Thoughts in the night...

As much as I want to, I refrain from lamenting the Spurs' last game. Hopefull, tomorrow will be more like I like them ....

I wake up in the night to visit the restroom, and more often than not, I have some weird thought pop in my head. It's about Dana, or Erin, or Liz, or school - you get my drift. While I am up, I take my thyroid medication, as my stomach needs to be empty. I put it on my sink with water every night, and gulp it down while half asleep.

Now, Andy and I have seperate sinks. His is on one side, mine the other. We are back to back when both using our sink. His is tidy and clean, with everything in it's place. It is ready for him each and every morning - good to go. Mine is a plethora of items - my slip, the afore mentioned medication, my blow-dryer and a clock. (I have a thing about knowing what time it is at all times!) It is not a reflection of Andy's at all.

For some reason, last night as I stood at my messy sink, taking my pill, I thought; "When I die, Andy will clean up this sink, and then he'll look at it, all stark and orderly, every day." Where does that come from; it's horrible to think like that in the middle of the night?!? I guess sometimes these notions just pop into our heads, and have no true rhyme of reason. I hope so....

Colton, Brandon, and Cameron - Oh, my!

A while back, I mentioned that my little 3rd graders had passed their Reading TAKS on the first administration, and that I would not be seeing them for class the rest of the semester. I've really enjoyed that time to do valuable things in my classroom; getting caught up on testing, paperwork, MahJong, etc.

Well, yesterday and today, three of the boys dropped in on me! It made me realize how much I do like the little beggars - Colton is a little wrestler-maniac with an infectious grin, Cameron has his 3rd grade "dating" drama, and Brandon is just big and cheerful. They give me a hug and a grin, tell me they miss me, and scoot on back to class.

Lucky me! It's just the boost I need to get through the afternoon!

Half a year ago...

Little Elizabeth has turned 6 months old this week! She is - well, wonderful. Her Nana loves her very much, and just wanted to share her sweet angel face with you all!

Now THAT's my Spurs!!

Last night, about 15 of us gathered at the Norwood's home for the game. Katherine is a great hostess, and we had delicious brownies, tea, nachos, and ice cream with all the toppings (even a new, Dr. Pepper sauce!) The game was on in two rooms, so people were drifting between the tvs and food, visiting and cheering our boys on. After the big lead we let get away on Sat., we were cautious about getting too excited, but the guys put it to them, and we all left happy. It was a late night, so I'm drowsy, but my students are testing and I won't have them for a bit.

I do love my job! :)

Ugh - allergies!

Ugh. Along with the beautiful rain came in something that has hit me between the eyes full force.... I felt fine until yesterday right before my boys began their fateful loss to those pesky Mavericks. A little congested; sore throat. Now, I have a faucet running from my nose, and I just slept the day away. Andy is at worship for the second time today without me, and I miss being there. But no one wants to see me in this condition.

It's hard to pray for more rain if this is the outcome!

Answered prayer

Rain!! Beautiful, booming, flashing, wet rain.

Finally!

Thank you, Father!!

Spurs win, Spurs win!!

It was a long time coming, but it's here!!

Poor Dana - called last night to tell me about her day, and there we were, late in the 4th quarter of the Spurs last regular season game. I half-listened to her, and told her about my day, one eye on the tube at all times. Catching my breath as the lead went back and forth, with Chris Paul and David West daring to push my boys down into 8th seed.

Finally, I just had to be honest. "Dana. I hate to cut this short, but there's only a few minutes left, and I REALLY need to see the end of this game. Is there something else you wanted to talk to me about?" Now, I really feel like a bad mom....

We say our "I love you's" and I hang up. The game continues until the last shot of the game, with the Spurs down by 3. Guess who - Michael Finley - shoots a beauty of a basket to send us into overtime. The boys take that as a sign of good things to some, and we win big-time!!

Now, thanks to the dreaded Mavericks win over Houston, we actually play the Mavs this weekend. Home court advantage is ours, and Mark Cuban will come down to make an idiot of himself again, and we will play our hearts out. It's been a long season, and they've looked awful at some points, but here we are again, ready to go. How far is the mystery.

Hard at work

If you ever hear me complain that my job is hard, hit me. Not that it isn't stressful at times, but hard - no. The Spring especially favors "support staff" like me; with the events of TAKS and the year drawing to a close, my students are pulled hither and yon from March to May. Here is an example of today:


8:30-9:00 2 students, as usual
9:00-9:15 break
9:15 - 10:00 no students - at their Field Day
10:00 - 10:30 see above
10:30 - 11:05 2 students; the other two were also at Field Day

11:05-11:15 transition to other campus

11:15-11:45 Lunch
11:45-12:30 Conference

12:30-1:15 - 1 student - others in Specials as a reward for passing TAKS
1:20 - 2:oo - no students - all at above (a chance to catch up on testing and documentation)
2:00 - 2:45 - 3 students - my second whole group for the day
2:45 - 3:30 - 1 student - his partner in Math support until TAKS


So - today, I taught 2 whole groups and a half of another. I'm worn out....


Tomorrow - 1st grade has Field Day, so it'll be just about the same.

Our life vs. the Fritsches

Andy has one sister, Christine. She is married to Alan, and they have one daughter and three sons. When they were small, the Fritsches would come over and spend the weekend, and we would have such fun. Now, all the kids are grown, save Brett, and our visits are few and far between. Christines' home is the LaMore family gathering place, it is warm, welcoming, and happy. They have a wonderful back yard and porch we all fit on, and if something is spilled or broken, life goes on. It was at this cheerful home that we had the "Peeps Challenge" this weekend.

Stephanie, my niece, had heard on the radio that a girl somewhere had gotten 19 Peeps (Marshmallow Easter Chicks) in her mouth at once, and still been able to proclaim, "Chubby Bunny". Well, being the family that they are, it had to be tried. Luckily, I got to be the videographer of the event. It was amazingly hilarious to behold, and Gregg was the LaMore participant of greatest value, but as I watched the whole thing unfold, I was once again reminded of the difference between our families.

Andy and I have a quiet family. Not a lot of Peeps competition going on here. Chris and Alan always have something fun going on - we are way more sedate. I forget how different families are from one another, and while I'm not always "on" - it was fun for a night to cut loose and enjoy their creativity. I'm really glad the Fritsches are part of our family, and look forward to spending more time together during our retirement days, when things slow down.

Happy Easter to all

Posting from Dana's apartment, where we've had a lovely weekend. While Andy was visiting with his mom and dad, Dana and I did a little running around the area where she lives, finding a neat resale store for children. Picked up some pretty dresses for Miss Liz, and then came home. Have been working on a puzzle with Dana of the globe - the continents came together pretty easy, but the oceans are giving us fits. Hopefully, we will complete it before we leave tomorrow.

After dinner tonight, we went over to Andy's sister's to visit. They are great fun, and we had an enjoyable visit. Seems like lately, all our visits have been over Christmas or some other special occasion, so it was nice to just relax.

Worship with the family at West Houston is always enjoyable, and tomorrow should be no different - but will miss our family in Pleasanton. Then, we'll do lunch, pack up, and head home. Monday will be a day of rest.

