Wezie's Blog

Don't Miss Narnia!

2011-12-19T09:30:00.000-06:00

You don't want to miss this fabulous musical rendition of C.S. Lewis' of "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" at Scott Theater in Fort Worth, Texas. There is still plenty of time to get tickets!

Texas Boys Choir singing "This Christmastide"

2011-12-17T08:41:00.001-06:00

Texas Boys Choir 2011 Christmas Concert Schedule

2011-12-04T09:42:00.001-06:00

Performances by the Texas Boys Choir

2011-11-25T20:44:00.001-06:00

Getting to Know the Texas Boys Choir

2011-11-25T20:43:00.001-06:00

Supporting the Texas Boys choir

2011-11-25T20:42:00.001-06:00

Texas Boys Choir - Free Public Concert May 13th

2011-04-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

Texas Boys Choir - Free Public Concert May 13th

Hello Again!

2011-04-24T20:43:00.010-05:00

It's been a long time since I've blogged on this site. Back in the day when I first set this up Facebook was in its infancy, MySpace was for the young kids, and Twitter was unheard of. Boy have times changed quickly! 5 years ago, I vowed that I would not be one of those people constantly on my mobile phone - I would have one only for emergencies. Ummm yeah...famous last words. I now do almost everything on my mobile phone that I used to do on my desktop (except print and that's really annoying). My main form of communication with my family and friends is either text messaging or Facebook. I have even been known to text my kids to let them know when dinner is ready (mom fail).

So If you care to look back over the few years on this blog, you will see that I spent several years finishing my degree and working on my teacher certification. I finally achieved this, got a job as a teacher, then got too busy to blog! After 2 years in the classroom, I have finally come up for air. I am able to walk out of school without a huge bag of grading, teacher editions, or lessons plans. I have finally gotten into a groove and have figured out how to get MOST of my work done at school. With all of this newfound time, I am looking for ways to hone my teaching skills, share with other teachers, and hunt down great deals. Over Christmas break I watched TLC's Extreme Couponing and realized how much money I could be saving at the grocery store. I started collecting coupons and finding lots of information on couponing sites like Couponing 101,Passion for Savings,Budget Savvy Diva, and The Krazy Coupon Lady. After a few months of working at this, I realized that extreme couponing in the true sense is not for me, but stocking up on a reasonable amount of groceries and getting a few free things along the way sure is satisfying and fun! So if you are interested in what I have to share about my family, classroom, and couponing adventures feel free to follow along and share your comments on my "official" blog here. I will keep this blog for more personal things like bragging about my kids, random thoughts, and posting pictures.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-28T09:21:00.001-06:00

Texas Boys Choir at "A Celebration of Reading 2008"

2008-11-19T20:11:00.001-06:00

New links to visit....

2008-11-16T22:10:00.003-06:00

I just added two new links for you to visit: Heart and Seoul is about the journey of a couple adopting from Korea. In order to raise money for the adoption, they have launched a dessert business. I have personally tasted some of the desserts and not only are they delicious, they are also beautiful. Keep them in mind for your holiday entertaining.

The second site is Bluebonnets and Brownies. One of my classmates at Ashford University is a transplanted Texan living in the northeast and has found little in the way of southern comfort food up there. This site is a tribute Tex-Mex and other foods that we all find comfort in!

Friday Night Lights, Homecoming, and Halloween!

2008-11-01T21:02:00.001-05:00

A routine of our own!

2008-08-14T17:05:00.001-05:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Who's on first?

2008-08-10T13:22:00.000-05:00

Some good CofC humor!

2008-08-03T19:26:00.000-05:00

Let's play: "Pretend you're a doctor and find the broken bone!" (Click on picture to make it bigger)

2008-08-01T21:13:00.005-05:00

Can YOU find the break?
This is a sure-fire way to slow down a man that doesn't know the meaning of sitting still!

Preston broke his ankle Thursday evening while unloading luggage for some friends who just returned from England. After a few hours in the emergency room, a soft splint and a pair of crutches, he is in "misery" (haha, get it?). He is going to the doctor on Monday and will hopefully get a cast and relieve some of his discomfort!

A clean house=accomplishment!

2008-07-25T20:53:00.002-05:00

There is not a room, closet, cabinet, shelf, container, or box in my house that has not been gone through and purged this summer. I rock.

VBS '08..DAVID AND GOLIATH

2008-06-27T22:30:00.000-05:00

It's a nice day for a Webkinz Wedding!

2008-05-05T21:06:00.003-05:00

A pretty day at the park!

2008-03-13T20:44:00.000-05:00

Molly's Birthday at Casa Manana!

2008-02-23T19:23:00.004-06:00

Molly took some of her friends to see Junie B Jones at Casa Manana today. It was a really good show. The actors came out at the end to sign autographs - what a fun time!

Girls Reflecting God's Glory

2008-02-15T20:58:00.002-06:00

I didn't get to go on this one, but I know it was a blessing to both the girls and moms who attended. I am so thankful that my daughter has a strong spritual foundation on which to grow...

Woo Hoo - Another one to cross off!

2008-02-04T22:51:00.000-06:00

Ok, I am finally finished with Global Socioeconomic Perspectives - it was a good class, but what a whuppin'! Next up: Intro to Sociology. I have looked at the readings and assignments - this should be a little more interesting...I'll let ya know!

