Monday November 29, 2010 Blessing #196
Today Chip told me that I am a "Super Mom." This may sound silly, but if you know me at all you know I am majorly into super heroes--they are just as real to me as to my 8 year old son (ahem, and 65 year old father, but what can I say? The apple doesn't fall far from the tree). Coupled with my ever present need to be flawless (I am trying to overcome this, I promise) you can understand that Chip's words were music to my ears.
I had just picked up he and Katie-we had to hurry to get dinner and get to piano, and the kids said, "Mom did you bring us a surprise?" Often, but not every day, I will bring them a snack for the car; a granola bar, cookie or juice box for the ride home. It is usually whatever I have on hand in my classroom. Ask any mother and they will tell you that hungry children in the back seat is a horrible idea. Anyway on a Monday it didn't seem necessary as we almost always eat at Chick Fil A before we head to piano (it is on the way which makes for a fabulous excuse to make Monday night our eat out night). I explained this to them, and Chip says "It's OK, you're still a Super Mom!" I have a feeling that as he gets older, there will be fewer and fewer words of praise coming from his mouth, so I'm so thankful for these!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Getting Moving
November 11, 2010 Blessing #195 (For Real??)
So, yesterday I wrote about getting a few minutes at the start of the day to collect my thoughts, plan, and prepare. Today, I finished teaching class at 1:25 and was able to get a walk in. We have a beautiful greenway here--we use it as the cross country course. There is nothing like walking through the woods, listening to birds, and feeling the breeze to make feel grateful to be alive. It was also a few quiet minutes for me to talk with my baby and remember that I'm growing her. What a miracle.
So, yesterday I wrote about getting a few minutes at the start of the day to collect my thoughts, plan, and prepare. Today, I finished teaching class at 1:25 and was able to get a walk in. We have a beautiful greenway here--we use it as the cross country course. There is nothing like walking through the woods, listening to birds, and feeling the breeze to make feel grateful to be alive. It was also a few quiet minutes for me to talk with my baby and remember that I'm growing her. What a miracle.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
A Still Moment
Wednesday November 10, 2010 Blessing #193 (Geez, I'm coming along here...)
Another one from the Wonder Woman notebook.....Today is a day 4 in our schedule. That means that this week it is today that I start my day with a free period. Mom's that don't work outside of the home sometimes wonder how I do it all. I get that question all the time-as if I am some picture of togetherness (ha--have I got them fooled! Later I'll tell you about sending blank invites out to Chip's party!).
Well, here's my secret. I used to teach 120 students, during 6 of 7 class periods, and my free period I spent on hall or bathroom patrol. Here, I teach between 65 and 80 students and I really get free periods. Often they are used to meet with a student, grade, plan, or clean my lab-but it is time when my mind is relatively quiet and at its most productive. It is wonderful to teach at a place where the administration understands a teacher's need to have a still moment. A moment to reflect on a lesson or a student's progress, to prepare the next lesson, and to be thankful to have an outlet for my creativity.
Sunday, November 28, 2010 Blessing #194
We had the most wondeful time at the hotdog roast last night-even though we missed Daddy! This morning we are headed to make an Advent wreath at church. I am so excited about starting this time of year. We have pulled out the Nativity Sets-I have a gorgeous one that Jane and Wayne give us pieces of every year. The kids have their own version by Fisher Price, and they have had a blast playing with theirs while I get mine arragned on the buffet. We talk about the characters in this powerful story of love and miracles. When I'm pregnant at Christmas (or have just given birth as with Chip and Katie), the emotion of the story-of Mary's journey, anxiety, and thanksgiving is more real to me than ever. Today I am thankful for the comfort of Holiday traditions and for the realization that each of my children are gifts from God.
Another one from the Wonder Woman notebook.....Today is a day 4 in our schedule. That means that this week it is today that I start my day with a free period. Mom's that don't work outside of the home sometimes wonder how I do it all. I get that question all the time-as if I am some picture of togetherness (ha--have I got them fooled! Later I'll tell you about sending blank invites out to Chip's party!).
