Scurrying about!

The last few days have been quite productive. Next weekend I move and I have been scurrying about taking care of all the last minute details.

I've bought renters' insurance, copied my dog's shot record for my new landlord's management company and I've even purchased new door locks for the bedrooms and bath. For some reason, not a single door has a "pop lock". I don't know about you, but I for one like to shower and dress in relative peace!

I spent today with my parents as we ran errands and enjoyed each other's company. Patient and kind, I believe they could stand in an earthquake and only the ground would tremble. It is from them that I learned faith and trust.

Though my father is a retired pastor and my mom's been part of more church events than anyone I know, it has been their lives, not their words that have impressed me.

They are the kind of people you meet in Hallmark movies or read about in inspirational novels. Retirement age, they have spent their whole lives in the service of their Lord and their fellow man. Materially, they have nothing to show for it. And yet... they are the richest people I know.

The woman, who used to give me her cup of orange juice because I wanted more and there wasn't any extra, is in poor health and often in pain. Yet, she calls me to see if I need anything!

The man, who is hands down the most honorable person I have ever met, is also one of the most understanding and kind individuals you would ever meet.

Tonight, I have a simple wish for you....

I pray that you will be fortunate to encounter people like my parents. They are the type of people that make you know the world is still beautiful even when it seems rainy from where you are standing.

May your life be filled with the honesty and kindness modeled before me my whole life.

Not perfection... true people who do make mistakes... good people who live what they believe...

May you be blessed.

Walking my pooch!

After enjoying a lovely evening out with my family, I came home and decided to avoid my "Half Hour of Power" dvd by walking for about an hour instead. I figured in the whole scheme of things surely that would count. And, I reasoned that I could stop at Tim Horton's and maybe even Target just for fun while I was out.

My dog had other ideas. Upon seeing my coat, he jumped up and down and looked at me with his big brown eyes.

What's a mom to do? I took the silly critter with me. The walk was still lovely and I do enjoy the companionship in the dark. However, with the pooch, coffee was not an option. Sadly, walking up to a drive through window is frowned upon.

Sometimes in life we make choices for the benefit of others that mean we can't have everything we want. Tonight a cup of my favorite coffee had to be forgone.

However, all is not lost, I do have some instant coffee and I guarantee I'll drink it in my Tim Horton's mug.

I have found that life is still beautiful even when I must sacrifice what I want for the good of those under my protection and care.

Isn't it nice that this is true?

The world is still full of beauty and blessings...

Full of friends and family...

Full of good things that are ours for the asking.

I wish for you this night.

A peaceful sleep,

restful dreams,

calm in your heart,

and the knowledge that you are loved.

May you be blessed.

Necessary Things!

I have to chuckle a little at myself when I consider the things I believe to be "necessary" in life.

Tonight, as I bought myself my own cell phone, I stopped and thought about the craziness of it all.

Aside from having a cell for emergency situations, I like knowing that I really should pick up a loaf of bread, a few rolls of bathroom tissue or some other needed item (like chocolate or ice cream), before I get home.

And yet... many of us can remember a time when the cell phone was not even invented.

(gasp... I hear my eldest daughter shuddering...)

In an emergency, someone stopped to help you.

If you forgot to write something down on your list, no one intervened.

Life is a bit different now from when I was younger and I must confess that though I complain loudly in the direction of the generations who are my junior, I honestly do enjoy some of the new "necessities".

Blogging, texting and even ATM's....

Not a one existed in any practical form when I was born.

Don't let the kiddies know how I really feel,

it would take all the thunder out of my,

"When I was a kid... stories".

Tonight,

I wish for you...

A chuckle when you need one...

and the real necessities of life,

Peace, Joy and Love...

(and maybe a teeny tiny texting cell phone!)

:-)

Make a Book Day!

Today was a wonderful day to be a Kindergarten kiddo!
(And, a great day to be their teacher as well!)

We started our day with Ms. Tammy, a wonderful woman from Zones for Youth who leads the children in gym class every other week. Sincerely gifted at her job, the children are always eager to see her arrive and leave her class with big smiles and a relaxed demeanor.

We continued our morning by creating some simple books for ourselves. The kids also enjoyed a first look at the two class books I compiled last night from their collected themed writings. My students really enjoyed reading what they had written and checking out their classmates' work as well.


At reading group time no one complained and everyone did a good job on our short vowel review!

Lunch was yummy sloppy joes and it was warm enough to play outside.

After recess we used our rulers a little more and then we did something very satisfying.

We discussed what books have looked like through the ages and I talked to them about scrolls. Most of the children had seen the simple rolled books before and they were very excited about making one for themselves.

Before class began, I had made up several simple sentences about a wonderful Kindergarten class that was beloved by their teacher. I gave every child a strip of paper with the "story" printed on it. The children could decorate their story any way they wanted to.

I decorated mine with kids and flowers!

After coloring, the kids could choose what color craft sticks they wanted and I helped to tape the scroll together. The activity was complete when we rolled up the scroll and tied it with a ribbon of their own choosing! All the children honestly enjoyed the activity. It was a wonderful prelude to our librarian's visit.

The rest of our day was spent with the amazing librarian from the Gahanna branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library! Ms. Amy was wonderful! Not only did she come bearing the expected books, she brought interactive music. She even told a story entirely with puppets!

The children were delighted and I couldn't stop smiling.

Today was the type of day that makes for happy memories.

I think we all need days like my kiddos had.

Days when the mail brings unexpected happiness
or when everyone loves the dinner we prepare...

