Saturday Mish Mash...

It is one day after my 2nd "Blog-day"---the anniversary of my blog. So I thought I should post today. Little did I expect when I started blogging that I'd be here two years later still having so much fun with it! Nor did I expect to ever "meet" so many very interesting and fun people!

I really don't have much to say....this starts our crazy month of travel and activities. Here are my random updates and thoughts.

We leave for scalloping on Monday night. I get to meet Danielle for lunch on Tuesday. I'm so excited! This will be the third blogging friend I have met IRL. It's so fun finding new friends through this vehicle.

DS 4 is already at the "River" with my Dad, Stepmother and two nieces. He was very excited to get up there and start fishing. He is a "fisherman" if there ever was one.

DH and I leave next Saturday for our eight day cruise! HOORAY! I am VERY excited for this. I think it will be so fun to get away. I've been clothes shopping and have had fun just planning for our time together. Since I will be living out of a suitcase for pretty much the next four weeks, I figure I should start planning now, don't you think?

Today's been so nice and quiet. DSs 1 and 2 spent the night out last night. DS 3 and DH went to "Fantasy of Flight" today to feed their "flying bug". And I have been shopping, redoing the boy's bathroom (thanks for the motivation, Danielle!), and am on my way out to Goodwill to drop off a load of stuff.

By the way, I went shopping at Goodwill and couldn't believe some of the namebrand BARELY worn clothes I found there! It almost seems a crime NOT to check there first. I even got two pairs of pants that still had the store tags on them! Now, that's fun!!

It's kind of quiet here...but that's a good thing. I hope to get out and blogsurf later this evening.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

I saw it as I left our local YMCA last night. It sits in a garden just outside the new teen center. The sign says, "In Memory of {insert name here}, A Life Well Lived". Those last four words have been marinating in my mind ever since. A Live Well Lived.

At first I thought, "Wow! Those are definitely words that I would love to have said about me someday." Who wouldn't? I mean to really think that someone's life was so well lived that others would notice and say it about them is quite an honor. Then I started to think just what that means to have a "life well lived". And I realized that it's not something that people "might say" after I've gone...but it's something that could be said about us each and everyday.

Soooo....my Thursday Thirteen today consists of thirteen things that I think could mark a life well lived in no particular order:

1. Loving, and being loved, by another human being. There is no greater joy than to know that someone finds you special and wants to spend time with you.

2. Knowing God intimately and understanding the height, and depth, and breadth of His amazing GRACE!

3. Laughing a lot! Finding the joy in each and every day is so important. And laughing is but one way this joy manifests itself in our lives.

4. Having visions and dreams...and going for them. I don't think you necessarily have to "achieve" them, but the simple act of persuing those things that make us passionate means we aren't letting life pass us by.

5. Learning new things each and every day. Whether its a new art form, reading a new book, making a new friend, we need to learn more and more about the world around us each and every day.

6. Taking risks. This is not the "put-your-life-on-the-line" risks. But it is allowing ourselves...no...pushing ourselves beyond our own limits. It's stretching to be more than you are today and more than you thought you could or would be.

7. Recognizing and breathing in the beauty in our world. This means we have to get out and see it. Again, I don't think this means we have to travel to the edge earth...but we do have to stop and "smell the roses" in our own corner of the world once in a while.

8. Learning not to sweat the small stuff. I think this is critical! It is so important that several books have been written in recent years about this very thing. When we fret and worry over the minute and mundane, we miss so much!

9. Extend forgiveness where it needs to be extended. This is hard. I have learned, though, that bitterness, frustration, and anger held inside only hurts the person who houses it all. When we seek to forgive those who hurt us, there is freedom.

10. In the same way we extend forgiveness, I think we need to learn to ask for forgiveness when necessary. We live in a society where it's easy to find fault in the lives and actions of others. To recognize our own role in disagreements is hard, but also a learning experience.

11. Smile. It sounds simple, doesn't it? I can't believe how many times I look around at people with "screwed up" faces. I mean they are actually scrunched up, brows furrowed, and mouth in a permanent frown.

12. Dance and sing. I don't know that we have to "actually" DO both of these things. But I know that music is a healer. It can fill our souls and bring us so much joy if we let it. It's freeing when we let music fill our souls. It's healing when we learn to move and "dance" to the music that is in our world.

13. Live in the moment. Certainly I believe we need to look ahead, but that must be balanced by living today to the best of our ability. It's also easy to look back and think of everything we haven't done or that we missed. May we all strike that balance where we can live in the moment, hope for the future and rejoice in the past.

And may each of us lead "A Life Well Lived"!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Tag...I'm IT!

My friend, Danielle, over at The BiPolar Diaries tagged me for this Meme. I feel a little bad because I am pretty sure someone tagged me for this not long ago...and I didn't do it. So, if that was you...here it is!

1. Each player must post these rules first.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

OK, Eight RANDOM things about me...

1. Did you know that I was Gretel in the Sound of Music when I was little? It was a local community theater. Later on my DS 3 was Kurt in the Sound of Music. I thought it was so neat that we both had our "stage debuts" in the same Musical. The only difference is that he was in the professional Dinner Theater here in our town.

2. My DH and I booked an 8 day cruise last week to celebrate our 20th anniversary. We are going to the Mayan Ruins near Belize from Costa Maya, Mexico. We will visit the Rainforest in Costa Rica. And we will go to the Panama Canal. Isn't that exciting? We leave on the 7th of July ALL. BY. OURSELVES!

3. I met my wonderful DH when we were in college. We used to go find water towers for fun. I know this sounds weird...and it was my idea. We would see them in the distance and then see if we could drive right up to them.

4. Most of you know that I have four other "babies" in my life. They are the books that I have published for teachers. I'm excited because numbers five and six are "in the oven" and my friend, Sandy and I will be working on #5 this week. My friend, Suzi, has one that I need to peruse and add to as well.

4. I don't eat beets. I hate the things. I don't even like sitting at the table with someone ELSE who is eating beets. The smell just sends me into orbit.

5.I have a dream to see America by backroads. I would love to get in a big RV and just go to all the little cities and towns that aren't on the beaten path. I love the "flavor" of such places.

6. I have lived in Florida all my life, but will be taking my first trip to the Keys in two weeks. We will be staying in Key Largo.

7. I had a professor tell me that I "should never go into teaching because you'll never make it" when I was in college. I believed her for a while. Another one came along and said, "She doesn't know what she's talking about." 20 years later, I received the Teacher of the Year award for our district. I believe that I could have missed the blessing of choosing the vocation for which I knew (at that time) that I was "called" had I listened any deeper to her negative talk!