Well, here's my secret. I used to teach 120 students, during 6 of 7 class periods, and my free period I spent on hall or bathroom patrol. Here, I teach between 65 and 80 students and I really get free periods. Often they are used to meet with a student, grade, plan, or clean my lab-but it is time when my mind is relatively quiet and at its most productive. It is wonderful to teach at a place where the administration understands a teacher's need to have a still moment. A moment to reflect on a lesson or a student's progress, to prepare the next lesson, and to be thankful to have an outlet for my creativity.
Sunday, November 28, 2010 Blessing #194
We had the most wondeful time at the hotdog roast last night-even though we missed Daddy! This morning we are headed to make an Advent wreath at church. I am so excited about starting this time of year. We have pulled out the Nativity Sets-I have a gorgeous one that Jane and Wayne give us pieces of every year. The kids have their own version by Fisher Price, and they have had a blast playing with theirs while I get mine arragned on the buffet. We talk about the characters in this powerful story of love and miracles. When I'm pregnant at Christmas (or have just given birth as with Chip and Katie), the emotion of the story-of Mary's journey, anxiety, and thanksgiving is more real to me than ever. Today I am thankful for the comfort of Holiday traditions and for the realization that each of my children are gifts from God.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Back at it!
Monday, November 8, 2010 Blessing #190
I'm not well--but I'm not worse. After resting yesterday, I am excited to be back in my classroom with my students. All of my 9th graders told me how much they missed me--I was out 3 days for the conference--and it is so nice to be missed! The break was great for me--to sit with colleagues and brainstorm is fabulous, but after a while I get tired of talking about teaching and I want to do some teaching.
Chip and Katie were glad to be back at school too-and even though I know Chip is going to come home with a mountain of makeup work, I am glad they had a break. It just isn't easy to be teacher's kid--they come on teacher work days and on weekends while I work in my classroom, and they have to be near death's door to miss school with illness. So, we all had a nice break in our routine. Today I am thankful that I missed my students and that they missed me back.
Tuesday November 9, 2010 Blessing #191
Even better than just being back with my students is that we are launching into a super cool unit on human evolution. I am joined in my Biology classes by Dr. Norm Thomson and his collection of hominin fossil skulls. I think I've written about his visits before, but this one is a bit different. We are working together on a research study, so he will be in classroom longer this time. The kids love studying the bones, and today I saw their eyes light up with excitement and curiosity. I am so lucky that I live and teach close to UGA-so lucky that my school supports and encourages me to engage in research on teaching and learning, and so lucky that Norm and his skulls are here!
Saturday, November 27, 2010 Blessing #192
Well, my legs are still very sore from the Thanksgiving prep, but I am feeling much better than I was yesterday. I've already started the laundry, had breakfast and cuddle time with Katie, and had time to type 2 old blessings. Trey and Chip are still sleeping, but when they get up it will be time to head to the landfill, put clothes away, take down harvest decorations, and start prepping for next week. Trey is headed to the UGA/Tech game, and the kids and I are headed to a hotdog roast around a neighbor's fire pit. Fall fun! I am lucky that when I needed to rest, I could--and that I feel almost back to my old self today. I sense a major nesting urge coming on....and I'm so glad I feel better enough to take advantage of it. Final exams, Christmas, and this baby will all be here in a flash, and there is so much to do before that happens! But what a rich, full life I lead....
Oh, and it is time to start talking with the kids about Advent. Tomorrow we make an advent wreath after church. This is my favorite time of year.
I'm not well--but I'm not worse. After resting yesterday, I am excited to be back in my classroom with my students. All of my 9th graders told me how much they missed me--I was out 3 days for the conference--and it is so nice to be missed! The break was great for me--to sit with colleagues and brainstorm is fabulous, but after a while I get tired of talking about teaching and I want to do some teaching.
Chip and Katie were glad to be back at school too-and even though I know Chip is going to come home with a mountain of makeup work, I am glad they had a break. It just isn't easy to be teacher's kid--they come on teacher work days and on weekends while I work in my classroom, and they have to be near death's door to miss school with illness. So, we all had a nice break in our routine. Today I am thankful that I missed my students and that they missed me back.