Tonight as sit here blogging, I must confess that my own children complained about my dinner...
...something about too many veggies in the casserole...
And, they've been fussing at each other since I walked in the door.

However, I love them and fortified with the satisfaction from the day... I might not sell them to the circus!

I wish for you this night...
peace...
happiness...
good memories...

Happy Things

As the sun heads near the horizon, I sit here thinking about my world.

I have to let out a little sigh because I'm tired.

I'm am sure many of you can identify with this feeling at least occasionally.

It is easy to get discouraged when I am weary.

I find myself thinking that I better count my blessings and daydream about the lovely things in life.

To this end, I browsed my computer files looking at my favorite photos and I ran across one of my garden a few years back.

I took the picture one late July or Early August day when my garden was at it's height of glory.

There were about twelve or thirteen different types of sunflowers that year and the happy mixture of annuals and perennials was just perfect in my book.

Not all my years have been that successful. Like life, some times I haven't been able to make the vision in my head translate into reality.

Thankfully, just as everyday is a new beginning, every season is a fresh start.

I like to think of my perennials like the memories I carry with me.

Though they are ever present in my garden, it is my choice if they are an asset or a liability.

When well tended, they are the backdrop for my lovely annuals.

However, if I let them run astray, they can leave little room for new planting experiments.

This year, this season...

I will examine my life.

I will count my blessings.

I will embrace each day for what it is,

a new beginning.

Perhaps you're in need of a fresh start as well.

Claim this day as your own.

I wish only good things for you.

May the "garden" of your life be filled with lovely people and experiences.

May you be blessed!

Ready to Read Week!

Today began a week long celebration of reading in my classroom!

All my kiddos came today with words emblazoned across themselves. We "read" each other as part of our morning activities.

The rest of the week will include turning our favorite recipes into cookbooks, creating and enjoying poetry and making many unusual types of books. (Think teeny tiny books, books written on unusual things, old fashioned scrolls...)

The crowning event of our week will be on Friday when we all take time to enjoy our very favorite books while we have some popcorn and relax in our pajamas!

I don't know about you, but I love to read. I must confess that I read the walls of buses, signs in doctor's offices and even billboards! I also enjoy good novels, excellent teaching books and advice on gardening.

It is such a privilege to be a part of spreading the joy of reading. In order to live well in most modern societies, reading is a necessity. Not only does the ability to understand the written word open our mind to the happy daydreams found in books, it also has practical and essential applications.

To get a job, make your dinner or even rent a video, reading is usually required.

I am so grateful to be able to teach something to my students that will make their lives better.

We are all in possession of skills and abilities that when shared, bless ourselves and those around us.

Can you paint?

Do you speak more than one language?

Do you bake an incredible casserole?

Share your talents!

You are here for a reason.

Your gifts are necessary!

....and....

If your abilities lean towards baking yummy cookies, I am sure you need to bake a batch and share with someone you love!

Pitch or Pack

This morning my youngest daughter pushed my buttons. A beautiful and loving girl who just happens to have autism, my kiddo's issues sometimes make me a little nuts. Puberty is a hard time for any child and when you have a few extra things to deal with, sometimes it can be rough.

We had a few words.

She's grounded for a while.

Later... after a few hugs for her and two phone calls for me, the world was right again. I am seriously convinced that everyone should have at least two numbers that they can call and let their emotions out.

For me, the first call went to my folks. I was exasperated and it was good to talk to people who, not only love me but who also have lived long enough to have sincerely good advice.

The second call was to my sister of my heart, Betty. Once related by marriage, now we're just friends. She has a child with special needs and so she "gets" many of my concerns. Beyond that, Betty is a fun person who I just honestly like.

Life brings us all many experiences.

Today, as I pack boxes, I am finding all sorts of relics from my past. I am deciding what to keep and what needs to go. It is not easy. I am a keepsake kind of girl.

What to do with "things" can be difficult to know.

But, without a doubt, I am not confused about what to do with my dearest family and friends.

I will keep them close and cherish them.

I hope for you this day,

someone to call when you are sad,

when you want to sit down and cry,

or even when you want to rant and yell.

May your friends never be farther than a phone call, text or email away.

When life makes you stressed,

May pizza be an option.

May conversation with loved ones help you find a little perspective.

Friendship is a beautiful thing!

Some days we call for comfort, other days we are the ones answering the phone.

Together we are better than we are alone!

Ready to go!

This afternoon I dismantled my two smaller flower gardens!

Now sixty cement pavers stand in lines awaiting transport to their new home.

An angel, a turtle, a frog and even a couple of bunnies await reassignment.

...a birdbath and a trellis...

...some planters and garden rocks....

...Hanging pots and lawn furniture all stand ready....

A satisfying collection of happy things...
...good memories to take with me...
....flowers from loved ones long gone and from cherished friends who still make me smile daily...

A garden is a place of growth.

I wish for you...

I wish for me...

That this will be a season of growing for us all.

Of beauty...

Of happiness...

Of new beginnings!

Starting with the standards

This morning, like any other Saturday, I am starting on my lesson plans. I sit down with my content standards that are broken down by the week of the quarter and I start building my coming week.

Fun activities that are floating in my mind must be honed into solid interactions that will result in my students learning the information they need. Practical considerations of time and resources are weighed as well as what my charges enjoy.

For example, my students really enjoy our listening center so, I know that this week's Author Study on Rosemary Wells will be playing daily in the ears of my little ones. I also know that no amount of coaxing will really get my kiddos to practice writing word family words unless I turn it into some sort of game that probably will need to include stickers!