So, to all of you dear ones, enjoy your Easter. Even if it's just another day to you, I wish you a grand one. Sundays are the best!!

Happy, happy memories

Easter is my very favorite holiday - and today, at Primary, it is Easter Egg Hunt Day! As I sat in my car, before coming in, I watched as all the little ones proudly walked from their car to the door, basket in hand. They looked like they were carrying their most prized possession - some looked like bunnies, some bigger than the carrier themself! One little girl passed me in the hall carrying the most delicious looking favors for her party; and it goes on and on. The main event will occur after I leave to go to another campus, so I'll miss that, but the preview was pretty exciting.

While I adore the stage of life that Liz is in, I'll confess - I do so look forward to the days when she is old enough to hunt eggs in Nana's yard!!

One of the Spring's most highly anticipated events in my social circle is the NBA playoffs. We gather in each others' homes, finger-foods in hand, and enthusiasticallly cheer on our SPURS. We've been there through lop-sided victories, squeakers, and disappointing losses. We've been through 4 trophy-winning championships. It becomes our world for a few weeks....

It's time to begin, and the furvor was building. One man told me he built his new home with the gatherings in mind - a nice, open living area with a big-screen hanging above the fireplace. So excited....

Well. The SPURS made it in again, and our 1st round team is yet to be decided, but we are assured at least one series. Trouble is, it may (probably will be!) the only one....

Manu is out. I got the news yesterday that he is injured and will not play again this season. It was the second time that day I'd gotten disturbing news, and I cannot shake the funk I am in as I write this. No Manu.

No Manu.

RIP, ER

Last night, Andy had a night out with some of his best buds, and I stayed home to see ER's final episode. 15 years, and now, it's over. It was a good ending; not too sappy, and they did a good job of wrapping story lines up. All the hype over past cast members and speculation of who would show up and who wouldn't made it a a must-see at our house. I taped it for Andy, even cutting out the commercials, so I'm sure I'll watch it again.

I'd be sad, except in this age of multi-channel surfing and dvd sales, those characters I've "known" for all these years are just a click away. Dr. Green, Sam, Dr. Morris, Abby and her crazy mother, John Carter - all part of a great ensemble cast. Now, they're just television history.

It was good while it lasted!

Sad, but happy, news

In my job this year, I share a room on both campuses with another teacher. I have been blessed this year to get to know Johanna, and am looking forward to another year next year with her. No matter how long you teach, you always learn from another teacher.

At Elementary, I have shared my room with Patti for many years. I have grown to respect her professionalism and judgement, and we have shared students that have given us heartache and lots of laughs.

I found out this week that Patti is retiring at the end of this school year. I am so happy for her - teaching has changed so much, and pretty much all the fun is gone. You newbies out there who read this don't know the difference, but Patti and I do, and those few of us who are still around miss those days. With her going, the list of those around me from those days grows shorter. I think, on the Elem. campus, there are maybe 5 or 6 left. I'm beginning to feel like a dinosaur, and anticipating coming back is weak. I know I have to wait my turn, and I have a few good years left in me, but Patti going opens a hole in my world, and I'm not looking forward to breaking in a new roomie!

So - here's to Patti. To borrow a quote from the Good Book: "Well done!"

Kids -

I have a student I'll call John. I don't like him, but I try very hard not to show it to either him or the class. He bugs me, because he just walks up and jumps into any conversation like he is invited, and that goes all over me, especially when it is between adults.

He's also one of those kids who tries overly hard to do the right things. When we stand in line at the door before going in, he's at attention. When all the kids raise their hand, his is higher and more forceful. When something is said incorrectly, he corrects it - even if it's me !! And he's never, ever absent!! I find myself being very short with him, and ignoring some of his attempts at being right, just so I don't growl at him, and he's just trying to be a good student. So...

he's one of the ones who passed his TAKS test, and who I brought a candy bar this week. I won't be having him the rest of the year, and I'm ashamed to admit, I was looking forward to it. Yes! I can quit being fake with him!!

He comes over today to pick up his candy bar, and hands me an envelope. I take it and mutter, "Thanks, John." and set it aside. He stands there, expectantly, and so it dawns on me that he wants me to read it now, in front of him. Here's what it said, as typed by a dyslexic 3rd grade boy:

"Dear Mrs. Lamoore
I will be missing you. Because I have'nt gotten to learn the whole cursive lesson.And making puzzles with you. The thing that I will miss the most is you. I Wont get to see you everyday, and I am sad for that. But I want to thank you for teaching me how to read."
"Sincerly,
(your favorite student)
John"

Boy, do I feel like a dog.

Hopefully, a lesson learned

One of my biggest concerns about my students is their ability to delay gratification. Everything has to be NOW - whether it is in the answer to a question shouted out while I am talking or waiting impatiently every day of the week for a candy bar promised for Friday. "But I want it now, Mrs. LaMore - I can't wait until Friday!!" I try to hold firm, but it would just be so much easier to give in...

My students at Elementary are 3rd and 4th graders. They are sweet children, and I love them (mostly). Due to the principal's scheduling, they miss what is called "Specials" - Art, Music, Computers, Science Lab - that their classmates go to and talk aboutto come to my class. I personally think it is cruel, but no one asks me. Now, at the end of March, something wonderful has happened!

8 of my 9 have received a passing grade on the first administration of their TAKS reading test!! (The public is told they have to pass it to go on to 4th grade; they get 3 opportunities, and then most are still passed.) I found out this week that the principal has told them that since they met their goal of passing, for the next 9 weeks, they get to attend whichever Specials class they choose!! I am so happy for them, especially because I want them to learn that good things do happen when you work hard and wait for results. I want them to see that long-term goals are worth the setting and that things feel better when you earn them than when you nag someone into getting them. I think a couple of them will "get it" but not all. There are a few who feel obliged to receive that which everyone else gets. But time will tell. I will not have them for the remainder of the year, so I won't get to have my celebration with them, but tomorrow - they get those candy bars!!

Back to school

Well, Spring Break was great, but now it's back to work. 72 days, according to the ticker Dana sent me. I guess once we get past TAKS in April, it's all downhill....

Our trip to Houston was lovely. We spent some good time with Mom and Dad, had her traditional sandwich lunch which is like no other, and enjoyed their hospitality. Then, on Saturday afternoon, we drove over to the Johnson home for some good visiting there. That baby - I can not get enough of her! Dana came over and made a delicious dinner and then whooped us all at Risk. I felt pretty good until the end, when she took over my whole block of countries with no mercy. Perhaps we should have played Wii instead!

Sunday worship was good. We always get a lot from the worship there, and are starting to see more and more familiar faces as we go. Back at the Johnson's, we enjoyed some Papa John's pizza at my request and then relaxed until picture time.

The whole LaMore clan met up with the photographer at an old rice dryer and had lots and lots of pictures taken. Erin had set it up with her friend Mallory, who is cute as all get-out. She managed us like a pro, and I'm so anxious to see the end result. Only worry - the wind was blowing our hair all over the place! Andy was glad for once not to worry about it! :) Following the pics, we headed to the closest Bar-b-que place to eat; Dad's treat!! The best - truly - rolls I have ever put in my mouth. They keep taking them from the oven to your plate, so you have to eat them not to be rude!! My count - about 6. :) Then, Andy and I hit the long road home.

