Flying Solo

10 Reasons Why It's Good To Go To The Movies By Myself
(This list should take nothing away from how much I love to go to the movies with my family or friends. It's just good to go alone sometimes.)

1. I get there on time and don't have to wait for anybody in the lobby.
2. I get to choose the movie.
3. I get to choose whatever snack I want (usually Raisinets and Diet Coke).
4. I don't have to share said snack.
5. I can sit wherever I want.
6. I can laugh out loud and not worry about what anyone else thinks.
7. I can cry and not have to pretend that I'm not.
8. I don't have to explain anything about the plot to anyone.
9. I don't have to clean up any spilled snacks.
10. I get to soak it all in--the movie, the emotions, the solitude--without distraction.

10 Reasons Why It's Good To Go To The Movies With Kathy

1. We usually get there on time and since we ride together, I don't have to wait in the lobby.
2. She and I like the same movies.
3. We can go in together on a snack combo and save a little money.
4. She will share her Junior Mints if I ask.
5. We agree that anywhere but the far right side of the front row is an okay place to sit.
6. She doesn't mind when I laugh out loud.
7. She pretends not to notice when I cry.
8. Not only does she understand the plot, but makes witty comments about it.
9. I usually don't have to clean up any spilled snacks because she catches the spill in her purse. :)
10. I get to soak it all in with someone who is my favorite distraction.

So Many Posts, So Little Time

All weekend I have had posts formulating in my head. Everything I did seemed to have blog written all over it. Here are some of the things I have considered writing about. (Some of them may appear later this week as their own post.)

*My wonderful husband, who seeing the beginning of a mommy melt down, took the kids home from town so that I could go to the movies by myself. (This after his 50 hour work week, mind you. He's my hero.)

*Ocean's 13--the movie I watched by myself on Friday.

*The benefits of going to the movies by myself.

*Our family day Saturday driving around Beauty Bay looking for morel mushrooms and how much fun the boys had.

*How blessed we are to get to live in this beautiful place and the rich and famous only get to visit. (Unless, of course, they choose to live here.)

*The Ironman and how inspired I am by the athletes and the community that supports them.

*The fact that my youngest son now rides a two-wheeler without training wheels.

*How hard it is to consider selling our house when it's so perfect this time of year.

*How much I loved the movie "Bridge to Terabithia."

*My sister's wedding plans and how happy I am that she's happy.

*Adam saying, "It was so funny, I forgot to laugh about it!"

*That I now officially hold the record for saying, "Keep your hands to yourself," the most times in 10 minutes.

Let me know if anything sounds interesting. All these blogs and so many more are in my head just waiting to be shared. :)

Me and My Shadow

Yesterday was one of those days. One of those days when I was very much looking forward to a few minutes of peace wherever I could get it. So when my husband got home from work and told me that he was not going to Bible class (he's been working overtime and the long days keep him from doing much after work), I thought I might just get those few minutes. So I fed my family and got myself ready to go. I was just getting ready to walk out the door when Adam decided that he wanted to go with me. What am I going to say? No, you can't go to Bible class. I don't think so. So Adam, aka "My Shadow," quickly got ready to go with me. I knew that my plan had been changed. And I was right. He talked all...the way...to church. He asked questions that I knew he knew the answers to. He talked about what had happened that day. He talked about the things we passed on the way. He just talked. So much for peace. At church he went to his class and I went to mine. Ahh, 60 minutes of relative peace. I didn't have to get anybody milk. I didn't have to answer any silly questions. I didn't have to break up any fights. I enjoyed every second of it.

I had also planned to go to Home Depot to buy plants after class. So with Adam in tow, I went. He is very much interested in anything scientific and so was very excited to look at all the flowers and plants with me. The fact that I let him choose some to plant absolutely made his day. I asked his opinion and we discussed which would look good together. He was interested in everything and didn't get at all bored even though we were there for almost an hour. So this trip that I had intended to make solo turned into a very nice duet. I truly enjoyed shopping for plants with my youngest son.

On the way home, we talked about our trip to the store and he asked me why there were so many kinds of flowers. The teacher in me said, "Why do you think there are?" He said, "So that we have lots of pretty things to look at." Good answer. Then I told him that I thought God had a very good imagination to think up so many wonderful plants. "Yeah," he said, "He's a cool God." Yes he is. And not only because of the plants, but even more because of the people he gives us to share their beauty with. And the times that he helps us realize that moments of peace aren't always found alone.

Thought of the Day

The days are long...but the years are short.

Millie

Saturday was girl's night out. For a few years now, a bunch of us have bought summer theater tickets and Saturday was our first show. We all met at Applebee's for dinner. (I had garlic and asiago chicken. It was yummy. I wish I had some right now!) During dinner we passed around prom pictures and told stories. It was so much fun and a great way to learn something new about each other. After dinner we rushed to the theater. We were a little late, so by the time I dropped everyone at the door and parked, I barely made it before curtain. (Thanks, Kathy, for waiting for me!) The show was "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and it was great. It was well acted and funny and so entertaining. I love the story about how Millie wants to be "a modern" but finds out that deep down she's not so modern after all. Maybe I've seen too many plays, but I knew from the time she tripped Jimmy that they would fall in love. But it was fun to watch how the relationship progressed. They both fought it. He didn't want to be tied down. She didn't want to be poor. But fight as they may, love overcame--as it usually does. And then, guess what?! He was rich! (I knew that, too, about halfway through the play.) It was so much fun, as always. The company was the best. The show was great. The conversation was...well... interesting. (What happens at Applebee's...) Only a few weeks until the next show. I can hardly wait!

Who Needs the Maytag Man?

My refrigerator quit working. I noticed it about a week ago when the milk wasn't as cold as it should have been. We have a friend who is a refrigerator guy, so we called him. He told us to take everything out and leave the doors open to let it defrost, then see if it would work. And it did. For about 2 days. Then it happened again. So I called him back this morning and he said we needed to replace the defrost timer. Arrty is at work, so I began my search for the defective part. It is not shown in any of the paperwork that came with the fridge. So I went to the Frigidaire website. I found a picture of what the defrost timer looks like, but still no help on where to find it. Back and forth to the kitchen pulling off panels and searching. Then finally I went to Ask.com. "Where is the defrost timer on a refrigerator?" It took me to a page about do-it-yourself repairs and there it was. Not only did it tell me exactly where to find it, but how to take it off and replace it. In case you ever need to know, the defrost timer on a refrigerator is underneath the fridge on the left hand side. I removed it and am shortly on my way to get a replacement. I love it when I am able to do handy things like that. (But glad that I have a husband who usually does those things so that I don't have to.)

Pink

When walking by the "pink" toy aisle yesterday at Fred Meyer...

Josh: "Shield my eyes! Shield my eyes!"

Remembering

Last night I went to the basement in search of my prom pictures to take to girl's night out on Saturday. I knew about where they were. The first place I looked was with my Coeur d' Alene High School yearbooks (1987-1990). The pictures weren't there, but whenever I touch my yearbooks at least an hour of looking at pictures, reading notes, and reminiscing occurs. I was flipping through, smiling at the big hair of the 80's when I came across some newspaper clippings. They were from the CDA Press dated January 26, 2002. It was the story of Tory Kelsey. He was killed in a gun accident in California while serving in the Marines. I knew Tory. I was in choir with him and picked him up every morning at 6:45 to drive him to jazz choir class. Some mornings he was fully dressed, but most of the time he came out carrying shoes or a shirt or some other article of clothing. Tory was one of those kids who fit in with every group. Everyone loved him and his smile could light up a room. And he was cute. He came to CHS in our junior year and the first day he walked into choir class all the girls froze. We were used to choir geeks (no offense, I was one, too), so this boy who was absolutely cool and gorgeous was a breath of fresh air. And he could sing. Our choir concert audiences grew that year simply because there were so many more 16 year old girls coming just to see Tory. He was fun and funny and sweet and smart.

It's hard when you're 19 and someone your age dies. It is especially hard when that death was absolutely preventable. And it's even harder when the person who died could have changed the world. Our choir teacher called a bunch of us to sing at Tory's funeral. We gathered in our choir room at CHS for practice. I guess when you enter the military you kind of plan your funeral. Tory had chosen "Nights in White Satin" and "Old Irish Blessing" as the songs he wanted sung. So that's what we did. Through tears and shared memories we learned the songs. And later that week, we sang them at his funeral. The night before the funeral, a friend and I went to the viewing at the funeral home. There he was, lying in a casket in his Marine uniform. I kept expecting him to sit up and smile. But he didn't. I realized then that he was really gone. The funeral was hard. It always is I guess. But he was 19. He hadn't really lived. He never got married or had children or did all the things that I know he would have wanted to do. Tory is 19 forever.

Also with the newspaper clippings, I found a copy of a letter he had written to our choir teacher. Here is what he wrote in closing his letter to her.

But one last thing I've learned. Music is the last form of magic man has to himself. Think about it. Nature makes music: birds, insects, animals, waterfalls, rain, thunder, whales, and just life in general. Music holds the key to peace, especially in one's own soul. You, ma'am, are a magician and teacher of magic. You teach the children and they learn the beauty. Music can make us happy, sad, strong and invincible or cowardly, depending on how it is played. That is powerful magic. Teach on and change the world.

Irish Blessing and Love,
Tory L. Kelsey
LCpl./USMC
Tenor

Tory,
May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. The sun shine warm upon your face. The rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Love,
Jen

Trading Places

Josh had a dentist appointment today. He was getting two sealants on his permanent molars. The dentist says he really needs to have his teeth sealed because they are "groovy." I love that my son has "groovy" teeth. :) But also, his left top front tooth, which had fallen out at least six weeks ago, hadn't come through yet so the dentist wanted to make an incision so that it could catch up with the other front tooth. When we found this out a few weeks ago at his check up, I was a little nervous at the prospect of the incision and always said "incision" instead of "cut" to keep Josh calm about it. But of course after a few days, he asked me what exactly they were going to do to him. I told him that they were going to cut his gum so that the tooth could come through and he was a little nervous, but didn't make a big deal about it.