I have to smile and laugh a little when I think of how happy scratch and sniff, fuzzy or sparkling stickers make my students. I am comforted that no matter what has transpired in the time since I was five, some things have remained the same.

The joy of adhesive happiness still remains a strong incentive and reward for good behavior.

Innocent happiness is sometimes hard to come by in the adult world.

Perhaps that is why I sincerely enjoy working with young children.

It is an absolute delight to see their faces light up as they learn.

Watching them as they run and rhyme or as they see Mentos explode in Diet Pepsi for the first time is a pleasure that is not affected by personal situations.

It is joy, pure joy.

...Sunshine for the soul...

Even the naughty ones who get out of line, who roll on the floor and kick their neighbor. They are the spice, the hot sauce that makes teaching always unpredictable.

I can teach for years and every class will be different. Their needs and their desires will not be the same. My mind will need to stay sharp just to keep one step ahead of them!

Though I am sometimes exhausted and I promise you that without a little "help" I'm getting gray, I am so grateful for the license that hangs on my wall.

I am so happy to be a teacher.

I hope for you today that you may encounter the innocent joy that is around us.

A small ant that finds your cookie crumb, the adoration of a pet or even the stray dollar that falls out of your pocket when you really need a caffeinated beverage on the way home from work.

May you be blessed,

comforted

and filled with peace.

Sock puppet joy!

Because I teach in a school run by a daycare company, I keep my students all day. We have wonderful Music and Gym teachers that come twice a month however, the rest of the time, I am the "Specials" teacher.

This is actually fun because I can incorporate our curriculum into whatever zany project, song or active adventure I dream up.

For example, this morning my kids were restless and so instead of a sedentary phonics game, I had my students go to our gym and we rhymed and ran.

I was a "giant tuna with sharp teeth" who would catch them as they ran from one side of the gym to the other after they gave me a rhyme. I would say a word like "pay" and they would shout out rhyming words and then run. They loved it and I loved it. They got to move and I didn't have to tell them to sit still and pay attention!

Later this afternoon, after doing a clock assessment and a critical thinking paper, I taught art.

More specifically, we made sock puppets!

My little dears were overjoyed. You would have thought we were doing something really fantastic! With unmatched socks donated by my parents, a few buttons and a little felt, every child was given a chance to stretch their imagination.

I am so blessed that I was able to be a part of the fun.

At a more traditional school I would not be able to do all the unusual things I do.

I would need to check the schedule before I headed into the gym and a trip to the movie room for a mid morning Spanish video wouldn't even be an option.

I am often told by those who don't understand, that I should look for a "better", higher paying job in a "normal" school.

Though more money would be delightful, for now I am content to enjoy the advantages of my wonderful school.

There are times in life when satisfaction and a feeling of well being are more important than more money. (Though I'm not opposed to having both!)

If you find yourself in a situation that is economically not the best but extremely satisfying, enjoy your time, while you can.

There may come a day when you must move on, but until then, soak up the sunshine of the world you find yourself in.

Enjoy your own personal sock puppets!

No longer lost!

Today at morning snack, as my students finished eating, they gradually sat down along the wall and began to read. Not only "fun", our morning stack of books helps to settle my students before we head upstairs to our classroom.

Beginning to search for interesting reading material, the kiddos dumped the books out of their bin and began to browse through them. When they did, a very welcome sight appeared.

There, on the floor was Dogku!

My long lost library book...

...the one I just paid seventeen dollars for this past weekend!

Though all my fellow teachers had searched along with me, the book had been turned backward in the box and the library label had not been readily visible.

So this morning when I spotted the book, I quickly turned with a happy squeal and "high fived" my amazing Kindergarten kiddos who stood nearby!

I explained why I was so excited and they caught my enthusiasm.

Tonight with my receipt in hand, I got my money back.

...and spent it all on dri erase markers, shiny metal brads and Taco Bell for my kids' dinner!

Finding my lost book really made my day.

I had been so worried when it disappeared. I love getting new books for my students. However, because I share classroom space, I am always taking a calculated risk. There is always a possibility that a book could disappear when I am not in the room or that one could be damaged.

Today's prodigal book was a relief. I had not really believed that anyone had taken the book, but the fact that it was missing made me nervous.

How many times in our lives do bad experiences make us afraid to try again?

I propose to you that kind people are like found library books,

they can restore our faith

and help us to trust again.

Are you lost, like my book?

Are you a little nervous, like I was?

Are you in need of a kindness?

Can you offer some to someone in need?

I am here to tell you,

sometimes books come home...

sometimes things work out.

Take joy in the small happy things...

like Taco Bell and dri erase markers!

The big things, the scary things...

I really believe will be o.k. in the end as well.

I hope for you this day,

happiness and simple joys.

A kind word,

a found book

or even someone who needs a smile from you.

In the midst of turmoil,

lending a hand,

even when you need one as well,

is a blessing.

May you be blessed today!

Remembered things

A creak on the stair,

a stir in the wind.


Millions and Billions of things my dear friend,
can frighten the child that dwells deep within.

Many years ago as I sat in a darkened high school hallway, I was struck by how lonely it was. Having a pencil in my pack, I sat on the stairs and soaked in the atmosphere. Then, in the quiet so long ago, I wrote the words that still echo in my mind.

Life can be frightening. I talk about this with my students sometimes. We talk about what we do when we are afraid and how shadows and noises can seem spooky in the dark.

We discuss how the presence of a light can help us to see. How just a bit of illumination can make the difference between fear and calm.

