My Favorite Part of This Month...
Is the fact that despite having a cruddy cold for two weeks...I have made positive steps to restore my health and take care of me for a while. Including... eye exams, dental exams, and appointments and treatments with a medical professional who specializes in hormone treatment in women of my age. I’ve worked out some when I wasn’t coughing up a lung and laughed and really had the energy to get stuff done without the shroud of negativity that was plaguing my life. I’m looking forward to seeing how 2018 will unfold and be better and better! Woop woop!
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
January 30.. Writing Challenge 2018
Something New I Should Try..
is the ever popular Keto fat bomb. They sound okay...and don’t actually make me gag to think about. They say they are chocolate and peanut butter...so...hmmm..... why not?
is the ever popular Keto fat bomb. They sound okay...and don’t actually make me gag to think about. They say they are chocolate and peanut butter...so...hmmm..... why not?
Monday, January 29, 2018
January 29.. Writing Challenge 2018
One Thing I Will Always Do...
Is believe that all people have redeemable, salvageable, worthwhile aspects to their makeup.
I know, I know....I am Pollyanna in my thinking. How can I possibly think a murderer/rapist/evil person has ANY part of them worth celebrating?
But, here is the thing....nobody was born into this world with parents who prayed... “man, I hope I have a worthless, terrible, rotten, malice to society!”
Almost everyone has a story that some how gets twisted, convoluted, and generally jacked up. The key difference is how that is handled. Some of us have been gifted with a support system who has loved us through those dark times. Others? Not so much...
And the really ugly, smack in your face truth is... And there but for the grace of God go I!
So I will always, always look for the good in people. I will seek to understand and celebrate the positive. It’s not always easy...but always is worth it!
Is believe that all people have redeemable, salvageable, worthwhile aspects to their makeup.
I know, I know....I am Pollyanna in my thinking. How can I possibly think a murderer/rapist/evil person has ANY part of them worth celebrating?
But, here is the thing....nobody was born into this world with parents who prayed... “man, I hope I have a worthless, terrible, rotten, malice to society!”
Almost everyone has a story that some how gets twisted, convoluted, and generally jacked up. The key difference is how that is handled. Some of us have been gifted with a support system who has loved us through those dark times. Others? Not so much...
And the really ugly, smack in your face truth is... And there but for the grace of God go I!
So I will always, always look for the good in people. I will seek to understand and celebrate the positive. It’s not always easy...but always is worth it!
January 28.. Writing Challenge 2018
My Thoughts About Today's Events
are pretty simple. It was a great day! One of the best we have had in a very, very long time.
Andy rose early to accompany a friend to breakfast who is considering a career change. I thought it was awesome he agreed to go along as a listening ear and advisor on how not to get who-doed.
I dressed for church and ran to the grocery store to replace many items that had become scarce after recent cabinet raids of holidays and snow days.
When I got home, nobody was moving too quickly and I was okay with that. I figure every once in a while God will lead you where your hearts need to be and that might not include church.
So.....we heathens took off to the movies to see Den of Thieves...which was fantastic! We shared one popcorn, one bag of M&Ms, and one soda...and it was delightful.
We left there and sent to a late lunch at Zaxbys and enjoyed people watching and laughing at the world around us.
We returned home and I spent the afternoon in the kitchen making each one’s requested meal and actually had the time and energy to do so. It felt glorious!
Later we hung out a bit longer than we should’ve and had to force ourselves to go to bed because 4:45 am is EARLY.....whew, baby!
You may say...this just seems average, maybe a little boring! But not to me... not at all. I cherish the renewed attitude I have where life is more joyful and appreciation is a norm.
are pretty simple. It was a great day! One of the best we have had in a very, very long time.
Andy rose early to accompany a friend to breakfast who is considering a career change. I thought it was awesome he agreed to go along as a listening ear and advisor on how not to get who-doed.
I dressed for church and ran to the grocery store to replace many items that had become scarce after recent cabinet raids of holidays and snow days.
When I got home, nobody was moving too quickly and I was okay with that. I figure every once in a while God will lead you where your hearts need to be and that might not include church.
So.....we heathens took off to the movies to see Den of Thieves...which was fantastic! We shared one popcorn, one bag of M&Ms, and one soda...and it was delightful.
We left there and sent to a late lunch at Zaxbys and enjoyed people watching and laughing at the world around us.
We returned home and I spent the afternoon in the kitchen making each one’s requested meal and actually had the time and energy to do so. It felt glorious!
Later we hung out a bit longer than we should’ve and had to force ourselves to go to bed because 4:45 am is EARLY.....whew, baby!
You may say...this just seems average, maybe a little boring! But not to me... not at all. I cherish the renewed attitude I have where life is more joyful and appreciation is a norm.
Saturday, January 27, 2018
January 27.. Writing Challenge 2018
A Change I Need to Make....
is one I am working on currently. In the past several months, I was out of sorts. I had no idea who I was and would find myself behaving in ways that were unpredictable. Tears, sadness, and negativity were becoming by favorite bedfellows. Laughter was seldom heard unless it followed a biting condescending comment that often would actually be self-deprecating.
I knew things were different within me but I continued to convince myself I had this. I could fix myself and it was certainly within my power....because I was in control. I believed I was choosing this behavior and that those around me deserved it because of their actions and attitudes.
Upon returning to school in January, a treasured friend and I had a quick heart to heart in the hallway and I was amazed to hear myself saying ME TOO! We had both struggled with the holidays and our own crap attitudes and emotional roller coasters.