Today he was such a trooper and didn't make a fuss at all during the sealants, the numbing, or the incision. The only way I knew that he was at all concerned was that he asked me to stay in the room with him. Usually he is good staying by himself. But all I could think of as my baby sat there with the dentist cutting his gum, was that if I could take his place, I would. He felt no pain. He wasn't even all that scared. But the mommy in me wanted to protect him from even the least bit of discomfort. Even if that meant that I had to go through it. I honestly think that it was harder for me than for him. When he was finished, all he wanted to know was when the numbness would go away so he could eat lunch. And he even said thank you to the dentist as we left. What a kid.

(He is fine, had raviolis for lunch, and hasn't said a word about his tooth.)

Grease Is The Word

I was flipping channels this weekend when I saw that "Grease" was showing on VH1. Whenever I see it on tv, I have to watch it (even though it sits on the shelf as part of my video collection). The scene I happened upon was the dance at Rydell High that is being broadcast on television. There is a part where the kids are doing a dance that has the boys in one line and the girls in one line and the couples, one at a time, dance between them before taking their places back at the end of the line. All of a sudden, watching this scene, made me remember a dance that I had been a part of in high school. The only school dance I went to was my senior prom. But as a member of jazz choir, I once performed at a benefit dance and after the performance we stayed and danced. I don't even remember where it was or what it was for, but I remember dancing down the line just as the Rydell students were doing. I remember who I danced with and can see it in my head like it was yesterday. I remember having such a good time and being happy and laughing with my friends. Isn't it funny how the brain works? I hadn't thought about that night in such a long time. But I'm so glad that the memory was triggered by Danny and Sandy.

Jazz choir was one of my favorite high school experiences. I loved my teacher and still count her as a great blessing in my life. I loved the music. It was always so much fun to sing those great jazzy tunes. I loved my choir mates. Being such a small group, we got to know each other and were friends in and out of class. I loved being part of the select group of students. We had to audition and being chosen my junior year was quite a boost for my self esteem. And I love the memories of traveling to performances and competitions. Especially the memory of singing for our supper at Pizza Hut on one such trip. I don't think I would want to be in high school again, but if I could just go to choir class and skip p.e. and geometry, I would at least consider it. :)

Stalling

My children are stallers. They are experts at avoiding actually falling asleep at bedtime. Trips to the bathroom, drinks, forgotten stuffed animals in the living room, funny stories they forgot to tell me, being too warm, being too cool, messed up blankets, toenails that need to be cut, backs that need to be scratched, questions that can't wait until morning. All these and more come up each night to postpone falling asleep. And sitting here, I just realized where they get it. From me! I should be doing one of at least 100 things on my to do list, yet here I sit telling you all the things that I should be doing instead of actually doing any of them. Today's priorities are cleaning the house, doing laundry, typing Grace Notes, and making a grocery list. So, instead of going into great detail about the most effective way to disinfect a bathroom used by two little boys, I will go now and get my gas mask and rubber gloves and dive right in. (Figuratively speaking, of course.) Wish me luck!

Done

Okay, I'm back. Since my last post I have finished the school year. The last few days are very busy which is why I haven't posted for the last week. Monday was kindergarten graduation rehearsal, graduation preparations, our school's night at Triple Play, and swim lessons for the boys. Tuesday was more graduation practice, decorating for the reception, picking up the cakes, the graduation ceremony, the reception, and finishing report cards, awards, and thank you cards. Wednesday was our last day with awards presentations and lunch with the staff. Today, I went to school and cleaned my room, did book inventory, and completed my students files. So now, here I sit officially finished with the 2006-2007 school year. It went by so fast. Amazingly fast. Graduation went well, and although I did have to pause for a moment to compose myself, I didn't cry. I graduated my little class of 5 and 6 year olds each of whom now has his or her own little spot in my heart. One of my students is especially special and made it difficult to hold in the tears on Tuesday night. My own baby, Adam, graduated. He is officially a first grader. He'll go to school all day. He'll have spelling tests and homework and real grades. And I will have no one to spend my afternoons with. (I actually volunteered to teach 7th and 8th grade math and science in the afternoons next year. That should make for some great blogging!)

But even though I will miss my kids, I am so looking forward to summer. Last summer was spent in pain and physical therapy so I feel like I missed my absolute favorite time of year. But this summer will be different. Days at the beach. Mornings sitting on the porch reading good books. Time playing with the boys. Hikes with my family. Time to organize my house. Free movies at Riverstone. Afternoons in the park. Walks in the cool of the evenings. Hours of scrapbooking bliss. Ahh. I can't help but smile just thinking about it. And I can't wait to get started. Now I just have to decide which to do first!

Show and Tell--June 1st

Our last kindergarten show and tell:

1. Dora purse with coloring book and crayons

2. Adam's Stick from the Stickman

3. talking Woody Doll from Toy Story (He says, "There's a snake in my boot!" among other things.)

4. Batmofield (aka Batmobile) complete with Batman action figure

5. toy horse drawn carriage pulled by a horse named Ruby

6. a stuffed horse named Penny with dyed brown fun who spends her days chasing butterflies and her nights beating up her big sister

7. a box full of stuffed animals including an ice skating orange dog, Flower Polka Dot Bow the yellow duckling who wears a polka dot bow and holds a flower (hence the name, I suppose), and a purple frog with green feet named Froggy

8. a bouncy ball that is "crazy and obnoxious"

9. a Barbie (Did you know that they have painted on underwear now?)

Ahh, Spring!

(Upon seeing a new colt in a field on the way home yesterday...)

Josh: "Yep. It's about time for the horses to sprout their babies."


:)

Counting Down

As of right now, I have 6 days left with my students. During that time I have so much to do for school and just in general. So I decided to combine my list of things to do with my blog. Multitasking is the only way to go at times like this.

To Do List for May 29-June 6

1. Prepare for tomorrow's field trip.
2. Make final plans for kindergarten graduation.
3. Do final evaluations for each student.
4. Calculate grades.
5. Fill out report cards.
6. Order cake for graduation.
7. Put together gift bags for graduation.
8. Finish speech for graduation.
9. Practice songs and readings with kids for graduation.
10. Decorate for graduation.
11. Buy birthday present for party the boys will be attending on Saturday.
12. Go grocery shopping.
13. Fill out diplomas.
14. Decide which award each student gets.
15. Fill out award certificates.
16. Write, publish, print and distribute Grace Notes.
17. Organize Bible class staff.
18. Prepare Bible class lesson.
19. Clean classroom and send home all leftover supplies.
20. Get classroom ready for summer vacation.
(More to come, I'm sure!)

To Do List for June 7

1. REST!

Sticks and Stones

Yesterday was a beautiful, sunny North Idaho day and since we didn't have school and my husband got off work early, we decided to spend a nice family afternoon together. We went to lunch then drove downtown to check out the lake. As we were heading around Tubbs Hill, I started telling my boys about The Stickman. He lives on the east side of Tubbs Hill and can be seen everyday sitting in his garage creating walking sticks that are much more than that. I was hoping he would be out and that we could find him. I had never visited him, but had heard lots about him at Huckleberries Online and from other bloggers. And lo and behold, as we turned the corner, there he was sitting in the sun working on a beautiful stick that was curved and then about halfway down branched off into two sticks that wound around each other and then met at the bottom. I introduced myself and my family and he began showing us around and telling us the story behind many of his sticks. I thought a stick was a stick, but The Stickman turns these little pieces of God's creation into works of art. He whittles and sands until the wood is smoother than I ever thought possible. Some had toothmarks left by beavers. Some were knotted. Some were heavy. Others light as a feather. But each one was beautiful and I could tell that The Stickman treasured each one because of what they had been and what he had made them. When he told us that we could each choose one, I'm pretty sure the boys smiles couldn't have been any bigger. These boys love sticks (and rocks, which he also let them choose from his collection.)

I spotted my stick right away. It is a light color and has darker markings up and down that look like ancient artwork. These markings were made by some unknown insects as they traveled in a branch of some unknown tree. But the fact that creatures that share this earth with me played a part in the creation of my stick made it the perfect one for me. It's truly a treasure.

Arrty also quickly chose his stick. He had one in each hand and was looking back and forth trying to decide. I knew which one he would pick before he did. He chose a strong, sturdy stick made out of ironwood. It is unbreakable and reliable. Just like him.

Adam chose next. He chose a smooth maple stick just the right size for him. He wanted a straight stick and certainly found one. And it had a green stone on the top and green shells attached the the side. Green is his favorite color so it couldn't have been better.

Josh took the longest to decide. He must have picked up a dozen sticks and looked them over. The Stickman joked about his indecision which made us all laugh. (It takes him forever to just decide what he wants to drink with dinner!) He finally chose more of a wand than a stick. On the top is a shiny stone called hematite. The Stickman told Josh that it was a very rare stone which made him even more sure of his choice.

The boys oohed and aahed over their sticks all the way home and kept saying what a nice man The Stickman was. We discussed why we chose the stick we did and the stones that were on them. The boys thought it was so cool how there were so many different kinds of sticks. They hardly put their sticks down all evening and even put them beside their beds when they went to sleep. Josh even said that he wants to be a stickman when he grows up. And I couldn't keep myself from picking mine up one more time and studying it a little closer before I went to bed either. It was truly a great experience and one our family won't soon forget. Thanks, Stickman. For the sticks, the memory and the joy you share with others by sharing your art.

