Right now I am reading Cilla Lee-Jenkins, Future Author Extraordinaire by Susan Tan. It is about a little girl who wants to be an author. This reminds me of the 10 year-old me who wanted to be an author when she grew up. I wrote stories and poems. I entered contests. I wrote for my school newspaper. Somehow, though, the dream of being a writer changed into being a teacher. Luckily, I became a teacher of writing (6th grade language arts to be exact). As my career has changed (I am now an intervention teacher), I miss teaching writing. As my life has has become focused on being a mother, a wife, a teacher, a community member, etc. etc. etc., my writer self is still there, but sits on a shelf for most of the year. Enter the Two Writing Teachers Slice of Life March challenge.
This is the time of the year that I get to take my writer self off of the shelf and nurture that part of myself. I think about writing--what I will write, how I will write, when I will write a lot during the month of March. I begin the month with excitement and a list of possible topics. I end the month with thirty-ish pieces of my life captured forever. Looking back over the past four years, I have quite the collection of memories and experiences.
Sometimes it has been difficult to capture the words floating around my head into comprehensible sentences to truly and fully describe how I feel.
Sometimes the words flow easily onto the screen.
Sometimes the pieces are funny and inconsequential (like pee on the toilet seat), and sometimes they capture something poignant and important (friendship, marriage, motherhood). Either way, I don't want to forget those moments captured.
I spend time reading what others write and that inspires me. I learn and connect from the rest of this amazing writing community, and for that I am better. To all of those reading this--thank you for that.
And so, on the last day of March, I close with appreciation in my heart for every minute spent on this challenge--writing, reading, thinking.
My writer self is renewed, invigorated and reminded of the power of our words and just getting out the thoughts and the memories and the moments.
Until next year, my friends...
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Friday, March 30, 2018
Letter to my Sons
Dear Boys,
I love you both. We have to talk about what happens in the bathroom, though. I am beginning to regret that we ever taught you how to pee standing up. In fact, if you could start sitting down when you pee, that would be great.
Do you remember when I showed you the Clorox wipes under the sink so that when you peed on the seat, you could wipe it up? I would really appreciate it if you started using those wipes when you pee on the seat. And just for the record, I really don't think it's your sister peeing on the seat.
I am not sure how the amount of pee that doesn't make it into the toilet seems to go unnoticed. I feel like I missed the toilet by that much, I would know. Do you know how many times I have wondered, "How did the pee get all the way over here?" Please aim. While we are at it, your overall focus could be so much better in there. Think about getting it INTO the toilet. I have Cheerios you can use to help you aim if you would like.
I wipe up a lot of pee. Pee on the toilet seat, the wall, the floor. I would like to not have to clean up that much PEE so that I have time to do other, more meaningful things. In fact, maybe it is time for you to learn how to clean the bathroom. Yes. It is time. I will contact you soon to set up your bathroom-cleaning-training.
Thank you for your assistance in this manner.
Much love,
Mom
Thursday, March 29, 2018
Trader Joe's
The closest Trader Joe's is about 45 minutes from my house, so it had been a long while since my last visit to the cheery grocery store. I recently read a blog post about favorite Trader Joe items, and I have been wanting to try many of the items on the list (including the French vanilla ice cream and Churn wine--both of which I left with today). The kids and I went to the children's museum not far from there, so it was a convenient time to visit. As we stepped through the doors, we were greeted by colorful spring flowers. A bunch of daffodils quickly found its way into our cart. My youngest child lit up at the sight of the child-sized carts. Against my better judgement, I said, "Sure, grab the cart. But stay close to me." I only had to remind her of this eight times. Like I said, it was against my better judgement.
We grabbed the typical grocery items--fruit, veggies, chicken, milk, pasta. Like a kid in a candy store, I started looking at all of the fun Trader Joe's items I REALLY came here to buy. I found raisin rosemary chips and plantain chips and pre-made pizza crust. I reminded my three children to stay close and, "Please watch out for other people." As much as I love Trader Joe's, it is small and not conducive to three young children. I grabbed a few new-to-me items in the freezer section (tempura shrimp and mango-sticky rice spring rolls). A lovely-looking berry tart also found its way into my cart. My six-year-old son tried a sample of quiche and picked out chipotle-toscano cheese to try. He likes spicy.
We headed to check-out, and I have to say, everyone who works at Trader Joe's is helpful and cheerful. My daughter helped unload the cart while the checker engaged my sons in conversation about the Yoda figurine on display and what they were up to today. We took the bags to the car and continued about our day.
For those of you interested--the French vanilla ice cream and the berry tart were totally worth the small aisle space.
We grabbed the typical grocery items--fruit, veggies, chicken, milk, pasta. Like a kid in a candy store, I started looking at all of the fun Trader Joe's items I REALLY came here to buy. I found raisin rosemary chips and plantain chips and pre-made pizza crust. I reminded my three children to stay close and, "Please watch out for other people." As much as I love Trader Joe's, it is small and not conducive to three young children. I grabbed a few new-to-me items in the freezer section (tempura shrimp and mango-sticky rice spring rolls). A lovely-looking berry tart also found its way into my cart. My six-year-old son tried a sample of quiche and picked out chipotle-toscano cheese to try. He likes spicy.
We headed to check-out, and I have to say, everyone who works at Trader Joe's is helpful and cheerful. My daughter helped unload the cart while the checker engaged my sons in conversation about the Yoda figurine on display and what they were up to today. We took the bags to the car and continued about our day.
For those of you interested--the French vanilla ice cream and the berry tart were totally worth the small aisle space.
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
A Spring Break Day
I am borrowing a format I read during this year's Slice of Life Challenge. Below are mini-slices, brief glimpses, from day two of Spring Break. I have time stamped them for perspective. It really was an awesome day.
7:00: I slept in!! I made myself a cup of coffee and settled on the couch for a little reading and writing to begin my day.
8:30: I returned from a quick run--lots to do today, so it was abbreviated but I'm so glad glad I squeezed it in. I love how I feel post running.
10:00: I have my three kiddos plus one and we are off to the trampoline park to meet friends.
11:30: These trampolines bring the kids so much joy. My oldest one figured out how to flip today. Eek!
1:30: My friend and I took six children (ranging from age 4-8) for sushi. First time for all of the kids. They put us in the back room (big surprise there). Five of the six kids tried it. Two really liked it, one kind of liked it, one did not like it and one picked all the meat out, "because I don't like the rice and the green stuff." My friend and I patted ourselves on the backs for an experiment that turned out all right. I mean, no one cried. Success. Seriously, that sushi experience could have been a slice all by itself. This really was a highlight of Spring Break.
3:00: I splurged for cupcakes for the kids because they ate sushi and nobody cried.
5:00: I am sitting at the kitchen table at my mom and dad's house, enjoying an adult beverage and catching up with them while the kids are playing games. Visiting my parents kind of feels like a mini-vacation.
6:00: My mom's lasagna is the best.
9:00: I am hanging out with my husband and my parents. The kids have gone to bed. My pajamas are on. Life is good.
Spring Break is the best.
7:00: I slept in!! I made myself a cup of coffee and settled on the couch for a little reading and writing to begin my day.
8:30: I returned from a quick run--lots to do today, so it was abbreviated but I'm so glad glad I squeezed it in. I love how I feel post running.
10:00: I have my three kiddos plus one and we are off to the trampoline park to meet friends.
11:30: These trampolines bring the kids so much joy. My oldest one figured out how to flip today. Eek!
1:30: My friend and I took six children (ranging from age 4-8) for sushi. First time for all of the kids. They put us in the back room (big surprise there). Five of the six kids tried it. Two really liked it, one kind of liked it, one did not like it and one picked all the meat out, "because I don't like the rice and the green stuff." My friend and I patted ourselves on the backs for an experiment that turned out all right. I mean, no one cried. Success. Seriously, that sushi experience could have been a slice all by itself. This really was a highlight of Spring Break.