Fast Food and dieting...(click here)

2008-01-31T23:29:00.001-06:00

Ooops! I'm not supposed to say the "D" word - it's a "Lifestyle Change". Whatever...it's eating less, exercising more and drinking lots of water. Anyway, there are times when we are forced to eat out and inevitably our new "healthy lifestyle" takes a turn for the worse when we are confronted with the Value Menus and Super-sized fare at most fast food places. I really hate the salads at those places, so what am I to do?

Well, have no fear, I found something good, realitively low-cal, and satisfying at Taco Bell! The Zesty Chicken Bowl is a combination of refried beans, rice, chicken, lettuce tomato and cheese - it's like a salad but with a lot less of the green stuff. At 440 calories you can't beat this for quick, filling dinner. Add in the optional dressing and it goes up 200 calories - not worth it - just use some of the hot sauce.

They also have a Fresco menu which leaves off the cheese and adds some kind of pico de gallo mixture. There is only 350 calories in this (even better). I will try this next time and let you know.

Click on the title of this post where it says: "click here". This is a link to the nutritional info for all Taco Bell items.

Yep, I'm a Genius!

2008-01-25T22:34:00.000-06:00

I just received notice from Ashford University that I have been named to the Dean's List for Fall 2007.

oops! Forgot about the holiday!

2008-01-21T15:22:00.000-06:00

OK...this is an adendum to my previous entry:

Starting TUESDAY I will get up at 5:00am to work out.

There was no way I was getting up at 5:00 am on a day that I didn't have to go to work - I may be on a mission, but I'm not crazy!

Two weeks - tomorrow

2008-01-19T13:52:00.000-06:00

OK, I have had an amazing 2 weeks following the Spark People plan, tracking meals and getting/giving support and encouragement. Sunday is my official weigh-in day so I won't jump the gun, but I think I will be pleased with the results.

One of the things I have been having trouble with is excercise (arrgghhh!). I want to do it, but have trouble finding time. I can sometimes work it in during the after work/before dinner hour, but that is usually interrupted with kids, the phone or something else and I always feel rushed. I have been resisting the idea of getting up an hour earlier in the morning, but I have decided it is really the only option. At 5:00 am there is nothing that can mess with this time (who would want to, right?). Sooooo....Starting Monday I am getting up at 5:00am so I will have a full hour to devote to myself. Can I do it? I don't know. I really enjoy my full 8hours sleep and don't function very well without it, but going to bed at 9:00 every night might be a little hard too. We'll see...wish me luck!!!

That'll leave a mark!

2008-01-19T09:15:00.001-06:00

Wii Sports Accident

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One Week in a Row!

2008-01-14T22:23:00.000-06:00

I made it through the first week. I managed to exercise 4 out of 7 days, drank all my water and ate sensibly. I LOST 5 POUNDS! WOO HOOO! Only 45 more to go!

Did you know....

2008-01-08T21:14:00.000-06:00

That if you drink 10 cups of water a day you go to the bathroom alot?
WATER=POTTY

Woo Hoo! One Day in a Row!!!!!

2008-01-06T16:45:00.000-06:00

And here's the proof:

For the past year I have NOT been in a fitness/healthy living state of mind. I have been slugging away at these online classes, working full time and carting kids here and there...as a result, I have gone up 2 clothing sizes and have watched my body get flabbier and flabbier. I have been thinking about exercising and eatting better, but needed the one last "push". Today, at church, I got that push. The nursing ministry has started a weight loss support group is is encouraging members to join and be healthier in 2008. One of the websites that the nurse recommended was www.sparkpeople.com. I know several people who had great success with this program, so I decided to give it a visit. I signed up (it's totally free), put in my goal weight and they help you come up with a fitness and eating plan that will help reach your goals. There are also support groups and you earn points by completing different tasks each day. It's way to hold yourself accountable...plus it's fun!

I'm going to give it a try and see what happens...it definitely can't hurt!

Yes, the big sigh....

2008-01-04T10:34:00.000-06:00

My treadmill is so dusty from "under-use" that I will probably have an asthma attack if I try to use it without dusting it first! But, this is the time of year for new beginnings, rejuvenation and re-do's....Soooo, here I go (sigh)!

PS: A little encouragement is more than welcome - I need all the help I can get!

Pioneer Woman Makes CNN!

2008-01-03T21:58:00.000-06:00

I started visiting this blog sometime last year. The Pioneer Woman has a great site and sometimes she has contests to name her photos. Her latest prize was a $500 gift certificate to an electronics store! She is a wonderful photographer and likes to share her life on the farm...Take a look:

Blogs in Plain English...click here

2007-12-31T00:15:00.000-06:00

I got this from the teacher in New Zealand. She is a blogging expert and I have learned some cool stuff from her blog: http://rachelboyd.blogspot.com

Must See TV...I can't wait for next Sunday! (Click here)

2007-12-30T22:59:00.001-06:00

ACCORDING TO www.pbs.org:
JANE EYRE: Sundays, December 30, 2007 and January 6, 2008

"Ruth Wilson is all Jane should be... and Toby Stephens gives us a Rochester to root for..."
- Entertainment Weekly

A governess goes to work for a moody employer, captures his heart, then a dark secret intrudes. Charlotte Brontë's 1847 classic stars newcomer Ruth Wilson as the spirited but plain young woman who escapes a dismal youth to find improbable true love. Toby Stephens is Edward Rochester, the enigmatic master of Thornfield who hires Jane as governess to his young female ward Adele. Or is it his daughter? All that is certain is that he is a man with a passionate past. Directed by Susanna White (Bleak House) and adapted by Sandy Welch (Our Mutual Friend), the cast also includes Francesca Annis, Tara Fitzgerald, Pam Ferris, Christina Cole and Georgie Henley (The Chronicles of Narnia) as the young Jane.