Tuesday November 9, 2010 Blessing #191
Even better than just being back with my students is that we are launching into a super cool unit on human evolution. I am joined in my Biology classes by Dr. Norm Thomson and his collection of hominin fossil skulls. I think I've written about his visits before, but this one is a bit different. We are working together on a research study, so he will be in classroom longer this time. The kids love studying the bones, and today I saw their eyes light up with excitement and curiosity. I am so lucky that I live and teach close to UGA-so lucky that my school supports and encourages me to engage in research on teaching and learning, and so lucky that Norm and his skulls are here!
Saturday, November 27, 2010 Blessing #192
Well, my legs are still very sore from the Thanksgiving prep, but I am feeling much better than I was yesterday. I've already started the laundry, had breakfast and cuddle time with Katie, and had time to type 2 old blessings. Trey and Chip are still sleeping, but when they get up it will be time to head to the landfill, put clothes away, take down harvest decorations, and start prepping for next week. Trey is headed to the UGA/Tech game, and the kids and I are headed to a hotdog roast around a neighbor's fire pit. Fall fun! I am lucky that when I needed to rest, I could--and that I feel almost back to my old self today. I sense a major nesting urge coming on....and I'm so glad I feel better enough to take advantage of it. Final exams, Christmas, and this baby will all be here in a flash, and there is so much to do before that happens! But what a rich, full life I lead....
Oh, and it is time to start talking with the kids about Advent. Tomorrow we make an advent wreath after church. This is my favorite time of year.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thanksgiving
Blessing #186, November 25 2010 Thanksgiving Day
It was a busy, wonderful day. After working all day Wednesday and today to prep, I am exhausted, but happy. I laughed until I cried with my Mom and my sisters sitting around the table. I watched the kids playing on the front lawn, the grown ups passing around baby Miles, and the plates fill up with food. It just doesn't get any better than a house full of love, laughter, and yummy stuff to eat.
Also, it's Granna's birthday--we didn't see her for Thanksgiving this year, but I am so thankful for her!
Blessing #187, November 26, 2010 The Day After
This was to be the day for getting it done--the trip to the landfill, the borrowed chairs back to school, the harvest decorations put away, the laundry done, the TV room that is soon to be Henslee's room cleaned out, and of course the black Friday internet shopping. Well, my body, and this baby, had other plans. I have never been so tired as I am today. I feel like my arms and legs are full of lead-and I just can't work but for 15 minutes or so without having to sit down. My back is sore from the cooking, shopping, and cleaning-and I know I am a touch anemic, so I guess it's a combinaton of all of those that has just stopped me in my tracks. So, I didn't get it done, but I am thankful for a day where we are all at home--I have laid on the couch, snuggled with my children, and even took a nap. It was just what I needed-I forget to slow down, but sometimes my body tells me I have to. I'm thankful that when my body told me, I was able to listen without having to miss appointments or work, and when Trey was home and could take over the kids.
Blessing #188, November 6, 2010 (Catching up)
I'm home safe. Thank heaven--every time Trey and I are on a plane together, I consider-"What if something happens to both of us?" It's a President, Vice president thing, I guess--Anyway, I am still sick, and my head was killing me on the plane, but I am so relieved to be home with my kids snug in their beds, that nothing else matters. It is great to get away, but even better to come home and be together again. This home and this family--I am surrounded by gifts from God. I am such a blessed woman.
Blessing #189, November 7, 2010
I am still sick--I suppose if I'm not better tomorrow I will have to go the doctor. The traveling caught up with me, and I spent today lying on the sofa snuggling with my children and watching TV. I hate that I missed church, but I don't have any business spreading germs there. In any case, I am thankful that it is Sunday and I can rest in my home. This is my sanctuary, and I know that plenty of people don't feel that way. Perhaps they are homeless, or perhaps their homes are not safe--I know I take my home for granted, so today I'm stopping to recognize the blessing I have in it.
It was a busy, wonderful day. After working all day Wednesday and today to prep, I am exhausted, but happy. I laughed until I cried with my Mom and my sisters sitting around the table. I watched the kids playing on the front lawn, the grown ups passing around baby Miles, and the plates fill up with food. It just doesn't get any better than a house full of love, laughter, and yummy stuff to eat.
Also, it's Granna's birthday--we didn't see her for Thanksgiving this year, but I am so thankful for her!