It was a pleasant ride, with the cds playing and the bluebonnets beside the road. A peaceful end to a wonderful week of leisure -

I hope your week was as good!

Thursday of Spring Break

I really wish time would not go so quickly during days off! I love Thursdays during a work week, but they make me sad on vacation days - it is almost over!!

We've had a lovely time with the girls' here. One forgets the joy a baby brings, and Liz has gotten lots of attention and love while here. It is my desire to hold her hour upon hour, but she likes to play and move, so a lot of the time, I have just watched her and listened to her sounds and laughter. I'm so glad Erin came, and that we had a chance to enjoy them all!

This is a rather odd visit, in that we will join them all in Houston this weekend. This afternoon, the three will journey back to their homes, and Andy and I will drive over tomorrow for the big LaMore family photo shoot. We will spend tomorrow night with Mom and Dad, then go over to see Gregg and Roarke on Saturday. I have missed Gregg this week, and am looking forward to seeing him!

Now, it's off to make Sticky Buns for breakfast, and get finger-printed. Yep, the great State of Texas now requires that all school employees be finger-printed to check our criminal history. I'm scared....

Have a great day -

That Tulsa feel

Right now, I'm listening to Gary Moyers' sing, and it's taking me right back to the Pavillion at Tulsa Workshop. (In case you don't know, Gary Moyers sang for Acapella during the height of my "Tulsa Days." One of God's best creation, that man's voice!!

We haven't been to Tulsa in several years, some of it financial, some the "tone" of the workshop itself. All the years we went, we begged Ray to go with us, and he never would. Now, he goes and even if he's alone, he enjoys it. Tulsa does that to people. The last time I went, I went without Andy, and said I wouldn't do that again. He says he has no desire to go back, so I may have to rethink that statement if I even want to return. I do miss it.

On another note, my girls and Liz are on their way as I write this, so if you don't hear from he for a day or two, that's why... can't wait to see how the girl handles me this trip. I find myself turning into a rather grabby Nana, and I know she may need some time to remember me and the setting in which she finds herself.

Well, I need to finish up around here before they arrive. Gregg and Roarke will remain in Houston, so we will miss them a lot, but I'm glad he consented to Erin and Liz coming!! China Garden, here we come!!

Much ado about nothing

First day of Spring Break, and it's been a slow, easy one. Watched a little "Sell This House" and got my fix, then made an early lunch for us. Sometimes I get these glimpses into the retirement years, and today has been one of those. I find it interesting that, at the age when I am most tired of cooking at all, I will be having to prepare two meals a day. This is not good!

However, I do find that the spending of days together reminds me of certain things; the man likes to share what he reads - so I hear a lot of information that otherwise I would have not known. Some good, some I could without. I read to him, though, so I guess it's a trade. Another item of interest is our lack of timing. We just don't always jive on what to do when. We will have to come up with a schedule or something to keep our sanity. He likes things when he likes them, and I can usually wait on things. I guess I should be happy that, after 32 years of marriage, things are still hopping around here, and he likes me with him.

Tonight, the Spurs, tomorrow, worship. A good weekend, all around!

Speechless

Working with dyslexic children can have its moments. Usually, the daily drudgery of reading takes all the fun out of class, no matter how hard I try to "spice things up" in our canned curriculum. It is serious business, not being able to read in school, and by 3rd or 4th grade, there's just not a lot to celebrate.

Add to that the mindset of my district that says every couple of weeks, we shut down the campus for hours at a time and put a novel in front of kids who struggle to see if they've made incremental progress since the last time we tortured them. (Do I sound angry yet?!) So, this week, while I was home throwing up from food poisoning, the latest Benchmark test was administered.

The great State of Texas allows dyslexic students to take a "bundled" test - Proper nouns, questions and answer choices are read aloud to the students, while they read the passages on their own.(4th graders who read on a 1st grade level, mind you.) There are three passages on each Benchmark, so the first two are covered on one day, the third on the next day. This is to cut down on the exhaustion factor of doing it all on one day. My experience has been that they work hard the first, not-so-hard the second because they know once it is finished, so are they.


So. Today my first group of 4th graders come in, and Joshua chirps up - "I know my Benchmark grade!" Now, Josh is quite a charmer; I think I've referred to him before. We get seated and as I gather my materials while not even looking at him say, "Yea - what is it?" He's a pretty smart kid, so I figured he passed, but was not prepared for his answer.

In my school, two teachers team together; one teaches Language Arts; the other, Math.

"My teacher says that out of the two classes in her team, I made the highest grade. I missed one."

I looked at him, speechless, trying not to cry. "Not even Will, the smartest kid in the 4th grade made as good as I did!" And I sat. The other two in the group kept staring at me, for I'm never without words. I wanted to hug that kid and let the tears fly, but I couldn't. It would have freaked him out, and I frankly don't think even I understood why it felt so good. We just locked eyes, and I said in my choked up voice, "Josh, I'm so really proud of you." He smiled his goofy grin, we started class, and that was it.

I just wish I could've seen his mom's face when he told her!!

There for a reason!!

Ugh - I've been throwing up since about 6:15 am - holding it down since about 4:30!

Last night, I was really munchy - you know, dig until you find SOMETHING munchy. Andy was on the computer, so I dig into the Ranch dip and chips. Tasted fine at the time. WRONG.

Feb. 5, 2009 was the expiration date. I looked, but didn't think that much time would make a difference. Now I know. Did get me out of giving a Benchmark test, though!

Ugh. I could never, ever be bullimic.

What a great surprise!

Our trip to Houston for the big LaMore family portrait setting was postponed, so we instead had a nice weekend at home, watching the Spurs win 2 of 2 and got caught up on some shows we had taped. Did some laundry, had a fellowship dinner with delicious food, and counted the days to Spring Break.

One neat thing - as worship was about to begin I felt someone walk up beside me, and it was my friend Cathy and her man Steve!! They live quite a way away - well, about 40 minutes - and she attends worship in the same little congregation we grew up in. She lost her husband a few years ago, and has been seeing Steve for a few months. I'd never met him, so that was cool! Anyway, she wanted to go someplace different yesterday, and decided to drop in on us!! It was great to see her, and I was tickled to tell her that we'd planned to NOT be there on that day!! We sat next to each other and sang hymns, just as we did hour upon hour in the swing of my front yard, on school buses on football trips, and at worship all our growing up years. It felt magical to me! We visited just a bit following worship, and they met some of the other members there - then it was time to go. Even the delicious invitation to join us for the dinner couldn't sway them. I hope they come back again very soon!!

So, while I didn't get a Liz fix this weekend, I was reminded of how marvelous the church is in keeping us swaddled in love!

Another late night conversation with God

Just what is it that we are to learn from prayer?