3:00: I splurged for cupcakes for the kids because they ate sushi and nobody cried.
5:00: I am sitting at the kitchen table at my mom and dad's house, enjoying an adult beverage and catching up with them while the kids are playing games. Visiting my parents kind of feels like a mini-vacation.
6:00: My mom's lasagna is the best.
9:00: I am hanging out with my husband and my parents. The kids have gone to bed. My pajamas are on. Life is good.
Spring Break is the best.
Monday, March 26, 2018
Super Uncool Mom
Do you remember when you were a kid and a song would come on and your mom (or dad) had NEVER heard the song before and you would think, "My parents are so lame. They don't even know who __________ is." That was me today. Only, I wasn't the super hip kid. I was the super unhip parent. I'm not even sure if unhip is a word, but that was me today.
I assumed I would embarrass my kids at some point in their lives, just for the simple fact I exist. Moms are so embarrassing. I also assumed that I would be somewhat up on the music--that I would KNOW what the kids are listening to these days. I was wrong.
Today, my son had a play date with his BFF. As I was driving the BFF home, I told him it was his turn to pick a song. He said, "Thunder." Thunder???? I was clueless--no idea. I was thinking in my head, "Thunder Rolls? No, that can't be it." So I asked him who sang the song. He gave me this look like, "Duh!! How do you not know that???" He informed me that it was Imagine Dragons. I am slightly familiar with them as my son likes the song "Believer" and knows how to work Alexa and Amazon Music, so I have head this song enough to sing along to it. As my own song looked at me with the same, "Duh!" expression on his face, I knew it had happened.
I am not nearly as cool as I thought I could be. Somebody go ahead and find me some mom jeans. :-)
I assumed I would embarrass my kids at some point in their lives, just for the simple fact I exist. Moms are so embarrassing. I also assumed that I would be somewhat up on the music--that I would KNOW what the kids are listening to these days. I was wrong.
Today, my son had a play date with his BFF. As I was driving the BFF home, I told him it was his turn to pick a song. He said, "Thunder." Thunder???? I was clueless--no idea. I was thinking in my head, "Thunder Rolls? No, that can't be it." So I asked him who sang the song. He gave me this look like, "Duh!! How do you not know that???" He informed me that it was Imagine Dragons. I am slightly familiar with them as my son likes the song "Believer" and knows how to work Alexa and Amazon Music, so I have head this song enough to sing along to it. As my own song looked at me with the same, "Duh!" expression on his face, I knew it had happened.
I am not nearly as cool as I thought I could be. Somebody go ahead and find me some mom jeans. :-)
A Cup for my Coffee
I open the cabinet to grab a cup for my morning coffee. Handwritten on the cup is, "Best friends forever, never apart. Maybe in distance but never in heart." I smile. This is so true.
I think of us in college, laughing on bar stools, dreaming about the future.
I think of her moving across the ocean to follow her heart.
I think of standing next to her on the day she was married overlooking the sea.
I think of introducing her to my infant son, and the joy in her eyes as she met him.
I think of the laughter.
I think of our kids playing together so naturally--growing up together through these summer visits.
I think of the comfort I felt when I heard her voice on the phone outside of my husband's hospital room on one of the most difficult days of my life.
I think of the wine we drink, the stories we tell, and the laughter that rings out when we sit with our husbands and catch up after a year of being apart.
I think of all the talks we have had about motherhood, husbands, teaching, family relations, life.
I think of how understood I feel. She gets me. She accepts me. Unconditionally.
I think that the ocean that separates us really isn't that big.
I think of how necessary she is in my life.
My kindred spirit, my best friend.
I think of us in college, laughing on bar stools, dreaming about the future.
I think of her moving across the ocean to follow her heart.
I think of standing next to her on the day she was married overlooking the sea.
I think of introducing her to my infant son, and the joy in her eyes as she met him.
I think of the laughter.
I think of our kids playing together so naturally--growing up together through these summer visits.
I think of the comfort I felt when I heard her voice on the phone outside of my husband's hospital room on one of the most difficult days of my life.
I think of the wine we drink, the stories we tell, and the laughter that rings out when we sit with our husbands and catch up after a year of being apart.I think of all the talks we have had about motherhood, husbands, teaching, family relations, life.
I think of how understood I feel. She gets me. She accepts me. Unconditionally.
I think that the ocean that separates us really isn't that big.
I think of how necessary she is in my life.
My kindred spirit, my best friend.
Sunday, March 25, 2018
Running
I slip on my running shoes, put my earbuds in, choose music and off I go. The air is cold, the scenery still. A lot of brown on my horizon, but still beautiful. Spring is not yet showing. And honestly, the way the wind is howling around inside my hood, it is not feeling like spring either.
When I run, I am taking care of myself. Physically and emotionally. This is for me. It is for no one else. I think. I don't think. I sing. I remember. I work through what I need to work through. Sometimes I walk. I always feel better when I am done.
When I run, I listen to a lot of 90's hip hop music. Sometimes I wave my arms around like I just don't care.
When I run, I am not fast. And that is okay. A mile is a mile, no matter how many minutes it takes.
When I run, I am doing something I never thought I could do. Running? I was never a runner. A mile seemed impossible. What else can I do that I never would have thought possible?
When I run, I am reminded that I can do hard things. I can set goals and meet them one 1/4 mile at a time. And even if I don't meet the goal, I still accomplished more than had I stayed at home. Sometimes you just have to show up.
When I run, I learn that many things in life get easier. Not easy. Easier.
Today while I was running, I thought, Running is like writing--the more you do it, the better you get. That is the whole point of this month-long challenge...to make writing a priority...to practice our craft...to get better...and to get our words on the page (or screen).
When I run and when I write, I am making a commitment to myself to show up...to try...to do hard things...no matter how fast I am or how lovely my word choice is...because it will get easier...and I will get better.
Saturday, March 24, 2018
Monopoly
For Christmas, our eight-year-old son received the game Monopoly as a gift. In early January, we started playing a game. We decided to play for awhile, take a picture of the board and continue playing the same game. We played that game for two months, and it ended with our son having gobs of money and my husband and I borrowing from each other so we could pay the rent on all of his properties with hotels. This was his first time playing this game, and he played it like a pro. He was strategic in his deals and purchases. If someone landed on Park Place or Boardwalk (he owned them and starting putting houses on them right away) and didn't have the money, he asked for properties, one at a time, for rent. He was able to put houses and hotels on them, which meant more rent for him, and his parents (who were pretty much working together at this point), were clearly in over their heads. He payed attention early, figured out how the game works quickly, learned from the mistakes he made along the way, and played well.
This is how this kid had been from the time he was a baby. He would watch with his serious baby expression, figure it out, and then do it. He didn't walk until he was almost 15 months old, but when he figured it out, off he went. One day he took a few steps, then later that day he took 15 steps and then he was walking. He didn't do a whole lot of falling. Learning to read was similar. He is so focused on the task at hand--on what he is learning. He watches, eyes furrowed and focused, pays attention, learns right away from his mistakes and continues. There isn't anything this kid can't figure out when he puts his mind to it.
Last weekend we finished up that game, and last night we started a new one. Our son zeroed in on attaining Park Place and Boardwalk because that is what worked for him last time. He passed up on other properties so that he would have enough money to buy the ones he wanted. And wouldn't you know, that kid got both of those properties naturally. And then his mother landed on Boardwalk right after he acquired it and had to pay double rent.