Blessing #187, November 26, 2010 The Day After
This was to be the day for getting it done--the trip to the landfill, the borrowed chairs back to school, the harvest decorations put away, the laundry done, the TV room that is soon to be Henslee's room cleaned out, and of course the black Friday internet shopping. Well, my body, and this baby, had other plans. I have never been so tired as I am today. I feel like my arms and legs are full of lead-and I just can't work but for 15 minutes or so without having to sit down. My back is sore from the cooking, shopping, and cleaning-and I know I am a touch anemic, so I guess it's a combinaton of all of those that has just stopped me in my tracks. So, I didn't get it done, but I am thankful for a day where we are all at home--I have laid on the couch, snuggled with my children, and even took a nap. It was just what I needed-I forget to slow down, but sometimes my body tells me I have to. I'm thankful that when my body told me, I was able to listen without having to miss appointments or work, and when Trey was home and could take over the kids.
Blessing #188, November 6, 2010 (Catching up)
I'm home safe. Thank heaven--every time Trey and I are on a plane together, I consider-"What if something happens to both of us?" It's a President, Vice president thing, I guess--Anyway, I am still sick, and my head was killing me on the plane, but I am so relieved to be home with my kids snug in their beds, that nothing else matters. It is great to get away, but even better to come home and be together again. This home and this family--I am surrounded by gifts from God. I am such a blessed woman.
Blessing #189, November 7, 2010
I am still sick--I suppose if I'm not better tomorrow I will have to go the doctor. The traveling caught up with me, and I spent today lying on the sofa snuggling with my children and watching TV. I hate that I missed church, but I don't have any business spreading germs there. In any case, I am thankful that it is Sunday and I can rest in my home. This is my sanctuary, and I know that plenty of people don't feel that way. Perhaps they are homeless, or perhaps their homes are not safe--I know I take my home for granted, so today I'm stopping to recognize the blessing I have in it.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Awards Luncheon
November 5, 2010 Blessing #185
Yes, I know--out of order, but I figure if I wait to catch up to type new blessings, I will never catch up! So here's another entry from my Wonder Woman spiral notebook.
Still sick in Minneapolis--but another good day. I got to hear Sean Carroll-a leading evolutionary biologist talk about "How Bugs get their Spots" (I'm sure you are developing a new understanding of my dorkiness!). I also heard a professor from Iowa State talk about stories he's developed to help students understand the people behind the science--I am pumped about using them in my classroom, b/c too often kids look at their textbook as the end all and be all in science. They don't seem to understand or appreciate the messy, exciting intellectual activity that precedes the text.....so the stories are a good thing.
Also, today was the NABT award's luncheon. There was a lovely meal and all of the OBTA winners were honored. This is a picture of me shaking hands and receiving my OBTA pin from the President Elect of NABT, Dan Ward. Teachers don't get enough good press--and it was fabulous to hear the nice things said about teachers and teacher educators. I went to receive an honor, but I left feeling more blessed than ever to work in this profession and in the company of these outstanding teachers. I am lucky that I feel that my work is an extension of who I am, and that I feel affirmed in my choice of vocation. I could be wrong, but I find that more folks than not are convinced they are not where they need to be professionally--the wrong employer, or the wrong vocation entirely--for now, I have that fabulous certainty that I am where I am supposed to be.
Yes, I know--out of order, but I figure if I wait to catch up to type new blessings, I will never catch up! So here's another entry from my Wonder Woman spiral notebook.
Still sick in Minneapolis--but another good day. I got to hear Sean Carroll-a leading evolutionary biologist talk about "How Bugs get their Spots" (I'm sure you are developing a new understanding of my dorkiness!). I also heard a professor from Iowa State talk about stories he's developed to help students understand the people behind the science--I am pumped about using them in my classroom, b/c too often kids look at their textbook as the end all and be all in science. They don't seem to understand or appreciate the messy, exciting intellectual activity that precedes the text.....so the stories are a good thing.
Calm before the Storm
November 24, 2010 Blessing #184
This has been a long time coming. School is out today. This means that I finally get to see to all that has been in the back of my mind regarding prepping for Thanksgiving. I am hosting this year-and it is a big group! I love to have my home full of family, but until today there hasn't been a moment for me to prepare (or do much else for that matter).