Right about that time, a person reached out to me on Facebook (which is not always bad). She suggested I come to her business and get my hormone levels checked. I was willing to try because I was hardly able to stand myself.
Fast forward two weeks. My levels were not good and I willingly submitted to some treatment. The hormone treatments offered hope and relief from my worst enemy...my own self!
So far...the crazy peri menopausal fog is lifting. Laughter and positivity are predominating and it feels glorious!! I am sad I waited so long....but really thankful to have begun to make a change.
is one I am working on currently. In the past several months, I was out of sorts. I had no idea who I was and would find myself behaving in ways that were unpredictable. Tears, sadness, and negativity were becoming by favorite bedfellows. Laughter was seldom heard unless it followed a biting condescending comment that often would actually be self-deprecating.
I knew things were different within me but I continued to convince myself I had this. I could fix myself and it was certainly within my power....because I was in control. I believed I was choosing this behavior and that those around me deserved it because of their actions and attitudes.
Upon returning to school in January, a treasured friend and I had a quick heart to heart in the hallway and I was amazed to hear myself saying ME TOO! We had both struggled with the holidays and our own crap attitudes and emotional roller coasters.
Right about that time, a person reached out to me on Facebook (which is not always bad). She suggested I come to her business and get my hormone levels checked. I was willing to try because I was hardly able to stand myself.
Fast forward two weeks. My levels were not good and I willingly submitted to some treatment. The hormone treatments offered hope and relief from my worst enemy...my own self!
So far...the crazy peri menopausal fog is lifting. Laughter and positivity are predominating and it feels glorious!! I am sad I waited so long....but really thankful to have begun to make a change.
Friday, January 26, 2018
January 26... Writing Challenge 2018
A Person I Would Like to Meet...
is Morgan Freeman. I love to hear his voice with its gravely rich bass tones and lilting laughter infused with soprano spikes.
Additionally, I think he has had a vast array of life experiences that could spark scintillating conversation. His difficulties have spurred him to work harder and achieve in spite of them. He makes no excuses for his choices nor does he allow others to do the same. I love that. He seems intelligent and has a good sense of humor.
I think he would be a straight shooter and honesty would dominate his answers even if his thoughts were not popular or commonplace. I think Mr.Freeman would be intrigued by discourse and not back away when questioned...yet not lose his cool or forsake the relationship because his sparring partner did not agree simply because of who he is.
So..if you happen to be related to or know Mr. Morgan Freeman....tell him to give me a call or shoot me a text. I’m not a creepy stalker...just a fan who could enjoy a nice meal, some drinks, and some fun conversation.
is Morgan Freeman. I love to hear his voice with its gravely rich bass tones and lilting laughter infused with soprano spikes.
Additionally, I think he has had a vast array of life experiences that could spark scintillating conversation. His difficulties have spurred him to work harder and achieve in spite of them. He makes no excuses for his choices nor does he allow others to do the same. I love that. He seems intelligent and has a good sense of humor.
I think he would be a straight shooter and honesty would dominate his answers even if his thoughts were not popular or commonplace. I think Mr.Freeman would be intrigued by discourse and not back away when questioned...yet not lose his cool or forsake the relationship because his sparring partner did not agree simply because of who he is.
So..if you happen to be related to or know Mr. Morgan Freeman....tell him to give me a call or shoot me a text. I’m not a creepy stalker...just a fan who could enjoy a nice meal, some drinks, and some fun conversation.
January 25.... Writing Challenge 2018
A Thing That Frightens Me...
is a mouse. A stupid, tiny, little, harmless mouse. I know...I know.. but I hate those little suckers. They completely wig me out and make me act like a prissy, cry in the corner, Antebellum idiot.
One of the few times I’ve ever cursed in front of students was over a mouse. It scampered across our trailer floor and I jumped on a chair and screamed OH SHOOT....but I didn’t say shoot! Nope...not shoot...Not at all...
Those sweet kids that were present are now in their late 20’s and have kids of their own...but they never fail to ask if I’m “still cussing in class?”
In my head, I know a mouse is smaller than me and really can’t cause me physical harm. But my heart freaks out and can’t deal with the little varmits....gross just gross!
is a mouse. A stupid, tiny, little, harmless mouse. I know...I know.. but I hate those little suckers. They completely wig me out and make me act like a prissy, cry in the corner, Antebellum idiot.
One of the few times I’ve ever cursed in front of students was over a mouse. It scampered across our trailer floor and I jumped on a chair and screamed OH SHOOT....but I didn’t say shoot! Nope...not shoot...Not at all...
Those sweet kids that were present are now in their late 20’s and have kids of their own...but they never fail to ask if I’m “still cussing in class?”
In my head, I know a mouse is smaller than me and really can’t cause me physical harm. But my heart freaks out and can’t deal with the little varmits....gross just gross!
January 24.. Writing Challenge 2018
A Project I've Been Putting Off..
is cleaning out the closet that is conveniently tucked away in a corner of our den. I think I cleaned it out around five or seven or maybe ten years ago.
It houses a cacophony of crazy things.... extra parts, blankets for building forts, memor books, a huge bag of CD’s before music went digital, “extra” gifts for when the boys used to be invited to birthday parties and I might find the invitations minutes before we were to arrive, and really... truthfully...who knows what the heck might be in there?
I KNOW this project will be one of those ugly ones where the mess will have to get bigger before it even closely resembles better. And really, maybe this time in my life is a bad season to unveil all those sweet moments and tokens of days gone by. I don’t know about you, but some days I am a mess and just can’t handle facing the hard truths that life has flown by and (dare I say) I might have wasted on not appreciated even a minuscule second of it.