8. I love antiques! When DH and I were newly married, and living in Kentucky, we used to go to Antique Auctions on Saturdays. I have an old school desk, a church pew, and a treddle sewing machine that I "won" at those auctions for very little money.

I am tagging anyone who wants to play along. I'd love to visit you and see your list...so let me know if you decide to play.

I'd Like to Thank the Academy!

My blogging friend (and blog designer),Susie nominated me to receive a Rockin' Girl Blogger Award! Thank you, Susie, for your kind words. {Edited to add: When I was out surfing tonight, I saw that my blogging friend, LadyBug also nomiated me today. THANKS to you BOTH!}

Now I get the opportunity to pass the award on to 5 other Rockin' Girl Bloggers! So without further ado, here they are...............

1. My SIL, Heather. Heather has been through so many changes since she started blogging including fighting cancer this year and moving back to Florida from Arizona. She hasn't had as much time to blog, but never fails to share her heart or her joy when she DOES post. Heather is a great Wife and Mother. She loves her family and her friends and never fails to show it. Heather, and her blog, rock!

2. My "oldest" (meaning the one I've "known" the longest) blogging friend...Mary is a true Rockin' Blogger! She and I met via a Christian Internet group. She started blogging shortly after I did. Since then, she has moved and had a new baby. I've had the GREAT pleasure of meeting Mary in real life. I so wish we lived closer, cause she has such a beautiful heart and great spirit. Mary's faith is unwavering. She continues to seek after God's own heart and she share's her journey via her blog.

3. Jane, over at Cozy Reader, is another blogger I've read for a long time. She is a United Methodist Minister's wife and shares this ministry, along with her own thoughts and musings, with the blogging world. I know for certain that MY blogsurfing is enriched because of her. Jane and her husband have such a heart for Venezuela. Please go read this postif you have not. It is a poignant picture of the ministry that is happening in this part of the world in part because of the work of this couple.

4. My 4th Rockin' Girl Blogger award goes to Jill over at "Who Could Ask for Anything More?" She is a "newer read" for me, but I LOVE visiting her place. Jill lives in Atlanta and loves to share her family, her faith, and life in general with us via her blog. It's a blessing to hear about her walk with God. I also have loved following her home renovation stories. I'm convinced that Jill has many many stories inside her just waiting to be told via her blog...and I, for one, can't wait to read them!!

5. And, last, but not least, my fifth award goes to Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee. Linda's place is always good for a laugh. She shares her life as a Youth Ministry worker who loves kids. Her blog is filled with humorous looks at life in general...but in between the laughs are the hidden truths and "swift kick in the pants" that we all need sometimes.

Now, you know that my entire blogroll is FULL of Rockin' Blogger Girls (and Guys). The rules were to pick five girls, so I did that. Now, these five people will need to award five new people so we can spread the love around!

In conclusion, I'd like to add that YOU GALS ROCK!!

Scalloping 101

OK, I've had a couple of people ask, "Just HOW do you scallop?" Sooooo...for anyone who is not from the Gulf Coast of Florida, here's how:

1. You must have the proper "equipment". This includes a snorkel, mask, fins, and mesh net or bag. You must also have a red "dive flag". Water shoes are helpful for the "ewwww" factor when you step into underwater grassbeds--if you don't wear fins. We like to use "noodles" to float on as well occasionally. I also use a small net for "scooping"...but the rest of my family just grabs them by hand (I'm getting ahead of myself.).

The photo on the left is my Dad and DS 3 showing off their "scalloping gear". Aren't they a fine looking pair?

2. In the Gulf, you cannot start scalloping until July 1st. The season ends Sept. 10th, but let me just say the waters are CRAWLING with people scalloping during the first week of July. The picture to the right shows my DSs 1, 2, and 4 in 2000 going out to the Scallop grounds in Steinhatchee which is Northern Florida.

3. We go about a mile or two out into the Gulf where the seagrass beds are in about 4 - 8 feet of water. The trick to catching them is to FIND them! On sunny days, the sun seems to shine on their eyes which are all along the inside of their shells. Otherwise, they can blend in with the grass pretty well. Once you see one, you scoop it up and put it in your bag. The bag allows you to stay under water for quite a while so you can collect several.

4. When you catch them, you put them on ice so they will open up. Some are more"stubborn" than others and open very little if at all. The limit in Florida for whole scallops is 2 gallons per day per person---or 10 gallons per boat. The limit for shelled scallops is 1 pint of meat per day...think about that...2 gallons with the shells is roughly equal to two small "school size" milk cartons! The photo on the left shows DS 4 "dumping" our catch into the cooler.

5. Now the "FUN" part is CLEANING the darn things!

6. You can open the scallop by sticking a spoon or a knife at the back part near the hinges. You kind of slide the knife around the opening carefully and it will "lift away" the shell. If you hold the dark side up, you won't ruin the meat inside.

7. The "innards" look like this:

This is the "tricky" part. If you take your knife and gently pull the "gross" stuff ...that's the dark brownish/yellowish "junk"... away from the muscle that's in the middle of the shell...it's possible to pull it off in one fell swoop (as Grandma would say). And speaking of Grandma, the photo just above is my Grandma and me scooping the GUTS out of the scallops while DS 4 looks on. Doesn't she look THRILLED??

8. When you get the "goop" out, there is a nice white muscle left. It looks like this:

You just scoop it out and you're ready to EAT THEM!

It's a lot of work, but it's a lot of fun, too. If you want to skip steps 5 - 8, and just do the "eating", then you can pay for someone at a dock to do them for you. They are FAST and sometimes it's worth it.

So, if any of you are in or near the Gulf Coast of Florida from Homosassa up to Steinhatchee from July 1st though Sept. 10th, you can go "get yourself some supper"!

{Note: I borrowed the close-up scallop pictures from this website. I just thought I'd go ahead and paste them here to preserve my directions for years to come! Plus that, I thought I'd send my extended family into total shock that I would post this little "how-to" manual!}

Why is the "Simple" so....

COMPLEX??

We've been talking about "Simplicity" at church. Now this is not, as the pastor says, the type of simplifying that will allow us to "sit on the couch and watch more movies or read more books." Nope. This is the type of simplicity that will allow us to be all about building relationships.

Since I'm a relatively BUSY person, I've been thinking about it a lot. especially in terms of church involvement (he's spent a lot of time there). In "normal" churches, there are things to do almost every day of the week. There are men's groups, women's groups, Bible studies, Pot Lucks, choir practice, children's programs, youth activities, etc. etc. etc. Certainly none of those are inherantly "bad" or "wrong". BUT, they can, and do, swallow up our time. And when our time gets swallowed "doing" church, we have no time to be out and about in our community and our world "being the church."