Well, the pace has changed, thank heaven. I've had my breakfast, the kids are still snoozing, and I actually have a few minutes for counting (and even typing!) blessings. So first, I'm thankful for those few minutes--just Jake and me (our lab) in a quiet moment of gratitude. Second, I'm thrilled that my children are still sleeping, because they need it. They have been at each other's throats lately and all I can figure is that they are exhausted. And finally, I am so blessed to have a wonderful Thanksgiving to look forward to. There is nothing better than a great big family around the table--laughing and making memories. I am tired--and I am busy, but I have really got it made.
This has been a long time coming. School is out today. This means that I finally get to see to all that has been in the back of my mind regarding prepping for Thanksgiving. I am hosting this year-and it is a big group! I love to have my home full of family, but until today there hasn't been a moment for me to prepare (or do much else for that matter).
Well, the pace has changed, thank heaven. I've had my breakfast, the kids are still snoozing, and I actually have a few minutes for counting (and even typing!) blessings. So first, I'm thankful for those few minutes--just Jake and me (our lab) in a quiet moment of gratitude. Second, I'm thrilled that my children are still sleeping, because they need it. They have been at each other's throats lately and all I can figure is that they are exhausted. And finally, I am so blessed to have a wonderful Thanksgiving to look forward to. There is nothing better than a great big family around the table--laughing and making memories. I am tired--and I am busy, but I have really got it made.
NABT
Blessing #183, November 4, 2010
Well, I am just sick up here in Minneapolis. My head is full of mucus-I feel like they are shooting one of those Mucinex commercials in my sinuses--video equipment and all. What was going to be a last little get away for Trey and I before baby #3 arrives, just can't be as romantic as I'd hoped. Well, we're making the best of it, and the conference is awesome.
Trey has a patient who used to live here, and he said we had to go to Key's Cafe for breakfast. So this morning, before the first session, Trey and I bundled up and headed that way. It was delicious--and a great walk. This city is so clean, and pedestrian friendly. After breakfast, I got to learn all about the current cancer research and Micro RNAs. The coolest part is that 10 years ago we didn't believe humans had these particular RNAs, and now we have learned that we have them and they are pivotal in directing the cell cycle. Early signs are that they will provide new ways to screen for cancer and treat it. My mother in law has just completed her last chemo treatment, so cancer research is pretty close to home for me right now--and I left that talk amazed at our ability to figure stuff out.
As if that wasn't enough-stuffy head and all, I got to see a new way to teach my kids about a Pulse Chase experiment, that they will love. So, I'm sick, but I had a great breakfast with my husband and I am learning a mile a minute. I am so grateful that I am here--that my school makes it possible, and that I am getting pumped up about seeing my students again.
Well, I am just sick up here in Minneapolis. My head is full of mucus-I feel like they are shooting one of those Mucinex commercials in my sinuses--video equipment and all. What was going to be a last little get away for Trey and I before baby #3 arrives, just can't be as romantic as I'd hoped. Well, we're making the best of it, and the conference is awesome.
Trey has a patient who used to live here, and he said we had to go to Key's Cafe for breakfast. So this morning, before the first session, Trey and I bundled up and headed that way. It was delicious--and a great walk. This city is so clean, and pedestrian friendly. After breakfast, I got to learn all about the current cancer research and Micro RNAs. The coolest part is that 10 years ago we didn't believe humans had these particular RNAs, and now we have learned that we have them and they are pivotal in directing the cell cycle. Early signs are that they will provide new ways to screen for cancer and treat it. My mother in law has just completed her last chemo treatment, so cancer research is pretty close to home for me right now--and I left that talk amazed at our ability to figure stuff out.
As if that wasn't enough-stuffy head and all, I got to see a new way to teach my kids about a Pulse Chase experiment, that they will love. So, I'm sick, but I had a great breakfast with my husband and I am learning a mile a minute. I am so grateful that I am here--that my school makes it possible, and that I am getting pumped up about seeing my students again.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Just have to brag a bit.....
Out of order, but I'm trying not to get too caught up in dogma!