I never read this because there were just too many words and would require too much of a commitment on my part, but this program is SOoooo good. We watched the first part tonight. The second part is on next Sunday. Try to catch it if you can!

A Good Cry

2007-12-28T10:18:00.000-06:00

For those of you who know me well, you know I don't cry very much. Last night I did...over a BOOK! I have read an estimated 10 textbooks from cover to cover since I started back to school in January, 2006. Aside from Harry Potter this past summer and occasional Bible studies, I have not read anything just for fun in a long time. I borrowed "The Notebook" from Rebekah last night and read then entire thing in about four hours. It was about 2:00 am and I started crying like a baby when I finally finished it. What a sweet story...I imagined Preston and I as the older couple and it made me sad. But it was a good sad....sometimes you just need a good cry.

I loved the 80's!

2007-12-27T22:01:00.000-06:00

This is acutally a picture of me at a recent 80's themed party, but my sweet husband says I look just like I did when he married me 22 years ago (only my hair was kind of a modified mullet back then).

Christmas Night Boredom Buster:

2007-12-25T20:59:00.000-06:00

Looking for payday loan?

Joyful Christmas!

2007-12-25T10:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Christmas!

2007-12-18T22:20:00.000-06:00

Don't send a lame Holiday eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

Another One Bites the Dust!

2007-12-16T07:56:00.000-06:00

I have finally completed another class...The History of Education in America. It was a great class and my final paper wasn't too horrendous. My next class, Global Socioeconomic Perspectives...now that's a different story. Does anyone know what that means? Do I really want to pay $60 for this book and find out? Notsomuch, but it's required for my degree so here I go........!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...!

2007-12-09T22:00:00.000-06:00

What's in a name?

2007-12-05T17:39:00.000-06:00

There is a site where you can find out how many people in the U.S. have your name.
I entered Louise Morgan (Wezie didn't work):

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
410
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

There are 347,451 people in the U.S. with the first name Louise.
Statistically the 168th most popular first name.
More than 99.9 percent of people with the first name Louise are female.
Names similar to Louise:
Eliza
Eloise
Lois
Lou
Lulu

There are 358,072 people in the U.S. with the last name Morgan.
Statistically the 57th most popular last name.
Famous people with the last name Morgan:
Dan Morgan
Garrett A. Morgan
Harry Morgan
Joe Morgan
Quincy Morgan

(I don't know Dan Morgan or Quincy Morgan - what about J.P. Morgan?)

Thanksgiving Adendum...Public Apology

2007-12-03T13:54:00.000-06:00

Ok, my wonderful mom pointed out that the reason I was able to have such a productive and satisfying Thanksgiving break was because she did ALL of the cooking for Thanksgiving. This is true. Sorry, Mom - my badness. I know I should have given credit where credit is due...especially since you have a broken foot and are wearing a big brace. I appreciate all of your hard work and am thankful to have you. I'm such a TURKEY!

Youth Group Retreat...What a Blessing!

2007-12-01T21:30:00.000-06:00

I accompanied my daughter on a youth group retreat to Latham Springs this weekend. It was awe inspiring, exhilarating and exhausting! I have watched these kids grow up before my very eyes and am so proud of how they are evolving into spiritual leaders. I was astounded by their maturity and depth. I was never involved in a church or youth group when I was a kid so I am living vicariously through my daughter. Several of the kids performed a really powerful skit. This video shows the skit with other actors...It is called "Everything" by Lifehouse:

It's Almost Friday! Do you feel like this? I know I do!

2007-11-29T23:43:00.000-06:00

Productive Thanksgiving Break Over and Now I am Counting Down the Days 'til Christmas Break!!

2007-11-27T20:03:00.000-06:00

Well, I will have to say that my Thanksgiving break was productive and satisfying. All of the kids' rooms are clean, Christmas shopping has been started, Christmas cards are addressed, and I got to cook a little. On the other hand, the tree is up but NOT decorated and the garage did NOT get cleaned (last weekend's weather did not cooperate so that little big job did not get done), but overall I am in pretty good shape as November comes to a close. This is the first time I haven't felt overwhelmed with the arrival of the holidays...Let's hope it stays that way!

WooHoo!!! Thanksgiving break is here!

2007-11-17T09:19:00.001-06:00

A much needed week-long break for our family is here! I plan to relax and enjoy the time off, but there are a few projects that I would like to accomplish:

1) Clean all 3 kids' rooms (I don't think this is on their lists)
2) Clean the garage and get rid of some stuff

This is all I will put on my list because if I make it too long and don't accomplish everything then I will be disappointed. If I make it short and then accomplish more than what is on my list, I will be happy.

Halloween!

2007-11-04T08:07:00.000-06:00

Crowley Homecoming Parade! Mostly Purple - Not Black!

2007-10-29T20:50:00.001-05:00

Sycamore entered the parade for the first time ever thanks to our awesome counselor Penny Haight!

Molly meets a celebrity!

2007-10-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

Molly got to meet Erin Sanders at our school. Erin plays Quinn on Nickelodeon's "Zoey 101". She came to our school to present one of our kindergarten classes 3 V-Tech computers, a personal V-Tech system for each student to take home and $1000 savings bond for each student. Erin judged essays by teachers all over the country. Michelle Atwood was one of 3 winners. Her essay stressed the importance of using technology to educate our children if they are to succeed in the future.