The pastor is really clear that this is not making people our "evangelical targets". In other words, there is no "reason" for the relationship other than simply being a friend. It's not about beating people over the head with OUR faith. It's about respecting and honoring one another and understanding that it's OK that we may be looking at our world through different lenses and from different vantage points.

I have been at the place where all I've done is spend time with people IN the church and never really spent time with those outside of it. For me, this has gradually changed as I've aged and certainly as DH left full-time pastoring in January. I can see the Pastor's point. But it's not simple, it's complex. Probably because it's a bit "out of the box"---and it's "people related".

If we are to build relationships (with more depth than the "hi-how-are-you?" kind) beyond the church: in our workplace, in our neighborhoods, at the soccer field, at the scrapbooking events, at the grocery store, and such, then we have to be intentional. We have to be NICE. We have to SPEAK. We have to be GENUINE. We have to go without an AGENDA. AND, I think, we have to be a bit VULNERABLE and willing to get MESSY! That's the complexity of it all.

This week, while blogsurfing, I realized again just how many lonely people there are out there. I read blogs about people who were hurting, wondering about their self-worth, lost, and simply lonely. I know people can be so active and yet feel this way. I've been there myself.

And, so today I find myself saying, "Yes, Susan, SIMPLIFY!" Go and be and do those things that help you build relationships with people in your world. I confess, though, there's also a voice in my head answering, "OK, but it's not that easy sometimes. IT'S COMPLEX!" And then, as often happens when I'm in "reflection mode" a song will fill my head that rings out the message quite clearly:

Oh God, you are my God and I will ever praise You/Oh God, you are my God and I will ever praise You/I will seek you in the morning/And I will learn to walk in your ways/And step by step You'll lead me/And I will follow you all of my days.

And you know what? THAT'S worth sharing~~even if it's difficult!

More Give-aways!

The girls over at Five Minutes for Mom are at it again. This time they are going to have some fun summer give aways starting with an ice cream maker. Head on over and sign up and remember to keep checking back as they add new things.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer: Name a funny habit you have.

I don't know if it's "funny" or not, but when I come home alone, I have to walk into every room of my house before I can settle down. {Edited to add: As I visited some other feasts, I remembered that I have to sleep with one leg under the covers and the other leg out of the covers...it keeps my temperature "just right".}

Soup: If you could instantly know how to play a musical instrument, which one would you pick?

Without a doubt the piano.

Salad: How long is your hair?

Just above my shoulder.

Main Course: When was the last time you forgave someone, and who was it?

I can't remember,but I'm sure it was either my DH or my children.

Dessert: What is your favorite kitchen appliance?

The telephone to call for "take out"! Seriously, I really don't like to cook. I don't even know which one I'd pick for real...probably my food chopper.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things SUSAN has done on her Summer Vacation....

Since Summer is officially here this week, I thought I'd share some of the things that we've already done...Consider this my "June Report"!

1. Visited family. So far, we've been able to spend time with our "Orlando Cousins" and our "Tampa Cousins". Before the Summer is out, at least some of us will spend time with our "Ohio Cousins".

2. Read. Read. Read. I love to read and I don't get much time during the school year to read books that I choose because my job requires that I read a lot of research and educational materials. I'm loving reading some of the things that I choose and/or that others suggest.

3. Bowled. We've been bowling at least once. The kids like to do this. It's a good "cool" inside activity.

4. Been Swimming. We've been to our YMCA Waterpark which is a great place for the kids to play. DS 3 and DH are finishing their SCUBA certification this week. And we are preparing for our annual scalloping trip up in Homosassa.

5. Exercised. I was bound and determined to get back to the YMCA for exercise. I love to use the treadmill and ellipticle machines there. This week I started back and I feel great.

6. Blogged. I've spent time blogging, as usual. But, I've also spent time reorganizing my blogroll and putting it on Google Reader. If you haven't taken the time to do this, it saves a TON of time clicking into everyone's blog. And, I've learned to make some of my own headers...how do you like my TT header this week?

7. Gone to the Beach. We went out to the beach a couple of weeks ago to watch the sunset and are planning to go out there again this weekend for baptisms on the beach. I'm excited for this. It's sad, but we live so close and I hardly ever see the water. I'm trying to change this.

8. Met some friends for lunch. I've had a couple of lunch outings with some friends. This has been so fun. We normally get to see each other at school on our 30 minute "teacher lunch". To sit and gab and eat liesurely is quite a gift.

9. Shopped. I went shopping and picked out new bathroom accessories for the boys' bathroom. It's also our "guest bathroom". It's been in a fish motif since we moved in...though none of the rest of my house is done in anything "ocean" or water. Now, their bathroom will more or less match the rest of the house.

10. Written. I've finished 12 teacher's guides so far. I'm excited because my role with the publisher is going to be more consultative vs. writing. This will free me up to write some of the material that I want to write.

11. Gone to the Movies. We've seen Shrek the Third and Spiderman 3 so far. There are several more movies I want to see.

12. Rented/Watched Movies. We rented Dead Poet's Society, What Dreams May Come and Patch Adams. I tried to watch Dreamgirls, but I just couldn't get into it.

13. Planned the rest of our Summer Vacation. DH and I are going to try and get away for our 20th anniversary. Our family is going to go away for a week in the Keys with my cousin Lynn and her family. We are going scalloping for a week. I am driving with DSs 3 and 4 to Ohio for a week. DSs 2 and 3 will be going on a Youth Retreat over in Daytona for a week. {And this is JUST JULY!}

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

When It's Hot Outside....WW!

Go to the WATER!!

{Edited to add: This is my DS 4 along with my Brother, Greg and his family. They spent time up at the river and had a great time.}

Book Review: Memoirs of a Geisha

I did it! I finished Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. I started this book about a month ago and put it down in favor of some others. I found it slow starting in the beginning, and a little hard to read occasionally as I tried to picture the Japanese town in which it takes place.

All in all I enjoyed this story of life as a Geisha in the 1930's, 40's, and 50's. It is amazing what these women endured as they entertained in Japan's tea rooms. This book is fictional, but reads as if it is a true memoir. In fact, I did a search and found that there are many many readers out there who think that the story is real. To write a memoir that is fictional but reads as a work of nonfiction is no easy task.

Here is my favorite quote from the book as Chiyo (later the Geisha, Nitta Sayuri), who is sold to an okiya to learn to be a geisha, planned to run away:

This was the moment when I began to understand how unaware I'd been--not only in planning to run away, but in everything. I'd never understood how closely things are connected to one another. And it isn't just the zodiac I'm talking about. We human beings are only a part of something very much larger. When we walk along, we may crush a beetle or simply cause a change in the air so that a fly ends up where it might never have gone otherwise. And if we think of the same example but with ourselves in the role of the insect, and the larger universe in the role we've just played, it's perfectly clear that we're affected every day by forces over which we have no more control than the poor beetle has over our gigantic foot as it descends upon it. What are we to do? We must use whatever methods we can to understand the movement of the universe around us and time our actions so that we are not fighting the currents, but moving with them.