I've been praying about something for a long, long time, and the other night, I just asked God; "What is it you want me to learn from this prayer?!" I've offered this particular prayer up time and time again, and yet it appears not to be answered ( I know, perhaps the answer is "no"), there has to be a lesson I need to learn. Here are the scenerios I came up with at 2:30 am:

~ God wants me to be patient. (I think I have been more than patient!)
~ I need to know just how to ask to make the difference (I cannot imagine asking in any way that has not been covered before)
~ I am asking for selfish reasons (Maybe..., but I think not)
~ The answer is "not going to happen" (I cannot believe this is the case - I just can't)
~ I don't get the concept of God's timing.
~ Things just are not in place as He would like them to be.
~ Satan is wearing me down. Well, he can just forget that, because where this particular prayer is concerned, I will never quit. I will not give up. I will not accept the answer of "no".

~ maybe that is it. Maybe I've tried too hard to be control and not let Him have His way with the situation. For that, I need to repent.

But I won't give up!!

Delayed Gratification

After a long week which included giving the first round of TAKS, I was looking forward to a quick trip to Houston to see my favorite daughters, son and baby girl. Well, as plans go, ours changed, so now our weekend is "free." Due to a last-minute change, the reason for our trip was put off to the end of Spring Break. It's really fine, since the girls are planning on coming over for a few days during SB, but I needed a fix now. Oh, well....

So glad the week is over. Somewhere, the powers that be decided to track the kids' progress by Benchmark testing every so often. That is fine, we have adjusted. My problem comes when they are given the week of the state test; when stress levels and energy are both at extremes. Tuesday, the writing TAKS, followed today and tomorrow by reading Benchmarks in 2nd grade, and next Tuesday by Reading at Elementary. We do get free cinnamon rolls, though....

So, as you get ready for your weekend, enjoy. Take a break and breathe in the air of these cool, almost Spring mornings. I am!

Babies past and present

Elizabeth is such a blessing to our family, and has added so much to our lives already that it's hard to remember that the news of a baby isn't always the most welcome. Just the past couple of days, I've been reminded of that...

.. a co-worker informed me today that her engaged son is having a baby. She says she is thrilled; I'm sure she is, but I really feel like marriage needs time to "take" before bringing in the stress and financial demands of children. Too late....

.. a college friend today emailed us and let us know he's "found" his daughter given up long ago. Suddenly, I feel like I'm back in college with the news that he and a girl are expecting and how we supported him even though we were so very sad. Now, with a wonderful marriage and grown children and a grand-daughter, she is back in his life, and decisions of how and when to meet are being made.

I don't guess I really have a point to this, just thinking on paper. I do know that babies are hope and dreams and anticipation of a life full of promise. They each deserve a life full of love and care.

What's up?

I'm not sure what happened, but my posts are gone!! I'll have to get my "tech support" (the girls) to help me figure it out ... I hope they are retrievable!!

Whirlwind day at church; worship, followed by Blood Drive (Thanks to the Pursch care group for lunch!!), then Andy has an elders' meeting. Worship again, followed by dinner with the Kelleys to watch last Monday's "24" episode.

This time next week, we will be in Houston having family pictures taken. I got a couple of new blouses, and I hope they turn out!! I usually have squinty eyes during pictures, so I hope that doesn't happen this time!! I'll post a couple if they turn out!!

Happy Friday!

I have to share something funny from the world of teaching. The other day, my second grade group was enjoying the privilege of having a "day off" from our curriculum (translation: Mrs. LaMore was SICK of it!), and so they chose - with my help - Sight Word Bingo.

Now, they are sitting all around me at a kidney table, little chips in hand, earnestly searching their cards for the sight words I am calling out. Remember, these are kids that are dyslexic, so this is not without stress. It helps them to repeat it over and over until they find it. Anyway, as I call out the letter and word , "B - also", I notice that without realizing it, they are mimicing my tone and rhythmn! All 4, in perfect tone and inflection! So, I begin to have some fun with it, varying my delivery each time, and watching them - heads down, chip in hand, seriously chanting whatever and however I said! It was so funny - it almost is scary the power I had over them at that minute!!

Times like that make it worth going every day!!

Two for one!!

Some days, I have nothing to post.... now, today there are two things I want to share.

First - an ominous sign of the times as I drove to school - the oak leaves are YELLOW! To those not familiar with what that entails, it means that the new leaves are about to push off the old "live oak" leaves and hit the ground. The beauty of a live oak is in it's having leaves all year, but when those old, 300 year and more trees lose leaves, it's a "rainstorm." The bad part, aside from those who have them having to rake them and put them somewhere, is the havoc they cause with allergies. Yep. I'm one of them. Even though we do not have one in our yard, my little town is covered in them, and they share their pollen with me graciously. Great.

Second - last night, I was "Crying-tired." I know myself, and when I feel like I did last night, the best thing is to just rest. I know, I missed class and all the fellowship, but you did not want to be around me. It's been a long week, and I wanted nothing to do with being social, so Andy went on without me. I slept from 4:45 - 5:45, 7:45 - 11:20 on the couch, and until 6:30 this morning in my room.

I feel better.

What a night!!

I'm really, really tired today, but it is very worth it!! Last night we had our first gathering of our new Secret Sisters' Fellowship, and I was pleased beyond words at the atmosphere and turnout!! Out of 32 signed up, we had all but 6, which I think is awesome!! Our youngest, Mikenna, was there and we had ladies well past their 9th decade!! So much good food, laughter, a few tears of sweetness, and even a song!

I have to say, I expected MAYBE 15 to 18 ladies, but God has really used this fellowship to bring together a group so mixed I never could have imagined. Some sat quietly in the corner, some flitted around and visited, a couple of new ladies sat with an "oldtimer" to figure out who was who, and in no time, it was done. One lady who never does "Ladies" Things" was there and had a blast! Darla and Linda's idea about the children's bags added a touch of service to our group - Thanks, sisters!! I can only expect this to grow and flourish as the months go by.

As I said in my prayer to start us off - God knew so well how we need each other. Last night was proof positive to all!!

Worshipping with allergies

Yesterday, I could not sing at worship. Ugh - but I found a way to worship without my voice; I just let others around me do it for me! I sat next to a man I've never sat next to in the morning, and WOW - can he sing!! Amazing what you hear when your own voice is silenced! Later that evening, I sat in front of sweet Howard, and heard him sing with all his might, "My eyes are dry, my face is cold..." strong and full of passion. I love to hear him sing. 94 years, and still going. I can always hear Alice, Jackie, Rick and Mary Beth, Jamie and a few others. They lift up the words I am not able to put sound to for fear of disrupting those around me with coughing.
While it's not the optimum way to go, at least I am there, being edified by my brothers and sisters.

Sure beats staying home all by myself!!

Today's List

Every morning, while I eat my cereal, I look to the front section of the San Antonio newspaper to see "the list." Each day, it's something new; often mundane, sometimes really interesting, rarely upsetting. Until today.

The bold print said: America's top 10 heroes. I'll let you guess who was #1.

Obama. Based, it said, on a survey of U.S. adults asked who they admire enough to call heroes.