Music Gene

I love music. I love listening to music, singing, going to concerts, watching musicals, and hope someday to learn to play the guitar I got for Christmas a few years ago. I like all kinds of music and can listen to pretty much anything for at least a little while. My music of preference right now is rock. My husband, too, prefers rock, but from the 80's. Our cd collection is quite varied. We have everything from Beethoven to the Beach Boys, Natalie Cole to Night Ranger, and Flatts and Scruggs to Rascal Flats. My favorite new cd is by Daughtry and it happens to be the one in my car cd player right now. (Chris is the best thing to come out of American Idol if you ask me.)

This love of music that my husband and I have has been passed down to our sons. They both love music and the louder the better. (That they get from their dad alone!) Josh loves to sing and my favorite time that he sings is in church. He sings out loud and proud now that he can read the words. Adam is more of a dancer and likes fast music that he can jump around to. Being a former choir geek, I love that my boys love music. But sometimes I have to wonder. Like the other day we were at McDonald's for dinner and they both started singing some song that I didn't recognize. They said it was a song they heard in Daddy's car the day before. When Arrty got back to the table, I asked him about it. He said, with a twinkle in his eye, "It's from Motley Crue." I had to laugh. My six and seven year old sons were singing Motley Crue. Their parents must have grown up in the eighties! :)

One thing that my boys can say when they're grown is that they were exposed to all kinds of music. And when somebody sings, "Shot through the heart and you're to blame...," they'll know how to finish it.

My Weekend

Friday--I hosted the birthday party that wouldn't end. Arrty, Adam and I got to a local park at 1:45 to set up. Adam's school friends showed up at the park around 2:15. We played, demolished a poor alligator pinata, ate cupcakes, and opened presents. The kids started leaving at about 4:15 at which time our extended family started arriving for round two. We ate snacks, played catch, told stories, ate cake, and opened presents. After cleanup we headed home at 7:15. Needless to say, our family was in bed and soundly asleep by 9:00.

Saturday--I took a technology test to renew my teaching certification from 8:00 to about 1:15. There were five tasks and I think I did okay. I can play around and figure out most programs well enough to pass. (I hope.) Then I picked up the boys from Grandma and Pappy's house and we headed home for a nap. (Still exhausted from all the birthday festivities.) At 5:00 we went to the church building for an adoption fundraising dinner. We all tried the Thai food that was served and everything was exotic and delicious. After that we took Adam to see "Shrek the Third." (A birthday gift from one of his school friends.)

Sunday--We were at church from 9:00-12:00 and then went to lunch at Outback. Outback is a rare treat, but the Bible class teacher said something about steak and when I leaned over and whispered, "Mmmm, steak," into Arrty's ear, the deal was sealed. You don't have to ask him twice to go out for steak. When we were leaving the restaurant, Josh told me that he named the wooden crocodile outside "Al." "That's a good name," I said. "Joshua is a good name, too," he replied. Then of course I had to tell him AGAIN the story of how we named him. When I was finished, he said, "Thanks for naming me Joshua, Mom. That name rocks out loud!" I love when I do things that rock out loud! :) Sunday afternoon was spent cleaning up the house which still looked like a birthday party exploded all over it.

Monday--I know that this isn't the weekend, but I needed to share about the emergency trip to Target on the way to school. On the drive in to town, Adam suddenly made a sound of disgust and kicked off one of his shoes. Josh looked down and exclaimed, "You're wearing two different shoes!" Apparently Adam had already noticed, hence the sound of disgust. It struck me as funny and I laughed out loud forgetting that Adam DOES NOT like to be laughed at unless he's trying to be laughed at. Needless to say, he was not happy. Knowing how embarrassed he would be if someone noticed his shoes at school, we stopped and bought a pair at Target. (Thank goodness they open at 8:00.) He was happy and I was happy knowing that I had saved my sensitive son from some unnecessary embarrassment. Just as a side note, one of the shoes that Adam had on wasn't even his--it was Josh's! :)

Adam D.

My baby turns 6 today. He is quite a character. He is silly and funny and mischievous and charming and lovable and absolutely aggravating. Just when it's time to do something like wash up for dinner or get dressed, he finds some way to make a game out of it. He has always done that from the time he discovered fun. To him, if it's not fun, why do it? Which is a great way to live for a six year old and a great reminder for his sometimes too serious mom. Here are some other things about my wonderful son.

*He loves bugs and one little ant can keep him from getting in the car even when I'm already five minutes late.

*But he's afraid of spiders (I think it's genetic) and they can easily make him squeal like a girl.

*He will only drink strawberry flavored milk and informed me just this morning that I don't need to ask him what kind of milk he wants because he always wants strawberry.

*His favorite flavor of ice cream is vanilla and he will order it even at Baskin Robbins.

*He can play outside for hours with just a stick and be perfectly content.

*He loves stuffed animals as much as I did when I was little and has a collection to prove it.

*He doesn't like potatoes and will hardly even eat them french fried.

*He does like carrots and will often choose them over junk food.

*He is a thinker. He asks questions like "Who made God?" and "How can a mommy and daddy choose not to have kids?" (when I was trying to explain why some people don't have kids)

*He chases butterflies in the literal sense and in the figurative sense (meaning that he's not easily distracted once his mind is set on something...like catching that butterfly).

*He collects "puzzle rocks." (You know, those rocks that have been broken apart but can be put back together into their original shape.)

*He believes that all you really need for a good birthday party is cake....

*...but presents are good too and have always made him shake with excitement.

*He loves anything artistic--drawing, painting, play doh, cutting and gluing, etc. And is pretty good at all of them.

*He wants me to lay with him every night at bedtime, but when I do, he scoots as close to the wall as possible so that I don't touch him. I guess just being there is enough.

*He makes me laugh, even when I don't want to. Which makes it nearly impossible to discipline him.

*People say he looks like me. I love that because he is super cute! :)

*He is one of the greatest blessings of my life and will always be my baby.

Top 10

Top 10 Inventions (for Moms)

1. Disposable Diapers--I know all about the environmental aspect, but since my boys were in diapers at the same time (even the same size for a while), without Pampers they would have probably ended up lying naked on a plastic sheet for most of their infanthood. There's no way I could have kept up with the laundry.

2. Pacifiers--This was a lifesaver sometimes when the thought of a crying child stressed me out. To get rid of it when it was time, I cut the nipple off and told Josh that it was broken. He looked at it, threw it away and never asked for it again. (Adam was a little older and smarter. He knew there was more than one so I had to "break" several.)

3. Sippy Cups--These wonderful inventions saved many carpets, pieces of furniture, and articles of clothing during toddlerhood.

4. M&M's--Packages of these miracle candies should come with instructions for parents. Kids will do almost anything for three M&Ms.

5. Juice Pouches--They are so handy to grab on the way out the door or pack in a lunch box or cooler. And now you can get 100% juice which makes them even better.

6. Shopping Carts with more than one seat--My grocery store of choice got these just in time. Both boys had outgrown the little seat on the back of the cart and loved riding in the little car attached to the front. The steering wheels and horns gave me 14 1/2 minutes of shopping time before any major meltdowns.

7. Prepackaged Snacks--Individually wrapped crackers, granola bars, and applesauce are staples at our house. Convenient and yummy!

8. Triaminic Cough Strips--I've recently discovered these and they are great. They are individually wrapped cough medicine strips that work just like a dose of cough syrup. But they are not nearly as messy and are much easier to carry in my purse.

9. Cameras--One of my very favorite things are the pictures of my boys starting from the day they were born. I'm still stuck in the 90's with a film camera, but I use it often and treasure each picture I get. And on that note...

10. Scrapbooking--I have chronological scrapbooks of my family from the time Josh was born. They are so wonderful because I can organize my pictures but also add journaling which helps keep those memories alive for the boys to read years down the road. (Besides that, you get to use stickers and those cool scissors.) :)

I know that this is a fairly short list and all moms probably have their own things to add, but these are just a few that have made an impact on my mommyhood. I'm sure that as the boys grow so will the list.

Mother's Day

They say that Mother's Day is a day to honor mothers. And that's true. I honored my mother and felt honored by my sons and husband. But more than that for me, it's a day to reflect on myself as a mother. I have this idea of the kind of mother I want to be: godly, gentle, fun, disciplined... And this day each year gives me the chance to do that. This year I feel closer to who I want to be than ever before. Through a very difficult past year, I have had times when I couldn't be the mom I wanted to be to my sons. Physical injuries and emotional distress took away a lot of time and energy from my family. It was the day that I realized that I couldn't take care of my boys that I made my first counseling appointment. It was when feeding and bathing my children became nearly impossible that I fully realized the seriousness of my illness. Thanks to God and some very good doctors, I am now able to not only care for my children the way they need to be cared for, but enjoy doing it as well. I am so grateful for my sons. They are my greatest gifts from above. (And their dad isn't too bad either.) :)

And this year, I'm glad to say that I had a very happy mother's day.

What's In Your Wallet?

Yesterday in chapel, Mr. D., the principal, was asking the students to come up front and write on the white board words or phrases to describe their moms. The kids were very sweet and wrote things like cool, nice, appreciates me, believes in God, understanding, and loves plants. Josh was very actively trying to get called on and I thought, "How sweet. He really wants to write something about me." I was wondering what he might write and hoped he would get to go up. Finally he got his chance. As he was writing, he blocked the board and I couldn't see but I waited with anticipation to see the loving, sweet thing that my dear son would write about me. Would he say that I was fun or kind or a good cook? Would he say that I read to him or helped him with homework or taught him things? Then he stepped away and there on the white board, for all the school to see, in his first grade printing, was, "has a lot of money." "HAS A LOT OF MONEY!?!?" First of all, why does he think I have a lot of money? Apparently he wasn't there when I balanced the checkbook Tuesday. And secondly, why of all the possible things he could think of to describe me, does he come up with "has a lot of money?" Just so you all know, I do not, in fact, have a lot of money. I have enough money to pay the bills and feed and clothe our family and occasionally go out to eat. And with out tax refund last week we bought the boys new bikes to replace the ones that they outgrew over the winter. But I do not have A LOT of money.