Once again, I found myself considering another culture. Another set of beliefs and values. And I again find myself thinking about tolerance and love and just what my role is in the world.

Happy Reading!!

Things the Kitten Has Taught Me...

As you may remember, we got a kitten a few weeks ago. This is the first "roaming" pet we've had for a couple of years. Our dog (of 15 years) died three years ago and our cat (of 16 years) died six months later. The kids have been begging for a new pet pretty much ever since.

Having Ace (DS 3's name choice) around has given us some reminders that I think are life lessons for all of us:

He's a "baby". He's curious. He gets stuck in places where he shouldn't be in the first place. As I'm typing this, my DH found that Ace has discovered a hole in between two cabinets in the kitchen...I didn't even know this space existed in the house! You can be certain, though, if there's a space to be found, he'll find it. Lesson: We need to be careful with our choices, because we "could" get stuck!

He DOES have enough love to go around for everyone in the family. DS 3 is doing most of the caretaking. He's never really been able to pick out a pet and we let him pick this one out. And while he's a family cat, DS 3 is bonding a bit more. This bothers animal-lover and possible future vet, DS 1. But the cat is content to be given attention by anyone. Lesson: Be friends. Make friends. Nurture your friendships.

Napping is important. I've determined that Ace is a "circuit napper". Some of you do Curves and understand "circuit exercise". Ace finds a comfy spot and rests there a while, then he stretches and moves to his next spot. He has about 4 stops on his current circuit. Lesson: We need to rest once in a while.

When someone (or something) leaves your family, they are never really gone. We find him resting in the same places in our house that Sushi (our former cat) used to frequent. We can only figure that some part of Sushi must still be there and draw him to it. Lesson: People (and pets) leave handprints on our hearts even when they are no longer around.

Pets (like children) can reduce adults to do things they wouldn't normally do. DH has shared scallops, fish, and chicken with the cat. I'm thinking this is only a "glimpse" of the softie he'll be when we have grandchildren! Lesson: Sometimes we "do" sweat small stuff..but as we get older, we start to recognize it.

When they play, they play hard. Ace has a scratch pole with toys on it. He goes at that thing with all the gusto he can. It's funny to watch...Lesson: This is a lesson we should all learn.

Who among us hasn't envied a cat's ability to ignore the cares of daily life and to relax completely? ~Karen Brademeyer

Shuffle....Deal...Play...

{Note: DS 3 and I were in the car yesterday and he told me just how much he hates the days I blog a book review. He said, "You know what you should do? You should write a short story in metaphor and see how your commenters interpret it." I must admit, my initial reaction was, "HUH!?!?!" I even asked him if he had an idea for one. He said, "No. I just think it would be cool."

As we drove and he continued to talk about what a great idea he had, I kept thinking, "ME? Write metaphor? On purpose?"

It's festered in my mind since yesterday.

When I sat down at my computer today, the following (very) short story came out. Now, I am no "fiction" writer, much less an intentional implementer of literary elements. When I write, it's nonfiction for educators--professional books. It's easy for me. It's black and white, explanatory type stuff.

This exercise, given in an off-handed comment by my 12-year-old, felt a little more like bearing my soul. It's vulnerable. I'm sure it could use some "red pen"...but DS 3 has me curious.

Admittedly, I didn't really stop and think until I reached the end...then when I re-read, I could immediately find my own deeper meaning...my own metaphor.

But, I'm curious, how do YOU interpret its meaning?

She shuffles the cards and they suddenly scatter across her screen ready for her to make a play. They lay across the spider's web almost crying out, "Match me! Match me!" She studies them carefully wondering which is the "right one" to move. Gingerly, she clicks the mouse and drags one card on top of the other. Red eight. Red seven.Red six. Stop. No moves.

The web's sticky silk seems to hold some cards back from being touched. She looks again. Black nine. Move the red pile. She thinks to herself, "Sometimes they need to go to another holding spot until the right row is made and ready for them."

Deal the next round. Click. Drag. Study. Plan. Move.

It's tough clearing the cards off the web. Help arrives in the way of a free space. It serves as a holding space for an unmatched card. Click. Drag. Study. Plan. Move.

The formations are almost complete. Black King down to Black Ace. Whoosh! The pile is gone. Red King down to Red Two. She looks for the Ace to complete the pile. It is stuck under another card. The spider's web seems to hold that Ace in its unforgiving grip.

She can see it. She just can't get to it. Decision time. Fold? Ask for a New Deal? Use the "Extra Space" and lose points? "It's just a game," she tells herself biting her lip. "It's just a game. I can stop it if I want to. I can redeal. I don't have to finish."

With that thought and the simple click of the mouse, the current game is gone. A new set of cards are shuffled and dealt before her. She's ready to play. But when, oh when, will she finish and be able to leave the spider's web forever?

Be gentle, I might be a "fragile fiction writer"!!!

Sunday Seven

A weekly meme for giving thanks and/or for noting important events in our lives. If you want to play, go here.

This week's Sunday Seven is in honor of the "Dads" in my life.

1. My Dad - He loves his family and I can think of no greater gift to all of us. We have spent countless hours throughout the years enjoying our immediate and extended family. Dad loves to laugh and is often the "life of a party". He has taught us to work hard and to have fun, too. He's also a "softie" and can get quite emotional at times. We're convinced that his Grandchildren have uncovered even more of this part of him! I love you, Dad!

2. My Father-in-Law - He, too, loves to laugh and enjoys spending time with his Family. He lives out his Faith in everything He does and is always there to lend a helping hand. My FIL once told me that it was most important to him that he leave his kids and grandkids a "good name". He has done this with finesse! And while we have to "forgive" some of the corny jokes, (Do YOU know what the Cuban fireman named his two sons?), we are so thankful for his presence in our lives!

3. My Husband - I remember when DH and I were new parents (of only a few weeks) and I came out of a room to see him holding our DS 1 and sticking a Hamburger Helper noodle in his newborn mouth. I am pretty sure I screeched! He looked up at me and said, "He likes it. I'm just letting him lick the juice." Of course, we learned that little babies should not be licking noodle juice, but he has always been there for our kids in a special way. He has set an example from day 1 of being a Godly Husband and Father. This is the greatest gift of all. I love you, Hon!

4. My Brother, G - He is raising our nieces and nephew with the same zest for life that we were raised. I love it. It's a blessing to watch them growing up into such sweet young children and to see how much they love their Daddy! G is a "giver". He is always there to help out whether it's to cook up some food on the grill OR to help with a task around the house. You so special to all of us!