This is how this kid had been from the time he was a baby. He would watch with his serious baby expression, figure it out, and then do it. He didn't walk until he was almost 15 months old, but when he figured it out, off he went. One day he took a few steps, then later that day he took 15 steps and then he was walking. He didn't do a whole lot of falling. Learning to read was similar. He is so focused on the task at hand--on what he is learning. He watches, eyes furrowed and focused, pays attention, learns right away from his mistakes and continues. There isn't anything this kid can't figure out when he puts his mind to it.
Last weekend we finished up that game, and last night we started a new one. Our son zeroed in on attaining Park Place and Boardwalk because that is what worked for him last time. He passed up on other properties so that he would have enough money to buy the ones he wanted. And wouldn't you know, that kid got both of those properties naturally. And then his mother landed on Boardwalk right after he acquired it and had to pay double rent.
Friday, March 23, 2018
Spring Break Top Ten
Today was our last day of school before SPRING BREAK! My poor children had to spend extra hours at school while their friends go to go home at noon (noon dismissal=teacher work time). They'll miss me someday when they are are old enough to stay home alone, right??? They will secretly wish they were at school with their precious mother. Enter sarcasm here.
Here is my list of the top ten things I want to do over the next nine glorious days.
10. Go to bed early and get up early. I know, most people want to sleep in. Not me. I want to get up at 6 A.M. before anyone else is up, enjoy my coffee in front of the fire place and read or work in the peaceful, sleepy house. It's my favorite.
9. Be active every day. I want to get in at least three runs. That 10K isn't going to run itself at the end of April.
8. I have a list THIS LONG (visualize me holding my arms as wide as they go) of chores I want to get done around the house.
7. Take a load to Goodwill. See previous to-do list item. There is some serious purging still to do up in here.
6. Visit my parents. They want to see us, we want to see them--it's a good time for a sleepover at Grandma and Grandpa's.
5. Make cookies for the new neighbors.
4. READ and WRITE every day.
3. Spend time really BEING with my kids. Playing games with them, reading together, playing outside, going to the trampoline park and swimming--I just want to BE with them this week. No rushing. No go, go, go.
2. Make breakfast for my family (and I'm not talking about pouring some cereal into a bowl) and enjoying the meal together as a family. Again, no rushing.
1. Get back to my natural state. Life is busy. It is wonderful but it is busy, and I spend a lot of time rushing from one thing to another. I am looking forward to NOT doing that. I want to unplug a little from all the hurry. I want to simply BE this break. I think I need that. I am pretty happy we AREN'T going anywhere this year. Being at home sounds just right.
Happy Spring Break!!
Here is my list of the top ten things I want to do over the next nine glorious days.
10. Go to bed early and get up early. I know, most people want to sleep in. Not me. I want to get up at 6 A.M. before anyone else is up, enjoy my coffee in front of the fire place and read or work in the peaceful, sleepy house. It's my favorite.
9. Be active every day. I want to get in at least three runs. That 10K isn't going to run itself at the end of April.
8. I have a list THIS LONG (visualize me holding my arms as wide as they go) of chores I want to get done around the house.
7. Take a load to Goodwill. See previous to-do list item. There is some serious purging still to do up in here.
6. Visit my parents. They want to see us, we want to see them--it's a good time for a sleepover at Grandma and Grandpa's.
5. Make cookies for the new neighbors.
4. READ and WRITE every day.
3. Spend time really BEING with my kids. Playing games with them, reading together, playing outside, going to the trampoline park and swimming--I just want to BE with them this week. No rushing. No go, go, go.
2. Make breakfast for my family (and I'm not talking about pouring some cereal into a bowl) and enjoying the meal together as a family. Again, no rushing.
1. Get back to my natural state. Life is busy. It is wonderful but it is busy, and I spend a lot of time rushing from one thing to another. I am looking forward to NOT doing that. I want to unplug a little from all the hurry. I want to simply BE this break. I think I need that. I am pretty happy we AREN'T going anywhere this year. Being at home sounds just right.
Happy Spring Break!!
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Dear Community
I have read a few posts following a letter format and I decided to try it.
Dear Community,
Thank you for making such a great turn-out for our PTO dinner event tonight. So many of you came. You were laughing, chatting, enjoying dinner. Seeing so many kids, parents, grandparents, teachers and friends made me smile. So many of you volunteered. You were willing to chip in and work together to clear plates and clean tables. So many of you came to eat and ended up happily helping. Laughter and joy buzzed through the whole place. Warmth for all of you filled me as I worked alongside you. These events energize me. Your effort and enthusiasm energize me. Seeing all of us together tonight, smiling, eating, laughing--enjoying our community--reminds me of what a great little place we have here.
Thank you. Thank you for helping. Thank you for caring. Thank you for being my home. I love it here.
Always,
Sam
Dear Community,
Thank you for making such a great turn-out for our PTO dinner event tonight. So many of you came. You were laughing, chatting, enjoying dinner. Seeing so many kids, parents, grandparents, teachers and friends made me smile. So many of you volunteered. You were willing to chip in and work together to clear plates and clean tables. So many of you came to eat and ended up happily helping. Laughter and joy buzzed through the whole place. Warmth for all of you filled me as I worked alongside you. These events energize me. Your effort and enthusiasm energize me. Seeing all of us together tonight, smiling, eating, laughing--enjoying our community--reminds me of what a great little place we have here.
Thank you. Thank you for helping. Thank you for caring. Thank you for being my home. I love it here.
Always,
Sam
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Dinner
I parked the car, walked along the sidewalk into the busy restaurant. I did a quick scan and found their smiling faces. All stresses of the day disappear as hugs are exchanged.
Every month or so, I meet three of my high school friends for dinner. We laugh, we eat, we laugh, we drink wine, we laugh, we catch up, we laugh, we reminisce, and we laugh. These dinners are good for the soul. It is not uncommon for the four of us to sit at the table for three plus hours discussing everything from our kids to work to "do you remember that time in high school when..." There is something special about being in the presence of friends who knew you when you were a teenager and who watched you grown and learn into adulthood. We have been together through weddings, a divorce, children and losing a parent.
I leave feeling renewed. I leave feeling understood. I leave looking forward to the next dinner.
Every month or so, I meet three of my high school friends for dinner. We laugh, we eat, we laugh, we drink wine, we laugh, we catch up, we laugh, we reminisce, and we laugh. These dinners are good for the soul. It is not uncommon for the four of us to sit at the table for three plus hours discussing everything from our kids to work to "do you remember that time in high school when..." There is something special about being in the presence of friends who knew you when you were a teenager and who watched you grown and learn into adulthood. We have been together through weddings, a divorce, children and losing a parent.
I leave feeling renewed. I leave feeling understood. I leave looking forward to the next dinner.
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
A Pet Dinosaur
I made the mistake of trying to write while my kids are awake. My husband is gone at a meeting, and since Fixer Upper is on tonight, I thought I'd write my slice now while the kids are playing so that when they go to bed, I can fold laundry and watch my show. Great plan. I sat down to write and got about a paragraph in and my son came in to write a song (Amazing! Wonderful! He is writing!!!!!). He needed help with every other word. It isn't easy to write when you are spelling every other word for someone else. No flow. Then, my daughter showed me her little pet dinosaur who was prancing around my stomach and then taking the arm slide down. At this point, I decided that this whole plan of mine to write while they were awake was not a good idea. So, here I am writing about it.
Later, maybe I will finish the other piece for tomorrow. After Fixer Upper.
Later, maybe I will finish the other piece for tomorrow. After Fixer Upper.
Monday, March 19, 2018
Fingers in My Hair
Yesterday I took my four-year-old daughter to the Cabaret show at our high school. Her babysitter was performing, and I knew there would be Disney songs she would know. We went with some friends, there was dessert, and her grandparents were there, too. It was an event! She intently watched the show from my lap or her grandpa's lap as the view was better from a lap. At one point, I lifted her a little higher so she could see better. Her little head rested against the side of my head and I could feel her fingers twirling my hair.