Molly enjoyed meeting Erin, but said she looked nothing like her character on the show!

Crowley Homecoming 2007!

2007-10-21T21:16:00.000-05:00

4 Down 12 to Go!

2007-10-08T21:44:00.000-05:00

I just completed my 4th class at Ashford University. So far I have taken: Adult Development, Ethics, English Comp II, and Environmental Science. Next up: The American Constitution!

T-C-U!

2007-09-29T22:05:00.000-05:00

Shirley?

2007-09-20T21:25:00.000-05:00

I don't know who she is, but I think this is so cute!

I love my cat!

2007-09-16T23:25:00.000-05:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know she's on the table in the bowl that I usually serve salad in, but isn't she the cutest?!?

Pictures from New York...Finally!

2007-09-08T20:11:00.001-05:00

Bekah and I went to New York in May 2006. I didn't have a lot of memory in my camera, so someone on the trip loaded my pics on their laptop. I just got the pictures last night!!!! It was a great -- The Crowley Honor Choir sang at Carnegie Hall...Awesome!

Is It Cheesy?

2007-08-31T21:20:00.001-05:00

Ok, let's vote on it! Click on the title of my post above "Is it Cheesy?"
It will link you to Mountain Lake Resort where the filming of my favorite movie "Dirty Dancing" took place. They offer "Dirty Dancing Weekends".

I don't know...it doesn't have the same "look" as it did in the movie. The dining room looks like a fancy Golden Corral and does the weekend package sound a wee bit like something your parents would do in Branson? Let me hear your opinions!

1) Does this sound like a romantic weekend for two? Should I go out and get the pink "Baby" dress (the sophisticated, more age-appropriate version), brush up on the Tango and have Preston show up in his black jeans and pull me out of the corner?

2) Is this a fun gals retreat where I wear my best khaki capris and my sensible tennis shoes, buy every color tee-shirt in the gift shop and hope that Johnny will be the dance instructor?

3) Should we take the kids and let my teenage daughter wander aimlessly around the grounds so she can co-mingle with the help? She could carry a watermelon.

4) Just go, have fun and beat everyone in the trivia game?

Awesome game reviews

2007-08-25T22:42:00.000-05:00

Click on the link above for awesome game reviews by GP.

Okay, I have jumped on the bandwagon!

2007-08-24T20:22:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by Ashley. I don't know if I can come up with 100 things about me that won't put you to sleep, but I will try:

1) My husband Preston makes me completely and incandescently happy.

2) My 3 children bless and amaze me daily.

3) I love orange dreamcicles and mashed potatoes with skins and lumps (not at the same time).

4) I like to have way too many things to do on my to-do list at work.

5) I like to have nothing on my to-do list at home.

6) My church family is very important to me.

7) I currently attend an online college: Ashford University

8) When I first went to college in 1982 Computer Science was a relatively new major.

9) My favorite musicals include Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat with Donny Osmond (aaahhh), Grease, Singing in the Rain, Little Shop of Horrors, Fiddler on the Roof, South Pacific, Chicago, Phantom of the Opera.

10) My first concert was in 1973 at the Portland, ME civic center: The Carpenters

11) My favorite concert was in 1985 in the Venetian Room at the Fairmont Hotel, Dallas, with Preston: Kenny Rankin

12) The first song I knew all the words to: Go Away Little Girl by Donny Osmond (aaahhh).

13) Favorite movie: Dirty Dancing

14) Favorite board game: Scrabble

15) I am crafty but I have at least 5 visible scars on my arms and legs from hot glue burns.

16) I can sew and I love making VBS costumes.

17) I love floating in a swimming pool and getting tan.

18) Fall is my favorite season.

19) I like fall floral arrangements.

20) I would like to own a house on the beach.

21) My favorite flowers are yellow roses.

22) I met Preston at Mama's pizza on Camp Bowie.

23) He took me to my senior prom.

24) I moved to Ocean City, Maryland the day after I graduated from Southwest High School in 1982.

25) I worked at a Natural Foods Juice Bar

26) I have attended these colleges: North Texas, Salisbury(MD) State, McLennan County Community College, University of Connecticut, Tarrant County College, Ashford University.

27) I re-connected with Preston in 1985 - we went on our first date on 6/30

28) We were married eight months later on 2/21/86

29) Places I have lived in this order: Pennsylvania, Maine, Texas, Maryland, Texas, New York, Texas, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Texas.

30) I like to clean.

31) I like to iron.

32) I have never mowed the lawn.

33) I have been to the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

34) I have been to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York

35) Preston and I used to go to New York City almost every weekend when we lived in Connecticut.

36) I have lived in these types of homes: 2 story federal, 1 1/2 story cape cod, 2 story traditional , room with a bed and a sink, roach infested apartment, basement, bottom floor of a house, 2 bedroom apartment, 2 story house on 2 acres, 2 story house with above ground pool.

37) I would like a one story house with an inground pool.

38) I like to cook, but don't do it very much anymore

39) I have had these jobs: bus girl at Colonial Cafeteria, server at ShowTime Pizza, waitress/cook at a natural foods juice bar, clerk at an insurance company, customer service (insurance), account representative (insurance), insurance agent, daycare provider, pre-school teacher, church custodian, teacher's aid.

40) Preston and I waited 8 years before we had our first child

41) I was blessed to be able to stay at home with my kids for 10 years!

42) Returning to school at age 42 was kind of scary.

43) I would like to have a disco ball in my living room.

44) I can do the Electric Slide, Macarena and Cupid Shuffle.