In our lives, what is it that we depend upon to guide our way and calm our fears?

I do not know about you, but when my back is to the wall, the faith of my childhood whispers in my ear. Words of hymns asking me to "trust and obey" or reminding me that I am loved rustle in my mind.

Like a little child in need of a night light, words of hope have the power to help give us courage in the dark.

I do not know most of you, I do not know what you believe. Despite this, I feel confident in saying that the kind words and precepts taught to us as children can generally be relied on as adults.

I hope for you this day...

That you will have peace in your heart,

light in the dark and

a firm remembrance of the true things you have been taught.

One Hundred (and one) Days Smarter!

Today is our One Hundredth Day Celebration in Kindergarten!

It is so hard to believe that so much time has flown by, that the little shy creatures who wandered into my class in September now sprint in the door like they own the place.

I can clearly recall one of my dear little Blondie Bears who clung to her mother's leg for several weeks. Now she practically flies in and happily joins her friends.

Academically we have come so far as well. At the beginning of the year, at writing time, I would allow my students to draw a picture with the requirement that they wrote at least one word. Some of my kiddos really struggled. Now my kids can copy sentences, write their own and almost all of them even understand the basics of punctuation and spacing!

Today as we celebrate our One Hundredth and One Day of School we will talk about just how far we've come and where we're headed!

In my own life as well, I try to do the same.

How far have I come?

Where am I headed?

What do I still need to learn?

Some days I feel like I've forgotten how to read my "map".

Other days I feel like a pioneer and I wish that my journey didn't seem so new and scary.

I am trying to liken my path to that of my dear little charge who clung to her mother's knee.

She found her place in the new world called Kindergarten.

A happy place where she is confident and thriving.

I believe that given time, we all adjust to life's changes and that in the end our world is not scary anymore.

We adapt... we grow... we learn!

What about you?

Where are you headed on your journey?

Are you ever a little nervous like me and my beautiful blond kiddo?

I hope for you this day, the courage to stand on your own.
To know, really know, that your loved ones are near watching you with pride.
May you share their confidence in your abilities.

Long live the Mitten Fairy!

With a great dread of cold hands and a warm and generous nature, the Mitten Fairy has been spotted again!

Not able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, she is instead seen in a blue Jeep Cherokee doing kind deeds.

She shares cookies with her nieces and nephews, pizza with the sad and lonely and of course mittens with those who dare step outdoors without them.

If she sees you, don't think explaining that you left your gloves at home will stop her! She will merely point to your naked digits and pass you a pair of comfy gloves.

While you may not know my favorite Mitten Fairy,

I am sure you've met other Super Heroes in your daily life.

Have you ever met the kind...

"let me trade you dollars Hero"

This super hero has been known to help those frustrated individuals trying desperately to get a yummy from a vending machine with a wrinkled bill.

Or perhaps you know a...

"Can I hold the door Hero?"

This helpful person opens doors when you are about to drop everything, they make life ever so much better. Who really wants Grandma's gift ending up in a puddle?

Maybe you have been fortunate to meet the "Hugging Hero".

These heroes are often small and sticky, with smiles and a tight hug they remind you that regardless of your life's problems, you are loved.

Heroes make life better.

They share kindness and love...cookies and even mittens.

What kind of Heroes do you know?

What kind of Hero are you?

Counting by two's

Spending my days with Kindergarten children is a eye opening experience.

It makes me stop and realize how very much knowledge I take for granted.

Knowing my phone number, tying my shoes and understanding what to do if I ever got lost...

Without a thought I instinctively know what I should do.

Why is this so?

Though, I will assert I am an intelligent woman,

it is not because of my own innate ability that I can claim these skills.

People who cared for me, many years ago, taught me how to learn what I needed to know.

They taught me one tiny step at a time.

They built on what I already knew and gently led me into more complicated information.

As a teacher I do this everyday.

This week my students will be receiving math manipulatives to practice counting by two's. We've sung songs, looked at our one hundreds chart and even completed dot to dots and other skip counting exercises.

Now is my one last push before I assess who needs more help and who "has it". So out go my numbered milk caps or my "hopping stars" to all my kiddos. They'll either hop the numbers or line them up to practice. Some kids might even get a copy of our counting songs, it all depends on how tough the concept seems to them.

As I get ready to pack up their things, I want to send out a thank you to all the wonderful people who helped me grow.

My Parents, my family, my friends, my teachers.... Everyone who helped a small blond noisy child grow into a confident woman.

We are better because of the people who help us along the way.

I also believe we become better people when we help as well.

I am blessed to touch the lives of the small ones in my care each day.

Both the ones who are my dear children and the ones who I teach at school.

I honestly believe, with all my heart, that we are supposed to help each other on our journeys.

Our smiles, our belief in the abilities of those we encounter, are powerful.

We are candles in the dark,

umbrellas in the rain

and cookies on a very bad day.

Sleeping bags and mosquito bites...

Today my school was closed for its twice a year "scrub down" and teachers' meetings.

As I scoured a Kindergarten heartthrob's initials off of multiple chairs and scuff marks from walls and floors, I had a lot of time to think.

I thought about my life.

I pondered my goals and dreams.

As I thought, the satellite radio kept playing songs about broken dreams.

I was having a hard time keeping my thoughts cheerful, so I turned my mind to musings of the coming summer.

Of the long days, warm nights and several months without lesson plans.

Though I love my job, my family and my life, sometimes I crave a break.

On this gray February day, I was seriously daydreaming of escape.

I want to go camping.

I really don't care where.