It was one of those moments that I wanted to pause time. Those moments are happening more and more as my children continue to grow and grow. I want to just slow it down...but all I can is hold my breath in that moment, enjoy it for what it is, and remember it always. Because this moment will pass. But I have it right now. I have a sweet, little girl I can still lift into my arms and feel her head against mine. Without thinking, she casually twirls my hair in her fingers, and it feels so natural. We hold hands when we walk into the grocery store. When we watch a movie, she sits on my lap with her head resting on my chest, right near my heart. She tells me I am the best mom ever (she also tells me I make her sad when I tell her no snacks before dinner, but that is a different blog post) and she notices when I wear jewelry. I know these moments won't last forever...they will change as she grows...and those moment will be special, too.
But for today, I am holding on to the thought of her little fingers casually twirling my hair...and I know I will never forget that.
It was one of those moments that I wanted to pause time. Those moments are happening more and more as my children continue to grow and grow. I want to just slow it down...but all I can is hold my breath in that moment, enjoy it for what it is, and remember it always. Because this moment will pass. But I have it right now. I have a sweet, little girl I can still lift into my arms and feel her head against mine. Without thinking, she casually twirls my hair in her fingers, and it feels so natural. We hold hands when we walk into the grocery store. When we watch a movie, she sits on my lap with her head resting on my chest, right near my heart. She tells me I am the best mom ever (she also tells me I make her sad when I tell her no snacks before dinner, but that is a different blog post) and she notices when I wear jewelry. I know these moments won't last forever...they will change as she grows...and those moment will be special, too.
But for today, I am holding on to the thought of her little fingers casually twirling my hair...and I know I will never forget that.
Sunday, March 18, 2018
My Current Reads, Part Three
Recently Finished:
- The Hate U Give by Angie: Every human being should read this book. It is a look into the life of a 16-year-old African American girl . Starr lives in a poor neighborhood where drive-by shootings and gang violence are a part of life, and she attends school at a fancy suburban prep school 45 minutes away. When she was 10, she saw one of her best friends shot during a drive-by shooting and at 16, she saw her other childhood best friend killed at the hands of the police. He was unarmed. This incident quickly becomes a national headline. The story weaves between Starr's life at school, her life at home, her relationships with her friends and family, all while going back to this shooting and the repercussions for her and everyone in her life and neighborhood. This book gives insight into what Starr's world is all about. My hope would be anyone who reads this book would have understanding into a world that maybe they didn't before reading this book.
Currently Reading:
- Travel Bits 101: The Overseas Highway: This book is full of information and history on the Florida Keys and the Overseas Highway. It was also written by a dear friend.
Currently Listening to:
- Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow: 24 hours and 45 minutes to go.
Currently Reading to My Kid:
- The Swiss Family Robinson: Still reading.
Next up:
- Cilla Lee-Jenkins-Future Author Extraordinaire! by Susan Tan: I need to get back to books to can actually hand to one of my students at the elementary school. I left this one at school this weekend, so I picked up Travel Bits, which has been on my list for awhile.
Coming Soon:
- I think I want to listen to Ernest Hemingway...we are going to Key West this summer, so I think it is only appropriate I experience Hemingway before I go.
- Listening to Hamilton is making me want to learn more about the founding fathers and the Revolution. David McCollough is on my list now, too.
What are you reading these days?
Saturday, March 17, 2018
A Recipe and a Friend
Every year on or near St. Patrick's Day, I make a Reuben casserole. Corned beef (or venison), sauerkraut, onions, sour cream all mixed together with rye bread croutons and Swiss cheese across the top. It is delicious. Sometimes I make it at other times during the year, but for St. Patrick's Day, it is my go-to recipe. I am planning on making it tonight along with a Bailey's poke cake that came across my feed on Facebook.
When I pull the recipe out to use it, I smile when I see my friend 's hand writing on the recipe that says, "Good!" I miss her. When I started teaching 16-ish years ago, she and I worked together. We became good friends, started graduate school together, coached volleyball together, and when I left my first job to be closer to home, I wished I could take her with me. We kept in contact. We talked on the phone. We met for dinner a few times a year. We both had children--three each. Life got busier. The dinners and phone conversations dwindled. I haven't seen her in awhile.
Whenever I make this recipe, though, I think of her. Usually, it reminds me to call or text her, which I will do today. No matter where life takes us, our friends are still our friends. No matter how much time passes, I still see her handwriting on that recipe and I smile and think of her...and then I reach out to her and connect.
When I pull the recipe out to use it, I smile when I see my friend 's hand writing on the recipe that says, "Good!" I miss her. When I started teaching 16-ish years ago, she and I worked together. We became good friends, started graduate school together, coached volleyball together, and when I left my first job to be closer to home, I wished I could take her with me. We kept in contact. We talked on the phone. We met for dinner a few times a year. We both had children--three each. Life got busier. The dinners and phone conversations dwindled. I haven't seen her in awhile.
Whenever I make this recipe, though, I think of her. Usually, it reminds me to call or text her, which I will do today. No matter where life takes us, our friends are still our friends. No matter how much time passes, I still see her handwriting on that recipe and I smile and think of her...and then I reach out to her and connect.
Friday, March 16, 2018
So Tired
I woke up tired.
But it was so worth it.
It was 2 A.M. when I turned the light off and rolled over to sleep for what I knew would only be about 4 hours.
I have been TRYING to sleep more because I am better on 7+ hours of sleep. I go, go, go all day, we put the kids to bed and then it's MY time. I hang out with my husband, watch some TV, browse Facebook and look at the schedule for summer swimming lessons for the kids. Before I know it, it is closing in on 11. Morning comes early.
Last night, again, I was convinced I was going to get a good night's sleep. I headed up at 10:30 to read a bit before bed. I was just going to read for a little bit...but 3.5 hours later, the book was finished. It was so good. I kept reading, waiting to get tired, but tired I did not get...I got more and more into the story and had to find out what happened. For those curious--it was The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas. By about 12:30, I knew I was finishing the book before I went to sleep. I went to bed knowing today would be a rough one but I felt satisfied and full of a good story...it was absolutely worth it.
That is the joy of reading--getting so caught up in a book that the clock doesn't matter. You HAVE to keep reading. You HAVE to find out what happens. That is the best.
This morning, as I made my sons breakfast, I told them how late I stayed up reading. I told them I read too much last night, and my eight-year-old with his eight-year-old wisdom said, "Mom, I thought you said there was no such thing as too much reading."
I stand corrected....by my eight-year-old.
But it was so worth it.
It was 2 A.M. when I turned the light off and rolled over to sleep for what I knew would only be about 4 hours.
I have been TRYING to sleep more because I am better on 7+ hours of sleep. I go, go, go all day, we put the kids to bed and then it's MY time. I hang out with my husband, watch some TV, browse Facebook and look at the schedule for summer swimming lessons for the kids. Before I know it, it is closing in on 11. Morning comes early.
Last night, again, I was convinced I was going to get a good night's sleep. I headed up at 10:30 to read a bit before bed. I was just going to read for a little bit...but 3.5 hours later, the book was finished. It was so good. I kept reading, waiting to get tired, but tired I did not get...I got more and more into the story and had to find out what happened. For those curious--it was The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas. By about 12:30, I knew I was finishing the book before I went to sleep. I went to bed knowing today would be a rough one but I felt satisfied and full of a good story...it was absolutely worth it.
That is the joy of reading--getting so caught up in a book that the clock doesn't matter. You HAVE to keep reading. You HAVE to find out what happens. That is the best.
This morning, as I made my sons breakfast, I told them how late I stayed up reading. I told them I read too much last night, and my eight-year-old with his eight-year-old wisdom said, "Mom, I thought you said there was no such thing as too much reading."
