Thursday, April 30, 2009

LA Honors Day

Today I enjoyed my last Honors Day at Lee. Well, hopefully not my last but my last one doing anything. LOL I always like to dress up for special days. Heck, I would dress up EVERY day if it wasn't so darn inconvenient. I love to wear nice clothes and a great pair of shoes. Particularly the shoes. Today was a dress up day! YAY! The skirt I put on apparently has shrunk (i refuse to give in to the mother nature bloat) so I had Blakely help me zip it up. She has what she calls "morning hands" which won't work in the mornings! What?!? I'm like WAKE THEM UP because I can't do this on my own!!!! I get zipped in Johnny Cash black but pop it with a little hot pink color. I kind of felt Pinky Tuscadero without the leather if you know what I mean. Either way, I looked good. :) I love my shoes! Hot pink with black runner with bow. Not cheezy but chic. I always prepare some sort of mini-background speech on why I chose a particular student for the award. I don't like to get up there and just hand it out. I understand why others do but I really like to push myself out of my comfort zone. Sadist, I know. It was a lot of fun and I am totally glad I picked the kids I picked.

I am looking forward to Class Day tomorrow. I will cry. But only because they will and that will get me crying. OK, I'll cry because I am going to miss them.

I am kind of "over" American Idol. I don't know why but I would have preferred Adam to go home instead of Matt. I am not even that jazzed on Danny. I prefer Kris and Alison.

I took my lit final this afternoon. I am soooo glad that's O V E R! I prefer short online courses (like 5 weeks) instead of regular semesters.

I have a family of baby birds nesting in my rock wall by my door. They are hungry little fellas ALL the time. The construction guys told me it's a woodpecker family. I think it's a blackbird. I bet I'm right.

Well, I will probably post after tomorrow or atleast by the weekend. Hope all have a good one. Later.....

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Open Letter to Senior Class

Dear Class of 2009,

I have enjoyed teaching you guys more than you will ever know. You are very special and unique individuals that will succeed in life. I have NO doubt.

I have tried to remember all of the “life lessons” I imparted to you over the years. I know there were a lot more than the following but these are my Top Ten:

1. Life isn’t fair. Get over it.
2. Mistakes are learning experiences in disguise.
3. Specialize. Specialize. Specialize!!!
4. You are not “grown” until you pay all of your bills without help from ANYONE!
5. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
6. Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?
7. Only you can control you. Nobody can “make” you do anything. Except of course your parents or guardians who I expect you to mind!
8. If you need to apologize for something do so. Not only will it make you feel better but you’ll be a better person for it.
9. You do not hate anyone. You dislike them to the strongest meaning of the word.
10. You can have a good day or a bad day. It’s your choice.

As you begin the next chapter in your lives, remember that “although you can’t go back and make a brand new start, you can start from now and make a brand new ending.” Life is full of promise and possibility!

Thanks for the memories!

Love ya,

Mrs. Steph

Saturday, April 25, 2009

A little bit of this and a little bit of that

Where do I begin? This week had LOTS in it but doubtful if anyone wants to hear about it. I think I will just "tidbit" it.

Monday: The last week with this senior class. They were pretty much ready for it before the first bell even rang. LOL

Tuesday: Yoga. I stayed sore for 3 days because of this but it was worth it.

Wednesday: Blakely went to a skating birthday party.

Thursday: HORRIBLE then AWESOME day. I was in class around 1:30 when I get a phone call on my cell. I don't answer in the classroom unless I think something is wrong. Well it was one of my seniors that I figured just forgot something. I pushed the shady button. A couple of minutes later it rang again. Same number. Didn't answer but had decided if they called again I would. Then I got a text. Two of my senior girls were in a car wreck. One was okay the other unknown. I felt immediately sick to my stomach. I go outside and call back. It was just surreal to me. I cannot explain my emotions accurately but I lost a senior girl in December of 2007 in a car wreck. Britney K Cook. It was a very difficult time for everyone. I remember it vividly and just could not fathom having to go through it again. I leave work and go directly to the hospital where I find immediate relief! Thank the good Lord. One is ok and the other is just banged up. I think I had a little Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSS or PTSD). It turned out wonderfully though and I imagine the kids learned something from it (or not). I was once a teenager and I remember thinking I was invincible. It's a hormone thing.:)

Friday: Class of 2009's last day! We had a blast! Probably too much of one. I am fairly sure we got on some teacher's nerves plus Mr. Billy wasn't there. It was soooo worth it! I will so miss these guys. It was a bittersweet day. Except I laughed so hard that my stomach still hurts! It is great to be able to enjoy laughter. And this class cracks me up!

Well, I told you it was going to tidbit it. I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend and next week will be full: Elementary Honors on Wednesday/High School Honors on Thursday/ Class Day on Friday/Baccalaureate on Sunday. Later....

Sidebar #1: I am concerned about the swine flu in Mexico. I think this could become scary.

UPDATE: I read up on the swine flu. Not as scary as tv makes it. Does respond to flu treatment. Nothing new really.