I know logically the idea of sleeping

on the ground,

in a sack,

placed inside a temporary shelter

and

willingly choosing to use primitive restroom facilities

should not sound appealing,

but it does.

It really, really does!

Can anyone else hear the crackling fire,
smell the burning marshmallows
and feel the need to itch at a stray mosquito bite?

If you find yourself,

feeling as I do...

That you need somewhere quiet to unwind....

Dream yourself a little escape...

if only for a moment or two....

Daydreams are delightful!

I can guarantee you will not suffer from jet lag...

and you won't have a suitcase to unpack...

Happy dreaming!

Winter Daydreams...

Today as I cleaned closets and sorted through the collection of "stuff" that seems to accumulate in a home, I took a moment to stop and ponder the coming spring.

Sitting above my dryer,

on a shelf,

at this very moment,

in a small tote,

are a collection of seed packets.

As a gardener, my favorite seasons are spring and summer. I can barely wait each year for the winter's cold to end. I've been known, in my impatience, to "cheat" a little and plant before the recommended dates for my area.

Most years I even "get away with it" by making tents over itty bitty seedlings on extremely cold evenings.

I'm almost positive that I end up with flowers a week or two earlier than other gardeners who start flowers from seed! (O.k... maybe I don't, but it makes me feel better to believe it!)

Hands down my favorite annuals are zinnias. With their bright colors, many variations and long growing season, they brighten up my garden until a hard frost hits.

Some years the trick or treaters comment on how pretty they still look!

This year, I will be moving and honestly I am most concerned about my garden. I will be moving hundreds of pavers and many many perennials with me. Milk jugs will be lining my carport in anticipation of transporting precious cargo. I do not relish the day the gardens are taken apart. As I tend to move at least one garden's location every year, I do know what I am "in for". It will be back breaking work.

And yet, I have been collecting coneflowers for years, leaving them behind is not an option. One of my favorite plants is a native prairie flower that I faithfully tended one hot summer. The seedling was the size of a nickel all that summer and I carefully watered it with a spoon each morning and night. There isn't a chance those plants aren't coming with me!

My garden tends toward the whimsical instead of orderly. Often I have giant sunflowers towering amongst my typical garden fare. The whole affect makes me smile and has given my family some interesting experiences. We've seen humming birds land, squirrels hang upside down and countless butterflies! Late last summer we even witnessed tiny caterpillars hatch and grow! (Check back in my archive on July 26, 2008 to read all about it!)

So, today I paused for a moment to consider my seeds. Tiny packages that will, with care and work, turn into breathtakingly lovely plants.

And... Who knows?... there is a flower contest held each year at the townhouses my family will be moving to...

In this time when so much of the world is cold, it is so easy to feel "gray" ourselves.

I wish for you,

I hope for you,

This day and always,

That you have a beautiful tomorrow.

Like my seeds that are small and brown,

sometimes the future does not look either easy or bright.

However,

I am certain that just around your corner,

spring will come.

Joy is waiting to find you.

Look for the tiny happy "treats" that seem to sneak up on us!

The cheerful address labels that seem to arrive in our mailboxes with regularity,

a silly sample of some terrible cereal

or even a call from a survey taker (Of course you have an opinion about that new flavor of potato crisp!).

Have a little fun!

Let there be sunshine in your heart.

Wait with me, spring is coming!

Keeping it all in perspective

As I wandered up and down the isles at the market today, I happily but cautiously put things in my cart. I am waiting for a new bank card and so for a few more days, I am a "cash only" girl.

I lined my items up in my cart and kept a running tally. I shook my head in disbelief at how quickly the numbers were adding up. As I neared the veggies, fruits and meat I sighed, though I love this section of the store, it tends to eat up my budget.

Into my cart went bags of salad, tiny cherry tomatoes, grapes, apples and even a cucumber for my son. At the meat counter, I splurged on a roast for the crock pot knowing that my children would be very pleased despite the outrageous price.

Very soon my cart was full.

As I headed to the front,

I ran the numbers in my head again and knew I was "safe".

Shopping with cash or on a tight budget forces hard choices.

Before anything goes into my cart I must ask myself...

"What do I need?"

"Can I use something else already at home?"

"What meals will satisfy my family and not break the bank?"

Today, as I handed over one hundred and thirty dollars for my choices, I tried to focus on the positive.

At least I had the money to spend.
Though I am not wealthy, my kids eat well and are never hungry. How many parents all over the world worry about their children's meals?

I work hard for my paycheck and yet, it seems to be gone nearly as soon as it comes.

I'm betting many of you can identify with my feelings on this matter. Sometimes I get very frustrated over this very fact of life.

However, tonight as I gleefully eat some spinach salad with tiny tomatoes,

I will try to remember to count my blessings instead of feeling glum.

My wish for you today is not for great wealth or fame.

(Though those things would be nice.)

Instead I hope that you will have always have enough to eat...

and hopefully something extra as well...

...be it teeny tiny tomatoes or a roast for your dinner.

May you be happy and satisfied!

Spoiled

They came this morning with smiles on their faces.

We read a book, practiced our handwriting and even wrote about what our favorite pet would be.

We made Valentine bags and fusible bead crafts.

Later we had a "dance party" and rocked out to, "Who Let the Dogs Out?", a perennial favorite in my classroom.

That was all before lunch!

Add in a recess full of chasing, delicious treats, a fun relay game sent in by a kind mother and it is easy to see why our day was a success.

Did I fail to mention the cards, chocolate and even a lovely necklace that my dear little charges shared with me?