I stand corrected....by my eight-year-old.
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Dance Pictures
My four-year-old daughter is in her first dance class this year. A few weeks ago we brought home the recital outfit and tonight was picture night. I've been thinking about this all week...what should I do with her hair? How much of the outfit should I put on at home? How many pins will it take to hold that hat on her head sideways? I hope she doesn't have some sort of random potty or puking accident on this thing. What time should I leave work to have plenty of time to get home, get her ready and then get to dance class? Blah!
Well, the night came. I put her tights on her at home and a button-up shirt so as to not mess up the hair (which really wasn't done so much as just combed and pulled back some). It felt a little like prom or something. Off we went to dance class with the outfit in tow. I'm glad I remembered it. Geez, I hope we don't have some freak accident with this thing on the way there.
We get there with plenty of time to spare and I help my little girl put on this fluffy, tu-tu of an outfit on. She was so happy. Her face just radiated joy. My heart swelled. She slipped on her hot pink gloves and we did the best we could with the hat. On went the shoes and on and on and on and on went her smile. The pictures were adorable--twelve or so four-year-olds all dressed up and smily. I am so excited to see them dance in a few weeks at the recital.
When she was all dressed up in her recital outfit, my daughter said to me, "I feel like a princess." I fast-forwarded to dances and cap and gown moments. I hope she is always able to find the joy in these moments as she did today, because life doesn't stay as simple as it is when you are four. I won't be able to trouble-shoot all the problems for her, and my worries won't always be so trivial as to, "I hope she I can get that hat on right!" The worries will grow as she grows. I can't protect her from all of the things I wish I could protect her from. More than anything, I hope she always feels beautiful and loved...because she will always be beautiful and she will always be loved and I will always be there with her to pin her hair and take her picture and feel my heart swell at her loveliness.
Well, the night came. I put her tights on her at home and a button-up shirt so as to not mess up the hair (which really wasn't done so much as just combed and pulled back some). It felt a little like prom or something. Off we went to dance class with the outfit in tow. I'm glad I remembered it. Geez, I hope we don't have some freak accident with this thing on the way there.
We get there with plenty of time to spare and I help my little girl put on this fluffy, tu-tu of an outfit on. She was so happy. Her face just radiated joy. My heart swelled. She slipped on her hot pink gloves and we did the best we could with the hat. On went the shoes and on and on and on and on went her smile. The pictures were adorable--twelve or so four-year-olds all dressed up and smily. I am so excited to see them dance in a few weeks at the recital.
When she was all dressed up in her recital outfit, my daughter said to me, "I feel like a princess." I fast-forwarded to dances and cap and gown moments. I hope she is always able to find the joy in these moments as she did today, because life doesn't stay as simple as it is when you are four. I won't be able to trouble-shoot all the problems for her, and my worries won't always be so trivial as to, "I hope she I can get that hat on right!" The worries will grow as she grows. I can't protect her from all of the things I wish I could protect her from. More than anything, I hope she always feels beautiful and loved...because she will always be beautiful and she will always be loved and I will always be there with her to pin her hair and take her picture and feel my heart swell at her loveliness.
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Tidbits from Talking with Mom
"I haven't talked to you in a while, so I thought I'd call."
"Did you see This is Us? Oh, it is the best show." "I know! I love it so much!! All the feels!! What am I going to do for the next 6 months without it?" "I don't want to watch it with your dad, though. I like to watch it alone."
"I talked to your aunt and uncle. They had fun in Hawaii."
"Not much knew around here, just the same ol', same ol'."
"The kids are good."
"The new tile back splash came in."
"I'm going to bring the kids down to see you over Spring Break. It's been awhile." "That would be great!"
"Love you, Mom. Thanks for calling." "Love you, too!"
"Did you see This is Us? Oh, it is the best show." "I know! I love it so much!! All the feels!! What am I going to do for the next 6 months without it?" "I don't want to watch it with your dad, though. I like to watch it alone."
"I talked to your aunt and uncle. They had fun in Hawaii."
"Not much knew around here, just the same ol', same ol'."
"The kids are good."
"The new tile back splash came in."
"I'm going to bring the kids down to see you over Spring Break. It's been awhile." "That would be great!"
"Love you, Mom. Thanks for calling." "Love you, too!"
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
I Am
I am an imperfect wife married to my imperfect best friend who is positively perfect for me.
I am a mom who completely feels like each child is a part of her very heart and soul walking around outside of her body...and whose blood pressure goes up each time she has to ask her child to PUT. ON. HIS. SHOES. for the 16th time.
I am a teacher who wishes she had more hours in the day to do all that she wants to do for her students.
I am a daughter who appreciates her parents more than she will ever be able to tell them.
I am a sister who can't wait to finish listening to Hamilton so she can talk to her brother about it.
I am a friend who loves and needs dinners and conversations that you can really only have with your girlfriends.
I am a reader. I am a writer. I am a worrier. I am fiercely loyal. I am a sensitive soul. I am tender. I am a tad hot-headed. I am a perfectionist. I am a first-born. I am trusting. I am a grudge-holder. I am outgoing. I am anxious. I am calm.
I am an aspiring meditator.
I am a believer in the goodness of people.
I am a Packer fan.
I am a lover of trying new restaurants.
I am in need of a beach, a lounge chair and a book.
I am always ready to talk and laugh.
I am unable to always choose sides...because both sides usually have good points.
I am an aspiring meditator.
I am a believer in the goodness of people.
I am a Packer fan.
I am a lover of trying new restaurants.
I am in need of a beach, a lounge chair and a book.
I am always ready to talk and laugh.
I am unable to always choose sides...because both sides usually have good points.
I am never alone.
I am always trying.
I am forever grateful.
I am here.
Monday, March 12, 2018
An Evening Out with My Children
This past weekend I did a lot of purging of things. I collected several bags to take to Goodwill. Yesterday, I told my kids that after school (today), we would go to Goodwill to drop off these bags and then go have dinner. My oldest son asked if we could shop at Goodwill, too. I gladly told him yes (I may have a Goodwill problem). My kids love Goodwill; this has everything to do with the fact that they usually get to pick something cheap to bring home. I told my husband he was free for the evening, and he told me he was excited for gas station food and time for the taxes. He gets pretty excited when he can have a gas station rib sandwich for dinner. Classy, I know.
We drove the 30-ish minutes to Goodwill. We listened to music. My oldest is on a Luke Bryan kick right now, so we listen to a lot of Luke Bryan, which is fine because--LUKE BRYAN!! My middle son chose Pour Some Sugar on Me by Def Leppard and the Star Wars theme...he is a padawan as he informed me earlier. My daughter chose a song from The Descendants 2 soundtrack and Bartender from Lady Antebellum. It feels a little wrong listening to your children sing about the bartender bringing out more rounds and watching the disco ball go all around. Sigh. Nothing makes you blush about your college years more than imagining that someday your children will go off to college and probably do the same kinds of things you did.
We enjoyed some shopping at Goodwill and then had Italian food for dinner. Correction--I had Italian food for dinner; my children ate food off of the kids menu. We talked about the day, played tic-tac-toe and my children only needed occasional reminders about keeping the rowdiness to a minimum. At one point a woman from across the aisle caught my eye and smiled. Another couple smiled and giggled at the kids. A woman in the bathroom laughed and chatted with my daughter about her kitty boots. When you have young children, this happens a lot...people see you having moments with your children and it reminds them of when their children were young and they remind you that it will go so fast. From the time my kids were babies, I liked that they were able to bring others joy just by simply BEING. Babies and young children do that. I notice it now that my kids aren't babies anymore. Seeing babies reminds me of those days with a infant carrier in the Target cart. I smile knowingly and reminisce. It does go fast.