Maybe I will tackle this project with my sweet youngest son who has an inclination to nostalgia and “tell me the story again” moments. He loves old photo albums and giggles no matter how many times he has heard the stories.
My oldest son (more like his momma) can only handle so much sap and sweetness. Ever unpredictable, he might acquiesce and join us down memory lane too.
I believe the old saying...you won’t know what will happen till you try.
So....next Snow Day... ready or not...closet....we are coming for you.
is cleaning out the closet that is conveniently tucked away in a corner of our den. I think I cleaned it out around five or seven or maybe ten years ago.
It houses a cacophony of crazy things.... extra parts, blankets for building forts, memor books, a huge bag of CD’s before music went digital, “extra” gifts for when the boys used to be invited to birthday parties and I might find the invitations minutes before we were to arrive, and really... truthfully...who knows what the heck might be in there?
I KNOW this project will be one of those ugly ones where the mess will have to get bigger before it even closely resembles better. And really, maybe this time in my life is a bad season to unveil all those sweet moments and tokens of days gone by. I don’t know about you, but some days I am a mess and just can’t handle facing the hard truths that life has flown by and (dare I say) I might have wasted on not appreciated even a minuscule second of it.
Maybe I will tackle this project with my sweet youngest son who has an inclination to nostalgia and “tell me the story again” moments. He loves old photo albums and giggles no matter how many times he has heard the stories.
My oldest son (more like his momma) can only handle so much sap and sweetness. Ever unpredictable, he might acquiesce and join us down memory lane too.
I believe the old saying...you won’t know what will happen till you try.
So....next Snow Day... ready or not...closet....we are coming for you.
January 23... Writing Challenge 2018
The Last Fiction Book I Read..
was The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins. The book was given to me to read by a parent of one of my students. The book was pretty amazing. It told the story from many characters’ points of view. The story line was interconnected and quite compelling.
I told my students that I thought it would make a great movie...only to be informed that it was already a movie. So... I hurried home and found it on the computer for free. The movie did not disappoint which is rare for this bibliophile to admit.
In regards to reading...find what you love and read it often! Daily at minimum!
was The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins. The book was given to me to read by a parent of one of my students. The book was pretty amazing. It told the story from many characters’ points of view. The story line was interconnected and quite compelling.
I told my students that I thought it would make a great movie...only to be informed that it was already a movie. So... I hurried home and found it on the computer for free. The movie did not disappoint which is rare for this bibliophile to admit.
In regards to reading...find what you love and read it often! Daily at minimum!
Monday, January 22, 2018
January 22... Writing Challenge 2018
Three Words That Describe My Style
1- classic
2- practical
3- basic
1- classic
2- practical
3- basic
Sunday, January 21, 2018
January 21...Writing Challenge 2018
Music That Makes Me Feel Adventurous
HOLY MOLY!! This is a tough one. I love music and I LOVE adventures. So technically at any moment, any music could be the theme song for my current adventure..... even if my current adventure is cleaning the house in between a 40+ year old's personal dance party.
Some of my favorite adventuring tunes would have to include:
Born to Be Wild... Steppenwolf
Thunder, Highway to Hell, You Shook Me All Night Long.. by ACDC
The Eagles.. ALL!!!
Who Says You Can't Go Home.. Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
ANY Motown Compilation/ Playlist/ CD/ Mixed Tape/ Record
Jimmy Buffet's Greatest Hits
The unbelievable James Taylor (ALL AND ANY)
Pour Some Sugar On Me... Def Leppard
The Statler Brothers and Oak Ridge Boys.. best played on 8-track and
blaring from a 1988 Delta 88 Oldsmobile
1999 the Album... by Prince
Most of Garth Brooks stuff... not that weird album he did trying to be somebody else tho. Just NO!
Blister in the Sun.. Violent Femmes
Tempted...Squeeze
Stand.. REM
If A Girl Answers.. Vanity 6
Jump.... Van Halen
Beach Beat Shaggin'... a pirated copy made by a suitemate at NCSU... that took me 22 years to find a CD copy.
Sounds of Summer.. Beach Boys
And anything the people I love will crank up and sing along!!
Life is an adventure... only made sweeter by music!! Grateful for both of these for sure!!
HOLY MOLY!! This is a tough one. I love music and I LOVE adventures. So technically at any moment, any music could be the theme song for my current adventure..... even if my current adventure is cleaning the house in between a 40+ year old's personal dance party.
Some of my favorite adventuring tunes would have to include:
Born to Be Wild... Steppenwolf
Thunder, Highway to Hell, You Shook Me All Night Long.. by ACDC
The Eagles.. ALL!!!
Who Says You Can't Go Home.. Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
ANY Motown Compilation/ Playlist/ CD/ Mixed Tape/ Record
Jimmy Buffet's Greatest Hits
The unbelievable James Taylor (ALL AND ANY)
Pour Some Sugar On Me... Def Leppard
The Statler Brothers and Oak Ridge Boys.. best played on 8-track and
blaring from a 1988 Delta 88 Oldsmobile
1999 the Album... by Prince
Most of Garth Brooks stuff... not that weird album he did trying to be somebody else tho. Just NO!
Blister in the Sun.. Violent Femmes
Tempted...Squeeze
Stand.. REM
If A Girl Answers.. Vanity 6
Jump.... Van Halen
Beach Beat Shaggin'... a pirated copy made by a suitemate at NCSU... that took me 22 years to find a CD copy.