The criteria for choices?? Doing what's right, regardless of the personal consequences, Not giving up until the goal is accomplished, doing more than what other people expect of them, overcoming adversity, and staying level-headed in a crisis. 2,634 adults responded. Here are the other 9 of the list:

2. Jesus Christ
3. Martin Luther King
4. Ronald Reagan
5. George W. Bush
6. Abraham Lincoln
7. John McCain
8. John F. Kennedy
9. Chesley Sullengerger (airplane pilot who landed safely in the Hudson river.)
10. Mother Teresa

Now, a co-worker told me that I should be happy that Jesus was even included. Sad, but I guess true, considering our population today. All I can say is,

Obama - #1?? Oh, my....

Not a good time to feel like this!

For the past couple of weeks, I have really been wanting to spend money. We live by a Dave Ramsey budget at our house, which means I have my "blow money" each month to do with as I please, and usually I have some to move to the stash I have put away for a trip with the man of my life. Not this month, though.

I keep thinking of things I want to spend money on, and most of them are not necessities. I would like to get some foo-foo for the house, you know - just to liven things up a bit. And I want to shop for my girls and Liz, too. It's just not a good time!!

A few more months, and our budget will have more room in it - then, I'm hoping for a raise in the Blow Money portion. Until then, I will content myself with some small goodies to push down the cravings!!

A losing battle?

I've taughts lots and lots of kids over the years, and for the most part, they were kids who had difficulty learning. Some were due to mothers who abused substances while pregnant, some had low IQs, some were from families where education and genetics combined left little to work with. It's always been a challenge, but never as much as working with the kids I have now.

Dyslexia is a mean booger. You are intelligent enough to know you should know those words, and yet they stump you day in and day out. No matter how hard you look at those combinations, they just don't come together easily. I have a few students this year that look like it hurts them to decode simple, 3 or 4 letter words, and it frustrates me as well as it does them. I would love to be able to "cure" them, but all I can do right now is give them the tools they need and hope they can internalize them eventually.

Thankfully, I am at an age where I have more patience with these kids than I ever have. My heart hurts for their struggles and I try every day to make it as painless as possible. Will I make a difference in the long run - I have to believe I will, so I'd just pack up my stuff and give it to someone else. For now, though, I'm giving it all I've got.

Will wonders never cease?!?

Wow - I hope this is a vision of retirement to come - Andy is cooking dinner!!

Now, my husband is wonderful; he does more than his fair share of chores around here, but cooking is NOT one of them. I've teased him that he will starve to death not long after I go, if I go first. He just does not like to cook, period.

So, he has off today, while I go to school, and when I come home, he is all ready to put it in the oven. The menu - oven-fried chicken, brocolli rice, veggies, and tapioca with strawberries!! Can't wait!!

I'll let you know how it tastes tomorrow!!

Ta-da!

Well, yesterday went just fine. I took my sedation pill and drove straight over to the dentist's office. As I sat there, waiting for it to kick in, I watch as all these little children go walking in happily, unaware that the old lady sitting in her car is terrified to face something they go about routinely.

Just as it is time for the appointment, with my eyes starting to fuzz, I walk in. The receptionist immediately reaches under the counter and pulls out Jackie's I-Pod. We all chuckle, I offer a prayer of thanks, and down I sit.

Not 5 minutes. Didn't even have time to pick up a magazine, and they call me in. I don't know if it was my good timing or their determination to get me in the chair quick, before I change my mind. I'm walked in to the area and am introduced to Dawn, the exocutioner of the day... well, maybe not. She actually is nice. Firm, but nice.

As I attempt to put the earplugs in, after all Dawn's instructions and explainations of the events to occur, the things won't stay in. Now, here are two women in their 50's trying to figure out how to get the darn things in so we can begin. I'm fully sedated by now, but the failure of the earplugs is starting to stress me out anyway. Finally, I ask for tape. Yep, scotch tape. Earplugs firmly taped to my head, we can begin. Don't ask me what I listened to, the drugs erased all memory.

Soon, painlessly, it was over. The dear Dr. came in to give me the run-down on what's next, and Andy takes me home. I'm in bed by 7:30 and up as usual at 6:30 this morning. He hates how I conk out, but I'm getting it done.

I only have about 6 more appointments before I can say I'm caught up. All in all, I don't think it's that bad. Not bad at all for a phobic!!!

Facing one's demons

Here it is, the middle of February, and so far, I have kept my one New Year's resolution. Knowing myself, I knew better than to make certain ones, but because of the past couple of months, I had to do this one; I am getting my teeth taken care of.

Now, I don't want to say anything to make you think "Oh, Gross!", but let's just say there is plenty to do to get things how they need to be. I have neglected things that now come to haunt me, and at the ripe old age of 54, it's time.

The big hurdle for me is that I'm angry at myself. Every day of our married life, I've watched as Andy was obsessive about his dental hygiene, and yet I let lots of time go by without dealing with it.

But, appointment by appointment, we will get it done. I have some dental insurance, which will help, but that is the only bright spot I can think of. I go again today - 3 appointments in a row since New Years' - and my palms are already sweating. Thank goodness for Jackie's I-Pod and sedation pills!

So - if you think about it, send up a prayer about 3:00.

I'm going to do this!!

A Happy Mom

Dana's coming in for the weekend, and it's all I can do to wait two more days!! We saw a lot of each other over the holidays, and we talk daily - sometimes more, sometimes less. But there is nothing as sweet as having her here. When she was growing up, I dreaded these days, of she and Erin being gone from my daily life, and I watched those days approach and arrive before I was ready. But since I am not able to manipulate time as they do on "Heros" or "Lost", I just have to take each day and enjoy them in whatever means I have them. Don't like it, but that is where I am.

So, anyway, Dana's coming in for the weekend, and I plan to soak in every moment of her sweet and tender spirit. I'll share her with her friends for an evening or so, but the majority of the time, she'll be hanging out with old Dad and me. We may even take her to eat for a belated birthday celebration!!

Hurry, Friday!!

Night-time problem...

At night, when I'm up all by myself going to the bathroom, I have the BEST ideas for posts!!! By morning, they're all gone.

I'm either going to need a pad and pencil above the toilet or move the computer in there!!

Friday, at last

This has been a long week; sore throat with no voice makes for a very long school day, and a new student feeling the reins on top of it. I instantly love some of these kids, but not so much this one. I think it is because I feel he disrupts the dynamic of the class and the other boys DO NOT like him. My fear is that they are reacting to my feelings, and that is not fair. I hope to dismiss him soon....

I never was the "new kid." I lived in the same house and went to school with the same classmates all my life. It was a very safe life, and I so wanted that for my girls. Andy and I made the concious decision not to move again after the move back home, as I wanted the girls to have that same constantcy of life that we both had. Imagine how I felt when, one day Erin's senior year she announced, "Man, I never got to be the NEW GIRL!" I think my face just froze - one of those moments I alluded to last post that I thought so one way and they felt the total opposite!!

Have a good weekend!!

My turn

My girls have each done this, so I think I'll give it a try:

25 Things about me

1. I am a 6 generation member of the Church of Christ. A great heritage from a loving family of Christians.

2. I knew I was in love with Andrew the first time he kissed me. I still love his kisses!

3. The day I left Huntsville was the saddest day of my life. Well, Smudge dying is right up there!

4. I am phobic of dentists - no matter how gentle they are, I am beyond scared.

5. Building my home was my dream come true. For years and years, while other girls read 16 and Teen, I was pouring over 1200 Houseplans and the like. I looked in every house I could in every town I lived in. Once I built my home, that need was gone. I never want to see anyone else live in it.