November 19, 2010 Blessing #182
Today was service day at school. It is unbelievable to watch the young people work together all over the community to make a difference. I am not one to love missing class time, but this is my favorite day of the year. Anyway, I worked with a group of students who wanted to do something for Bethlehem Ministry---the group I work with and travel with in Haiti. They took video footage and photos from our March trip, and created this great video for youtube. It is wild that they did it from start to finish in just a few hours. So, today, I am thankful for Samuel, Priya, Nilu, and Bethany--and that these kids are standing up for what they believe in. Give it a watch and tell me I don't have the best job in the world.
November 19, 2010 Blessing #182
Today was service day at school. It is unbelievable to watch the young people work together all over the community to make a difference. I am not one to love missing class time, but this is my favorite day of the year. Anyway, I worked with a group of students who wanted to do something for Bethlehem Ministry---the group I work with and travel with in Haiti. They took video footage and photos from our March trip, and created this great video for youtube. It is wild that they did it from start to finish in just a few hours. So, today, I am thankful for Samuel, Priya, Nilu, and Bethany--and that these kids are standing up for what they believe in. Give it a watch and tell me I don't have the best job in the world.
Decisions, Decisions
Blessing #180, November 2, 2010
Still trying to get caught up moving these from the Wonder Woman notebook to my computer. Life is not cooperating! Anyhow, this one is easy.....election day. I am embarrassed to say I didn't make it to the polls. I love to vote the way some people love cake. It was my last day teaching before I headed to Minneapolis, and I just couldn't find the 30 minutes to get to the polls between leaving sub plans, packing the kids for their stay at their grandparents, and prepping my presentation. So, today I am confessing, but also realizing that I'm blessed to live in a culture where voting has become an after thought. Not that it should be, but for all of us, and certainly for women and minorities, there was a time when voting could equal jail time, violence or both. So, I promise to do better.....and I'm thankful that my right to choose my leaders is recognized and protected in this country.
Blessing #181, November 3, 2010
The kids spent last night with Trey's mom and dad, so we were all alone waking up this morning. It is amazing how easy it is to navigate the airport when there are no children in tow. Even more amazing is that even with my life simpler and easier, I have missed my children terribly.
We made it safe to Minneapolis and got settled in the hotel with no real issues. However, just before we had reached cruising altitude, my slightly sore throat evolved into a major case of clogged sinuses, headache, and exhaustion. It is so typical for teachers to wait until they are still to get sick. I mean, I've been working like crazy for 6 or 7 weeks to get everything done--one deadline after another, and as soon as I sit on the plane and turn it over to God and the pilot, my body says, "By the way, you're sick!" Oh, well, at least I can be sick without trying to take care of my children or anyone else's. At least Trey was able to steal away for a few days of R and R, and at least I will playing the role of student for a bit. I love to learn...and sickness and all I can't wait to get started.
Still trying to get caught up moving these from the Wonder Woman notebook to my computer. Life is not cooperating! Anyhow, this one is easy.....election day. I am embarrassed to say I didn't make it to the polls. I love to vote the way some people love cake. It was my last day teaching before I headed to Minneapolis, and I just couldn't find the 30 minutes to get to the polls between leaving sub plans, packing the kids for their stay at their grandparents, and prepping my presentation. So, today I am confessing, but also realizing that I'm blessed to live in a culture where voting has become an after thought. Not that it should be, but for all of us, and certainly for women and minorities, there was a time when voting could equal jail time, violence or both. So, I promise to do better.....and I'm thankful that my right to choose my leaders is recognized and protected in this country.
Blessing #181, November 3, 2010
The kids spent last night with Trey's mom and dad, so we were all alone waking up this morning. It is amazing how easy it is to navigate the airport when there are no children in tow. Even more amazing is that even with my life simpler and easier, I have missed my children terribly.
We made it safe to Minneapolis and got settled in the hotel with no real issues. However, just before we had reached cruising altitude, my slightly sore throat evolved into a major case of clogged sinuses, headache, and exhaustion. It is so typical for teachers to wait until they are still to get sick. I mean, I've been working like crazy for 6 or 7 weeks to get everything done--one deadline after another, and as soon as I sit on the plane and turn it over to God and the pilot, my body says, "By the way, you're sick!" Oh, well, at least I can be sick without trying to take care of my children or anyone else's. At least Trey was able to steal away for a few days of R and R, and at least I will playing the role of student for a bit. I love to learn...and sickness and all I can't wait to get started.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Vampires, Pirates, and Princesses, Oh my!