Sounds of Summer.. Beach Boys
And anything the people I love will crank up and sing along!!
Life is an adventure... only made sweeter by music!! Grateful for both of these for sure!!
January20...Writing Challenge 2018
Words I Want to Share With Others
I guess I share a lot of words via Social Media such as this blog and Facebook. Some are fabulous and perfectly written. Others... not so much! One thing is true... they are all real. They are all genuine. There is nothing fake or convoluted. Just me... throwing my words around hoping they will land and take meaning.
I am often taken back when people thank me for my posts. I mean it when I say I usually post what I need to hear on any given day and find it amusing and astonishing when others say they feel it touched them as well.
So I guess my biggest words are these:
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!
YOU are valuable no matter how damaged, broken, or defeated you feel right this moment.
And... I am darn glad to know you. If you are reading this, our paths have crossed and I can tell you how or why you impacted my life. I am humbled, I am grateful, and I am blessed. Thank you!!
I guess I share a lot of words via Social Media such as this blog and Facebook. Some are fabulous and perfectly written. Others... not so much! One thing is true... they are all real. They are all genuine. There is nothing fake or convoluted. Just me... throwing my words around hoping they will land and take meaning.
I am often taken back when people thank me for my posts. I mean it when I say I usually post what I need to hear on any given day and find it amusing and astonishing when others say they feel it touched them as well.
So I guess my biggest words are these:
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!
YOU are valuable no matter how damaged, broken, or defeated you feel right this moment.
And... I am darn glad to know you. If you are reading this, our paths have crossed and I can tell you how or why you impacted my life. I am humbled, I am grateful, and I am blessed. Thank you!!
January 19...Writing Challenge 2018
When I Feel Most Rested...
Sleep has never really been a friend of mine. LIKE EVER!! I was that kid that required little sleep and am told that one of my first sentences was " no B-E-D, daddy, NO B-E-D!!"
As a result, much of my life is spent consuming high calorie, low nutrient fructose and caffeine to maintain energy need to be "on" and "110%". YEARS of this behavior has started to catch up with me, I must admit. The dark circles are harder to hide and I nod off in my comfy chair sometimes before the sun sets.
HOWEVER... a time I feel most rested is about the middle of July. School ends mid June and by the middle of July, I have established good work out habits that don't get cast aside because of the demands of life. I am eating more fresh vegetables and taking the time to enjoy preparing the meals I consume and am driven by my personal body clock and what my heart desires instead of job commitments and demands.
Most times by this point, I have spent a week or more in the mountains of North Carolina breathing in fresh air and exhaling the dank, nastiness of life lived in the trenches. I read, visit with friends and family, take the time to notice the beauty around me and appreciate every little thing I see. I sleep, eat foods that are pleasing to the pallet (even if they land among the hips and thighs), and indulge in mindless television to the point of being spellbound by HGTV or Food Network for a time. I play board games or not. I do school work... or NOT. I just roll with it and attempt to throw a few dance moves in as well. YES is the battle cry for the week and laughter echoes across the mountain tops and lands deeply in our souls. We store it up to carry in our hearts until this magical period of rest and renewal arrives again and it is indeed magical.
Sleep has never really been a friend of mine. LIKE EVER!! I was that kid that required little sleep and am told that one of my first sentences was " no B-E-D, daddy, NO B-E-D!!"
As a result, much of my life is spent consuming high calorie, low nutrient fructose and caffeine to maintain energy need to be "on" and "110%". YEARS of this behavior has started to catch up with me, I must admit. The dark circles are harder to hide and I nod off in my comfy chair sometimes before the sun sets.
HOWEVER... a time I feel most rested is about the middle of July. School ends mid June and by the middle of July, I have established good work out habits that don't get cast aside because of the demands of life. I am eating more fresh vegetables and taking the time to enjoy preparing the meals I consume and am driven by my personal body clock and what my heart desires instead of job commitments and demands.
Most times by this point, I have spent a week or more in the mountains of North Carolina breathing in fresh air and exhaling the dank, nastiness of life lived in the trenches. I read, visit with friends and family, take the time to notice the beauty around me and appreciate every little thing I see. I sleep, eat foods that are pleasing to the pallet (even if they land among the hips and thighs), and indulge in mindless television to the point of being spellbound by HGTV or Food Network for a time. I play board games or not. I do school work... or NOT. I just roll with it and attempt to throw a few dance moves in as well. YES is the battle cry for the week and laughter echoes across the mountain tops and lands deeply in our souls. We store it up to carry in our hearts until this magical period of rest and renewal arrives again and it is indeed magical.
January 18... Writing Challenge 2018
A Mistake That Helped Me to Grow....
Picture this: The time is October 1999. Young entrepreneurs, Andy and Maria Freeman, are heading to the Big D (Dallas... Texas, that is) to sell our company's services and make our mark on the lumber industry. We were headed to NAWLA (like the Super Bowl of lumber and transportation) and had HUGE plans for growing our business and making our countless hours of mental and physical labors pay off.
Andy had gotten a table cover, give aways, and our game plan of how to manage our booth while at the same time make the rounds to see other potential customers. He also worked 7 to 5 daily to prepare the grounds and complete the orders for the business contacts we had begun.
I had two jobs. One- to make a brochure advertising our business, The Carolina Plum, Incorporated and Two- to make hotel reservations. You may say.. "why, Maria, your jobs seem small by comparison." But I must remind you I was teaching full time as well.