But I guess to the boy who waits with very little patience for his $2.00 allowance each week, a lot could really be, like $20. And I do have $20. So I guess he was right.

Catch A Wave

Here's the thing about teaching kindergarten. If something out of the ordinary is going on at school on any given day, it's pretty much useless to try to teach curriculum that day. For example, today is wacky beach hair/hat day in celebration of our book fair beach theme. So, we have kids with mohawk waves and shells in their hair and kids wearing hats with beach balls and shells glued to them. And teachers with a combination of all the above. They are all so excited that they can hardly sit still so a phonics or handwriting lesson is pretty much out of the question. So, we did art and read books from the book fair and colored beach pictures. (Which is one of the reasons I love teaching kindergarten. Their attention span closely resembles my own.) All in all, it was a fun day.

It's a good thing, because Thursday is luau dress up day! :)

Happiness

My "5 Things To Be Happy About" calendar had a good day yesterday.

*giving and receiving
*a humid greenhouse
*organinzing a successful garage sale
*a roast sizzling in the oven
*the sound of wind at night

These are all things that make me happy!

Some of the things that made me happy this weekend were:

*sunshine
*painting with children
*my sister
*remembering why I love my husband
*new bikes
*pictures of my boys when they were babies
*Mexican food for Cinco de Mayo
*feeling healthy
*blessings from above
*book fair set up

Lasts

I remember the firsts. The first smile. The first word. The first tooth. The first step. The first day of school. The first time riding a two wheeler. Those are what you are supposed to remember. And it's easy to know when the firsts happen because they've never happened before. But what about the lasts. Will I know when it's the last time they sit on my lap? Or the last time I read them a book? Will I remember the last time they ask for a song at bedtime or for me to lay with them until they fall asleep? Will I wake up and realize the last time one of them crawls in bed with us because he had a bad dream?

Last week I think I had a last.

Until now Josh has taken a bath. Sometimes with his brother and sometimes alone. I fully admit that bathtime is my least favorite time because for some reason it makes my children unable to hear me and they tend to ignore all requests to keep the water in the tub or pull the plug when it's time to get out. (Maybe they have water in their ears!) But last week Josh wanted to take a shower, so I showed him how to get the right water temperature and where to find everything he needed and off he went. When he was finished he dried and dressed and came out ready for bed. He was so proud of himself and he kept asking me if I was proud of him, too. Of course I was. My children taking another step toward independence does make me proud. And honestly, I thought it was a fluke; that he would return to the tub splashing and playing as always. But the last three bath nights he has wanted to take a shower and has gone through the whole process himself. At first I thought, "Ahh, one more thing that I don't have to do for him." But now I wonder.

If I would have known that the last time I helped Josh take a bath was the last time, I would have lingered a little longer over the shampoo. I wouldn't have complained about the splashing. I would have let him play for five more minutes when he asked. But I didn't know. I didn't know that it was the last time that my little boy would sit in the tub and look up at me with bubbles on his chin.

Now, more than ever, I will watch for the lasts. Because they seem to be happening more and more often and I don't want to miss even one.

Catch of the County

Last night some friends and I went back to the 80's. We went to Pizza Hut for dinner. (The same Pizza Hut that I actually ate at in the 80's.) And then we went to a showing of "Dirty Dancing." They were showing it at our local Regal Theater celebrating the 20th anniversary of its release. I admit, with no embarrassment whatsoever, that I have been looking forward to seeing this movie in all of its big screen glory for weeks. I love it. I love the dancing and the music and the 1963 clothes and cars. I love the scenery and the story and the fact that they have a really bad talent show at the end. I love the coming of age that Baby experiences and the fact that the movie is so wonderfully cheesy. But most of all I love Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. (Mostly Patrick Swayze.)

In 1987 when this movie came out, I was 15; the perfect age to fall in love with Johnny and Baby. I wanted to be Baby with her naturally curly hair and her tiny waist and her positive outlook. (And her cute capris and Keds.) And what girl in 1987 didn't want a Johnny. A boy who was older and a little rebellious and a great dancer. Not to mention abosolutely gorgeous. There are just so many moments in this movie that make me smile no matter how many times I watch it. And each time, at the end, I write a sequel in my head where Johnny follows Baby to college and they stay in love and eventually get married and dance their way into retirement together.

So last night, it didn't matter that I'm 35 and a respectable wife and mother or that Patrick Swayze is the same age as my dad or that Jennifer Grey has a new nose. When the most famous line of the movie came near the end, I cheered and clapped and loved every second of it right along with everyone else in the theater. For two hours it was 1987 again and it's truer now than ever that, "Nobody puts Baby in a corner."

Nothing

This weekend I plan to do nothing.

Well, not exactly nothing. I have housework to do. (Of course.) And I have a paper due for my online class that I need to finish. And I have the scrapbook of our spring break Seattle trip half done and I would like to finish that. But by nothing, I mean that there is nothing planned. I have no meetings or appointments or birthday parties. I have no one counting on me to go anywhere or do anything. That seems to be rare in my life these days and so I am going to take complete advantage of every minute of it.

I might even take time to do some of my favorite things like watch a chick flick, read a book, take a nap, or write in one of my many journals.

So don't call me...unless you want to watch "Pride and Prejudice."

35 Continued

When I turned 35 last month, it didn't bother me at all that I was getting older. I'm alive. I'm healthier than I've been in a year. My family is wonderful. I only have a few wrinkles and gray hairs. My life is good. So turning a year older was okay.

That is until yesterday. I was filling out a survey from when I got the car serviced and it asked what age group I was in. For the first time, I had to mark the little box next to 35-44 instead of the little box next to 25-34. I moved up a whole age bracket. I'm officially in the third available age bracket on such surveys. There are only five brackets and I'm in the middle one. That's getting a little too close to the 65+ box if you ask me.

But at least I'm at the low end of that age group...and I have 10 years before I move up again.

Spring Has Sprung

10 ways teachers know that it's spring in North Idaho:

1. Forgotten jackets fill the hallway after dismissal (Students need them in the morning but not in the afternoon.)

2. The gloves and boots from winter finally go home.

3. Plants are growing in Dixie cups on windowsills.

4. Newly hatched chicks peep in at least one classroom.

5. Curriculum revolves around looking at bugs instead of spelling "bugs" and planting seeds instead of counting seeds.

6. Students get more and more "energetic" every day.

7. Recess gets a little longer every day. (Especially when I'm on duty!)

8. Students' eyes stray toward the windows a little more than usual.

9. Teachers' eyes stray toward the windows a lot more than usual.

10. The countdown to summer begins. (30 days left!)

Music To My Ears

What I am about to write only very few people know. And I wouldn't tell just anyone this information because it could harm my reputation. But since I know that I can trust you to keep this just between us, here goes. When I started "going with" my husband when I was in fifth grade and he was in sixth grade, our song was "Islands In The Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. (Pause to give you time to laugh.) I know it's ridiculous, but it was 1983 after all and it was a top ten song. And then in 1989 when we resumed our relationship after a few years apart, our song was Sherriff's "When I'm With You." (That's a totally awesome song. Some might even say it's rad!) And now, after almost 15 years of marriage, we don't officially have a song. But I find myself thinking of him when I hear certain songs. Most recently, it's "Easy Silence" by the Dixie Chicks. Here are a few lines of the song that make me think of him.

When the calls and conversations
Accidents and accusations
Messages and misperceptions
Paralyze my mind
Busses, cars, and airplanes leavin'
Burnin' fumes and gasoline and
Everyone is running and I
Come to find the refuge in the
Easy silence that you make for me
It's ok when there's nothing more to say to me
And the peaceful quiet you create for me
And the way you keep the world at bay for me
The way you keep the world at bay for me

After everything we've been through in the past year, he has never complained once about my craziness. As a matter of fact, in his arms is the one place that I have always felt safe and loved. I can't quite figure out why I was blessed with him as my husband, but I'm sure glad I was.

10 Reasons

10 Reasons Why I Love Kathy:

1. She makes me laugh.

2. She thinks like me.

3. She has a movie quote for every situation.

4. She always gives me plenty of time to study menus.

5. She appreciates the 80's just as everyone should.

6. She plans the best chick trips.

7. She is always ready to discuss Grey's Anatomy on Friday mornings.

8. She finds the best deals in town and tells me about them.

9. She calls me just to tell me what the guy in line in front of her has in his grocery cart.

10. She makes everything fun.

Happy Birthday, Kathy. I love you.