Blessing #178, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween. I'm not sure why, but it seems the anticipation of trick or treating is always better than the event itself. Oh, I'm not complaining. It was a great day....we had a lovely meal at our neighbor's to kick off the evening, but as soon as we set out to trick or treat, Katie got so excited she fell, skinned her knee and ruined her tights. She dressed as an "Undersea fairy Princess" (again--see earlier post about the both/and world), and looked precious, but barely recovered from her injury in time to make it to a few more houses.
Now, I'm confident that she wasn't as hurt as she thought she was--the girl has a flair for the dramatic--but it was traumatic nonetheless. So, at the end of this harrowing ordeal I am thankful that we didn't spend it in the ER and that Katie learned that she's more resilient than she thought. I know as parents we are supposed to wish that nothing bad ever happen to our kids--but how do they know they can handle hard stuff if they never have to practice?
Blessing #179, November 1, 2010
I have a bit of a sore throat, and way too much to do before I leave on Wednesday for a conference in Minneapolis. I need to have the sub plans done, the house straight, the kids packed for a few days with their grand parents and all of my grades done as progress reports go out when we get back! I know I'll get through it, but I also no I won't get enough sleep or exercise--and I feel like the last 6 or 7 weeks have been like this. So, I'm weary today, and that makes it especially hard to focus on blessings....isn't that just a pain? When things are tough it ought be easier, not harder, to focus on the good stuff--it might keep us from spiraling into a cycle of sadness and depression.
Anyway, I am thankful that I work at a school that values professional development. I know I will be tired, but when I get there I will get re-energized and remember all the reasons I love science and love teaching children science. I am grateful that my children have 2 sets of grand parents they adore and feel close too--and that while Trey and I are away they will be enriched by new experiences with people who love them. And I'm thankful that Trey can take a break to accompany this almost sick, pregnant lady to a city I've never been to before. I hope he gets to rest, and I know I will feel safer because he is there. I'm weary, but not too weary to find the blessing.
Now, I'm confident that she wasn't as hurt as she thought she was--the girl has a flair for the dramatic--but it was traumatic nonetheless. So, at the end of this harrowing ordeal I am thankful that we didn't spend it in the ER and that Katie learned that she's more resilient than she thought. I know as parents we are supposed to wish that nothing bad ever happen to our kids--but how do they know they can handle hard stuff if they never have to practice?
Blessing #179, November 1, 2010
I have a bit of a sore throat, and way too much to do before I leave on Wednesday for a conference in Minneapolis. I need to have the sub plans done, the house straight, the kids packed for a few days with their grand parents and all of my grades done as progress reports go out when we get back! I know I'll get through it, but I also no I won't get enough sleep or exercise--and I feel like the last 6 or 7 weeks have been like this. So, I'm weary today, and that makes it especially hard to focus on blessings....isn't that just a pain? When things are tough it ought be easier, not harder, to focus on the good stuff--it might keep us from spiraling into a cycle of sadness and depression.
Anyway, I am thankful that I work at a school that values professional development. I know I will be tired, but when I get there I will get re-energized and remember all the reasons I love science and love teaching children science. I am grateful that my children have 2 sets of grand parents they adore and feel close too--and that while Trey and I are away they will be enriched by new experiences with people who love them. And I'm thankful that Trey can take a break to accompany this almost sick, pregnant lady to a city I've never been to before. I hope he gets to rest, and I know I will feel safer because he is there. I'm weary, but not too weary to find the blessing.
Stop Hunger Now to Princess Tea Party
Blessing #177, October 30, 2010
This was a full day. Trey had to take Chip with him to meet personal training clients-then to his soccer game. Katie and I were up early to head to the Academy for an Interact fund raiser. We hosted a "Mom's and Dad's morning out" to raise money for our big project this year--Stop Hunger Now. Stop Hunger Now WebsiteWhat a blessing to see these high school kids up early on a Saturday to help others. The kids I work with help me see that the future is really bright.