45) I will break into song at any given moment. The song usually has something to do with the situation.

46) I do not know all of the words to any song except Go Away Little Girl and Bohemian Rhapsody.

47) I love my parents. My mom is my best friend.

48) I love to go antiquing with my mom.

49) I do not like seeing my parents getting older.

50) My dad is one of the smartest men I know - Preston is the other.

51) I had a happy childhood.

52) I love #2 prencils that are newly sharpened and have a beautiful purple cap eraser.

52) I also like mechanical pencils but won't use the eraser. I use an eraser on a pencil or a pink carnation eraser.

53) I love Sharpies and highighters.

54) I am left-handed but I iron, throw and bat right-handed.

55) I do not like white bread.

56) I used to watch the Soprano's but then realized that they were really, really bad people.

57) I think the following couples are similar to Preston and me: Ray and Deborah Romano, Ozzie and Harriet, Bill and Judy Miller (Still Standing), Ozzie and Sharon, George and Wezie (Jefferson).

58) I love Italian Food & Mexican Food

59) I have never watched Survivor

60) I don't like Desperate Housewives (too desperate)

61) I like Grey's Anatomy

62) I like the PBS shows where people try to live in another era: Fontier House, 1900 House, Manor House.

63) I like the Sherlock Holmes series with Jeremy Brett.

64) I used to think Monty Python was funny, now I do not.

65) I used to read a lot when I was a kid. My favorites were the Little House series, Nancy Drew (I have a collection of the older blue-covered versions.

66) My favorites as a grown-up are John Irving, LaVerle Spencer (drippy love stories) and JK Rowling (I would have like her when I was a kid but she wasn't invented yet).

67) I like all kinds of music.

68) Favorite 20th century composers: Stravinsky, Copeland, Gershwin

69) Have been to these concerts: Carpenters, Journey(opening act: The Babies), Rush, Yes, Joe Jackson, Jethro Tull, Dire Straits, Billy Joel, Fleetwood Mac,Rolling Stones, Maynard Feruson, Kenny Rankin, Nadia Salerno-Sonnenberg, George Winston, Beatlemania and some I can't remember =)

70) Favorite rock concert movie: Woodstock

71) Favorite scary movie: The Shining

72) First Car: 1976 Chevy Monza

73) Favorite bug: Lady

74) Favorite domestic bird:cardinal; Favorite fancy bird:Peacock; Favorite sea bird:Pelican; favorite woodland animal: chipmunk

75) I was in the Big Red Band from Mighty Rebel Land and we would leave the field whistling Dixie

76) Favorite Friday night Family activity in the Fall: Crowley High School Football Games! Go Eagles!

77) I can whistle through my teeth whenever I say the letter ""S".

78) I can burp really loud.

79) I would like to be a vegetarian but I really enjoy juicy steaks.

80) I love working at Sycamore Elementary School and can't wait until the first day.

81) I really hate cold weather, but sometimes I wish it wasn't so hot.

82) I say "whatever" too much

83) I can't stand when people use "like" every other word, but I know I do it sometimes.

84) I want to speak Spanish fluently and practice every day with my co-workers.

85) I am looking forward to growing old with Preston.

86) My oldest daughter, Bekah, will graduate from high school in 5 years. She is awesome.

87) GP is hilarious. He will be in 6th grade this year.

88) Molly is a piece of "woik". She will be in third grade.

89) Right now, all of the closets in my house are organized except the pantry.

90) There are at least 5 houses for sale on our street.

91) I would like to move closer to my parents.

92) I am currently writing a research paper about bilingual education.

93) I love to take long, hot baths and drink a glass of wine.

94) I love to get pedicures and fake nails.

95) I wish I would have gone to church when I was a kid.

96) LTC is fun

97) Church camp is fun

98) Bunko is fun - I love all my Bunko gal pals.

99) VBS is fun

100) This activity was fun...tomorrow I will do the laundry.

I tag Jennifer Reinch.

Something to think about...

2007-08-22T18:13:00.000-05:00

This was shown at the Crowley ISD Convocation this morning. It's called "Shift Happens".

standardized testing - creativity lost

2007-08-21T19:11:00.000-05:00

I work as a paraprofessional in an elementary school in Fort Worth, Texas. I have first-hand experience of the stressful day-to-day activities that are involved in preparing students for standardized tests. I believe these tests undermine the creativity, free-spirit and true education that students could be experiencing if they weren’t required to learn test strategies and state mandated educational goals.