And as sweet as those baby days are, it's pretty fun to take your kids (without a diaper bag or half the house) on a Monday night trip to Goodwill and sing along to Def Leppard and just hang out.
This part is pretty amazing.
And it will go fast.
And someday I will be in a restaurant striking up conversation with a young mom and her child and it will remind me of tonight.
And my heart will be glad.
We drove the 30-ish minutes to Goodwill. We listened to music. My oldest is on a Luke Bryan kick right now, so we listen to a lot of Luke Bryan, which is fine because--LUKE BRYAN!! My middle son chose Pour Some Sugar on Me by Def Leppard and the Star Wars theme...he is a padawan as he informed me earlier. My daughter chose a song from The Descendants 2 soundtrack and Bartender from Lady Antebellum. It feels a little wrong listening to your children sing about the bartender bringing out more rounds and watching the disco ball go all around. Sigh. Nothing makes you blush about your college years more than imagining that someday your children will go off to college and probably do the same kinds of things you did.
We enjoyed some shopping at Goodwill and then had Italian food for dinner. Correction--I had Italian food for dinner; my children ate food off of the kids menu. We talked about the day, played tic-tac-toe and my children only needed occasional reminders about keeping the rowdiness to a minimum. At one point a woman from across the aisle caught my eye and smiled. Another couple smiled and giggled at the kids. A woman in the bathroom laughed and chatted with my daughter about her kitty boots. When you have young children, this happens a lot...people see you having moments with your children and it reminds them of when their children were young and they remind you that it will go so fast. From the time my kids were babies, I liked that they were able to bring others joy just by simply BEING. Babies and young children do that. I notice it now that my kids aren't babies anymore. Seeing babies reminds me of those days with a infant carrier in the Target cart. I smile knowingly and reminisce. It does go fast.
And as sweet as those baby days are, it's pretty fun to take your kids (without a diaper bag or half the house) on a Monday night trip to Goodwill and sing along to Def Leppard and just hang out.
This part is pretty amazing.
And it will go fast.
And someday I will be in a restaurant striking up conversation with a young mom and her child and it will remind me of tonight.
And my heart will be glad.
Sunday, March 11, 2018
My Current Reads, Part Two
Recently Finished:
- A Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds: The word choice and voice in this book was amazing. The way it flowed and felt so natural...it was hard to put down. I read it in two days. The specific images mixed with many conclusions to draw from those images and information made this a very satisfying read. With that being said, I had some issues with the ending...and I will leave that there. No spoilers here. I hate unexpected spoilers.
Currently Reading:
- The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas: The settings and scenarios in this book are similar to A Long Way Down. There are many connections to be made between the books. In this book, Starr feels she lives two different lives--one in the private school she attends in a gated community 45 minutes from home and another at home in the inner city. She is able to successfully keep these two worlds apart--until she witnesses a childhood friend get killed by a police officer. She is the only one who knows what happened, and what happened and what she knows could have serious repercussions for her family, her friends and herself. I am having a hard time putting this one down, too.
Currently Listening to:
- Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow: Still. 26.5 hours to go. We just got through the Revolutionary War.
Currently Reading to My Kid:
- The Swiss Family Robinson: It'll take us awhile to get through this one, too. It's so long. They kill a lot of animals in this book. They also seem to find everything they would possibly need on this island. Being shipwrecked never sounded so glamorous. :-)
Next up:
- Cilla Lee-Jenkins-Future Author Extraordinaire! by Susan Tan: I need to get back to books to can actually hand to one of my students at the elementary school.
What are you reading these days?
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Saturday Morning Haiku
Coffee in hand
A book ready to be read
Peace and quiet abound.
Fireplace glowing there
Warming my feet and my soul
Breathe in, breathe out, breathe.
Entire day ahead
Everything and nothing
on my to do list.
I wait the week long
for this Saturday morning
to come and renew.
A book ready to be read
Peace and quiet abound.
Fireplace glowing there
Warming my feet and my soul
Breathe in, breathe out, breathe.
Entire day ahead
Everything and nothing
on my to do list.
I wait the week long
for this Saturday morning
to come and renew.
Friday, March 9, 2018
A Rascal
One of the perks of working in the same school as the one my children attend is that I get to hear stories of things they do and say from their teachers (my friends).
Our middle child, Jack, is a first grader. He is imaginative, fun-loving and can be absolutely exasperating at times. He is easily distracted and hilarious. My blood pressure goes up every morning because getting him in the car to go to school can be quite the feat. He makes people laugh in Target as they pass us in the aisle because he has said something funny. He doesn't even have to try.
The other day, his teacher stopped me in the hall to tell me a funny story about Jack. Apparently they were reading a story and word rascal was used. They were talking about what rascal means. They determined that rascal was someone who often gets in trouble, but that this person did not intend to do anything to get in trouble...and my Jack said, "That's what I am!! I am a rascal!"
Today the word was stubborn. Jack announced he is that word, too.
It's been quite the week of self-discovery for Jack. I'm so glad he is finding himself. :-)
Our middle child, Jack, is a first grader. He is imaginative, fun-loving and can be absolutely exasperating at times. He is easily distracted and hilarious. My blood pressure goes up every morning because getting him in the car to go to school can be quite the feat. He makes people laugh in Target as they pass us in the aisle because he has said something funny. He doesn't even have to try.
The other day, his teacher stopped me in the hall to tell me a funny story about Jack. Apparently they were reading a story and word rascal was used. They were talking about what rascal means. They determined that rascal was someone who often gets in trouble, but that this person did not intend to do anything to get in trouble...and my Jack said, "That's what I am!! I am a rascal!"
Today the word was stubborn. Jack announced he is that word, too.
It's been quite the week of self-discovery for Jack. I'm so glad he is finding himself. :-)
Thursday, March 8, 2018
Nerf Bullets
I have three children, two boys and a girl, ages 8, 6 and 4. This means I have what can only be compared to the inside of a Toys 'R Us warehouse within the walls of my house. If you think about it, I probably have a 10 year span of age-appropriate toys. There are still baby toys like Sophie the Giraffe floating around here along with duplos and other toys my daughter has mostly outgrown. There are all of the toys she currently plays with (babies, ponies, barbies, dress up clothes, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera) plus all of toys her brothers have that they don't play with like dinosaurs and cars and all the ones they do play with like legos. On top of that, my husband and I have a garage sale problem, so we have several boxes of K'nex for when they get a little older. Oh, and the stuffed animals! Those things migrate EVERYWHERE!! I spend a fair amount of time relocating these creatures to their natural habitat...which is not my living room.
But for any of the complaining I have ever done about picking up toys...nerf bullets take the cake. Those things are EVERYWHERE!!! And I do mean EVERYWHERE. I have found them in the bathroom, in our bed, under the kitchen table, in between the couch cushions; those things are in every. single. room. in. this. house. I get my daily squats in just picking up those blasted nerf bullets. This all started about a year ago when my boys began a healthy interest in nerf guns. In that time, we have accumulated a small nerf arsenal. I am pretty sure we could have at least 8 other boys here for a nerf war and have enough guns and bullets for everyone. Now, I am stepping on or picking up nerf bullets on a regular basis. I need little baskets in each room where I can just drop off the nerf bullets to save myself a trip upstairs to my kids' rooms. And I just don't understand how I am the only person in this house who seems to see the nerf bullets. How could you miss them??? They are bright orange!!!
I will tell you what, though. As crazy as those nerf bullets drive me, I wouldn't trade them for anything. Seeing them (everywhere!) reminds me I have three laughing, happy children spreading those nerf bullets like bird seed around the house. They set up targets and practice together. They play and they laugh and that alone makes every single nerf-bullet-picking-up-squat worth it.