I was so proud of myself. My brochures looked quite professional (with the help of teacher friend, Gail Weddington) and calling to get reservations for The Wyndham had been a piece of cake. EASY!! Right?? My to do list was done a month before our departure date. WAHOO and YEAH FOR ME!!
Fast forward... we arrive in Dallas after driving from North Carolina and spending the night in the ArkLaTex area of Bossier City, Louisiana. I was feeling quite sassy as I sauntered up to the check-in desk to claim our room for the event. The gentleman was so kind but had to inform me our reservations started YESTERDAY and because we had not contacted them, our room had been given away to one of the hundreds of people on the wait list. I nearly cried... I HAD ONE JOB!!! ONE!!!!
We were quickly ushered to a sweet and understanding concierge who dug around the greater Dallas area and found us accommodations in a hotel about fifteen minutes from the Wyndham. Andy was obviously not happy but said little. I credit his tepid tongue to the fact that I had just found out I was pregnant with our first child and he was still in awe of that whole idea.
The event went well. We worked our butts off. And our business prospered.
LESSON LEARNED: Always, double and triple check hotel arrival dates. I must say the advent of the internet has made this quite a bit easier to do...but boy did I feel like a total idiot then... and now if I let myself fully transform to that moment in time.
Picture this: The time is October 1999. Young entrepreneurs, Andy and Maria Freeman, are heading to the Big D (Dallas... Texas, that is) to sell our company's services and make our mark on the lumber industry. We were headed to NAWLA (like the Super Bowl of lumber and transportation) and had HUGE plans for growing our business and making our countless hours of mental and physical labors pay off.
Andy had gotten a table cover, give aways, and our game plan of how to manage our booth while at the same time make the rounds to see other potential customers. He also worked 7 to 5 daily to prepare the grounds and complete the orders for the business contacts we had begun.
I had two jobs. One- to make a brochure advertising our business, The Carolina Plum, Incorporated and Two- to make hotel reservations. You may say.. "why, Maria, your jobs seem small by comparison." But I must remind you I was teaching full time as well.
I was so proud of myself. My brochures looked quite professional (with the help of teacher friend, Gail Weddington) and calling to get reservations for The Wyndham had been a piece of cake. EASY!! Right?? My to do list was done a month before our departure date. WAHOO and YEAH FOR ME!!
Fast forward... we arrive in Dallas after driving from North Carolina and spending the night in the ArkLaTex area of Bossier City, Louisiana. I was feeling quite sassy as I sauntered up to the check-in desk to claim our room for the event. The gentleman was so kind but had to inform me our reservations started YESTERDAY and because we had not contacted them, our room had been given away to one of the hundreds of people on the wait list. I nearly cried... I HAD ONE JOB!!! ONE!!!!
We were quickly ushered to a sweet and understanding concierge who dug around the greater Dallas area and found us accommodations in a hotel about fifteen minutes from the Wyndham. Andy was obviously not happy but said little. I credit his tepid tongue to the fact that I had just found out I was pregnant with our first child and he was still in awe of that whole idea.
The event went well. We worked our butts off. And our business prospered.
LESSON LEARNED: Always, double and triple check hotel arrival dates. I must say the advent of the internet has made this quite a bit easier to do...but boy did I feel like a total idiot then... and now if I let myself fully transform to that moment in time.
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
January 17.... Writing Challenge 2018
A Quote that Inspires You...
" I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help" ~Psalm 121:1
I love this little portion of a longer Bible verse. Having been raised in the hills of North Carolina, that is the place my heart calls HOME! The place where your soul finds peace and a gentle breeze whispers "everything is going to be okay."
One key to the verse tho' is the power that lies within to lift MY eyes. I find it darn near impossible to stay downtrodden when my eyes are upward. How often I forget that...
The second key is that help is available. From a Type A Control Freak, this is hard to admit. But oh friends, when I finally seek help, the blessings flow and flow. I find new things to appreciate about my peers and make friends from strangers.
" I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help" ~Psalm 121:1
I love this little portion of a longer Bible verse. Having been raised in the hills of North Carolina, that is the place my heart calls HOME! The place where your soul finds peace and a gentle breeze whispers "everything is going to be okay."
One key to the verse tho' is the power that lies within to lift MY eyes. I find it darn near impossible to stay downtrodden when my eyes are upward. How often I forget that...
The second key is that help is available. From a Type A Control Freak, this is hard to admit. But oh friends, when I finally seek help, the blessings flow and flow. I find new things to appreciate about my peers and make friends from strangers.
January 16...Writing Challenge 2018
What Are My Personal Gifts?
Gifts are often things we receive that we did not ask for and sometimes things we never knew we needed. I think of personal gifts in that manner. God created each of us with the exact skills HE knew we would need. Some of those gifts are always present; while others are with us for a season of our lives only.
One personal gift I have always had is the ability to see good in most situations. Positive slants, humorous side effects, and tons of silver linings have been sprinkled in my thoughts like cheese from the shaker on a gorgeous homemade pizza.
Another personal gift I have is resiliency. There is a terrible {yet catchy} song by Chumbawamba called "Tub Thumping." The primary words are "I get knocked down, but I get up again.. You are never gonna' keep me down." This seems to be a theme in my life too. I am not good with staying in a dark, negative place for too very long. I seem to forgive too quickly and appear to be "over it" because the truth is... it hurts me to dwell there. I don't see the sense in wasting time in self-pity when your situation will not likely be changed by this behavior. My brain automatically screams "THIS STINKS!! and now what are we going to do about it?"