Monday, April 20, 2009

LA Prom, Sunday, Seniors, and Xanax

Let me begin by saying that I am realizing that in less than one month... I will be unemployed by choice. I have zero second thoughts about my decision but I have to admit I will seriously miss a LOT of my kids. I have come to realize that I would make a much better counselor than a teacher. But honestly I would probably suck at that too. I get way too involved (because I freakin care) with the kids and I tend to shoot straight from the hip. AKA...I am way too honest for my own good. Honestly the kids don't seem to mind....but the parents sure do. I see so much potential in each child that it is hard for me to sit back and watch them squander their talents. A little encouragement from a teacher can make a difference. So if you are a teacher and you are reading this, please remember that YOU can make ALL the difference in the world in a child's life. Who cares about their parent's background, their social status or lack thereof, their general attitude (sometimes home may have alot to do with that), and their grades? Look at the child and discover their gifts. All have gifts I PROMISE.

Now on to my post.:)

LA Prom: This year was the BEST! It was an awesome prom! Everyone so enjoyed themselves. I really loved visiting with past students and watching the coaches boogie on the dance floor. LOL All looked very pretty and handsome. Although it was my last prom...it was a good one to go out on!

Sunday: I skipped church AGAIN. Two Sundays in a row. I was called out by one of my little ones so I will definitely show up this Sunday! LOL

Seniors: This week is my last week with my Senior class. I love these guys a bunch and am going to miss them. I put together a little book for them (a keepsake) that I think is pretty cool. I am fairly sure they liked it as it was the ONLY time they were COMPLETELY SILENT while reading it. I heard a couple of sniffles too but I am sure it was just a cold. LOL

XANAX!: I went to the Doctor on Friday. Long story short he gave me this little happy pill. Honestly I can't really tell much of a difference. This should come as no surprise to my blog readers. However, I think it will suffice for a couple of days a month when I need them. Personally, I think I needed them more LAST year! LOL We shall see.

I will try and post after this week. I will be in a little bit of a funk. These guys are my babies and I really will miss each and every one of them. They are truly a special group. Xanax or no, I will probably cry a river at Class Day and Baccalaureate AND Graduation. Later.....

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

I've come to realize PLUS

I copied this from my Facebook page but I am going to elaborate on my answers.

1. I've come to realize that my boobs...deserve the very best bra money can buy

This NO joke. When you have what I like to call "noticeable" boobs it is EXTREMELY important that you buy a bra with support. Support costs. Trust me on this one. BUT the "girls" deserve it.

2. I've come to realize that my job... is never done

My job as wife, mother, daughter, teacher, friend, acquaintance, etc. The list literally goes on and on. And this is OK.

3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving...I zone out

Don't panic! I do pay attention. I just rarely remember traveling from point A to point B. It's like ouila and I am there. Now you can panic. LOL

4. I've come to realize that I need... a vacation to ANYWHERE

I really really really want to take a vacation to an island with my spouse. We have not been on a "vacation" together since the year we got married. I can't really call it a honeymoon since we eloped and didn't travel anywhere for 3 months. I think we are overdue.

5. I've come to realize that I've lost...a little elasticity in my face

I have noticed subtle changes in the past year that I had not noticed before. I am convinced it's the turning 40 thing.

6. I've come to realize that I hate it when...I don't get my way

OK, as my friends have loved to point out to me that they have known this for YEARS...I would like to say that I have TOO! So there!

7. I've come to realize the people I like...are fun, thoughtful and caring

The friends I do have left (I tend to lose friends) are the BEST! Some have been with me forever and others only a little while but they truly are the BEST and very forgiving.

8. I've come to realize that money...is just paper that happens to rule the world

Which is saying money is necessary to pay bills and important. I like money!

9. I've come to realize that people...are basically good

I truly believe this in my heart of hearts. This irritates my husband but I just can't give up on the notion that we are good. We just sometimes choose bad.

10. I've come to realize that I'll always be...in awe of my child

As far as I am concerned the ONLY thing I have gotten right in 41 years.

11. I've come to realize that my mom...knew way more than I gave her credit for

My mom was always the cool mom. I just never realized that she was once a kid, teenager, young married girl, young mother, and a pioneer for equal rights for women...just like ME.

12. I've come to realize that my cell phone...frustrates me

If you don't believe me ask Sarah at Cingular. I frustrate her! LOL

13. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning...my eyes were puffy

What's up with that??

14. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep...I wished it was Friday

This is becoming a regular occurence for me. I think I have a case of senioritis as well. I love my class of 2009 but I am ready to graduate with them!

15. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking about...getting ready for work

Really?

16. I've come to realize that my dad...needs me

I did not know this until his health problems this year. Wow is all I can say.

17. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook...it's not as much fun as it used to be

I do not like the new layout. Enough said.

18. I've come to realize that today...is a blank slate

I learned this in Sunday School around the age of 9. It's the best part of life to me. You can make mistakes but you get the opportunity to "get it right" the next day.