5 More Things To Be Happy About

*family resemblances (blue eyes and cowlicks) :)
*Japanese brush painting
*erasing a full blackboard (or whiteboard)
*Rice Krispie treats
*the sound of rain in the roof gutter (during a nap)

April 17

One year ago today, my life changed. I was involved in a serious car accident where I was run off the road (accidentally) and my Ford Explorer rolled, what I feel like was, three times. I remember thinking, "Please don't roll, please don't roll," as I drove into the ditch and then thinking of my family and praying, "Please don't let me die," as I rolled. Those were 10 of the longest seconds of my life. I finally stopped rolling and the car landed on its wheels. The first thing I saw was a lot of people running toward my car. I had apparently rolled long enough for several cars to have time to stop and the drivers to run to my aid. I was actually surprised that I was okay. I said aloud several times, "I'm okay, I'm okay." I instantly tried to get out of the car, but the driver's side door was smashed closed. As started to try to climb out of the passenger's side, several people who had stopped to help told me to stay still until I got checked out. I found out in the next few minutes that among those who had stopped were 3 EMTs, a nurse, and a doctor. What a blessing. They knew just what to say and do until the ambulance arrived. I was able to call my husband and tell him what had happened and ask him to come to the scene which was only a few miles from home. When help arrived it seemed like a hundred people: emts, police officers, firefighters. They all surrounded me, asked me about my condition and did what they had been trained to do. I wanted to have my husband take me to the hospital, but they encouraged me to go in the ambulance just in case there were injuries that they couldn't see. I agreed and they proceeded to tear the door off the driver's side of the car. I said, "Hey, don't wreck my car!" to which they all laughed and someone said, "She's okay mentally." Then they put a neck brace on me and strapped me down to a board. As they were doing this, my husband arrived and I will never forget the look on his face. The worry and love that I saw there are forever etched in my memory. I assured him that I was okay, but honestly I was assuring myself just as much. They loaded me into the ambulance and began monitoring me. I remember hearing this sound that sounded like a really fast heartbeat and thinking, because it was so fast, that it couldn't be that. But as I paid attention to my breathing, it affected that sound and I realized that it was my heart beating so fast. Amazingly, I wasn't really scared. I think it was a little bit of adrenaline and a whole lot of the holy spirit. At the hospital, the doctor's checked me out, gave me a tetanus shot and three stitches in the back of my head, watched me for a while and let me go home. Just over four hours after I had left home, I was back with some sore muscles, a slight headache, and a new appreciation for life.

I would like to say that all has been well since then, but the truth is, I went through months of pain and physical therapy for my back, neck and shoulders, and more recently, a pretty severe case of post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorder. It's amazing what your brain can do under extreme stress and how it affects your body. I thought I was dying, but it turns out it was just my brain telling me that and my body making me feel that way. After months of medical care, I am so very glad to say that I am doing much better. I still have moments and even days when I struggle with the anxiety, but compared to the worst days, those are easy.

The worst part now is that a couple of times a week, the boys talk about my accident as we drive past the scene. Yesterday, Josh said, "Mom, I'm glad you didn't die." All I could say, with tears in my eyes, was, "Me, too." And it's true. I thank God everyday for my life and a little while longer to raise my kids and love my husband. I thank him for healing my body and my mind. I thank him for bringing me closer to him through it all and for reminding me who's in control. And most of all, I thank him for being there with me that day one year ago, when, as my car rolled, I felt his presence and his arms around me.

Show and Tell

Today we had:

1 white plastic pony named Sparkle
2 tiny dolls
1 pink hippo named Lola
1 Mister Potato Head
3 stuffed cats
1 movie
2 Bionicles
1 "locker" (You know, the kind shaped like a heart that you wear around your neck and put pictures in.) :)
And...
1 pet turtle named Leonardo who, during chapel, got out of his box and escaped down the west hall, down the south hall, and into the kitchen where he startled a parent who referred to him as "some kind of reptile thing."

Hope

This morning in chapel, we had a special presentation about Lifeline of Hope, the orphanage aid organization that our church and school support. The man who was here had a slide presentation to show the kids and since our class was first to chapel, we watched as he turned on his projector and got to his first slide. This slide showed a little girl about a year old being held by an aid worker. She was nearly bald, not very clean, not very well taken care of, and obviously sad. These pictures always bring tears to my eyes as I think of my own children and how truly blessed we are.

But I was surprised when I looked at the student next to me. She, too, had tears in her eyes. She looked up at me and said, "My eyes are really watery." When I asked her what was wrong she just pointed to the picture up on the wall. It reminded me once again why I do what I do. Why I teach at a Christian school. Why I teach God's children. These children learn everyday about the love and kindness of our Lord and this morning I saw what that can do. It can, and does, instill in them that same love and kindness toward each other and the world.

Whirlwind

Last week for spring break, our family took a trip to Seattle. The boys were so excited and we had been talking about it for weeks, so when the day finally came, we were all ready and raring to go. We loaded up the car with all we would need for three days away and plenty of provisions for a 5+ hour road trip. Before we were even out of the driveway, the snack bag had been opened and cracker crumbs littered the floor. And before we even reached Spokane, those most dreaded words were uttered, "How much longer?" I lost count of how many times I actually answered that question and took to telling them each time we passed a sign that showed how many more miles to Seattle. We also played "guess how many more miles" and "what's growing in the field." (There are signs on the fences that tell what's growing in the fields for about 15 miles of highway somewhere in the middle of Washington.) The funny thing was, even though they couldn't wait to get there, they never got bored. I know this because they never played their gameboys; they were "saving them until they were bored." The best part about the drive was the hours of conversation that Arrty and I were able to share. Between the questions and comments of the boys, we were able to solve the world's problems. (Well, at least a few of our own.) So, here's a brief account of our whirlwind tour of Seattle.

Tuesday: Get to the hotel with just enough time for a swim in the pool before bed.

Wednesday: Woodland Park Zoo (favorites: baby tiger, komodo dragons, gorillas)
(favorite memory: Josh practicing his navigating skills with the zoo map
and Adam up close and personal with the gorillas.)

Wednesday night: Mariners game (favorites: the Moose and cotton candy)
(favorite memories: Josh's face as he watched every moment of the game
and Adam's running commentary about everything but the game.)

Thursday: Aquarium and Harbor Cruise (favorites: sea horses, jellyfish, octopus)
(favorite memories: watching the boys watching the octopus feeding time
and the history of Seattle from the cruise tour guide)
Thursday lunch: Crab Pot (favorite: cracking the crab legs with the hammer)
Thursday night: The Museum of Flight (favorites: watching planes land and take off)

Friday: Pacific Science Center (favorites: bugs, dinosaurs, butterfly house)
(favorite memories: Adam's study of entomoligist gear and Josh's butterfly
search)

Other favorites: gift shops, flattened penny souveniers, swimming in the pool, Papandrino's pizza, seeing the Space Needle, beautiful weather for everything

We had so much fun even though we were so busy. We have already talked about all the things we need to do the next time we visit the Emerald City.

TGIF&S&S

I love weekends. As much as I enjoy my job and my students, I love weekends. There is a certain freedom and excitement that only seem to belong to Friday nights and Saturdays and Sundays. And this weekend was especially great.

On Friday night, three of my sister-friends took me out for a belated birthday celebration complete with dinner (chicken taco salad at America's Cheesecake Cafe), a movie (Premonition--I give it three out of four stars), and ice cream (germanchokolatekake at Cold Stone Creamery). We laughed and talked and enjoyed each other's company just as we always do. It reminded me once again why I love these ladies. (Just don't ask Katrina about recycling!) :)

Saturday morning I spent a few hours cleaning house and playing with the boys. (I can ninja fight with the best of them!) This all sounds very ordinary, but in the midst of it all, I thanked God, because not so long ago I was barely able to get off the couch, no less fight off two miniature ninjas. I was happy.

Saturday afternoon, I attended the very sweet wedding of a very special couple. Weddings always remind me how much I appreciate my amazing husband.

Saturday night I made homemade pizza with the boys; messy and slow, but fun and yummy. After they went to bed, we watched "The Prestige." It was a great movie, but even better was the conversation we had afterwards about all the twists and turns. We decided that we need to see it again.

Sunday afternoon we all went to the movies and saw the digital 3D version of "Meet the Robinsons." It is amazing. This new kind of 3D is so much better than the old kind. The boys loved it. They kept trying to reach out and grab things that came flying toward them. The story in the movie was great, too. Then we discussed our favorite characters from the movie over Chinese food for lunch. Mine is "Goob."

Sunday evening, just before the sun went down, we went for a walk. Living out in the country gives us the perfect place to walk. When we first moved to our new house six years ago, we walked with both boys in a double stroller. The next summer one walked and one was in a stroller. Since then, they have both walked, but with many stops along the way to look at a bird or pick up a rock. And this year, we walk and they ride their bikes, which they love. No matter how we travel, it's a great time together.

So, this was a great weekend full of family and friends and fun. Which, if you ask me, is the best kind of all.

How I Made $3

Last Saturday was a busy day. The boys and I went into town to run some errands and on the way, Josh asked me if he could ride his bike when we got home. I reminded him that his tire was flat, but assured him that we would stop at Target to get a tire pump so we could pump it up. So, before heading home we did just that. After several minutes in the bike gear aisle, I chose an electric air pump. (Who needs all the work of a hand pump anyway?) We also got training wheels for Adam's two wheeler so that he could ride, too.

We went to the grocery store and post office and headed home. Before I could even get out of the car, Josh had the garage door open and was waiting for me to get the pump ready. As soon as I got the milk put away, I went outside and opened the package of our new pump. I was surprised to find that it ran from the cigarette lighter in a car, not a regular outlet. (Lesson #186 on reading labels.) I've never in my life plugged anything into a car cigarette lighter, and when I plugged in the pump and turned on the switch nothing happened. (Who knew that the car had to be on?) The look of disappointment on Josh's face was unbearable, so we loaded 3 bikes (their two-wheelers and Adam's tricycle just in case the training wheels didn't work) into the back of the van and headed north to the gas station in the closest "town." We drove around the building with no air station in sight, when at last there it was. The boys were so happy. And so was I. If I went through all this and they still didn't get to ride their bikes I don't know what I would have done.

I was through about 3 of the 7 tires I had to fill when a lady parked two spots away from me and started walking toward me. She asked, "Are you good at that?" I smiled and answered, "I can get air in the tires." She said, "My front tire is low and I usually get more air out than in. My daughter usually does it for me, but I think my tire is really low. Could you check it for me?" Of course I obliged and stopped what I was doing and headed toward her car. The air hose was tangled and I had to get it untangled so that it would reach her car. The hose was dirty, so I was too by the time I was finished. We used her guage to check her tire and it was so low that it didn't even register. She said it needed to have 30 lbs. of air, so we aired it up and checked it until it got there. She kept thanking me over and over and saying how glad she was that I was there. Then she said something that didn't strike me as significant until later. She said, "You are such a Godsend." She also offered to give me something for helping her, but I refused. As I finished airing up the bike tires, though, she came over and gave me $3 to "buy a treat for the boys."