5. My Brother, D - He's not a Father, but he gives so much to his family. It's so neat to see how the kids all love "Uncle D". He enjoys life and lives it well. He is unafraid to explore and try new things. He always has a laugh to share with anyone who is around. We are grateful for all you give to our family and extended family, D!

It's hard to write this, but I am especially moved this Father's Day as I think of two special Men who were so "Fatherly" to me that have passed on.

6. My Grandfather - There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about Grandpa. He was also a man who loves to laugh and enjoyed his family so much. I can picture him sitting in his chair and always telling us how proud he was of each one of his 13 grandkids and (at that time) 17 great grandkids. He loved watching the Gaithers and singing all those Gospel songs. And he loved to read. I miss so many things about him...but I know that he is such a part of who we are today.

7. My Uncle R. - As you might remember, we lost my Uncle R. suddenly in April. While I wasn't around him that much due to distance, he was a very special Uncle who occasionally "parented" us as well. When we were little, he'd keep us in line if we needed it. He loved music and family and often combined both. As we grew older, he loved to talk to us "as adults" and enjoyed watching his Grandchildren and Great Nieces and Nephews. I treasure the times we visited together...even up to last Summer. We miss you, Uncle R!

My life is certainly better, richer, and more full of love because of each one of these men....Happy Father's Day, Everyone!!

Sleepovers, SCUBA, and Swimming...Oh My!

It's gearing up to be a busy weekend around here.

Our new neighbor has a 9yo son who has been over here almost more than he's been home this week! Actually, I think my DS 4 has evened out the visitations as they've gone swimming over there just about every day for some time as well. Anyway, earlier in the week they mentioned "sleepover" and I said, "It'd be better to do that on a Friday night." Notice I said "A"? They just omitted the "a" and decided I said, "THIS". But that was the last I heard of it until neighbor boy called at 5:30 last night and said, "I'll be over right after I eat my dinner. My Mom is packing a bag for me!" And because it's pretty much the "norm" for my house to be a sleepover spot on the weekends for kids, I said, "OK."

Actually, it was kind of nice. DS 4 sometimes suffers from the "I'm-not-as-big-as-my-big-brothers-but-I-think-I-am" syndrome. It annoys them when he wants to be with and do everything they do. So with someone closer to his own size and age, it occupies him. It makes it a bit quieter, if you know what I mean.

DH and DS 3 started their SCUBA classes last night. They go all day today and tomorrow as well---now THAT'S an interesting Father's Day, isn't it?? Today they have to pass the swim test. This is 4 laps of the pool at any pace using any stroke. I don't think that will be a problem. They also have to tread water for 10 minutes. Now THAT could be a bit difficult. I don't know if DS 3 CAN tread water. I found out a year ago that my 17yo athlete doesn't know how to tread water. He's a GREAT swimmer...very athletic...but you put him in the middle of a pool and tell him to tread and he sinks like a heavy rock. I never knew. So, I'm hoping that DS 3 can do it. I'm thinking with his Dad right there, he'll be OK.

DS 1 was supposed to go to SCUBA with them, but he tore his maniscus last week and is in a brace. So, his class is on "account" for that time when he is able to go and get certified.

DS 2 said he has no desire to go "look at little fish" under the water. Actually, I'm now wondering if he found out you needed to tread water for ten minutes to be able to even begin the class! ;-) Anyway, he's decided that he doesn't really "want to" SCUBA.

Finally, today, we are going to Tampa to visit with my brother Dan who's in town and to celebrate Father's Day with my Dad. It turns out that it will only be DS 4 and me going...but it will be fun.

So that's a glimpse of our "crazy life" this weekend. Hope yours is exciting and filled with happy memories too!!

A Thousand Splendid Suns

I finished Khaled Hosseini's new book A Thousand Splendid Suns today. This book was just as much of a page turner as The Kite Runner in my opinion.

When I read The Kite Runner , it really struck my heart. I was so moved as I felt I was given a glimpse into life in Afghanistan both before and after the Taliban. As The New York Times Book Review notes:

Whereas “The Kite Runner” focused on fathers and sons, and friendships between men, his latest novel, “A Thousand Splendid Suns,” focuses on mothers and daughters, and friendships between women. Whereas “Kite Runner” got off to a gripping start and stumbled into contrivance and sentimentality in its second half, “Splendid Suns” starts off programmatically and gains speed and emotional power as it slowly unfurls.

And, like The Kite Runner this book has received mixed reviews. I have to wonder if some of that is because very few people (in the states especially) have a "true" picture of what life is like in this region of the world. Even the Entertainment Weekly Reviewer alluded to this:

Hosseini's depiction of Mariam and Laila's plight would seem cartoonishly crude if it were not, by all accounts, a sadly accurate version of what many Afghan women have experienced.

I still say it makes me sadly aware of just how much we have...and how much so many people in the world do not. I'm thankful for books like these that help to give me better perspective. I'm also thankful, though, for the impetus that it gives me to find more and more ways to reach out to those with less than I.

And on another note....

Melli suggested that I abandon Memoirs of a Geisha. But I shall not. It will remain in my pile. It's one that I started and didn't "want" to put down...I "chose" to put it down. It'll be read before my Summer Reading is done.

Happy Reading Everyone!!

The Rescue

I finished another book last night. When I last wrote, I noted that I was trying to balance fiction/nonfiction and professional/enjoyment. I was "supposed" to be reading about 14 things great teachers do and Memoirs of a Geisha. And I still am. But, I needed a mental break and picked up another Nicholas Sparks' book, The Rescue.

This was the first of Sparks' novels to reach #1 on the New York Times Best Seller List. It is a well-told story of the accident and rescue of a single Mother by the town's volunteer fire department. She isn't just your "average" single Mother. She is the Mother of a boy that won't speak...a character based on Sparks' own son. She meets, and falls in love with, one of the rescue workers and eventually is part of the "rescue" of this man.

I was drawn to this one because Denise, the main character, is helping her son overcome Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD). She gave up a job teaching to be her son's main teacher. She, like Sparks, worked for hours everyday with this little boy. It is a great story with that central theme of love and rescue weaving through several relationships.

Now, I "should" go back to "Memoirs" and to "Teachers", but I've already moved on to A Thousand Splendid Suns the second book by Khaled Hosseini, author of the Kite Runner (thanks Danielle!). A little "random" on the list? YEP! But, it's MY list (really, it's a pile) and that's the way I like it.

Happy Reading!!

Spidey....Anyone??