6. Mountains are my favorite place to be... the feel of them and the sight of rain clouds coming over them takes my breath away!

7. My mom was really a good mom - she lay in the grass with us and looked at clouds, and told us there was life outside Poteet, Texas. Anything we wanted, she found a way for us to have it, and I'm finally realizing that I had a really happy childhood.

8. Tulsa Workshop opened my eyes to the beauty of raising hands in praise. I miss doing it!

9. Cheese enchiladas covered in chili and cheese are my favorite food.

10. I love being with little children. Teaching is just an avenue to influence their lives.

11. I was one of those Beatle fans who sat and cried while others screamed full blast.

12. My grandmother Inez and my mother in law are two of my role models. Amazing women, both.

13. I didn't get my ears pierced until I was in my 30s. We went to the mall, and I couldn't chicken out because Dana, Erin and Stephanie (my neice) were watching me. It grossed me out to hear it going through my skin!

14. If I were a man, I'd be a worship leader. As it is, I just sing loudly.

15. Jackie Hutton makes me laugh when no one else can.

16. I've found out that what I thought was important and a big deal to the girls is not what they remember and reminisce about.

17. I wish I'd had more babies.

18. I would love to kiss Nicholas Cage!

19. If mom had had her way, and I'd ended up with John P., I'd be an old hippie living in a commune somewhere in South America. I would like to know what he's up to, though!

20. The years I stayed home with my girls were the best of my life. They were also the poorest, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

21. I hate my hair. Always have.

22. I used to be a voracious reader, but lost it when my thyroid messed up and I couldn't stay awake to read. I hope to rekindle it someday!

23. I would love to learn to play the violin.

24. I was with my dad an hour before he died, and he opened his eyes (for the first time in a month) and smiled at me. It was wonderful!!

25. I love my cousins. They remind me of my childhood and they keep me real. I would love to be with them more.


I know I will think of more later, but this is off the cuff. I'm sure it's not anything you didn't already know, but it was fun to reflect.

Next?!?

Exceeded expectations

Maybe I didn't have faith... maybe I didn't want to be disappointed. But, my sisters exceeded my goal, so we are off and running!!

I had said that I would do "Secret Sisters" again if I had enough interest. Following the lead of a great example in the Bible, I said, if there were as few as 12, I would do it. Just like Lot bargained with God to save Nineveh, I set to bar. I wanted to do it, but sometimes, well - the interest just isn't there.

Once I saw I had my 12 (including myself!), I set the meeting and ran off 25 copies of the information sheet. Well, I'm happy to say, Andy had to go run more off!! I was so happy to see all those ladies coming my way, it pumped me up all over!! We are only meeting until May, and we have a good cross-section of the congregation, so I am very happy! Of course, there are a couple who changed their minds for reasons of their own, and still a few more I wish were involved, but I am more than happy for the turnout!!

Now, let's start the fun!!

January 30, 1980

When Andy and I married, I was ready right away to have a baby. Not him; he wanted some time to be together, to work out bugs and "know" each other. So - I waited. Almost 4 years passed before we had Dana Elizabeth - 8 lbs.7 oz. 21 inches.
I wish I could show you a picture of what a beautiful, plump, perfect baby she was, but I will just let you imagine her!

I was in labor a long, long - long, time 21 hours, and toward the end of it, I was given demerol to relax me and allow me to rest. Unfortunately, the nurse who gave it to me didn't write it down, so when the shift came, the new nurse came in and gave me another dose. We questioned her, but she convinced us that I was to get it then. It not only relaxed me, but Dana as well - so much they would not let her sleep after she was born for fear she would not wake up. I was put to bed with no idea, and Andy went home to get some rest. Later, we learned some friends from church stood at the nursery window all night, watching over her. Thankfully, all turned out well, but it's pretty sobering to sit with your four month old sleeping in your arms with electrodes all over her head while they do a brain scan.

My Dana - Happy Birthday!! My birthday wish for you is that this 29th year will bring answered prayers on many levels for you, and that you breathe in the beauty of your life each and every day. You are such a blessing to Dad, Erin and Gregg, Liz, and me.

Mom

Finally, broadband arrives!

well, after years of dial-up, we are enjoying the wonders of broadband internet here at the house! Thanks to Karnes Electric, we are signed up and going strong. I can even talk and surf at the same time!! It is a beauty to behold....

We have a new family at church. All those summers ago, when so many folks left for various reason, I didn't think we'd ever build back up. It's not totally back up to where we were, but we're getting there. God is good.

A long day of Benchmark testing today; keeping kids still and quiet all day is not my idea of fun, but I did have it easy. One really cool little boy who was well behaved. After sitting all morning, we walked slowly back to the Alamo for the rest of the testing. I sat on a bench and timed him while he walked backwards, hopped and ran some energy off. By the time I was through with him, he was panting pretty hard, and gladly sat still for the rest of the testing period!!

Am I good, or what?!?

Dentists, Aggies, Spurs and showers, oh my!!

Getting up this morning was hard!! It was a busy, hectic weekend, and I usually protect my Sunday afternoons for rest!! After a quiet lunch, Andrew and I usually settle in to nap and read the paper; but there was little time for that this past weekend...

Friday, I sucked it up and went to the dentist. The good news is, I did it - the bad news is, I have to do it again and again and AGAIN until I repair all the neglect of my teeth. It told him I was mad at him because he did not put my buddy - nitrous oxide- in his new office!! He assures me the little pills he gave me will be better, but I'll see. The next trial is set for Friday - a wisdom tooth. The best part of the day was dinner and games at the Huttons....

Saturday was okay. Not a lot of drama. But Sunday made up for it.

The Aggies for Christ were in town, so we had a big luncheon for them, combined with January birthdays. A good crowd in attendance, and delicious food. Sunday afternoon, I made brownies for the shower and watched my Spurs lose big time to the Lakers - of all people - on network tv. My boys looked bad!! Then, we had worship and the shower. It was nicely attended as well - we were afraid of having two fellowships in one day, but it was great! They had some family come in, and I think they were pleased with how it all turned out. Katherine made a yummy cake, and we had some to bring home; I'll enjoy it tonight during "24".

Now, I start another week of little ones. They crack me up and make the day go by fast!!
As I wrote letters on Justin's back this morning, he giggled and wiggled because he's so ticklish!! What a job I have!

GRRRR

I really try not to use the word "hate" very often, but I HATE when simple, easy things turn into a big deal!! If people would just do things my way, it would be a lot simpler around here!!

GRRR!

Obligatory topic

I would guess that every person who posts to a blog today will address the Inauguration of President Obama, so I'll join in....

This would not be the first President that I have seen sworn in whom I did not vote for. I remember two Clinton swearing-ins that made my stomach turn, and a couple more before him. I've also voted Democrat and been glad they won (at the time.) I've also lived in the 60s.