Anyway, then Chip went to play with a friend while Trey and I took Katie to her tea party at Southern Belles and Beaus. During these parties, the girls dress up like Disney princesses and a Disney princess is on hand (she chose Aurora) to help run the party. There are tea cups, tea cakes, and ring pops. Really, the party was the opposite of the one we had with the family...sticks, mud, tractor rides. But as my Dad says, "Katie's world shouldn't be an either/or world, but a both/and world." Pretty smart guy, my Dad. Anyway, as we were dropping Chip off, Katie says, "Brother! You're not coming to my party?" And he replies, dismissively, "Katie, that is a lot to ask of a man." I don't know where he is getting this, but it is cracking me up.
So, I'm thankful for kids who want to make the world better, my Dad who wants what's best for his grand daughter, and my son who is so full of himself!
This was a full day. Trey had to take Chip with him to meet personal training clients-then to his soccer game. Katie and I were up early to head to the Academy for an Interact fund raiser. We hosted a "Mom's and Dad's morning out" to raise money for our big project this year--Stop Hunger Now. Stop Hunger Now WebsiteWhat a blessing to see these high school kids up early on a Saturday to help others. The kids I work with help me see that the future is really bright.
Anyway, then Chip went to play with a friend while Trey and I took Katie to her tea party at Southern Belles and Beaus. During these parties, the girls dress up like Disney princesses and a Disney princess is on hand (she chose Aurora) to help run the party. There are tea cups, tea cakes, and ring pops. Really, the party was the opposite of the one we had with the family...sticks, mud, tractor rides. But as my Dad says, "Katie's world shouldn't be an either/or world, but a both/and world." Pretty smart guy, my Dad. Anyway, as we were dropping Chip off, Katie says, "Brother! You're not coming to my party?" And he replies, dismissively, "Katie, that is a lot to ask of a man." I don't know where he is getting this, but it is cracking me up.
So, I'm thankful for kids who want to make the world better, my Dad who wants what's best for his grand daughter, and my son who is so full of himself!
Monday, November 15, 2010
On the Blog Again...
I am happy to be back--I have been counting blessings all along, but have not been able to sit at the keyboard long enough to transfer them to my site. No matter....I have a lot to catch up on, and I'm going to type up at least one before I have to wake and feed the kids....
October 29, 2010 Friday Blessing #176
I picked Chip and Katie up early today, because they were going with me to the Dr. to see the baby for the first time. The appointment had been scheduled and rescheduled countless times, but it finally was coming to pass. Sadly, I had to pick Chip up during his Halloween class party, so as we were leaving he choked down his cupcake with black icing while protesting "Aw, Mom." As we pulled into the parking lot at the Dr, I turn around and see that is face is covered in that black icing, and I immediately employ the age old technique of spit bath. I said son, "Did any of the cupcake make it into your stomach?" He gave me the most grown up look and replied dismissively with, "Mom, when a man is going to eat a cupcake, he has to do what he has to do." So, my soon to be 8 year old believes he is a man....and while I know better, I also know that he has crossed some important threshold in that, if even for a only a brief moment, he was thinking of me not as "mom" but as "woman" and himself not as kid but "man." I've been laughing ever since......
And, Henslee gave Chip and Katie a thumbs up on ultrasound, so the day couldn't have been much better!
October 29, 2010 Friday Blessing #176
I picked Chip and Katie up early today, because they were going with me to the Dr. to see the baby for the first time. The appointment had been scheduled and rescheduled countless times, but it finally was coming to pass. Sadly, I had to pick Chip up during his Halloween class party, so as we were leaving he choked down his cupcake with black icing while protesting "Aw, Mom." As we pulled into the parking lot at the Dr, I turn around and see that is face is covered in that black icing, and I immediately employ the age old technique of spit bath. I said son, "Did any of the cupcake make it into your stomach?" He gave me the most grown up look and replied dismissively with, "Mom, when a man is going to eat a cupcake, he has to do what he has to do." So, my soon to be 8 year old believes he is a man....and while I know better, I also know that he has crossed some important threshold in that, if even for a only a brief moment, he was thinking of me not as "mom" but as "woman" and himself not as kid but "man." I've been laughing ever since......
And, Henslee gave Chip and Katie a thumbs up on ultrasound, so the day couldn't have been much better!
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