It's obvious to me that I don't know anything about critiquing film. I often find myself liking the very films that the crtics hate. I can usually find redeeming qualities in almost every story. For the record, I LOVED Spiderman I and II. I really felt that both movies had good storylines that caused an examination of character and life in general. I also found both movies entertaining. So, I was excited when Spiderman 3 hit the theaters this season.

Tonight I took DSs 3 and 4 and our new neighbor to see it. I agree with the critics that it is a bit long and moves slow in some parts. But all in all, I realized that I am still not a "real" film critic because I liked it.

Jacob Sahms of Hollywood Jesus, a site that reviews "pop culture from a spiritual point of view", says, "Did we find ourselves caring at the end that Parker throws off the costume, or are we tired of his whining, tired of his complete rejection of what his Uncle Ben taught and his Aunt May reminds him of not once, but three times, in S3?"

And while I agree to some extent, I cannot help but think just how "human" Maguire's Spiderman truly is. For some of us it takes three, four, five, or even five hundred times to realize that we must "choose what is right" and that "good can conquer evil." I mean how many times did Jesus ask His own Disciples (and us), "How long have I been with you and you STILL don't get it??" And some of us in our humanness, like Spiderman in this version, find ourselves wrestling with revenge-seeking vs. forgiveness. At least I do!

I can relate to him. No, I have never found myself swinging between tall buildings or rescuing those in distress (DS 3 will tell you I prefer to have my feet on the earth). But I have been in situations that called for a decision on my part. I could get angry, hold a grudge, and seek my own revenge---and sometimes I have. When Peter Parker realizes that the darkness has overcome him and he doesn't know who he is anymore, Aunt May (in her infinite wisdom) says, "First you have to take the hardest step of all....you must forgive yourself." OUCH! It's hard to start there.

I believe the message here is clear, "When we can forgive ourselves and shed the darkness that often surrounds us...then we can extend forgiveness to others." And it's when we come without mask, or web, or super powers, humbly to another that we find true redemption.

For what it's worth, I think it was worth my $7.75!

This does NOT make me happy!

The phone just rang and a lilting female voice greeted me. I could tell she was smiling by the rise and fall in her opening words. She said, "Hello, Mrs. N., I am M's [DS 2] AP Science teacher for next year!" It didn't really register, just WHY she might be calling here in JUNE for a class that starts in AUGUST.

The conversation went something like this: "I didn't get my class list for next year until late."

I thought: "Interesting, our teachers STILL don't have theirs, and won't, until the new school year begins."

She continued: "I was unable to connect with the students before I left. So I left their assignments at the school for them to pick up. M needs to go to the IB office and get his. It's due DAY ONE of school. He must pick it up by Friday or else I'll have to give you my home phone number so I can deliver it to him."

After asking myself, "Did she just say 'Deliver it'?" My next reaction was: "He's not in IB {International Baccalaureate}"...but as she continued I realized that she was dead serious and she was, in fact, his new teacher. She was only using the IB office as a clearing house. The other thing I am quite certain about is that she was very proud of herself for giving her students a "head start" for the class.

She explained further: "I am concerned about the block schedule and our time together, so all students need to memorize these tables and formulas first. There's a textbook waiting there for M too. He can use it as reference if he'd like. I've also included the first set of homework so that he can really get ahead if he'd like to do so."

I have no problem with kids having a Summer Reading List for extra credit and even early discussion...but charts and tables to memorize before day one of a SCIENCE class!?!?! That, I have issues with. I mean it's unsupported learning. And being someone who is Math/Science challenged, I have to wonder if I were given this assignment how well I would do. Thankfully, my son is a Math/Science whiz.

I know the curriculum is dense. The task of teaching, especially at these upper levels, is huge. I know it's harder than it was when I was in school. I also don't think we "should" have three months off in the Summer. I'd rather see it spread out over the year more evenly, so less is "forgotten" over such a long time off.

But, when I hear about this type of stuff over the "breaks" I have to wonder just WHAT each teacher is doing with his or her time off. I mean are they sitting at home and studying for their upcoming teaching? Are they learning something new? Are they preparing, in some way, to be a better more effective teacher? Some are. But, I fear that most aren't.

I don't know which category this person falls. I hope it's the latter. I hope that she truly IS a conscientious teacher who is wanting to give her students every advantage. She seemed very nice on the phone...and I'm pretty sure she didn't hang up and give her best "bwa-ha-ha-ha".

The other thing I know, though, is that my DSs all live in a house where there are supportive parents who will ensure that the work gets done. And for the most part, this is the type of student that is at DSs school. Where I work, however, students are lucky if they see their parents during the day....and school work is not really a priority. I know these students DO exist in every program. What happens to those kids?

Regardless of the "kind" of teacher she is...or the kinds of students she is teaching...I still have to question whether it's right or fair to impose assignments such as this as "MUST DO's". I know that my opinion is contrary to what many other people think...but I'd love to hear what you think....

{Edited to Add: DS 2 seems fine with this arrangement. It's just me and my "old-fashioned" thinking, I'm sure. And certainly it's because it's an AP course vs. a regular Science.}

This is kind of fun

I found this one over at Melli's last week. In her words: "It's rather "teenish" - but I just thought it was cute!" Occasionally, you just have to be a bit "goofy" in the blogging world, right?? So, here they are.....

My Ten Names!



1. WHAT'S YOUR REAL NAME? Susan



2. YOUR GANGSTA NAME (first 3 letters of real name plus izzle): Susizzle



3. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME (fav color and fav animal): Green Puppy



4. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME (middle name, and childhood street): Michelle River {I kind of like this one!}



5. YOUR STAR WARS NAME (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name, first 3 letters of mom's maiden name): Natsumay



6. YOUR SUPERHERO NAME (2nd favorite color, favorite drink): Blue Coke



7. YOUR IRAQI NAME (2nd letter of your first name, 3rd letter of your last name, any letter of your middle name, 2nd letter of your moms maiden name, 3rd letter of your dads middle name, 1st letter of a siblings first name, last letter of your moms middle name): Utmaegn {These were not MY rules...}



8. YOUR WITNESS PROTECTION NAME (mothers middle name and a friend's last name): Jean Sherman



9. YOUR GOTH NAME (black, and the name of one your pets): Black Ace



10. YOUR STAR NAME (One of your friends pet, and a street you lived on): Daisy Hilltop {Oh my goodness...that's interesting, too!}

If you decide to play, let me know. It was kind of a nice break from "thinking" for a while.

Sunday Seven

A weekly meme for giving thanks and/or for noting important events in our lives.

This week has been quite full for us. Here are my seven in no particular order.

1. DH was gone from Tuesday until Saturday. It was the first time out in a long time. I missed him terribly, but I actually slept while he was gone. This is a HUGE step for me.