It wasn't until I was driving home that I began to think about what had happened that afternoon. Maybe I really was a Godsend. Maybe He sent me to that place at that time to help that woman. All the circumstances of the day had led me there. One little change and I wouldn't have been there to help her air up a tire that I have since found out was dangerously low to drive on. I pray daily for God to use me and I think that Saturday was one of those wonderful times when I realized just how He chose to do so. So as I drove home, I got tears in my eyes and said a prayer thanking Him for the opportunity to serve and asking him to care for the lady in the car.

So I returned home with full bike tires, $3, and dirty hands. But that day, and I hope everyday, they were my Father's hands.

Green Thumb and Halo

Today for show and tell in kindergarten we had:

1 Polly Pocket
1 Barbie Horse
1 stuffed puppy named butterfly
2 Batman dolls...I mean action figures
1 Roboreptile
1 pink make-up purse

And...

1 "Gardening" Angel "to watch over me and keep me safe." :)

Trivia

Question (in chapel this morning): When Esau was born, was his hair silver or red?

Answer (from a 4 year old): Green!

(Just in time for St. Patrick's Day!) :)

The Awakening

For my American Literature class I have been reading stories from the late 1800's and the early 1900's. Crane, London, Okison, Gilman, Garland, Freeman, Jewett. Boy, can these guys (and gals) write. The language is beautiful and amazing and brilliant. The stories are captivating and emotional. I have begun to feel like I have been deprived in my 35 years that I have never read some of these author's works. (I did read Call of The Wild by Jack London, but I was too young to appreciate it.)

This week we read Kate Chopin's The Awakening. I was once again struck by the wonderful writing. I had never read this story before, and couldn't put it down. Never have I enjoyed homework so much. In this story, Edna, a wife and mother, begins to "awaken" to her more independent and sensual side. I could see the slow progression from her little flirtations to all out rebellion. Her situation was common in those days. She had a socially acceptable marriage, two sons, (who were taken care of by a nanny), a big house, and spent summers at the coast. But, without understanding why, she felt unhappy. Her unhappiness confused her and she tried to make it go away. No matter what she did, though (painting, music, gambling, moving), she still wasn't who she wanted to be. Her husband certainly didn't understand her. (Depression in women was so misunderstood back then.) When she finally realized what would make her happy, it didn't come to be. The story didn't have a happy ending, but it was written so amazingly well that I didn't mind.

Reading writing of this caliber is a little intimidating for someone who someday wants to write a book. But at the same time, it gives me something to strive for. (Especially knowing that Kate Chopin did all of her writing in the afternoons while her 6, yes 6, children napped or played around her writing table!) All of these classics have definitely made me hungry to read more. I can't wait to read what's next!

5 More Things

Here are 5 more things to be happy about today.
(I love this calendar!!)

*singing in the shower
*exploring a foreign city
*rereading Pride and Prejudice
*chips and dip
*an empty seat next to you on the plane

35

Today I turn 35. Not so long ago, I couldn’t imagine being 35. I don’t feel 35. I don’t really feel any age, I just feel like me. 35 is good, though. I like being my age. I would not want to be a teenager again for sure and the twenty somethings were kind of weird; I wasn’t really sure where I fit in. But now I feel comfortable. Old enough to know better (most of the time) and young enough to be young. So here I am, closer to 40 than to 30 and halfway to 70. I have learned a few things in my short time on earth. Here are 35 of them.

*Sunny days make me feel better than gray days.
*A child’s laughter is the best sound on earth.
*Good meals are best shared with good friends.
*God’s timing is perfect.
*Change little boys’ diapers as fast as possible.
*Father (and Mother) really do know best.
*It’s fun being married to my childhood sweetheart.
*Always order the combination plate (and be prepared to share).
*God did not give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.
*Wear pajamas as much as possible.
*Summer vacation is best spent on the beach.
*A clean house makes me feel good.
*Prayer is my most powerful tool.
*There’s nothing better than a good nap.
*Sisterhood gets better with age.
*Marriage to a godly husband is a great gift.
*Bugs aren’t scary at all in the hands of a five year old.
*Music soothes the savage beast and the grumpy child.
*Going to the movies alone is good.
*Teaching children (especially my own) is very rewarding.
*Grace is amazing.
*Sister-friends are the best friends.
*Chasing butterflies is good exercise for body and soul.
*Sometimes I need help.
*Motherhood is wonderfully scary.
*Health is underrated.
*The Lord truly works in mysterious ways.
*Ice water is my favorite drink.
*Laughter really is the best medicine.
*The book is always better than the movie.
*Eating cold watermelon on a hot summer day is the best.
*Family is why we are here.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.

5 More Things

Here are 5 more things to be happy about (edited by me).

--a whiff of spring (I'm soo ready for more than just a whiff!)

--crab cakes with tarter sauce (Yum!)

--the crisp feel of new money (Preferably 100s. They do make those, don't they?)

--a puppy rolling on its back (As long as it belongs to someone else.)

--the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona (It's warm there, right!?!?)

Have a happy day!

Thursday Morning

I have been sick for a week. Stomach flu. The worst. But this morning I woke up feeling almost normal. I even smiled when I woke up and realized that I was feeling better. So I got up, got myself and the boys ready for school and went out to start the car. In the last few days we have gotten about 14 inches of new snow, including about 3 that I had to clear from the car this morning. After one little complaint to myself about winter, I did what I had to do. So I got everyone and everything loaded into the van and started to pull out of our long driveway. About halfway to the road, we stopped. (Did I mention the 14 inches of snow?)

Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Get out to check. See nothing that should keep me from moving. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Tromp up the driveway to get the shovel. Shovel around the tires. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. 20 minutes later, call my "knight in shining whatever" to rescue me.

I just knew that he would get home, get in the van and pull right out. Then I would know that it was a girl thing. But fortunately...I mean unfortunately, it took him over half an hour to get us out. He had to jack up the van and put a board under the tire spinning on ice under all that snow. I'm not exactly sure how it happened that I got so stuck, but since the little rollover I had last spring, I am of the mind that everything happens for a reason. Maybe we were meant to be on the road a little later than usual today. Or maybe I was meant to have 20 extra minutes to clean the kitchen. Either way, I'm thankful that I made it to school, AND the dishes are done. And I'm especially thankful for my knight who didn't complain once, but actually smiled while he dug snow from under my van!

Twinkle, Twinkle

There are several reasons why living thirty minutes out of town doesn't make sense for our family. We drive two different cars into town at least once a day. Work, school, and church are all in town. Most of our family and friends live in town. But then, every once in a while, a moment happens when I am so glad to live where we live.

I had one of those moments last night. I walked out on the porch to shake out a tablecloth and looked up. The sky was dark and clear and the moon and stars were shining brightly. I have always loved the fact that we can see the stars so well from our front yard. It's one of my favorite parts about living out in the country. But last night it just struck me in a different way. I stood on the porch, in the cool breeze, thanking God for his amazing creation and for making me a part, although a tiny part, of his world. Although looking up at the galaxy made me feel so very small, I smiled because the spirit reminded me that God loves the tiny dot that is me.

Tomorrow..Tomorrow

I remember loving the movie "Annie" when I was younger. What's not to love? A poor little orphan gets to spend Christmas with a billionaire and then, beating the odds, gets adopted. It's a great story.

Saturday, I got to enjoy a live performance of the play. It was wonderful. The little girls were amazing in their singing and acting and dancing. Sooo adorable. The sets were beautiful. Even the dirty streets of New York seemed attractive. The adult actors were great. Miss Hannigan was the perfect mixture of funny and creepy and Daddy Warbucks, with shining head, was so believable as the grumpy old man who learns to love a little orphan. But my favorite character, of course, is Annie. She's smart and funny and brave and, above all, optimistic. No matter what, she looks at the world through eyes that see the good in people and circumstances. Through all she goes through, she is able to see the good in her life. And more than that, she spreads this to all those around her. What a good reminder that, after all, the sun will come up tomorrow...

Valentines

I didn't have time to blog yesterday for Valentine's Day because I teach kindergarten. And in kindergarten, Valentine's Day is huge. Easily as exciting as Christmas. I think it must be because of all the preparation. Kids pick out valentines, then choose just the right one for each classmate. Plus there are treats and candy and little plastic bags filled with surprises. They are all so excited to give each other their treasures and can hardly stand the anticipation. I don't know how many times between 8:30 and 10:30 (when the party began) that I had to remind some of the students that it wasn't time to pass out valentines yet. They kept going to their little bags and pulling them out. Just to make sure they were still there I guess. Or maybe they were hoping I wouldn't notice and they could start the party early. By 10:30, they were bouncing with excitement. It took about 5 minutes to pass our their cards and then they spent the rest of the time exploring their decorated bags full of fun and munching on more pink and red food than is probably healthy. And at the end of it all, they left for lunch with full bags and full tummies and smiles on their faces. And I was glad to have another holiday over and time to actually teach the curriculum. At least until St. Patrick's Day!


P.S. In case anybody wants to know, I have the best valentine ever!!!

Thanks

I have found out in the last few weeks how much I am loved. When it comes right down to it, those around me have shown through their words and actions how much they care. So...

Thanks, Arrty, for your patience, love, and kindness.
Thanks, Josh and Adam, for loving me no matter what.
Thanks, Mom and Dad, for being the best and for letting me nap on your couch.
Thanks, Ada, for calling to check on me.
Thanks, Kathy, for cheering me up and getting me out of meetings.
Thanks to my co-workers for watching out for me.
Thanks to all my brothers and sisters for your prayers.
Thanks, God, for your ever-present protection and unconditional love.