Standardized Testing: Creativity Lost
It’s the day we have all worked hard for and anticipated since the beginning of the school year. We had the pep rally yesterday. A fun, uplifting event complete with cheerleaders from the High School, a catchy rap song performed by the principal, vice principal and counselor, an inspiring clip from the movie “Facing the Giants” and finally, a heartfelt speech by the principal assuring everyone that if they believe in themselves and do their best, they will succeed. What she doesn’t mention is, that if you don’t succeed, you will have two more opportunities to succeed once you have completed after school tutoring and summer school.
My job this morning is to distribute juice and granola bars to each classroom. In addition to these healthy snacks, the third grade teachers are preparing breakfast burritos for their students to ensure that they have had their daily dose of protein. The fifth grade teachers have concocted a “magic” cereal mix for the students to munch on all day. During the day, I sit at a desk in a darkened hallway and remind students to be quiet and monitor the bathrooms so that no more that one person is in them at a time. At lunchtime, I sit with the students and monitor the conversations. By the end of the day all but 30 of the students are ready to go home. The lucky students that get to leave walk in a zombie-like state out the doors to the freedom and fresh air that they have been deprived of all day.
By now you have probably guessed that this is not a typical school day. It’s the day the third grade and the fifth grade take the Reading Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS)—the dreaded standardized test that Texas uses to measure the performance of students, teachers and administrators. A total of seven days are mandated by the state to administer reading, writing, math, science and social studies tests to the various grade levels and each of these days will be just like the one I have just described.
The Reality
In defense of my school’s the administrators, I commend them for using their creative energy to put forth a positive effort. After all, they really don’t have a choice. This is a state-mandated process that must be taken seriously by everyone whether they like it or not. Arguments in favor of standardized testing include practicality, objectivity and an unbiased measure of performance, however; these are greatly out-weighed by all of the negative aspects involved. Sitting in the quiet, darkened hallway, I think back to the beginning of the year and the laminated cards we made for each of the students outlining the different strategies used for math and reading. The pink reading cards give students directions on how to find the gist, important words, context clues and other tricks for dissecting and interpreting short stories. The green math cards show the student how to decipher word problems by getting rid of unnecessary information, circling all of the numbers and underlining important information. What both of these cards fail to do is to teach the child how to truly enjoy the short story or to actually gain an understanding of mathematical concepts. They are teaching the child how to take a test.
Of course, the teachers must be held accountable and the performance of the students is a direct reflection on their performance as a teacher. Unfortunately, the state also mandates what they will teach through TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills). As a result, the tests and the TEKS become the curriculum. Teachers can no longer teach thematic units or give extended projects that utilize students’ creativity and problem-solving skills because they have to make sure they are staying within the guidelines that state has put forth. This causes a lot of negativity among the teachers and it makes it hard for them to keep their enthusiasm and energy level strong throughout the school year. Students also feel the stress and understand that if they do not perform well, they will be retained. This causes a diminished moral among both students and teachers.
What is the Answer?
No one will argue that students, teachers and administrators must be held accountable. But the process by which this is measured must be changed in order to offer our students a better, more meaningful education. Cookie-cutter methods of teaching will produce students with basic knowledge, but not the skills they will need to compete in an ever-changing, technologically advanced society.

http://www.swimmingkangaroo.com/blog/2006/06/standardized-testing-is-it-good-for.html

http://www.msu.edu/~youngka7/testing.html

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/schools/testing/merrow.html

High School Musical 2 Party!!!!!

2007-08-17T22:44:00.001-05:00

We really didn't hear or see much of the movie due to all of the screaming and dancing, but it sure was fun!

Summer is over ;-(

2007-08-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

It's back to school and time to start getting ready for the 07-08 school year. It's hard to believe that I will have children in the 8th, 6th and 3rd grade. It just seems like yesterday I was tripping over Little Tykes toys and watching Barney all day long. Time flies!

Makeover fun!

2007-08-05T21:34:00.001-05:00

Friday night we had a Mary Kay mother-daughter makeover party with Mandy Barrow. We had a really good time learning about skin care and make up. It was so funny watching the girls put on make up and laughing at each other. After the other mommies left, the girls proceeded to stay up until 3:00 am!!!!! (Not me...I went to be with earplugs in).

Our vacation

2007-08-01T22:39:00.000-05:00

OK, I'm mad at Rock You. Every time I have tried to go in and make a cool slide show of our beach pics, it kicks me off the internet! So...I will do it the old fashioned way! Oh, and we had a wonderful time!

I am here....

2007-07-18T00:12:00.000-05:00

In this many days/hours/minutes.....(see counter to right)

My kids are so blessed!

2007-07-15T15:35:00.001-05:00

They get to go to camp! I never went to camp as a kid. A few years ago I got to go and help. It was awesome! They LOVE camp and talk about it all year long. I took a few pictures when we dropped them off, but it was raining so hard that I couldn't get any of the campground. Hopefully, the rain stopped and they are having a wonderful time!

And the mystery place is.....

2007-07-10T18:28:00.000-05:00

This is the picturesque little town of Nelson, New Zealand. It is situated at the top of the south island in the Tasman Bay area. It is a very British town, with street names like Hardy St, or Trafalgar Square. I have made some new friends in Room 9 at Nelson Central School. I just think it would be a neat place to take an extended visit to someday.

I made an AAAAAAA!

2007-07-06T08:25:00.000-05:00

I have officially completed all of my math(ARRRGGGGHHHH) requirements for my degree. I am proud to say that I completed this last class during a 6 week summer session, totally online and pretty much by myself (online instructors at TCC are not very "hands on"). I'm glad that's over with!

Hint #3 - You can get a lot of exercise here

2007-07-05T12:26:00.000-05:00

This park is located in my mystery country. It is a rough and mountainous area, best known for its coastline of crescent-shaped bays, golden sand beaches, clear waters, little islands and granite headlands sculpted by erosion. Both sea-kayaking and tramping (the Coastal Track is one of ________'s Great Walks) are especially well suited to discovering and enjoying this coast.

Hint #2 - Do you know where this is?

2007-07-04T13:01:00.001-05:00

Ok, you've seen the arial view, now I will show you where we will live. It's far away so we will need to be comfortable. I like this little house - it's fun and funky. Have you figured it out?

Can you guess where this is?

2007-07-02T07:47:00.001-05:00

This is a place that I would like to visit someday. Just use your mouse to make the penny scratch away!

4th and Final Night!

2007-06-29T09:32:00.001-05:00

Night 3 - Karaoke Party Fun!