2. DS 1 had a hair-cutting fiasco on Monday and ended up buzzing off all his "long locks". It was so drastic that it was hard to see at first.

3. DS 1 also hurt his knee at martial arts the other night. He is in a lot of pain and will have to go get another MRI (I'm sure). I can tell it's in a lot of pain, because he called his brother, DS 2, to pick him up and said he couldn't drive.

4. We had a lovely visit with my SIL, Heather, and her four beautiful children this week. They came down for my FIL's birthday. It was a lot of fun watching the kids play. I am always amazed at how kids just seem to pick up right where they left off.

5. I went to an information session for an EdD program. I could get very excited about doing this program, but it will not get me administrative certification in Florida. So, I feel I am back to square one with schooling decisions. Ultimately, I'd love to teach at the college level...

6. DSs 2 and 4 both tried out for the traveling soccer teams. They made it and are both excited. It will be a great experience for DS 4 as this is his first one.

7. DH will be flying "cross country" this week as part of his pilot certification. He will go with an instructor today and tomorrow alone. Of course, this makes me "fret" a bit...but I am SO excited to see he and DS 3 doing something they love.

Love Thy Neighbor...

I believe I have talked about neighbors and the neighborhood where I live before on my blog (although I'm too lazy right now to "dig it out"). By way of bringing all readers up to speed on this post let me say the following:

• I have lived in my neighborhood for eight years. We moved here after living in a house set apart from neighborhoods for a long time.
• I dreamed of living in a true neighborhood for a long time before I moved here. I pictured being able to borrow sugar, kids playing back and forth, you know the "stereotypical Leave it to Beaver" kind of place.
• My expectation of what a true neighborhood was were quickly shattered as we experienced some of the negative things about living in a neighborhood.
• These "negative" things included: letters from our Home Owners Assoc. telling us that our mulch was coming out of the mulch bed (during rainy season), our satellite dish (which we didn't have) was visible from the road, and the trash cans weren't put away in a "timely" manner one time.
• In addition to this "stuff"...I had a couple of neighbors who got very nasty when two of my (then pre-teens) were having "issues" with their children--typical "kid stuff" really. I am of the belief that if they are not hurting each other or endangering each other, that kids need to learn to work stuff out. And usually, they are back playing together within 24 hours. Not in my neighborhood. The Mothers tended to get involved and then tell all the other Mothers what they thought.

I'm sad to admit, that as a result of these experiences, I felt "shunned". I retreated. I speak to my neighbors when they speak to me--it's limited at best. I wave when I deem it appropriate. For the most part, though, I really have no relationship with anyone in my neighborhood. I always find myself wondering what they are thinking. Sometimes I drive into our subdivision with my eyes on the road, don't look left or right, and go right into my house so I don't have to wonder who's thinking what. This breaks my heart.

Upon reflection, probably six years too late, I realize that IF there are people who stood (or for that matter, stand) in judgment of me or my family then they could most likely be counted on one hand. I know that I made some sweeping generalizations and behavioral decisions because of being hurt by the words of a few.

I decided in my head---based on approximately 4 incidents that:

• No one wanted to get to know us.
• We were probably "dinner table fodder" (of course, this would indicate that people are actually sitting at their tables)
• I was pretty sure they were saying things like "Well don't play with THOSE kids"....and "You know THAT Mom!"
• I was certain that "they" continued to watch and judge us.

So I created my "neighborhood" outside the physical boundaries of where I live. My boys still have friends in this neighborhood. And I DO know their parents, though it's mostly as an acquaintance. I found my friends at work, church, and via community events. It was "safer" this way.

I've been praying for the last six months for this to change, though. I asked God to help me get rid of my perception. I am pretty certain that it's quite distorted. Since I have made this my prayer, a couple of little things have happened that tell me He is answering:

• The lady who was the most vocal about my kids in the past put her house up for sale. I've learned just how unhappy her household is as she is going through a horrible divorce and some other stuff. I was sad for her...I realized, once again that people who point fingers at others are often those who have their own issues they'd rather not disclose.
• The lady who is my next door neighbor (and a close friend of the other one) ended up at a party that I attended a few months back. While we are not making "lunch dates", she at least started speaking to me again...and I felt it opened a door for me to speak as well.

And just this week a very neat thing happened. New neighbors moved in two doors down. My youngest son noticed they have boys about his age. Kids are really magnets for one another. They introduced themselves and became fast friends. I introduced myself to the Mother and welcomed her to the neighborhood (she has three boys). We have some common acquaintances...and I enjoyed speaking with her.

Last night, we exchanged phone numbers. Today I watched one of her boys all day while she went to wrap up things on her old house. It felt good.

Tonight, while I was outside watching the boys transfer from my house over to hers, a car pulled up with a Dad and Mom and two boys inside. The Dad said, "Your son {DS 4} has been playing at our house today." I waited on the "shoe to drop"...and I hesitantly asked, "Was he behaving?" They smiled and said, "Oh yes, we just wanted to make sure you knew who we were and get to know the faces of our kids' playmates!"

I breathed a sigh of relief inside and happily continued the introduction conversation. Then, I whispered a prayer of thanks to God. I am certain that He will continue to teach ME and help me be comfortable where I live and that I can get to know my neighbors. After all, I'm pretty sure that HE designed it that way, right?

I'm TIRED!

For some reason tonight, the events of my entire week seems to have collided in my head and body and I'm feeling the crash and burn that often accompanies that. In fact, when I sat at dinner with my four sons, and another "adopted son" who is a friend of theirs, the boys said, "Mom, you look like you're really tired." One noted, "I'm thinking you need to go take a nap." Another said, "Maybe you need to read a book." I agreed. Then, their friend, Kyle looked at me and said, "I'm thinking you need to take a hot bath....and maybe drink a glass of wine...and just relax."

All I could think was, "You boys are going to make GREAT husbands one day! You know some of the best antidotes for a tired woman!"

I may be tired, but I was, once again proud of "my" guys!! Now I'm off to apply their suggestions...

A Birthday Thursday Thirteen

Today marks two important birthdays in my family: my brother, Dan and my Father-in-law. I thought it only appropriate that I do a Thursday Thirteen about the two of them.

1. They BOTH love to laugh and have fun hanging out with family. And both can occasionally tell a pretty good joke.

2. BOTH Dan and FIL enjoy good food.

3. They BOTH enjoy country music--Dan is very eclectic and enjoys all kinds of music. FIL and I got to "know" each other before DH and I got married at a Gospel Music Festival. I am pretty sure no one else in our party (including my MIL and DH) didn't want to go at all. Dan can also tell a great story about being at Gospel Music Hour at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

4. FIL is a great teacher. Dan enjoys learning and, even though he's not a classroom "teacher" on paper, he does like to train other people in his job, which I think makes him a teacher.