A last gift that still fits in this theme is the ability to see and (hopefully) draw out the good in all people. Sometimes we are the mirror that others need. Reminding others of how far they've come, how truly good they are, and regardless of circumstances they are valuable and worthy is a great gift. I love to analyze folks and see what makes them tick. In doing so, you usually find most of their negative behaviors are driven from a hurt that is familiar and one they just might not be ready to let go of. When we take time to understand and invest in those damaged lives, it is truly amazing what can happen. Their lives are forever changed...but so our ours... which is actually yet another gift!!
Another personal gift I have is resiliency. There is a terrible {yet catchy} song by Chumbawamba called "Tub Thumping." The primary words are "I get knocked down, but I get up again.. You are never gonna' keep me down." This seems to be a theme in my life too. I am not good with staying in a dark, negative place for too very long. I seem to forgive too quickly and appear to be "over it" because the truth is... it hurts me to dwell there. I don't see the sense in wasting time in self-pity when your situation will not likely be changed by this behavior. My brain automatically screams "THIS STINKS!! and now what are we going to do about it?"
A last gift that still fits in this theme is the ability to see and (hopefully) draw out the good in all people. Sometimes we are the mirror that others need. Reminding others of how far they've come, how truly good they are, and regardless of circumstances they are valuable and worthy is a great gift. I love to analyze folks and see what makes them tick. In doing so, you usually find most of their negative behaviors are driven from a hurt that is familiar and one they just might not be ready to let go of. When we take time to understand and invest in those damaged lives, it is truly amazing what can happen. Their lives are forever changed...but so our ours... which is actually yet another gift!!
Monday, January 15, 2018
January 15...Writing Challenge 2018
A Good Idea...
is to practice excellent self-care. Now before you get your feathers ruffled...know that I am speaking to myself too. I have not mastered this skill. I am not good at it. And I feel guilty doing it!
I do know this..when I am taking care of myself and infusing all of my have to dos with some things that genuinely bring me joy, I am better. A better person! This better me is able to handle disappointments, failures, and sadness much more effectively. I don’t loose my mind over small things because I can see they will not last forever. I am more balanced, more satisfied, and truly more likely to be at peace.
How do we achieve this? I think the first thing to do is make a list of ideas that we consider worthy of our time that we are reserving for us. Nope..laundry would not be my number one. Ever! It if it is yours, well rock on and enjoy that, my friend.
Here are a few of my gifts I can offer myself:
1- a long walk outside with no time limits or particular destination.
2- blaring MY music of choice and singing along with no worries of how silly I may look (best done in the car).
3- a long soak in the tub with a compelling book.
4- forgiving myself for anything less than perfect in my day, week, or life.
5- stealing one on one conversations with my sons who intrigue and amaze me daily.
6- giving up...and asking for help with things rather than believing and (trying) to be, do, or manage it all.
7- sleeping.. when I get tired until I wake up! Tough to do on my crazy teacher schedule, but I should do it more often.
8- occasionally indulging in a fountain coke...with lots of ice.
9- cleaning up the figurative and literal clutter in my life. If it does not have a purpose, is used regularly, or bring me joy...pretty sure it needs to go!
10- just saying yes to invitations to do things with other people. I doubt anyone is going to care if I do something different every once in a while. What am I going to miss? Laundry, grading papers, and too many wasted moments on the iPad. Humans are way better...why do I forget this?
11- stay tuned...I’ve got some thinking to do....
January 14... Writing Challenge 2018
Someone Who Has Made Me Proud...
This one is tough. I can think of proud moments for almost every human I know. I may be proud of the way a stranger is kind to small children who struggle in adult like situations to not get in trouble. I may also be equally proud of someone who stands up for themself yet does not leave a trail of ugliness behind.
I may be proud of my boys, my parents, my husband, my extended family, my students, my colleagues, and my friends...for a zillion reasons...but mostly for CHOOSING TO BE IN MY LIFE and love me flaws and all. And that folks..is no small task.
This one is tough. I can think of proud moments for almost every human I know. I may be proud of the way a stranger is kind to small children who struggle in adult like situations to not get in trouble. I may also be equally proud of someone who stands up for themself yet does not leave a trail of ugliness behind.
I may be proud of my boys, my parents, my husband, my extended family, my students, my colleagues, and my friends...for a zillion reasons...but mostly for CHOOSING TO BE IN MY LIFE and love me flaws and all. And that folks..is no small task.
Saturday, January 13, 2018
January 13... Writing Challenge 2018
A Place I’ve Been Recently....
is H2O Waterfowl in Dunn, NC. My little family of four went to participate in an IDPA Pistol Match. I was nervous but felt ready to give it my best shot...pun intended. We woke up early for a Saturday morning and headed out at 6:15 a.m. I drove and sang songs and was feeling pretty relaxed all things considered. We arrived to find LOTS of other shooters but I still felt okay. We were assigned a squad with our friend as the SO (Safety Officer) and I was one of only three women. Still...I was okay.
We got to our first Stage and it was tricky, but doable. As long as I kept my head and used good form. I vowed not to worry that I was slow...and to focus on accuracy. I watched others and was still not wigged out too badly. My turn was called and I nodded with only a tad bit of apprehension. I charged my pistol and concentrated on smooth trigger pulls and fluid movements and hitting the targets in the correct order. Part one...whew...no penalties!
Moving onward to phase two and I followed proper rules of concealment and was actually breathing again...then DARN IT... I turned to the right when I was supposed to turn to the left. I never swept anyone with the muzzle of the gun, never was unsafe...but BAM.... disqualified!! DQ!!?? Disqualified...not Dairy Queen.