Being a teacher is hard work, but not without serious pleasures and rewards.

Very few people get to decorate cookies, pass out juice, dance and read stories at their place of employment.

I admit it, I am spoiled.

I wish for you this lovely day only the best of blessings.

May your friends and family be near and may you feel loved.

And, if you so desire it to be true...

May you not be too far from some really good chocolate!

God Bless!

Happy Almost Valentine's Day!

Simple joy in a tiny box

As you read this, please don't call an intervention line asking for advice on how to help a clearly disturbed individual. (Humor me, I promise I'm not crazy!)

What I am about to share with you is true, though it may seem like fiction.

I have stumbled upon perhaps the greatest Language Arts teaching aid ever.

It is typically sold in boxes of 100 for less than two dollars including tax.

The shiny paper brads that adorn the top of this entry are this Kindergarten teacher's dream come true.

Every day during writing time, I try to have something "extra" that goes along with our writing prompt. For example, if we write about the Tooth Fairy, every child is allowed to make their own dental super hero when their writing is done and it has been approved by me. (You are hearing my conditions aren't you?)

Whatever the gimmick, be it a "book" to make, a character to create or even a coloring sheet to color and attach, the secondary activity "sells" my primary goal to those of my children who are reluctant writers.

By far the most highly sought after activities involve creating characters with moving parts. We've made Trolls that can run after the Billy Goat's Gruff and Gingerbread critters that will never be caught! Just today we made the aforementioned "Tooth Fairy" project in conjunction with our dentist's visit!

It is so much fun to listen to my students squeal in delight as they make things that bring their writing alive. I love that they are motivated to fix punctuation and backwards letters without a fuss.

So, if you know a teacher in need of a treat or know a student teacher about to head out into the field, consider giving them a box of these shiny miracles in addition to that teacher store card they will appreciate.

I even will go a step further and suggest you consider getting a box and stashing them for a rainy day. You never can tell when a small bored person will come your way.

Or perhaps, don't roll your eyes, you might open the box yourself on a day when your own imagination needs a little exercise.

Wouldn't your dear Aunt So and So be speechless if her birthday card had a spinning message wheel or a moving bird?

Go ahead and try it... you know you want to!

My dearest Ben

Understanding and quiet when I need him to listen.

Intelligent and good with children.

Loyal and willing to protect me from danger should the need arise.

Helps me with my healthy eating goals by sharing any "naughty" snacks I find.

He is soft and nice to cuddle with.

He is always happy to see me.

Although I could be describing a loving significant other,

I must confess that it is my dog I am describing.

Hey, it is almost Valentine's Day after all!

In the spirit of the holiday,
give someone a hug,
a card or a call....
or...
if your one true love happens to be a
highly favored furry companion,
perhaps a walk and a chew toy!

Let the clock games begin!

As a child I struggled to tell time.

I just didn't get it.

What did all those numbers mean?

How was I to know that it was 4:46 by looking at the numbers one to twelve on a circle?

As a teacher I am amazed that Kindergarten children are to be taught to tell time to the hour and the half hour.

Yet, I have no doubt that my students will be able to do it. They are bright and love a challenge.

The trick is to make the experience "fun".

To that end, I made a clock game tonight.

My students, in small group time, will sit around the perimeter and copy my actions on the large clock. Then they'll guess what time it is. Everyone who guesses correctly will get to mark their "clock card" (a yellow square of construction paper with a sticker of a clock on one corner made with printable labels)

My kids love to earn points and "win". They don't actually have to "win" a tangible object.

They just like the feel of success.

Is there really that much difference between the drive to succeed as a child and the one we hold as adults?

What motivates is different, but the desire to be at the top of our game is something that we all hold in common.

The funny thing is, they meet their goal by "beating" me; I meet mine when I "lose" to them!

Don't tell my secret though, they like to believe I am really outraged!

Cozy and Warm

According to one legend, it was not a human who first discovered the joy of coffee, it was a goat!

I'm not kidding.
Check out http://www.coffeeresearch.org/coffee/history.htm

for the whole story!

Whether or not ancient history is telling us a tall tale, doesn't matter in my book. Coffee is one of those things that inspires strong emotion.
If you are like me and love the stuff, go find yourself a cup and take a sip.

Close your eyes.... sigh and imagine the world as you would like it to be....
Anything is possible if you dare to dream and are willing to work hard.
(I know it may sound simplistic, but I really do believe it is true.)
For those of you who cringe at my suggestion for a cup of Joe,
I suppose you could find something else to inspire you....

Though I am just teasing about the magical power of coffee,
I am not kidding about my firm belief in goal setting and hard consistent effort.
I am realistic about life's obstacles.

No amount of hard work will ever turn me into a professional ballerina.

(...This is the part where as an adult I must admit some dreams aren't meant to be...)

Fairy Tales are so appealing because they all end happily.
The girl gets the guy, the bad person is punished.

There are no such guarantees in life.

However, in the day to day walk of life,
if you try your best and are kind to those around you,
in the end your heart will be happy regardless of which dreams become reality and which ones remain just out of reach.

Dream, Live, Never Give Up!

The Joy of Popcorn!

This morning on my way to work, my teenager daughter called me just to chat. This afternoon when I hit the front door, my eldest told me she was "stalking" me because she missed me.

Young teenagers can be very endearing when they are happy.

Full of pep and curious about my day at school, my eldest is a good companion. She loves crazy adventures and even shares my love of yummy treats.

As I am typing this, we are sharing a bag of popcorn together.