There's also the fact that I am not kneeling on legos, which only have you done it can you imagine the pain. So there's that.
But for any of the complaining I have ever done about picking up toys...nerf bullets take the cake. Those things are EVERYWHERE!!! And I do mean EVERYWHERE. I have found them in the bathroom, in our bed, under the kitchen table, in between the couch cushions; those things are in every. single. room. in. this. house. I get my daily squats in just picking up those blasted nerf bullets. This all started about a year ago when my boys began a healthy interest in nerf guns. In that time, we have accumulated a small nerf arsenal. I am pretty sure we could have at least 8 other boys here for a nerf war and have enough guns and bullets for everyone. Now, I am stepping on or picking up nerf bullets on a regular basis. I need little baskets in each room where I can just drop off the nerf bullets to save myself a trip upstairs to my kids' rooms. And I just don't understand how I am the only person in this house who seems to see the nerf bullets. How could you miss them??? They are bright orange!!!
I will tell you what, though. As crazy as those nerf bullets drive me, I wouldn't trade them for anything. Seeing them (everywhere!) reminds me I have three laughing, happy children spreading those nerf bullets like bird seed around the house. They set up targets and practice together. They play and they laugh and that alone makes every single nerf-bullet-picking-up-squat worth it.
There's also the fact that I am not kneeling on legos, which only have you done it can you imagine the pain. So there's that.
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
Jack Bauer
When my husband and I were dating (circa 12-ish years ago), we lived about 3 hours apart. We spent the weekends together, but long distance can be hard. I remember wishing we could do normal "couple things" during the week, like have dinner and watch TV together...on a weeknight.
At some point, he was watching TV one night at his house and happened upon the show 24 with Keifer Sutherland. He was hooked. And pretty soon, he got me hooked, too. He would record the show and one weekend when I was visiting, he convinced me to watch it. Well, of course there was a big cliffhanger, so I had to watch it the next week to see what happened. And, of course, I called him right afterwards to talk to him about it. We now had a tradition. We would each watch the show and then talk to each right afterwards about what happened. All of a sudden we had a weeknight "couple thing" to look forward to each week.
When we started watching this show, it had already been on for a few years, so we were a few seasons behind. At some point, we started watching the earlier seasons together when the regular season wasn't on.
We got married. We continued to watch 24 together. We had babies. I remember watching 24 together when I was newly pregnant with our first child. I remember being VERY pregnant while watching this show. I remember watching this show with a newborn on my chest. I remember when the babies grew and HAD to be in bed before we watched it. I remember being so unsettled and sometimes angry at the endings of seasons right along with my husband. There is something very validating about your significant other feeling just as shocked as you by the cliffhanger that will leave you waiting for MONTHS for a resolution.
Needless to say, we were both pretty disappointed when 24 went off the air. It ended too soon. :-) Anyway, you can imagine our excitement when a 24: Legacy began (no Jack Bauer, though). AND then Designated Survivor with KEIFER SUTHERLAND began...we could now get our Jack Bauer fix!!! And just like that, my husband and I have another show to watch together and bond over together.
Tonight is Wednesday, which means that as soon as the kids go to bed, we will watch our show together...and anxiously await to see how tonight's cliffhanger is resolved next week...together.
At some point, he was watching TV one night at his house and happened upon the show 24 with Keifer Sutherland. He was hooked. And pretty soon, he got me hooked, too. He would record the show and one weekend when I was visiting, he convinced me to watch it. Well, of course there was a big cliffhanger, so I had to watch it the next week to see what happened. And, of course, I called him right afterwards to talk to him about it. We now had a tradition. We would each watch the show and then talk to each right afterwards about what happened. All of a sudden we had a weeknight "couple thing" to look forward to each week.
When we started watching this show, it had already been on for a few years, so we were a few seasons behind. At some point, we started watching the earlier seasons together when the regular season wasn't on.
We got married. We continued to watch 24 together. We had babies. I remember watching 24 together when I was newly pregnant with our first child. I remember being VERY pregnant while watching this show. I remember watching this show with a newborn on my chest. I remember when the babies grew and HAD to be in bed before we watched it. I remember being so unsettled and sometimes angry at the endings of seasons right along with my husband. There is something very validating about your significant other feeling just as shocked as you by the cliffhanger that will leave you waiting for MONTHS for a resolution.
Needless to say, we were both pretty disappointed when 24 went off the air. It ended too soon. :-) Anyway, you can imagine our excitement when a 24: Legacy began (no Jack Bauer, though). AND then Designated Survivor with KEIFER SUTHERLAND began...we could now get our Jack Bauer fix!!! And just like that, my husband and I have another show to watch together and bond over together.
Tonight is Wednesday, which means that as soon as the kids go to bed, we will watch our show together...and anxiously await to see how tonight's cliffhanger is resolved next week...together.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
A Day In Reverse
9:30--Watching TV with my husband and planning on curling up into bed as soon as this post is complete.
8:30--Tucked in our three children after story time. Kisses and hugs all around (no kisses for the 6 year old; he doesn't like kisses anymore; sigh).
7:30--Dinner is done and we are teaching my husband a new card game.
6:00--I am late starting dinner tonight.
5:10--I am late picking up the kids from their grandma's house. My meeting went late.
4:30--I text my mother-in-law from above-mentioned meeting. The meeting is still going on and I am going to be late.
2:45--Reading about George Washington with a student. I am learning so much more about Washington by listening to Alexander Hamilton.
1:00--Fractions, fractions, fractions.
12:00--School lunch chili and cornbread is much tastier than I imagined it would be.
10:00--School starts!!
8:30--The world is white and the air feels fresh. I love how the air feels right after it snows.
6:00--In comes our four year old.
5:45--I turn off our oldest son's alarm.
5:30--Phone buzzes. Two hour delay!!
8:30--Tucked in our three children after story time. Kisses and hugs all around (no kisses for the 6 year old; he doesn't like kisses anymore; sigh).
7:30--Dinner is done and we are teaching my husband a new card game.
6:00--I am late starting dinner tonight.
5:10--I am late picking up the kids from their grandma's house. My meeting went late.
4:30--I text my mother-in-law from above-mentioned meeting. The meeting is still going on and I am going to be late.
2:45--Reading about George Washington with a student. I am learning so much more about Washington by listening to Alexander Hamilton.
1:00--Fractions, fractions, fractions.
12:00--School lunch chili and cornbread is much tastier than I imagined it would be.
10:00--School starts!!
8:30--The world is white and the air feels fresh. I love how the air feels right after it snows.
6:00--In comes our four year old.
5:45--I turn off our oldest son's alarm.
5:30--Phone buzzes. Two hour delay!!
Monday, March 5, 2018
Things You Don't Expect to Say to Your Children
When you are a parent or teacher, you are bound to say things you never thought you would have to say...like, "Please don't eat plastic," and, "Socks don't go in milk!"
I have been a parent for eight and a half years, and I said something tonight that I have never said to children and didn't think I ever would have to say to children.
"Stop smelling each other's armpits!!!"
I will just leave this one right here. Really, there's nothing more to say...
P.S. When do boys start wearing deodorant???
I have been a parent for eight and a half years, and I said something tonight that I have never said to children and didn't think I ever would have to say to children.
"Stop smelling each other's armpits!!!"
I will just leave this one right here. Really, there's nothing more to say...
P.S. When do boys start wearing deodorant???
Sunday, March 4, 2018
My Current Reads
What I have recently finished:
- Mindsets and Moves by Gravity Goldberg: This is a fantastic professional text all about teaching readers strategies and helping guide them all while building independence and ownership. There are QR codes scattered through the book that lead to video clips of instruction and conferring.