Instantly I was shifted to another place. The one between my ears. I could’ve blamed the pistol, our friend, my kids, my husband, the dogs back home...you know....on and on and on! Instead, I apologized and said it was my fault. I took the punishment of being DQed from the match with no pouting or gnashing of teeth. I hated to mess up... but owning my mistake felt pretty good. Nobody could talk junk because there was nothing to say. I messed up. I admitted it. I took my punishment.
This “place” felt really good. Maybe I’ll go there again in a different setting. Maybe, you’ll even join me!
is H2O Waterfowl in Dunn, NC. My little family of four went to participate in an IDPA Pistol Match. I was nervous but felt ready to give it my best shot...pun intended. We woke up early for a Saturday morning and headed out at 6:15 a.m. I drove and sang songs and was feeling pretty relaxed all things considered. We arrived to find LOTS of other shooters but I still felt okay. We were assigned a squad with our friend as the SO (Safety Officer) and I was one of only three women. Still...I was okay.
We got to our first Stage and it was tricky, but doable. As long as I kept my head and used good form. I vowed not to worry that I was slow...and to focus on accuracy. I watched others and was still not wigged out too badly. My turn was called and I nodded with only a tad bit of apprehension. I charged my pistol and concentrated on smooth trigger pulls and fluid movements and hitting the targets in the correct order. Part one...whew...no penalties!
Moving onward to phase two and I followed proper rules of concealment and was actually breathing again...then DARN IT... I turned to the right when I was supposed to turn to the left. I never swept anyone with the muzzle of the gun, never was unsafe...but BAM.... disqualified!! DQ!!?? Disqualified...not Dairy Queen.
Instantly I was shifted to another place. The one between my ears. I could’ve blamed the pistol, our friend, my kids, my husband, the dogs back home...you know....on and on and on! Instead, I apologized and said it was my fault. I took the punishment of being DQed from the match with no pouting or gnashing of teeth. I hated to mess up... but owning my mistake felt pretty good. Nobody could talk junk because there was nothing to say. I messed up. I admitted it. I took my punishment.
This “place” felt really good. Maybe I’ll go there again in a different setting. Maybe, you’ll even join me!
Friday, January 12, 2018
January 12...Writing Challenge 2018
A Need I Can Meet...
is providing humor and a positive slant on Social Media. My husband is anti-social media to the nth degree. He and I have had several discussions, conversations, and maybe even a heated debate about how bad social media is. He is not incorrect when he says it can ruin people’s lives. I’ve seen it happen more times than I care to admit.
But here’s the thing..I control what I post. I can delete those people who don’t respect my boundaries. I can turn it off and walk away. Because of these choices, I vowed I would disconnect the first time social media caused me ANY stress, discourse, or hurt feelings.
Nine years in and notably, I am still going! I only post positive thoughts or real life not so positive thoughts that I need support and help with. Most days, my morning posts are self-help pep talks for ME that I share with others. Whenever possible and appropriate, I’ll share funny stories so the world can smile along with me.
So I say...it’s all good in my social media neighborhood. Won’t you be my neighbor?
is providing humor and a positive slant on Social Media. My husband is anti-social media to the nth degree. He and I have had several discussions, conversations, and maybe even a heated debate about how bad social media is. He is not incorrect when he says it can ruin people’s lives. I’ve seen it happen more times than I care to admit.
But here’s the thing..I control what I post. I can delete those people who don’t respect my boundaries. I can turn it off and walk away. Because of these choices, I vowed I would disconnect the first time social media caused me ANY stress, discourse, or hurt feelings.
Nine years in and notably, I am still going! I only post positive thoughts or real life not so positive thoughts that I need support and help with. Most days, my morning posts are self-help pep talks for ME that I share with others. Whenever possible and appropriate, I’ll share funny stories so the world can smile along with me.
So I say...it’s all good in my social media neighborhood. Won’t you be my neighbor?
January 11... Writing Challenge 2018
A Challenge I have Overcome...
is not getting beaten down in a profession that often sucks the life out of anyone who dares to stick in it.
Politicians feel they know best and are incessantly pulling the fragile marionette strings that dictate the can and cannot do’s in my little classroom.
Add to that negative publicity at every turn about inappropriate behavior and choices made by educators across the nation. Sad to say, the gullible public believes we must all fit the bill and are to be mistrusted and seen as the enemy.
Throw into the mix, a bevy of parents who have helicoptered their way into middle school never saying no or holding their child accountable... only to meet me...who will do both...daily... God forbid.
Most recently, add a smattering of outstanding young professionals who continue to become my bosses....while I see them through a shroud of age that keeps reminding me..I really could be their mother!! They are great...but their “ new” ideas have sometimes cycled through multiple times in my career.
Oh and last but certainly not least, let’s acknowledge ridiculous high stakes testing that had been tied to teacher effectiveness and school report card grades...which invites more criticism and disdain for me and what I do. Absolutely the worst thing to happen since I began teaching!
Heard enough yet? Yeah, me either! Because dear ones, there is still magic in Room A13. It comes encased in awkward, hormone driven, young bodies that are honest and pure and really searching for what I can offer them. Those things being: unconditional love, forgiveness, hope, basic knowledge and where to find information they crave , and the most important thing of all...that who they are will always trump what they know in my eyes. My joy can never be robbed when self-discovery and acceptance are celebrated within and among my middle school students.