I think that alone - the remembering the racial violence and ridiculous days of that decade - make today do-able for me. I never, ever want to see our nation torn apart like that again, with the fear of who was going to be assassinated next on everyone's mind. It was worse that 9-11 in that we were doing it to ourselves.

If he can do something to inspire families and men to take responsibility for their families and pride in working to make something of themselves, then he will convert me over to a supporter.

Until then, I'm skeptical. He will be my President, and I hope no harm comes to him or his family, but my fears of what else he will push forward keep me at bay.

So, here's to you, Barak. I'll bet George is more than ready to give the whole mess over to you and get back on Texas soil. I would be. There's nothing worse than giving it your best and being beat down for it.

May God continue to bless this land.

An internet drought

Well, we won't have internet at home until Jan. 26. You can only play Hearts or Spider Solitaire so many times....

Andy has been forwarding my AOL emails to me at school, because I can't access it there. Most of it is trash or forwards, but every now and then, I get a jewel. I appreciate his keeping me posted. I think it will be wonderful to be back on line at home again, but I am reminded that there was life before email.

Have a nice, long weekend, and I'll see you on Monday!!

54 and counting

Well. 54 has come and reared it's ugly head in my life. I told Dana that while it doesn't "sound" old to me, 55 does. I hope it doesn't go too fast!!

Went to a wedding the other day, and sat with a friend I met when I was 6 years old. We have been through all of life's scenarios: teen years, falling in love and marriage, my children, her widowhood... you get the picture. At one point, we were estranged due to some bad decisions on both our parts, but we overcame that and stay in touch. She is now in love again, and we are facing our retirement years with anticipation. Most of all, we have our common Lord. When He is the basis of a friendship, it is the best. I hope we both have many years to come.

Andy brought me roses on my birthday. Love does get better as it grows....

Yes!!

Well, we bit the bullet and got our new computer, which meant it was time. We've joined the high-speed world of the internet!! Finally, we are eligible to get service through our Electric Cooperative, and while we won't be hooked up for a week or so, it just feels great to know that, at last, dial-up is in our past!! (Jackie always said she had time to put in laundry while it chugged and spun and finally loaded!!) Well, soon.

That means I will need a new email provider, because I don't want to type the long address. It's a hassle to let everyone know, but I think it will be well worth it. Any suggestions as to a provider; hotmail, yahoo, gmail., etc.? AOL has been good, but we can't get highspeed through them. Besides, they are too expensive.

So, for now, I'm not blogging at home. I'll try to keep you posted elsewhere. Have a marvelous weekend!!

Welcome Back to School!

All right, so I had two weeks off. I worked hard in college to earn that break, and believe me, I used it to the hilt. The first few days were fast and furious with Christmas still to come, but the second week was nice and quiet. I would have liked a little colder weather so I could justify a fire, but it was not to be. Andy and I went out and bought ourselves a computer, ta-da!! He's been wanting one for a long, long time, but I was putting it off in case something happened and we needed that money. Well, I gave in when I saw the sales, and he is a happy camper. It IS nice, and much faster, even though we are still on dial-up.

So today, when I get to school, I learn that one of our students lost his father. Late 30s, in the high mountain altitude, he died of complications from pneumonia. A pulmonary-embolism or something like that. So sad. To top it off, it happened on his son's birthday, two days after Christmas!! I didn't know the man, but am saddened for his family.

As I get back into the routine of school, I am reminded just how fast each semester goes. Some say the first part of school is quicker due to the holidays, but the Spring just slips by. In no time, we will be at Spring Break, and then once TAKS is behind us, summer looms. Not that I want my life to fly by - just my career!! My 4th graders will go to PIC, and I will miss them, but I know the kids I will have next year, and will be glad to have most of back. I find myself settled nicely in this new position and feel it lends itself to a more relaxed me. Let's hope it lasts!!

Well, I've rambled enough. Have a great day!

Happy January 1st

Someone on the radio yesterday said, "I am so glad this year is over - it was a horrible year!"

How can you look back over a year of your life, and proclaim it "Horrible?" I will say, 1990-91 was a low point; my dad died and it was the worst year of my teaching career, but I won't say the whole year was horrible. That is the year I met Mary Beth, who became a dear friend and sister in Christ, and I learned things about myself that were necessary to get me through the traumas that hit me. Not bad things at all.

This past year is one with good memories to recall. Following several medical proceedures the previous year, I was healthy and blessed with good reports as follow-ups. I began a new teaching assignment in the fall which has renewed my confidence in my career and introduced me to new co-workers who are very supportive and appreciative of my efforts. I grew in my love and appreciation of my husband, and my daughters developed into more wonderful, Christ-filled women before my eyes. And, oh yes, Elizabeth was born. So, all in all, not a bad 2008.

I look forward to this year on many fronts. I see retirement nearing and our financial status improving. I know that God is going to continue to watch over me and mine, and that His ways will bless us.

So, I wish for you good memories of the past year, and hope for good things ahead. Watch for happiness, and choose to see the good in each day. Look into the eyes of a child and find love and excitement. Sing.

Christmas re-hashed

What a wonderful week of memories --- I hope you all had the same warm and happy time with friends and family that I've had; I'll hit the high points...





My week off was hectic with finishing shopping and wrapping gifts and heading to Houston. We arrived after lunch on Wed., and Liz was not too sure about who these people were grabbing her. It took a bit for her to warm up again, but I was patient. After all, it had been a couple of weeks since we'd been there, and that's a long time in baby time. We went to Christmas Eve service with the kids, and enjoyed the beautiful singing. Just glorious, 4 part harmonious voices, recalling the Saviour's birth. Then, we headed over to Mom and Dad's, and enjoyed some time of refreshment and visiting.





Christmas Morning!! Dana spent the night with us at the Johnson home, and we had a wonderful time. Liz took it all in, even posing for a "few" pictures, and we all stayed in our jammies quite a while. About 3, we headed over to Albert's for a wonderful dinner and gift-card exchange. The highlight was being splashed with greenbean casserole as Albert carried it to the table in one of the flimsy alumunium pans. Not too bad, and still had plenty to serve!! After the festivities, we went back to Erin's and played more Wii. Santa did good with that gift!!





We came home on Friday, and went to rehersal for a wedding that Andy was officiating. His first, he did wonderfully!! I was so proud of him - he's awfully handsome in a suit with a red rose boutineer!! The Johnson's left Sunday afternoon - Gregg is sick. He has developed Walking Pneumonia and their plans for Dallas got changed. Later....

Anyway. For me, one of the highlights was watching Liz lie on the table and kick and grin and coo; I have to wonder, does the all-encompassing love I have for that baby girl as I look into her dark, full eyes come even minutely close to the love God has for me when He sees me seek His face?
I am so overwhelmed with love and wonder at this child, as I was with her mother and her aunt at that age, that I feel my heart and mind just overfilling with emotion. It's at that moment, when I "Get It." That love that knows no boundaries, that would give whatever I needed to give to secure the safety and redemption of that baby. What my Father sees in me. And in us all -

Pure love.