- The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez: I JUST finished this book (seriously, like 5 minutes ago). Maria Luisa (her friends call her Malu) has just moved to Chicago with her mother. She misses her dad and feels totally disappointing to her mother, who wants Malu to embrace her culture and be more of a senorita. Malu wants to wear her punk band t-shirts and Doc Martens and create her zines. She is figuring out who she wants to be...and realizes that sometimes, being who we are isn't just one thing. I absolutely LOVED this book and can't wait to get it in the hands of my students.
What I am about to begin:
- A Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds: I thought All American Boys was incredibly thought-provoking. A few months ago I watched a lecture Jason Reynolds gave, and he talked about the importance of finding our own voices and reflections within the books we read. This reminds me so much of what Donalyn Miller says about books being windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors. We need to see our reflections in books and learn about others in the books we read. See We Need Diverse Books.
What I am currently listening to:
- Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow: I am going to see Hamilton this spring (!!!!) so I am bound and determined to finish listening to this before I go. I have 30 hours to go.
What I am reading with my kids:
- The Swiss Family Robinson: I am reading this aloud each night and it is great! My kids enjoy listening to this adventure and all of the animals they find (and usually eat) and how this family survives and thrives. It makes being shipwrecked on an island sound kind of magical.
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Gratitude Today
Recently at work, I started keeping a gratitude journal. I write down three things I am thankful for each day at work. Let's be honest...I TRY to remember to write down three things I am thankful for each day at work. I do not remember every day.
In the spirit of this, I plan to periodically include what I am thankful for on this blog. Some are small and of minor importance while some will never be able to fully express in words...but I will try.
Today, I am thankful for date night with my husband last night. We left our children with friends and headed out to a fish fry, just the two of us. In Wisconsin, fish fries are a big deal. We ate cheese curds, I had a grasshopper, the fish was delicious, and as we sat in the booth, next to each other, we talked and laughed...and no one interrupted us...except the waiter. It was great to hang out with my husband.
I am also thankful for a sunny day here in Wisconsin. My kids rode bikes today and no one had to wear a winter coat. It was lovely.
I am thankful for good friends who enjoy bargain-shopping at resale shops. Shopping and lunch with dear friends is good for the soul.
Finally, I am thankful we now have a working fireplace. Reading and enjoying my coffee in front of the fireplace is my favorite way to start the day on the weekends.
There you have it...a few things I am feeling especially thankful for today. Here's hoping you are finding the things that make you thankful, too.
In the spirit of this, I plan to periodically include what I am thankful for on this blog. Some are small and of minor importance while some will never be able to fully express in words...but I will try.
Today, I am thankful for date night with my husband last night. We left our children with friends and headed out to a fish fry, just the two of us. In Wisconsin, fish fries are a big deal. We ate cheese curds, I had a grasshopper, the fish was delicious, and as we sat in the booth, next to each other, we talked and laughed...and no one interrupted us...except the waiter. It was great to hang out with my husband.
I am also thankful for a sunny day here in Wisconsin. My kids rode bikes today and no one had to wear a winter coat. It was lovely.
I am thankful for good friends who enjoy bargain-shopping at resale shops. Shopping and lunch with dear friends is good for the soul.
Finally, I am thankful we now have a working fireplace. Reading and enjoying my coffee in front of the fireplace is my favorite way to start the day on the weekends.
There you have it...a few things I am feeling especially thankful for today. Here's hoping you are finding the things that make you thankful, too.
Friday, March 2, 2018
My Life is a Post-It Note
I make a lot of lists. I make lists at home and at school and in my head and on my Google Keep. At school, I have a small spiral notebook for my daily to-do list. I add to it as needed and start a fresh one when the paper is full, carrying over the unchecked items to the next list. At home, my to-do list sits on the counter on whatever piece of paper I could find. In Google Keep, I keep lists for home and for school. I keep track of my grocery lists, a long-term to-do list, projects I want to do, books I have read, books I want to read, etc. etc. etc. I also keep a list of ideas I have for next year at school--ideas I am not ready to implement but don't want to forget.
It seems like life just gets more and more hectic...and I embrace that...because my life is full of goodness and love and dance and piano and kids and friends and family. But, sometimes it seems a little overwhelming to coordinate it all! We have a wall calendar that we actually write things on AND a Google calendar so that my husband and I can both access it when we are not at home. Each Sunday night, we look at the week's events and make sure to coordinate who is taking our kids to their events and who has what meetings when. Our first grader also picks which days he will take school lunch based on the menu. Our second grader doesn't do hot lunch...but that is a different blog post.
For the most part, the items on my to-do lists and the events on the calendars get done. There aren't too many unfortunate situations where my stomach drops because I have forgotten something. Inevitably, it happens, though. And you know...it's usually not the end of the world.
The most important to-do list I keep, though, is the one below that guides my entire life...this list here--this is the list that matters. As long as these items are checked, I'm good.
The rest of it can get put on a post-it for tomorrow.
1. Be grateful. Be kind.
2. Forgive myself and others.
3. Keep trying. Do my best.
4. Be present.
5. Play with my kids, listen when they talk to me, and make sure there is no doubt in their minds they are loved.
6. Hang out with my husband. Laugh with him. Remember always what a blessing he is.
7. Remember I have the best job in the world.
8. Call my parents.
9. Be a good friend.
10. Go to bed on time. Enough rest makes everything better.
It seems like life just gets more and more hectic...and I embrace that...because my life is full of goodness and love and dance and piano and kids and friends and family. But, sometimes it seems a little overwhelming to coordinate it all! We have a wall calendar that we actually write things on AND a Google calendar so that my husband and I can both access it when we are not at home. Each Sunday night, we look at the week's events and make sure to coordinate who is taking our kids to their events and who has what meetings when. Our first grader also picks which days he will take school lunch based on the menu. Our second grader doesn't do hot lunch...but that is a different blog post.
For the most part, the items on my to-do lists and the events on the calendars get done. There aren't too many unfortunate situations where my stomach drops because I have forgotten something. Inevitably, it happens, though. And you know...it's usually not the end of the world.
The most important to-do list I keep, though, is the one below that guides my entire life...this list here--this is the list that matters. As long as these items are checked, I'm good.
The rest of it can get put on a post-it for tomorrow.
1. Be grateful. Be kind.
2. Forgive myself and others.
3. Keep trying. Do my best.
4. Be present.
5. Play with my kids, listen when they talk to me, and make sure there is no doubt in their minds they are loved.
6. Hang out with my husband. Laugh with him. Remember always what a blessing he is.
7. Remember I have the best job in the world.
8. Call my parents.
9. Be a good friend.
10. Go to bed on time. Enough rest makes everything better.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Short on Time
It is 10:45...I am running short on time...
It's been a busy day. A full day of work. Picked up the kiddos at the library after Lego Club. Set up for Family Mindset Night at school. I felt nervous about my presentation. All went well. It was a great night. Sent the kids home with my husband. Stopped at my around-the-corner-friend's house for wine.
It's 10:48...I better write...I am bound and determined to WRITE. EVERY. DAY. DURING. MARCH. I want to complete this writing challenge. This is my fourth attempt. And while I have loved this opportunity to write...I haven't completed the challenge yet. This is the year.
So here I am...10:50...getting in my writing. It'll be better tomorrow. :-)
It's been a busy day. A full day of work. Picked up the kiddos at the library after Lego Club. Set up for Family Mindset Night at school. I felt nervous about my presentation. All went well. It was a great night. Sent the kids home with my husband. Stopped at my around-the-corner-friend's house for wine.
It's 10:48...I better write...I am bound and determined to WRITE. EVERY. DAY. DURING. MARCH. I want to complete this writing challenge. This is my fourth attempt. And while I have loved this opportunity to write...I haven't completed the challenge yet. This is the year.
So here I am...10:50...getting in my writing. It'll be better tomorrow. :-)
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