5. FIL is quite "handy" with gadgets and gizmos. He's the only one that I know that actually takes a hair dryer apart to clean it out. Dan is also very handy. He can fix computers and even fixed the plumbing recently in his house with a friend.

6. FIL loves doing things with, and for, his grandchildren. Dan loves doing things with, and for, his nieces and nephews. And, I know the kids love both of them and enjoy spending time with them.

7. Both are great listeners. Dan and I have spent countless hours on the phone with one another. FIL and I have spent hours in conversation at their house and especially when I "took" one of his college classes. I enjoy talking with, and listening to, both of them.

8. Dan loves to travel---he has been many places with work, family, and friends. He is always up for an adventure. FIL loves to travel, too---he just doesn't do it quite as much.

9. Both of them are sensitive to others' feelings.

10. Both are very dedicated to their jobs. FIL has gone from educator to administrator to minister. Dan has worked in telecommunications and will persue real estate as well.

11. FIL continues to honor his COUPON that my MIL gave me. I know Dan would also drop almost anything and help if I asked him.

12. Both were born on June 7th. Dan in Ohio. FIL in Missouri.

13. I think both fit this quote that came up on my "Quote of the Day" today: Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.

Thank you both for all you give to our family, and to me each and everyday. We love you...Happy Birthday!!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

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From My Bookshelf...

I finished reading two more books this week. The first one is an educational book by Dr. Todd Whitaker called Dealing with Difficult Teachers. This book intrigued me because it's true that I work in a profession where it is very difficult to "get rid of" ineffective and difficult teachers. It's one of the saddest things about my job.


Dr. Whitaker gives some insight that I think is helpful in everyday life. He notes that difficult teachers really are often very negative people. They are not just difficult at school, but most likely in their home/personal life as well. Therefore, they don't know that they are difficult. I think this is true about most "Negative Neds and Nellies" out there.


This book, and Dr. Whitaker's strategies, will help me when I deal with teachers in my own school. It also serves as a reminder that we have to be "about kids" in education...and sometimes this means that we have to be tough with those who forget this most important part of the job.

As I mentioned earlier about my Summer Reading, I am trying to balance Nonfiction/Informational with Fiction/Fun reading.

So the second book I picked up is Silent Partner: A Memoir of My Marriage by Dina Matos McGreevey. This is actually my favorite genre: biography. Dina is the ex-wife of former New Jersey Governor, Jim McGreevey. Her husband resigned from office in 2004 after admitting that he was gay and that he had an affair while in office (and married).

The story that unfolds in Dina's book is one of strength and character. She is a woman who had political convictions as well as a strong faith. She believed in "forever marriage" and the sacredness of it. Yet, she was blind-sided by this admission of her husband's.


While I don't espouse many of her political stances, I could certainly feel her pain and grief as the rug was literally pulled out from under her. I found myself connecting with her as a wife and a mother. And certainly I haven't "been there"---but I am certain that, in her situation, I may have had similar reactions. And I admire her strength as she continues to fight for what's right for her and her daughter, Jacqueline.


Now, I'm back to nonfiction. I've chosen another Todd Whitaker book What Great Teachers Do Differently. I figure I need to read about what sets the superstars apart from the rest to balance out my earlier reading. My next "fun" book will be Memoirs of a Geisha (unless I decide to go out and get Khaled Hosseini's new book A Thousand Splendid Suns (which is a good possibility after reading some of the reviews).

Happy Reading Everyone!

{Edited to Add: I am not sure what is going on with these pictures...can you only see half of them? The full pic is in my post and preview. Weird.}

What do you do when your day is....

"Herattict"?? OR "Forgetless"??

While driving home today, DS 4 was recounting a day not long ago that he and his Father had. In a very exasperated voice, he said, "It was just herattict!"

I said, "I haven't heard that word before. What does that mean?"

He said, "I know. It's my word for when things are rambunctious, confused, forgetless, and just crazy."

I asked, "What is 'forgetless'? I haven't heard that word either."

He replied, "It means that you keep forgetting stuff."

I said, "Oh, you mean forgetful?"

He said, "Yeah, that's it!" And then he added, "You spell it h-e-r-a-t-t-i-c-t. You know, just like it sounds."

I said, "I think it's an interesting...and possibly very useful...word."

He said, "Thanks."

So, there you have it. I hope your day was not "herattict"...but "forgetless" MIGHT just be a whole different story!

Our Weekend Window

Sunday Seven

It's definitely time to lighten things up around here! This week has been filled with some reflective and thought-filled posts. Some weeks are like that for me. My Sunday Seven this week reflects seven things for which I am grateful this past week:

1. I'm grateful for the ability to read. I have almost finished two books this week. I don't take this lightly as I know adults who struggle everyday with reading to make meaning of the simplest things. It's a "gift" for which I am glad....for it is a "gift" that can and does take me to spectacular places and helps me reach new personal heights.

2. I'm so thankful for family. Yesterday we spent time enjoying our "Tampa Crew" as we celebrated DS 1 and my Mother's birthdays. I brought my nieces and nephew home with me last night so their Mom and Dad could go out for some "adult time" for a while. I love spending time with them and watching them grow. It's a blessing to me.

3. My Darling Husband. God knew exactly what he was doing when He gave me "this" man. He is ever-patient with all the craziness that is our lives...and he "allows" me to go and do and be and explore all the avenues I want to...while always remaining a rock for me. I love that fact that he is always there for me.

4. Our new church. We went bowling with the new Middle School Youth leaders and some other people from the church the other night. It's strange being "new" to a place (as I've said here before)...but I am so thankful for a place that is allowing us to just "rest" and "be" for right now....and not constantly pushing us to "do" and "give" (not that doing and giving isn't important). It's almost like a much needed "break" for me.

5. My job. I know I've said this before. I really do love what I do. I think when I really "dig" into the "why" for this a couple of things come to my mind: a) I feel "called" to education. It's truly my passion. b) I work with a great team of people. I know that my voice is heard in our school, and I'm glad. I also know that when I need to be quiet or "get a life" my colleagues are not afraid to tell me. It's such a blessing to be in a place that is a balance of give and take.

6. Music. I love the fact that I can listen to all kinds of music! When I think about the CDs in my car, I would describe it as eclectic. It's little bits of all kinds of styles and genres. I'm happiest when there's music playing and I can sing along. I find such peace in it.

7. Blogging. I continue to realize just what a support the blogging community is. I am regularly nudged out of my comfort zone when I surf some of your blogs. I also sense such love and support out there. It's something that cannot be described to those who don't do it...it's one of those things where the depth and breadth is only realized when you dive in and give it a go.

Happy Sunday, Everyone!!