Happiness

February 6, 2007

5 Things To Be Happy About:

*kindness

*Irish brogues

*a Cobb salad for lunch

*leather-bound books

*insights from dreams

Huck Finn

I was reminded in the last two weeks, while reading "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" for my American lit class, why I love Mark Twain. He has always been one of my favorite authors and remains so. He is so funny and creative and ridiculous. And I love every minute of it. I found myself thinking, "How does he think of these things?" I know that this book has caused quite a stir in the public school system, but it is amazing and to not read it is missing out. This story of adventure and friendship and freedom doesn't get any better. There is nothing more exciting than traveling the mighty Mississippi River with Huck and Jim.

This time reading it, though, I found myself reading it through a mother's eyes. I felt sorry for Huck. All he really wants is a place to belong where they accept him for who he is. He doesn't necessarily want to keep moving, but feels forced to when things go wrong. He blames others' misfortunes on himself and takes himself out of the situation. He's just a little boy who needs a mother to love him and tell him he's okay and the world's okay, but at the same time to let him sleep outside and skip school now and then to go fishing. Now that I think of it, he can come live with me. I'm that kind of mom. (Just don't tell the boys' teachers. Wait, that's me!!):)

Changes

I remember the first time Josh came wobbling over to me with a book in his hand. He climbed on my lap, handed me the book and looked at me expectantly. He couldn't really talk yet, but I knew what he wanted. We had read lots of books together before that, but I'll never forget that first time that he "asked" me to read to him. What fun times I have had reading to my boys. We have shared adventures through our reading and learned a lot about the world and each other. Our whole family loves to read and our house is full of books.

So I wasn't surprised last night when Josh came walking toward me with a book in his hand. He sat down beside me on the couch and said, "Mom, can I read this to you?" Not what I was expecting, but wonderful just the same. He has been reading for a while and has read to me often, but this time was different. He chose a book and came to me to share it. It was great. A little bittersweet, but great. It seems like every day Josh grows up just a little bit more. I cherish each moment, even the challenging ones, because with each moment that he grows up, I grow up a little, too.

Happy Day

On my desk at school sits a daily calendar. (Given to me graciously by someone who knows that I'm needing a few reminders these days.) You know, it's one of those that you tear a page from each day. The title is "5 Things To Be Happy About." Each day there is a list of 5 things that make someone, somewhere happy. Usually one or two are things that actually make me happy and then there are a few that I don't quite get. Like "a cat in a puddle of sun." I don't get that. I am so not a cat person. And "delicate swirls of lace." I don't think I own anything with any kind of lace, especially in delicate swirls. And "red grapefruit." Yuck. But today's page is a good one (parentheses added by me):

-throwing a surprise party (especially for someone you love)
-crayon boxes with sharpeners (64 count Crayola is the best)
-bunny slippers (fuzzy pink ones, of course)
-ornate calligraphy (on antique books)
-going to the movies with friends (chick flicks with sister chicks)

What's not to love? Any one of these would make me happy today or any day.

Have a happy day!

I Love (Cheap) Books!

I don't really like to shop. I grocery shop because I have to feed my family. I venture into the mall 2 or 3 times a year for school clothes and Christmas gifts. I go to Target once a month for laundry detergent and toothpaste. But yesterday, I went shopping. Kathy and I went to the Scholastic Book Warehouse for their annual clearance sale. (One of the perks of being a teacher.) Every book in the building was $1, $3, or $5. They had hundreds of titles available, and between the two of us, I'm sure we touched every single one. I bought books for my classroom, gifts for family and friends, books for home, and a biography of Mark Twain for myself. I bought calendars, cookbooks, games and toys. I bought books about school to make a basket for our school auction and an antique collecting book for my mom. We had a great time finding our treasures and trying to out-shop the other teachers who were there. (They didn't stand a chance!) Two and a half hours later I walked out with a box full of books worth over $200 for just $60. And if you ask me, that's the only way to shop.

Feuding 101

I just finished creating a presentation on the Hatfields and McCoys for my English class. I was given that topic for my project and was so excited and interested that I researched and wrote it all today. I won't send it for a few days though, so I can go back and re-read it. But, just in case you're not on top of your hillbilly history, here are a few things I found interesting.

1. The Hatfields and McCoys were peaceful neighbors for years. They socialized and intermarried.

2. The most vicious part of the feud was over ownership of a hog. Ole Randall McCoy said it was his. Floyd Hatfield said it was his. A jury of 6 Hatfields and 6 McCoys gave it to Floyd. (One of the McCoys was mad at his family making the verdict 7-5.)

3. Roseanna McCoy and Johnse Hatfield were the Romeo and Juliet of the Appalachian Mountains. Only Johnse wasn't a very good Romeo. He left a pregnant Roseanna after her brothers tried to kill him. (And then married Roseanna's cousin, Nancy.)

4. Dozens of bounty hunters who were sent in to calm the hostility between the two families disappeared without a trace. The National Guard was then called in by the governors of Kentucky and West Virginia.

5. 13 people from the two families died during the feud, but the patriarchs of the families lived to be 80 and 88.

6. In 2003, descendants from the two families gathered and signed a truce. (Just in case any of their pigs escaped the pen, I guess.)

Eng. 278

This week is my first week taking a class online. The class is American Literature from the Civil War to present. I was actually disappointed when it was full because I really wanted to take a literature class. But when I went back to put it on my list of preferred classes, there was 1 opening. I was so excited. (I know. Weird.) So I am in the process of reading the section comparing realism with romanticism and trying to determine which I am the most drawn to. Then I have to journal about it and read and comment on the other student's journals. Frankly, I'm not that good at commenting when I don't know someone. I guess I'll just have to pretend like I know them and be honest. And remember that sarcasm doesn't work well in writing.

(Next week we start reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. I can't wait! Really. I'm not being sarcastic in case you couldn't tell.)

To Stay or Not To Stay

A few months ago, Josh was invited to a birthday party at Triple Play. On the way, he said, "Mom, you're not staying are you?" I sucked up my tears, took a moment to let the little tear in my heart heal, and much to his dismay, said that I was in fact staying because it was a public place and I didn't trust just anyone to watch him like I wanted him to be watched. But I assured him that I would stay hidden in the shadows and leave him alone. He agreed reluctantly. (Like he had a choice.) At one point though, during an exciting game of laser tag, he ran into a wall and hurt his arm. And where did he run? To me, standing in the corner. I wanted so bad to say, "See. You need me." But I didn't. I just hugged him, asked him if he was okay, and sent him back to the game.

This past weekend, he attended another birthday party at a friend's house. He again asked me if I was staying. This time, since I know the family and they were not leaving the house, I told him that I was not staying. I was so glad that he didn't cheer or sigh or anything. He just said okay. I guess everything turned out fine. He said the party was fun and his friend liked the gift he took and that his favorite part was playing with their cats. So, we both made it for 2 1/2 hours without each other.

And on the way home, with only the two of us in the car, we had a great conversation about school (how we'd both rather stay home), how many more years of school he has (15 including college), what he wants to be when he grows up (a teacher), how he doesn't think he'd want to be a doctor even if he didn't have to go to school longer (15 more years of school is enough), what we should have for supper (corndogs), and what his dad and brother were doing at home (puzzles and games). I guess that as long as there are these times for talking, I can give him up for a few hours of fun with someone else...just not very often.

Wrap It Up

Speaking of Arby's (from yesterday's blog), it turned out to be quite an interesting meal. When I walked in, there was only one other person in the restaurant. She was ordering in front of me and got her order to go. We spoke to each other about ketchup and straws and she made a joke about taking my order instead of her own. Okay, kind of weird, but not bad. But then in walked a woman that I knew would make my solo meal at least a little entertaining. I could just tell. And she did not disappoint. It took her about 5 minutes to order her corned beef wrap--only meat, no cheese, no lettuce, no sauce, nothing but meat. "The Jewish way." Whatever that means. She also wanted extra meat since she wasn't getting the cheese. So she got her order and opened it up right at the counter and was not happy because "last time it was bigger." The guy behind the counter explained that everything is the same, maybe it's just wrapped tighter. She had asked for it to go, but took the bag and sat down at the table directly in front of me. (The building is still empty, mind you.) Oh, and did I mention that she was on the phone the whole time. Not just the phone, speaker phone. The whole time she was ordering and paying and complaining, a person, whom I assumed to be her grown son since I could hear everything, was carrying on a conversation with her. So she sat down, still talking on speaker phone, and began, after further examination of her food, to eat. A few bites into it she jumped up like her seat was on fire and sprinted to the counter. "There's cheese on this wrap. I said meat only." "Where is the cheese, m'am." "Right there, you can see that there was cheese there! You must have put it on and then taken it back off!! I can't have cheese!!! I'm allergic to cheese!!!! And there was lettuce on it but I spit that out!! I just wanted meat!" "Okay, m'am. Sorry, we'll make you a new one." This one was made by one person and supervised by two more just to be sure there was NO CHEESE. And all this time, her poor son was still talking. Pretty soon, he said, "Mom. Mom. Are you there." He must have been used to it though, because just when I thought he had hung up, she came back and they started talking like nothing had happened. He asked her to get some extra horseradish sauce to bring home. They kept talking, and she kept cautiosly eating. She got up and asked for a cup and got some water, all the while loudly continuing her conversation with the phone still sitting on the table. Luckily, I finished eating and stood up to walk out, and just as I opened the door, she was up again and headed to the counter. And from the phone, I heard, "Mom, don't forget the horseradish."

Sisters

My sister gives the best gifts. This year for Christmas she gave me Cold Mountain (the book), the new Dixie Chicks cd (yeah!), Grey's Anatomy season 2 (double yeah!!), and a Regal Theater gift card (which we used on Christmas Day). All truly excellent gifts. But on top of all that, she gave me a cd that she made. I got tears in my eyes when I opened it just thinking about all the wonderful songs I knew were on there. I couldn't wait to listen to it, but I knew that to truly enjoy it the way it should be enjoyed, I would need to be alone. So, after several days of Christmas "vacation," my husband agreed that I should go out. (He knows me so well.) So I took myself to dinner (Arby's, but I like Arby's) and a movie (The Good Shepherd).

