Wednesday, May 30, 2007

It's over!

Today, I went into school to finish up a couple of things and then to participate in the Secret Pal reveal. So, it's officially over for the year. It still doesn't feel quite right, but I am sure that I will get used to this "summer thing."

Now, I have to figure out how to walk out of the heat of the day and have something to do with the boys while I am doing it.

Monday, May 28, 2007

Whew!

We took the boys to High Falls State Park to play around a bit today. We walked 4 miles of trail, much of it with a pretty steep grade. It felt good, but my knees were really sore by the end of it. I am not used to such steep hills. But, my fanny should be the better for it.

I was really proud of my oldest son. He struggles so much with his sense of balance. I had made myself a walking stick after the dog bite. Now, I will make one for each of the boys. I think that younger son will think it's cool. My eldest will gain confidence from having a balance aid. He was miserable during the whole thing, but very proud of himself for completing the distance. He's making progress.

I am psyched!

Okay, the dog bite has slowed me down a bit. I haven't trained for a couple of days because of it. It has really bummed me out. On the good side, I went to the hardware store and made myself a stout walking stick, so at least I can stand more of a chance next time.

With the lack of working out this week, I wasn't expecting any real progress on the weight loss front. But, to my happy surprise this morning, I have officially lost 9.8 lbs since I started this new push. I guess it has been about 2 weeks. So, I am very, very excited!

My short term goal is to be under 200 for my anniversary. I was really afraid that it wasn't going to happen if I couldn't work out. Now, I have until June 12th and only need to lose 5.3 lbs to make my goal! So, I am excited! It's stupid, but I have never had any success in reaching weight loss goals--EVER. For the first time, I feel like I am really regaining control over this part of my life.

Anyway, Happy Memorial Day! Remember what it's all about.

Memorial Day

Just wanted to take a moment to say "thanks" to all of the men and women who have served in the armed forces to protect those of us who have stayed here at home. Freedom is certainly not free and so many have paid the price.

Screw the celebrities and athletes--these are the real heroes!

Saturday, May 26, 2007

The Perils of Country Living

Okay, most days I absolutely love living out in the country. It's quiet, peaceful, tranquil. Today, I am ready to move into the heart of town.

Last night, while on a training walk in my parent's neighborhood (they live on a quiet cul-de-sac in the boondocks) I was bitten by a dog. I have walked this road since 1984 and have NEVER had a problem with dogs. Fortunately, the dog had all of her shots up to date.

My friend, Misty, got a laugh out of knowing that I had gotten bitten on the fanny (no less). I told her that I took one for the team. But, I am supposed to walk for 5 miles today and I can't figure out exactly how to handle that one or even where to go to walk now.

Many years ago, I was bitten by a friend's dog. His name was Happy, no less. This dog's name is Trixie. So, I have determined that dogs with perky names are evil.

Friday, May 25, 2007

A Proud Day

Last night was bittersweet. We held our graduation and turned a wonderful group of kids out into the wide world. I shouldn't be partial, but I am way more attached to this particular group of kids than I have ever been with any other group. I will miss these kids, although I am really proud of them and I do believe that they are ready to go out into the world.

But, I cried.

I guess I realize how hard the knocks are that these kids will have to take in their adult lives. It's not going to be easy. But, it will be worth it. I foresee such great possibilities for this group. They are truly a talented bunch. Gosh, I am going to miss them.

Truett Cathy was our commencement speaker and he did an AWESOME job! He tells it like he sees it and he even encouraged the students to remember some important points:
Sexual purity counts
It's okay to actually LIKE your work
It's okay to work hard
The most important decision (other than being a Christian) you'll make is who to make your spouse.
God calls all of us to different things--find that calling.

In a world where it's not okay to dare tell biblical truths out loud, Truett Cathy is a hero. I was proud for my kids and students to hear these truths. I don't know how on Earth we'll ever find another commencement speaker who can match this!

Our musical performances were outstanding as well. Leslie and Damien are so blessed with song and they sang their hearts out for us.

So, as much as I will miss these kids, I am so honored to have known this group. Here's to the class of 2007 (my chicken class!). I love you guys (Valedictorian Jade, Saluditorian Hannah, STAR student Aaron, Meg, Tabby, Lauren C., Tara, Amanda, Curtis, Wesley, Daniel, Lauren W., and Dana)! Godspeed.

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Star Teacher--WOW!

Okay, just about the time I think that I have a handle on all possible contingencies, I am thrown a curve. At Honors Day today, my best friend's son, Aaron, was named as our school's STAR Student for the highest SAT score in a single sitting. It's quite an honor to receive.

I was totally unprepared that he would choose me for his STAR Teacher. I am completely honored to be chosen (I have never received any sort of award for my teaching before). It is humbling to know that maybe something I have done has made a difference somehow.

The best part is that he picked me because he said that he had to work harder for me than for anyone else. I must admit, that part made me happy! If I am really doing my job and pushing for excellence, my classes should be tough--very tough.

It's not often that as either a Mom or as a Teacher, that I am not being blamed for something that has happened. Today, I got blamed for doing a good job. How 'bout that?