2007-06-27T15:39:00.001-05:00

2 down - 2 to go!!!

2007-06-26T11:06:00.001-05:00

One down, three to go --Arrrrhhhh! (click here)

2007-06-24T21:36:00.001-05:00

Night one went really well. We had a lot of fun with the whole pirate thing. I think Mr Brad said "Arrhhhh!" about 37 times! Tomorrow night the animals come marching in! I Can't wait to see the kids' reactions! After the show I spoke to a little boy named Andy. He was so excited and said his favorite part was when the pirates did their fight scene.

VBS costume sneak preview!

2007-06-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

Noah's Adventure in Faith Starts tonight (Sunday 24th), but the animals don't come until tomorrow night. Here is a sneak peek of some of he animal costumes I worked on. It was so much fun making Noah's Ark come to life!

Beatlemania

2007-06-18T08:35:00.000-05:00

Last Friday night we attended a Concert in the Garden. It was a lot of fun! The fireworks were shot off during "Live and Let Die" (I know, not the Beatles - Wings) and the finale..."Hey Jude"...AWESOME!

He's back!

2007-06-09T22:00:00.000-05:00

Check out Preston's blog and see what's cookin'. He finally updated it!

I'm the worst wife ever!

2007-06-01T22:44:00.000-05:00

1. The laundry basket is piled high with dirty clothes and my husband didn't have any shorts to wear so he wore his bathing suit all day today (to Sam's, Walmart, Albertson's, church - basically all over town)!

2. Yesterday he showed me a pair of shorts that had a hole in the pocket and mentioned that his keys were falling through...I pointed him in the direction of the stapler. He said he had already tried that...I suggested hot glue.

School's Out!

2007-05-26T22:08:00.000-05:00

Yeah! The kids and I are out of school for the summer! We can sleep in, swim, work on our summer reading program, focus on VBS costumes, and just have a nice relaxing, wonderful summer! I will be continuing my college classes, but they will be much easier now that I am not going to work everyday! Yeah!!!!!

And the Winner is?

2007-05-22T20:23:00.000-05:00

Will it be Blake or Jordin? I predict Jordin.

Wow!

2007-05-16T20:59:00.000-05:00

I CAN NOT believe Melinda got voted off American Idol!!!! What is up with that?
(Although, I think Blake is really cute and I'm glad he made it through!)

VBS is underway

2007-05-16T19:46:00.000-05:00

I attended rehearsal for the first time on Mon night. It was fun - always lots of cutting up and silliness - but I'm kind of worried - I was sore the next day. Is the electric slide really that strenuous or am I just that out of shape? My hips hurt - I guess I was shakin' my groove thing just a little too much! Oh well, it will be worth it to see all of Noah's animals gettin' their disco on! (Can you guess what I am?)

4.0 Baby!

2007-05-14T16:32:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's all over, the fat lady has sung and I still have a 4.0! Online classes at Ashford start 5/22. I'm taking my last math class at TCC starting 5/29.

Only 8 1/2 school days left for the kids and me. Summer is almost here! I can't wait!

ONE DOWN, TWO TO GO!!!

2007-05-06T18:49:00.000-05:00

This picture kind of reminds me of "The Godfather"

I took my Speech final online this morning before church and the instructor has already posted my final grade in the class: A!!!!

Tomorrow I take my Spanish final. I enjoyed this class, but it got harder as the semester wore on...I am 47 points away from an A...I have to make at least a 47 on the final - I should be ok.

Math is on Tuesday. I have an 86% right now - the final test is worth 70% of the overall grade...If anyone can do the math on this one let me know. Otherwise, I'll just try to make an A on the final and hope for the best. I really don't want to make a B in this class.

I'll keep ya posted.

PS: Next year we should go to the Kentucky Derby . It looks like fun....All of those hats and Mint Juleps!

I still love my cat

2007-05-05T17:56:00.000-05:00

Well, she did it again! Not just once either!!!

She chewed through 3 phone cords, the DSL cord and the power cord to the router on our desktop.

IT'S A GOOD THING SHE'S CUTE!!!!

We took her to get fixed (or as Preston likes to say: "broken").

She's been pretty laid back for the past few days, I wonder if being in heat had anything to do with her chewing? Maybe taking out her frustrations on cords is her thing! The vet didn't think total tooth extraction was a good idea...Any suggestions?

(By the way, these are not our actual cords, I downloaded this picture off the internet, but it is kind of how it looks behind our computer...Do you think someone will ever come up with a solution to this?)

Only 3 more days and this semester will be OVER!!!! I'll have a few weeks to relax and then I'll hit it again on 5/24!

I love my cat!

2007-04-23T15:43:00.000-05:00

WARNING: THE FOLLOWING IS A LONG AND INVOVLED STORY ABOUT MY STRESSFUL WEEKEND. ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!

Hope you had a great weekend! I had a wierd one! I was using my new laptop computer to work on a speech and I had everything spread out on the dining room table. Well apparently our cat, Abbey, has decided that the dining room table is HER turf. When I wasn't looking she chewed through the AC adapter cord ($85 at Best Buy) causing the computer to shut down (while I was in the middle of preparing my very-first-ever Powerpoint presentation). SO.. Preston took it back to Best Buy where the "Geeks" graciously provided us with another AC adapter cord that was no longer being used for a display item. We plugged it in and it worked beautifully! (For 2 hours). The computer shut down agan!!!! I was really worried because I was completely done with the Powerpoint and Outline for my el fabuloso speech entitled "It Takes a Community"...So this afternoon after church, Preston returned to Best Buy. Again, the "Geeks" proved their worth by replacing my laptop computer with a "brandy new" one!!! Can you believe it??? What a blessing!