19. I've come to realize that tonight...I wonder who is getting voted off Idol

I am thinking Matt Giraud although I really don't want him to go.

20. I've come to realize that tomorrow will be... another day

See #18

21. I've come to realize that I really want to...win the lottery

I have BIG plans for this! Ask ACV! And the FUMC would be debt free too!

22. I've come to realize that life...is a lot shorter than you think

I really want to live well past 80 years. It will take me that long to correct all the mistakes I have made!

23. I've come to realize that this weekend... will be super busy

Prom, Birthday party, and out of town.

24. I've come to realize that my ex...was a necessary evil that I had to learn from

I have been married for 12 years but I know I wouldn't be the person I am today if not for all the screw ups I learned from. Thanks to all! :)

25. I've come to realize the best music to listen to when I am upset...60's soul music

This is my music! Aretha, Marvin, Smokey, etc. You name it and they move me. Love Motown!

26. I've come to realize that my friends...love me anyway

God bless them!

27. I've come to realize that this past year (2008)...was another year in the life of Steph

12 months of FUN!

28. I've come to realize that the last person i kissed...totally loves me

This was actually Anthony for those who thought it was Blakely! This guy puts up with a LOT. He must love me!

29. I've come to realize that when people walk out of my life...they miss out

A good dose of self-esteem never hurt anybody!

Well, hope you understand my ranting explanations. Later.....

Monday, April 13, 2009

Where Do I Start???

It's been awhile since I posted. I have just not been in the mood to write or be witty about anything. I think it's just the Spring funk. The weather lately is depressing to say the least. I am ready for sunshine AND warm weather. Not just sunshine, although I will take that anyday over drear.

Last weekend I went flying with my hubby in our new plane. We bought a Beechcraft Bonanza and it is AWESOME!!!! We flew over to Tunica for a bit then just flew around. I can't wait until this fall when he is not working as much to go places. I love for him to take me flying ANYWHERE. Love my man:)

I spent all afternoon Maundy Thursday and part of Good Friday cleaning my house and washing the Mt. Everest of laundry. My house was clean for all of about one minute. GEEZ. I really want to win the lottery. I am hiring a FULL TIME housekeeper and am not even going to feel bad about it!

On Saturday I THOUGHT Blakely had a birthday party to attend at Pump It Up in Jonesboro. We get there and what do ya know....it's NEXT Saturday! I am such an idiot. LOL No bother though....we just went shopping in Jonesboro. I got a new coffee pot! :)

I also decided on Saturday that we would not go to Easter Sunday services. This would be the first time in 20 plus years that I missed church. I am not a big fan of all the music (sorry, I know this is weird)....and I knew the place would be packed. So we just hung out as a family and listened to Alan Jackson's gospel cd. It was great. Sometimes you just gotta do what feels right for you.

I had every intention of staying in my pj's on my day off today BUT my wonderfully considerate spouse (NOT) had Hurd Construction over here at the crack of dawn. They were here ALL day but my bathroom is finally complete and my wall is repaired. So who needs a day off??? I am going to get quite a few in the next few months. Woo hoo!!!!

Well, I am going to try and blog more this week. Hope all have a wonderful stress-free week. Later......

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Dad, Diet, Dog, and More

For starters my Monday totally stunk. My Dad actually calls me himself to let me know that he is being admitted yet again to the hospital. He is sick and dehydrated. I head up there and am not pleased that we are in Wynne. Sorry if that offends some, but I am a fan of big city hospitals for a reason. He has tests and he is discharged on Wednesday with a lame diagnosis that is not correct. The upside is I got to fill out the hospital survey questionnaire and I had FUN doing that! Hey, it was Dad's idea to let me do it. I am POSITIVE he knew my position on all questions. It was not a glowing survey if you know what I mean. I am using this as fear leverage the next time he gets sick and wants to go there. I will be like, so remember that survey do ya think it's such a good idea seeing as how your name was on it??? They probably are still not happy with YOUR assessment of their oh so fine medical facility. I am thinking this will motivate him to LR, JB, or Mempho.

I have lost all weight i had previously gained. I am back into yoga but not running. My schedule got all screwed up with Dad but I do plan to go back to it.

Clifford is having some sort of skin issue. I know this is not a big surprise to those who know our dog. He just stinks and is scratching. Not to mention his allergy snotty nose. Dis-gus-ting. I am taking him to get shaved next Friday. Hopefully he will feel cooler and lighter.

I can not begin to state how ready I am to get out of school. They have hired my replacement and I am excited for the kids. They will miss me but only for like a second if that long. LOL

Speaking of Clifford he just came running into the kitchen barking. There is nothing to bark at but he is on alert because the wind chimes are making noise. He is soooooo brave. LOL

American Idol finally voted off Megan Joy. She may be pretty and all but she is just downright kooky and I don't think she can sing. What on earth was that bird caw thing she was doing???? and how not smart was she telling Simon of all people that she didn't really care what he thought??? Hellooooo. Weird.

Well, tomorrow is Friday and I cannot say enough how ready I am for the weekend. Later......