep tonight I decided I would leave our open house and come home use the treadmill and then BLOG! I found it pretty quick tonight and I even gave it a title. Tenille I hope you are proud.

Sitting here with my computer and a glass of wine it is refreshing! I don't have that evil reminder staring at me and whispering, "You really should be opening me up and getting those to do's done!"
I can say I have about completed my day! It's only 8:39 that is amazing. I will relax open the book on my nightstand and read a little to my baby boy. Loving it and I must say tomorrow I will dare greatly once again!

Day 2:
Well it only took me an hour to get here but here I am! SO a little slice of me today, well that is exactly how I feel. I literally feel like that tasty Italian pizza that you have one bite and you have to go back. ( you know, the good kind) I am the pizza though and everyone also is trying to eat me little by little.  Ok,  dramatic I know but it is how I feel. I sometimes wonder if I have a sign that says if you have a question ask me! I actually had a coworker check my back today, just to make sure it wasn't there.
 But let's not dwell on the negative I will think of the positive. I made myself a deal I would do one thing for me everyday. SO i have for almost two weeks I have walked my goal of 10,000 steps or more. Yippee! for me right? Well it really is hard to set a goal and keep it. I often think if I let something go it can be exercise,reading that goodnight book,or sitting with my teenage daughter and asking her what in life is ailing her.
I figured there is no time like the present to make a change. Put me first then my family and friends. Work will always be here, time won't. I often think the over achiever in me takes over and I am blinded, but something changes when you realize time doesn't stop just because you think it should, it goes on.
So, exactly that is it, time, that is what I need. I will say goodbye with a few question;
How does one know they are enough? Does the light-bulb ever flicker and turn on? How and when can one find peace with just being simple and saying enough is enough?

Until tomorrow if I can find you!

Yesi

I have been challenged to writing for 31 days and I must admit I am very nervous. I am accepting the challenge because I adore the ladies who have committed to this challenge as well. If anything I hope to learn how to be vulnerable to the world around me and still walk with my head held high. This is very outside the box for me, therefore I felt that was a good name to start with. Let the blogging begin! (I think, not very sure how this works)