THE MORAL OF THIS STORY:

Don't infringe on your cat's turf and shop at Best Buy for all of your electronics needs!

Hi Alice!

2007-04-20T19:06:00.000-05:00

This is for you! I know you are porbably tired of looking at the same old stuff! Do you think I should order this hoodie from my new school in Iowa?

Yes, that's right. I said Iowa! I have enrolled at Ashford University in Clinon, Iowa. It's an online college. I will be starting on May 24th. My degree will be Organizational Management/Education. I am so excited! I get to go to college at home!

Their colors are Purple and Gold!

Super Turkey

2006-11-11T22:02:00.000-06:00

Well, we finished up our last skit for the semester..."Super Turkey".

A pink flamingo is lamenting about her obnoxious pink feathers and the black ravens wish they were regal like the turkey...After all, there aren't any raven door decorations! Turkeys are everywhere this time of year...in yards, on greeting cards and even on paper plates! Super Turkey comes along and sets them straight about the whole Thanksgiving thing and they realize that they should just be happy with who they are and make the most of what they have....And they all lived happily every after...(after they sang the "Super Turkey" song)!!! Fun, Fun, Fun!!!!

HALLOWEEN ES MUY DIVERTIDO

2006-11-01T21:07:00.000-06:00

Mi familia y yo tenemos fabuloso Halloween! Rebekah lleva ropa "hippie", G.P. lleva ropa "nerd" and Molly es senorita bonita! Preston y yo preferimos "goth". Vamos Fiesta Otono en la mi iglesa. Muy divertido!

Crowley football, marching band and mums

2006-10-28T17:51:00.000-05:00

Last night Crowley lost their undeafeted status against Everman. Oh well, they are still our team and we are proud of them. The marching band looked awesome and the mums were truly a sight to behold. I especially liked the ones with teddy bears, flashing lights and feather boas (afterall, isn't that what Texas football is all about?). It was brisk night - just what you would expect (in Michigan), the stands were full and the hot chocolate was too hot to drink!

Here are some pictures. Pay close attention to Rebekah's mum - her wonderful daddy made it. Would anyone like to place an order for next year?

Carmen Miranda Meets Gloria Estafan?!?!?

2006-10-15T20:52:00.000-05:00

Well, it was another successful network meeting at Billy Miner's for Women In New Roles...The skit this week was about a couple of students complaining about all of the work and the goal setting assignment that is due. They decide to ask the wise old woman....who was in the very first Win-R class. Shehad to use an Underwood (circa 1927) typewriter and didn't have that modern computer contraption to help her out. It ended by grandma showing her dance that she would be performing for Hispanic Heritage month. We had a Conga line and all kinds of fun!

Bunko is fun

2006-09-26T22:20:00.000-05:00

BUNKO IS FUN!!!! I LOVE YOU ALL!

YEAH BABY!

2006-09-23T09:33:00.000-05:00

YEAH BABY!!!!

CROWLEY 19....DENTON 14!!!!

CROWLEY BAND LOOKED AWESOME - THEY ARE GAINING MORE CONFIDENCE EACH WEEK! THEY DFFINITELY WON THE BATTLE OF THE BANDS LAST NIGHT!!!!

GO EAGLES!

2006-09-22T18:20:00.000-05:00

GO CROWLEY EAGLES!

2 AND 0....LET'S SEE WHAT THEY DO TONIGHT!!!!!

THEIR BAND IS AWESOME ALSO!!!!!

Alice in WinRland

2006-09-14T21:34:00.000-05:00

Another character created!

The WinR skit committee came up with another "winner" at the Network meeting at Billy Miner's last Saturday (click on "Alice in WinRland" title link). It was fun. The original idea for the skit was to have Alice confused and not sure of what she is doing in life....Well, my Alice just couldn't be sweet and pristine, could she? No, my Alice was MESS!!!! Stockings rolled down, toilet paper stuck to shoe, hair disheveled and mascara running down the face. I added the roll of toilet paper for an added affect. The gist of the whole skit was to encourage the women at the meeting to find the direction they need to go by sticking with the Women In New Roles Program.... IT WORKED FOR ME (and Alice)!!!!

Leap of Faith

2006-09-13T23:25:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has been so long...Danny reminded me tonight at church that I still have a blog...Is anybody out thereeeeee?????

Things are great, wonderful and awesome with us. My work is going great -I have had the opportunity to substitute teach this year (I am a teacher's aid in Content Mastery) - now I am getting practice for the "real world". School is going well..I'm taking Algebra and Spanish I - Luckily we have a large Hispanic population at my schoool so I can practice alot.

The "Leap of Faith" title actully refers to my wonderful husband, Preston. He quit his job as an insurance agent at Tx Farm Bureau and is now working very hard getting "The Culinary Ministry" established. He gave his notice on Sept 5th and we have been blessed beyond our wildest dreams....He has already set up regular meals at several churches throughout the metroplex and is now looking at establishing the heart of the ministry....working with at-risk young adults. I am SOOOOOO proud of him. God called him and Preston is responding in such a way that I never could have thought possible.

Please pray for us as we embark upon this wonderful journey.

www.servingmeals.org

VBS pics

2006-06-29T01:30:00.000-05:00

Keep scrolling down so you can see where I have poured out my heart and soul and thanked everyone involved in this production......................