As I left for my evening out, I put in my much anticipated cd. On it I found a wide variety of artists and styles of music. I heard Jack Johnson, Dixie Chicks, Dave Matthews Band, Sheryl Crow and many others. It is the BEST CD EVER!!! Just as I got to the Arby's parking lot, a song about sisters by Dave Matthews came on. I sat there listening and crying and thinking about my sister and how when she laughs it fills my heart and when she cries I feel her tears running down my face, just as the song says. We have always been close, but lately it's been better than ever. We talk more and go to lunch and share all the things that sisters are supposed to. She has become an amazing, strong, smart woman. She is a great mother. And she is my best friend. It's hard to believe that this is the same person who would fight against taking naps and who would sing The Beverly Hillbillies theme song over and over and over just to bug me. Today she would gladly take a nap anytime, anywhere. And now that I think about it, she would still sing The Beverly Hillbillies theme song just to bug me (or make me laugh). I am so thankful for such a wonderful sister and the great cd. Not only is the music great, but her thoughtfulness lets me know that she loves me as much as I love her. And besides that, it's the BEST CD EVER!!!

Kaboom!

Today in chapel, our administrator was telling the kids about the change in collecting Campbell's soup labels. Apparently we need the UPC codes instead of the front label now. So in trying to tell the students what the UPC code is, he went into great detail about what it looks like, where it's found, how big it is, and what it's for. He told them how when the checker at the store ran the UPC across the scanner it told how much the can cost and what it was. Then he asked the question, "So, what makes that BEEP!...BEEP!...BEEP! sound you hear at the store?" Silence. Not even the teachers really knew what actually makes the sound. We just swipe our debit cards and hope for the best. But a student in the four year old class knew. He said, loud and proud, "A BOMB!!!" I'm not sure where his mother shops, but I bet the lines move quickly. You never know which can of soup may be your last!



P.S. One of my kindergartners has nominated "Rainbow" to be listed as one of the four seasons. Sounds good to me.

Cyber what?

Today is Friday. In Kindergarten every Friday is show and tell day, but in 1st grade, Josh's class, only the first Friday of each month is show and tell day. Show and tell is a big deal. The kids are so excited to show and tell about something important to them. (Or just to show and tell whatever they find in the bottom of their backpack if they forget.) So today, I remembered to tell the boys that it was show and tell day, and they went through Christmas gifts to find just the right thing.

Adam isn't much on public speaking, so he chooses not to show and tell. (He does, however, take a toy to play with after show and tell.) Josh, on the other hand, talks to everyone and makes a new friend wherever he goes, and has no problem with public speaking. Adam chose to take two fly wheels--one to play with and one to share. Josh chose to take the Transformer that Adam bought him for Christmas. It is a T-Rex that changes into a robot. Cool. But just as we got to the end of our road on the way to school, he said, "Oh, no, the cyber key." I knew exactly what he was talking about. I have transformed my fair share of Transformers and know that the cyber key is most important. You must have the cyber key, a quarter sized plastic disc with a little key sticking out one side, to open the secret compartment that allows you to shoot the hidden rocket. So, really, what good is the Transformer without the cyber key. I was late for school already and going back home, unlocking the door, getting the cyber key and getting back on the road would make me 4 minutes later. But show and tell comes only once a month. So I listened to my heart instead of my head and went back. He was thrilled.

I asked him at the end of the day how show and tell went. "Great," he said, "I shot the rocket a few times." All thanks to the cyber key and a mommy moment I can be proud of.

It's Official

It is now official. I know with even more certainty that I cannot believe everything that I read. I have been suspicious before when I read articles about people who couldn't have possibly said or done what was written--like in the grocery store checkout line when the cover of a "magazine" told all about the brawl between Jennifer and Angelina over Brad. (I'm pretty sure Jennifer could hold her own. She's stronger than she looks!)

But today, when I read the article on the front page of the Press, I knew without a doubt that what they wrote was absolutely untrue. The headline read "Stomach flu spreads through county." Umm, yeah. I know. I've had it. Then I began reading the article. And I quote, "The bug...lasts 24 hours." 24 HOURS!?!? Then what kind of mutant "bug" have I had for the last 7 DAYS ? That's right, 7 days. That's 144 more hours than 24! I have never in my life been as sick as I have been this last week. Without going into detail, let's just say that what I have been through I would not wish on anyone. (Except for maybe the Press staff writer of the article in question.)

In case you're concerned, I think I'm getting better. And if you don't get this bug, you can thank me. I've apparently had it long enough for all of us.

Leftovers

Here I sit in my new pink snowflake pajamas enjoying another day off. The last few days haven't been as busy as I thought they might be. Christmas Eve was busy with the afternoon spent with Arrty's side of the family and the evening spent with mine. But Christmas Day was very quiet. Mom left for W.Va. early that morning (2:00am) to be with her family who had called about grandpa being ill. He died Monday evening and I worried for her because she was alone on the train. I wanted so badly to hug her and wished that I was with her. She seemed okay when I talked to her. I think she was expecting it might happen while she was on her way.

Since she was gone, the rest of us were kind of lost. At least I felt like I was. Dad and Ada went to see "The Nativity Story" and our family went to see "Night At the Museum." It was weird going to the movies on Christmas, but we ran into several people that we knew and the movie was actually very entertaining. (Believe it or not, Robin Williams is a great Teddy Roosevelt!) Christmas night we continued our tradition of watching "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "A Charlie Brown Christmas."

And yesterday, we watched movies, put away gifts, ate leftovers, and enjoyed our little family. I got the kitchen cleaned including cleaning out the pantry, which was quite a chore. All three boys spent a while outside in the fresh snow. Arrty shoveling and the boys playing, of course. Last night, we watched "The Pacifier" which I got in my stocking. Amazing what a little Vin can do!

As I write, it all sounds very boring. But sometimes boring is good. Sitting and watching movies or reading is such a rare event in real life, so I want to take advantage of it in vacation life. One thing I want for the new year is a simpler, slower life. I guess this week is good practice. Now I'm off to organize the hall closet--one more step closer to that simpler life.

Whew!

It's here! It's finally here! The last day of school before Christmas vacation. The day teachers all across the country look forward to. I have discovered that (at least for kindergarteners) once the Christmas tree goes up at home, students couldn't care less about what "v" says or how much a nickel is worth. All they care about is the lights and the candy canes and the presents. They are much more interested in Santa Claus than Abraham Lincoln. (Who isn't!?!) So, the month of December is pretty much spent doing art and making presents for parents. And that, if it weren't for the kids being on fast forward, would be fine with me.

Another good thing about being a teacher at Christmas is the gifts. Today I got an angel pin, a pair of Christmas socks, a candle, 2 ornaments, some chocolate, and two gift cards to Michaels. I love everything of course, but the best part is watching a five year old's face when I open their carefully chosen and wrapped gifts to me. They are more excited than me!

But now, I am so glad to have 13 days off from school. 13 days to rest. Kind of. The next 4 will be spent getting ready for Christmas. Then the busy-ness of the holiday for 2 days. Then 7 days to rest. Two days which will be spent cleaning up from the holday, then 1 day spent cleaning the basement, and 2 days organizing for the new year, and 1 day spent at school planning for next quarter. Okay, that leaves 1 day to rest. But at this point, I'll gladly take 1 day.

Do Re Mi

Okay, I confess, I am not thrilled about directing the singing for this year's Christmas program. Last year I was so stressed about it that I was physically ill. I think it's a control issue, so this year I planned ahead and said no before I was even asked. But then about a month ago, it was discovered that no one was teaching the kids their 4 songs for the play. So, of course, being who I am, I agreed (a little grumpily) to do it. For the last three and a half weeks I have been teaching 4-12 year olds "The First Noel," "Joy To The World," "Away In A Manger," and "O Little Town of Bethlehem." They are actually doing quite well. Some of them sing off key, some sit there with a bewildered look on their cute little faces, some scream instead of sing. But, then there's a moment. A moment when they're all singing (mostly in tune) and looking at me and doing just what they should. And it's in that moment that I smile and remember that these children, God's children, are what it's all about. Next Tuesday, when their parents are sitting in the audience with cameras at the ready, they are not going to care if our C is a little flat. They just want to see their little angels (and shepherds and manger animals) on that stage waving at them and smiling. And singing, with all their might, the story of Christmas.

Christmas Past

I don't have very many mementos from my childhood. (Unlike someone I know who still has her Donny Osmond lunchbox from 1976!) I have the stuffed rabbit that my dad brought to the hospital the day I was born, the hope chest he made me when I was 16, the blanket my mom made for me when I was in grade school, and two Cabbage Patch Kids from the early '80s. And I have a Raggedy Ann doll. She is not your ordinary Raggedy Ann doll. She didn't come from a store and she cost very little. Her body is made from old beige sheets, her clothes are made from scraps of material, and her hair from leftover yarn. She has blue eyes and a big grin painted on for her face. On her chest she has a red painted heart that says, "I love you, Jen." I got her for Christmas one year when I was too young to know that store bought toys weren't a possibility. I didn't know and I didn't care. I loved that doll. But now when I see her, I see so much more than fabric and paint and yarn. I see my mom sitting up after I had gone to bed carefully cutting and stitching and painting even though she was tired from her long day. I see her hoping that this simple, hand-made doll would be enough. I see her loving me so much that she did her very best to make me happy with what she had. I see the woman and mother that I want to be. And this precious treasure that means so much more to me than any store bought doll ever could, will always help me see the true meaning of Christmas--that we love because he first loved us.