Huntsville on my mind

Lately, I've been thinking about Huntsville a lot. It's where Andy and I met, married, had Dana, and lived very happily for about 10 years. Our dear friends, the Tissues, were a big part of our happiness, as was the congregation where we worshipped. I've often said leaving Huntsville was one of the saddest days of my life. And lately, I want to go back and visit - to see the campus of our youth (I don't know if I could manuever the hills or not!), to attend worship with the saints there, and to feel and see the beauty of East Texas.

I think the reason for my yearning is Liz. This part of Erin and Gregg's life takes me back there - before we knew that life can be hard, and dreamed big dreams - some of which have come true, but not all. It was a sweet time for us, and I'd like to renew that feeling, if just for a few days....

Most of the people we knew there are no longer there; some from moving, but most from passing from this life to the next. The Lasaters, Bro. Kramer, Faye Lassiter, Betty Waldron and more. They played a role in our life of example, caring and faithfulness. The Tissues have moved on in their life as well, and driving through the old neighborhood makes me sad, but also brings back sweet, sweet memories of when my babies were young and we thought our whole life was still ahead of us.

Long ago, we said we would return there to live at retirement, but I don't think that will happen. Our life is here, now, and I imagine we will stay. But sometimes, lately, I sure miss Huntsville!!

Funny quote of the day

Since I haven't had but a few kids today, I have to borrow a quote from another person on campus....

"Mrs. P, what do you want for Christmas?"

"What I want is for you to go all week without getting a signature in your planner." (Discipline method used to communicate with parents.)

Moments pass while he considers this probability.

"What else would you like?!?"


And that's how it goes this time of year.


Happy Day!!

Well, the semester ends tomorrow. I have a few students strolling in and out - the kids at Primary are being treated to "The Polar Express" at the local theatre, and so I am having an easy day here. Elementary will be my regular groups, except one class will be out on a field trip. YIPPEE - it's the class that gives me a headache every single day. They aren't bad boys - they are just LOUD when they talk. I really don't think they mean to be, because as soon as I close my eyes, their volumn goes down!!

I'm really looking forward to the break, however it is filling up with only one day before Christmas not booked with errands or invitations somewhere. After the big day, and Lindsey's wedding, the week following should be nice and quiet. Someday, I want to go somewhere snow-filled for that week!!

Have a wonderful, Christmascy day!!

Even though I get "offended" when a child asks me if I am, or have ever been, a "real teacher," it's days like today that I am glad that I am not. My students are all at an assembly, so I get to catch up on other things or relax before they return. While I do miss the excitement of parties (not the mayhem, just the excitement), and never cash in on the load of gifts (candles, socks, and lots of cheap perfume!), I don't miss the long, long days of the week before Christmas. I get to see the children in small doses, and listen to the wishes and dreams when they come, my routine is much calmer these days. And best of all, I still get the two weeks' vacation!!

I like my job!!

Grace Received in Large Measure

We always talk about the grace we receive from God, and it is a wonderful concept, but sometimes I have felt it is a little abstract for my comprehension. Not after today, because I received it in human form when I should have been bludgeoned, scorned, yelled at... you get the idea. I will try to make it a short version.

We are doing these tests called Benchmarks, where I take my students in a small group to another room and read the questions and answer choices to them. Today was Math, and we were testing along, when one of my students said he needed a Hundred's chart. None to be found, I told him just to try another method to solve the problem. He asked me to write the chart on the board, so I did; but only to 50 as that was all he needed. Fine; he solves his problem, we continue, and they finished the test.
About an hour after my writing the numbers, the librarian comes in to get a teacher a laptop. I tell her that something is wrong, that the board would not erase. Now, this is a white board on rollers, and I was SURE I had used a dry-erase marker to write with. She turned and looked at the board, and her face went as white as the board itself. Her eyes bugged, and watered up, and she mumbled out, "That is not a dry-erase board. It is a, and called the name, which I have already forgotten, but it starts with a P." I could tell I really had messed up. I told her I would pay to clean it, or replace it or whatever, that it was truly and accident. That is when she told me that it costs $4,000 and has never been used. It works with a computer and uses a specific pen to write with. Then, she left the room. I felt like throwing up, and my little boys were suddenly very quiet.
"Miss, we will bring money to help you."
"We will help you pay for it."
"Are you going to have money left for food?"

Next, the door opened, and the principal walked in. She stopped beside me and just looked at the board. Then, she patted my shoulder, and smiled. "Don't worry, Amy. It is a thing, and things can be replaced. We will call the company and see what they say to clean it. Don't feel bad." DON'T FEEL BAD??? My stomach by now is way up in my throat, and I'm wondering how Andy is going to take this news. She leaves the room, and I want to vomit, but I've got to sit with the little boys and try to control them when all I want to do is cry big, wet, loud tears. $4000. (One boy asked me if I made that much in a year....)

Eventually, a couple of ladies came in. They had talked to the company who told them to get it off AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I did not volunteer that it had, by now, been about 2 hours. She had baby wipes and cleaner for dry-erase boards. Very timidly, with all our eyes focused on her arm and the boys crossing every body part they could, she sprayed on the first number and wiped.

It worked. Praise God. It worked. She had to wipe and wipe, and the principal came in to see, and the boys were sent back to their rooms. I sat there a bit, knowing that today, I am the talk of the campus.

The principal is going to post a sign on the corner of the board now, explaining that it is not to be written on, just in case.

Grace. So appreciated this day.

Give a kid a color...

I love to color. I love to give kids a crayon and turn them loose. They tell you all the things they probably shouldn't, and you gain a wealth of knowledge about them and their family.

Here's my favorite conversation overheard last week:

"Did you know that Santa gets his Good Kid and Bad Kid list from Jesus?"
"The list that says who gets toys at Christmas?"
"Yes - Santa and Jesus are best friends, so Jesus gives his list to Santa. That big book has all the names in it. That way he knows who to take toys to."

Go figure!!

Not my doings!

If you've noticed the picture of Liz and me, and the links to the side of my post, you may think this old dog had learned some new computer skills. While I'd like to think I will someday by able to, I have to give the credit to these additions to Erin.

While we were in Houston to visit and support the Johnsons a while back, I asked her to add the links for me... and promptly forgot I'd asked. A nice surprise yesterday to find them there!! Thanks, Erin!!

Hope you have a good weekend. We are going to the Riverwalk with the church folk Saturday night, and then have the bi-monthly elders/wives' luncheon at the Evans' following morning worship. Translation - I don't have to cook all weekend!! Yippee !!

How time flies!

I can't believe I have not posted in almost a week! I thought I had, but now know that I was mistaken....

Coming back to school after a long break is not easy, especially when a longer one is looming in the near future! Teachers are spoiled, as I've said before, and we covet out time away. All jobs have their stress, but the only one I'll say is more stressful might be air traffic controller or soldier in Iraq. Children excited about Christmas and stressed-out administrators make life hard unless you can put it aside and just think about what is ahead; for me, it a first Christmas with Elizabeth!!

Erin has posted some wonderful newborn pictures they had taken; you can see them at http://www.johnson-junk-drawer.blogspot.com/ She is a most beautiful and serene young lady. To quote a frame I gave to Erin: She has her mother's beauty.

Now, to get ready for my next group -