Sadly, I must say it is almost gone as we are both rather fond of the buttery indulgence!

If you are blessed to encounter a human who could be categorized as a teenager, you know that they are sometimes difficult. However, if we are honest, we probably had our own challenging moments in our youth.

(Although of course, I was absolutely perfect!)

The transition from childhood to adulthood is tricky.

Not really children anymore and not quite adults, it is difficult to always know what to do, how to act or what to say.


I have come to the conclusion that we should approach them in the same manner that you feed squirrels at the park.

Speak softly, offer small treats and watch out for sharp teeth!

If you're bitten, don't blame the animal, it is just their nature.

Withdrawal the offered treat and bring them back into line!

I am just teasing, but you get my meaning.

Squirrels are cute and fuzzy but not to be treated without the respect due a wild creature.

Teenagers are blessings in need of care and discipline.

They can be delightful or dangerous...

I fear they are a little "wild" as well.

Take care,
be kind to wild critters
and may your life bring you simple pleasure.

Perhaps some buttery popcorn and a few minutes to muse about the lighter things in life.

Stepping out into the World

Today I went on a 3.5 mile, partially off trail, hike.

I spoke to a few people and listened to a few more.

I actually spent most of my afternoon in silence,

enjoying the beauty around me,

appreciating the challenge of the trail.

The one person I did speak to at length was a woman who was hiking with her elderly father.

I think she could sense that the hike held significance for me,

that it was more than just an outing.

As we talked, she told me of her "Wild Caving" in college and of her adventures out West after she was divorced at thirty. She said she decided to go because she had always wanted to and so she did.

I understood completely.

Although I have family and friends who care deeply for me and faith in a loving God,

I am nervous about starting over.

Today's hike was, for me, a celebration of my future.

Of not waiting for life but instead, going out to meet it.

As I stood on the top of the ridge and my fellow hikers sat down to snack and rest, I leaned against a tree and closed my eyes.

No profound thoughts filtered through my mind, no great realizations.

In that moment, with quiet conversation all around me, I felt only peace.

Quietness. Strength. Hope.

All gained from a hike in the woods?

I promise you it is true but, then again, I am an "outdoors girl".

Don't despair, I am positive you can find your own moment of reflection somewhere dry and warm if you need to.

You may not be starting over in the same way I am.

However,

each day is a new beginning for us all.

Take the opportunity to examine and reflect.

I wish for you today only good things.

Peace in your heart and

a beautiful journey.

Being Brave

Tomorrow I am going on an adventure.

I love the outdoors and during the summer it is a rare week when I haven't taken my children to at least one of our wonderful Metro Parks.

Without spending a dime except for gas, it is possible on any given day to find a green space where silence prevails and raccoons dream of rubbish bin leftovers.

Sadly,

as summer turned to autumn,

real life started again for my children and I,

our happy routine of hikes and picnics slipped away.

Caught up in the day to day, the "time" for adventure seemed to have disappeared.

The past month or two I have again discovered the wonderful joy of no longer being a passenger on the road of life.

It is in the spirit of this new found freedom that I am headed out tomorrow.

With new "sensible" shoes already broken in, I am going hiking.

No one I know wants to go with me; most would roll their eyes at the very suggestion and shake their head with a chuckle in my direction.

I am not letting this stop me.

I will probably end up muddy and cold.

I'm not worried,

I'm sure to find a large coffee when it is all said and done.

This is a year for new beginnings,

for growing,

for stretching myself to become more than I am...

To become who I am meant to be.

What is it that you want to do and are afraid to try?

Today, close your eyes and see yourself doing it.

Learning the new skill you'd like to acquire,

meeting new people,

being brave.

Let me remind you,

as a dear friend has reminded me.

Your life is a blessing and you are loved!

Become who you are meant to be,

I know you can do it!

Yikes! Ms. Susan meets an untimely end.

This morning my students made adorable lions that had an opening in their mouths to feed a strip of "word family" words through. The top of the paper proclaimed that the lion had better be "fed" or it would eat the reader!

Inspired by our phonics activity, our writing prompt was all about an escaped lion and what it would eat if it was really on the loose.

I offered my students various suggestions about what their lion might like to eat, perhaps a penguin, maybe themselves or by chance, their very own teacher.

With glee in their hearts and quickly moving crayons, most of my kiddos squealed as they drew my untimely demise.

One of my most spirited and artistically talented student's paper was especially funny. He drew me in the lion's cage about to be eaten with himself on the outside laughing. I pretended of course to be terribly outraged and he chuckled even harder.

Only two of my students opted not to have me become a feline snack.

The things we do to catch the attention of others is sometimes extreme.

Sometimes I resort to singing crazy songs, wearing unusual props or even a cape. Kindergarten kids enjoy silliness and are more than willing to participate in the lessons.

I'm not sure whether I should wish you find the same level of silliness I sometimes resort to or whether I should hope that you don't have as much trouble getting and keeping the attention you desire.

Since I am unsure, my wish is for you to be able to face whatever challenges come your way with humor and patience. Sometimes we all need to laugh.

Thank heavens for escaped lions!

Blueberry muffins!

This morning I woke up and decided that I would like some muffins for breakfast and I thought my family would too. I absolutely love blueberry muffins and as I had a mix in my cupboard, I happily headed to the kitchen and preheated my oven.

Scooting back and forth, I did a few chores, falling into the morning routines that guide my actions and have a soothing comfort in their familiarity.

Packing lunches, ironing, even finding my favorite earrings..

It is the little things that take up so much of my time.

Do these minute actions hold meaning?

I say yes.

As our lives open before us, we spend most of our time on choosing cereal, doing laundry and sometimes, if you're a bit like me, a little too much complaining.

Sometimes in my daily life I become so focused on myself and what I am concerned about, that I forget to reach out to those around me.

Too many times I could start my own "Crybaby" club... the laundry that never ends, the dishes that really need a dishwasher that isn't me.... the teenagers that are moody at my house... all these things sometimes get to me.

I am almost positive that each of you can identify at least one time when you have felt this way.

What I wish for you today is not that you are "magically" thankful for the bumps in your road of life, but rather that you find a way to be happy despite them.

Enjoy the blessings that are obtainable...

...Play a quick game of cards, Call a chatty friend... and by all means, go ahead and mail that card you've been meaning to send...

Find your own "Blueberry muffin".

Super Hero Readers!

Raised by a most amazing and resourceful mother, I enjoy using things creatively. It is a challenge to stare into a craft box or catch what falls out of the top of my art closet and figure out something delightful to do with it.

This past weekend, my eldest helped me turn one hundred and seventy odd Easter eggs into number sight word egg games for my students. My Kindergarten kiddos were delighted to receive them and my closet had one less thing to endanger anyone brave enough to open it!

In the course of the egg creation, I came across leftover felt from our Thanksgiving Pilgrim hat project. Since then, the image of the felt has been filtering around in my mind. Tonight, as I pondered some "gimmick" for tomorrow, an idea solidified in my mind.

The felt is about to become masks for my "Super Hero Readers"! I softly laugh to myself when I envision my students' excitement and their compliance during lessons. We'll make stories too, all about ourselves as heroes. I can not wait. I have a fair amount of prep to do, but, once again, I know my eldest will be happy to help me. Even if she isn't interested, the work will be worth it.

I can already "see" the happy faces, "watch" the books take shape and "hear" my charges read happily to me to "earn" their very own mask.

Did I mention I'm swiping my kids old dress-up cape for added affect?

Go ahead and laugh....

I am absolutely delighted....

I really do belong in Kindergarten.

Don't think it's all fun and games...

I better see spaces, punctuation, and nice pictures!

What a joy to be able to be silly for a few moments, to wear a cape and laugh along with the kids.

What a blessing to be able to bring such joy with a scrap of fabric and some imagination.

The next time you see a large box, a stack of empty toilet paper tubes or even some old playing cards, may you not just see junk.

Before you bin the "garbage".... remember the joy of the fort, the kazoo and a card tower....

Take a moment to smile and reminisce... and if by chance you have a dear small one near... think twice before the recycling truck is given all your "treasures".

May you be blessed with the simple happiness that children have.

Take care, be safe, have fun!

Kindergarten Phonics Fun

Teaching Kindergarten is a challenge. Five year old's need to move and play. As a teacher I acknowledge this freely and I rejoice in my young charges exuberance at life. However, teaching little moving atoms of energy is like finding a way to keep socks on an infant, it can be difficult.

I try to alternate "seat work" with more active times. Today was a day when I think I struck the perfect balance.

This morning, before I took charge of my children, I set up three phonics games in our gym. Later, after morning snack, I told my students about my plans and reminded them that our morning circle routines had to be completed first. With the promise of "fun" in the gym our morning exercises went fairly smoothly.

When we finished our first part of the day, my students excitedly got into line to go downstairs. Before we went into the gym, everyone sat on the stage steps and heard my expectations. Going into the gym, the excitement and learning began.

Our first game required my charges going through an obstacle path while I hummed, when I stopped, the child who ended up in the large hula hoop had to supply me with a rhyme for whatever word I threw at them. You should have seen the kids try to be in the hula hoop when my "music" stopped. It was a hoot.

The next game required partners and hopping sacks. Two by two the children hopped in sacks toward me, read the "ay" family word on my big dry erase board and taking the bags off ran back to their friends who were waiting for their turn. We read "say" and "day" and so many others and the kids seem to really love the motion.

To conclude, we practiced number sight words tacked on the walls. Today it was the number words one, two, three and four. The kids ran, slid, crawled and hopped to the numbers I called out. Today the numbers and words were shown together. By the end of the month, the numbers will be gone and only the words will remain.

After our activities, my students did a good job of calming down. We took a bathroom break and we all got a drink before we headed back upstairs. We completed a handwriting paper, a phonics paper and even a journal activity. Our center time went smoothly and our classroom was picked up and neat at lunch time.

This was definitely a wonderful day to be a Kindergarten teacher!

(and... I didn't even tell you about our fun vinegar experiments after lunch!)

Really, really funny

Several days ago I had a mishap on my treadmill...
The kind that could have earned me money if it had been recorded.

Sadly my skinned and bruised knees and pride fared better than my exercise equipment that got covered with water in the process of the incident.

So, while I am figuring out if the crazy thing can be fixed, I bought myself an exercise video. With absolutely no sense of rhythm and the dancing talent of a dead rock, I was comforted by the assurance that it had modifications for beginners.

Ha! While I certainly work up a dripping sweat doing the routine, it is sadly comical. I think today I finally was going the right direction at least half of the time! The first day I tried it I actually made my youngest daughter go to bed because she was watching me with a smirk!

Not that I wasn't funny, but my ego couldn't take it.

With any luck in a month or two I might have figured out the moves...

.....anything is possible right?

I don't believe in giving up and with my treadmill's health unlikely to make a full recovery, I have to do something.

So, go ahead and imagine me going the wrong way... have a laugh... I know I do!