So...yes... there are lots of reasons to feel defeated and downtrodden. BUT....This old gal ain’t throwing in the towel any time soon! Believe that!
is not getting beaten down in a profession that often sucks the life out of anyone who dares to stick in it.
Politicians feel they know best and are incessantly pulling the fragile marionette strings that dictate the can and cannot do’s in my little classroom.
Add to that negative publicity at every turn about inappropriate behavior and choices made by educators across the nation. Sad to say, the gullible public believes we must all fit the bill and are to be mistrusted and seen as the enemy.
Throw into the mix, a bevy of parents who have helicoptered their way into middle school never saying no or holding their child accountable... only to meet me...who will do both...daily... God forbid.
Most recently, add a smattering of outstanding young professionals who continue to become my bosses....while I see them through a shroud of age that keeps reminding me..I really could be their mother!! They are great...but their “ new” ideas have sometimes cycled through multiple times in my career.
Oh and last but certainly not least, let’s acknowledge ridiculous high stakes testing that had been tied to teacher effectiveness and school report card grades...which invites more criticism and disdain for me and what I do. Absolutely the worst thing to happen since I began teaching!
Heard enough yet? Yeah, me either! Because dear ones, there is still magic in Room A13. It comes encased in awkward, hormone driven, young bodies that are honest and pure and really searching for what I can offer them. Those things being: unconditional love, forgiveness, hope, basic knowledge and where to find information they crave , and the most important thing of all...that who they are will always trump what they know in my eyes. My joy can never be robbed when self-discovery and acceptance are celebrated within and among my middle school students.
So...yes... there are lots of reasons to feel defeated and downtrodden. BUT....This old gal ain’t throwing in the towel any time soon! Believe that!
January 10... Writing Challenge 2018
One Thing I Learned About Myself Last Year...
was that I can have a huge amount of patience and self control. Beginning December 2017, my husband’s health rapidly declined. He had not felt great after Thanksgiving but had to go to Texas for a water emergency.
When he returned, he absolutely was wiped out. Our doctor diagnosed him with mono and he spent most of the Christmas holidays in bed or in the recliner. He was pitiful and a very sick man. We just assumed mono in adults was worse than in kids and kept trying to rest and feed him into health.
Around the MLK holiday, his balance and nerve control took a nose dive. Thankfully, he saw the right people and had a major neck surgery to make repairs to a severely damaged spinal cord. During all this time, I never lost patience with my husband or his prognosis. I listened carefully and tried to help doctors understand this was not normal.
Through it all, I worked at my job, tried to be a decent mom, and even managed our household and the water pump in our well going out the day I brought him home from the hospital. At any given moment, I could have lost my crap... totally... like for real! Instead, I managed self-control and patience with the situation. Through it all, I never doubted we’d be okay....one way or another! God made it so....just like he gifted me with patience and self-control like never before.
was that I can have a huge amount of patience and self control. Beginning December 2017, my husband’s health rapidly declined. He had not felt great after Thanksgiving but had to go to Texas for a water emergency.
When he returned, he absolutely was wiped out. Our doctor diagnosed him with mono and he spent most of the Christmas holidays in bed or in the recliner. He was pitiful and a very sick man. We just assumed mono in adults was worse than in kids and kept trying to rest and feed him into health.
Around the MLK holiday, his balance and nerve control took a nose dive. Thankfully, he saw the right people and had a major neck surgery to make repairs to a severely damaged spinal cord. During all this time, I never lost patience with my husband or his prognosis. I listened carefully and tried to help doctors understand this was not normal.
Through it all, I worked at my job, tried to be a decent mom, and even managed our household and the water pump in our well going out the day I brought him home from the hospital. At any given moment, I could have lost my crap... totally... like for real! Instead, I managed self-control and patience with the situation. Through it all, I never doubted we’d be okay....one way or another! God made it so....just like he gifted me with patience and self-control like never before.
Tuesday, January 9, 2018
January 9....Writing Challenge 2018
Do My Actions March My Words?
Sadly...a lot of times..no! I encourage others and almost always try to put a positive slant on the dreariest , I turn around and treat myself with negativity or downtrodden thoughts. I suppose it is a do as I say not as I do moment. People often comment how they love reading my posts...but what I must admit is that nine times out of ten...the words are completely meant for my own spirit!
Getting these two actions into closer alignment seems like a good goal to include in my agenda items.
Monday, January 8, 2018
January 8.... Writing Challenge 2018
A List of Places I have Visited..As Best as I can Remember. .... in no particular order of beauty or significance.
1- Myrtle Beach, SC
2- Washington, DC
3- Outer Banks, NC
4- London, England
5- Paris, France
6- Frankfurt, Germany
7- Barcelona, Spain
8- Lucerne, Switzerland
9- Cozumel, Mexico
10- New York, New York
11- Murray, Kentucky
12- Baltimore, Maryland
13- Gettysburg, VA
14- Mouth of Wilson, VA
15- Banner Elk, NC
16- Charleston, SC
17- Suffolk/ Hampton Roads/ Va. Beach, VA
18- Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus VA
19- Stone Mountain, GA
20- Stone Mountain, NC
21- Grayson Highlands State Park, VA
22- Big Creek Horse Camp, Smoky Mountains, TN
23- Memphis, TN
24- Little Rock, AR
25- Dallas, TX
26- Chicago, IL
27- Fort Worth, TX
28- Bossier City, LA
29- Lyon, France
30- Massanutten, VA
31- Roanoke, VA
32- Surf Side Beach, NC
33- Fort Caswell, NC
34- Lake Lure, NC
35- Chimney Rock, NC
36- Ocean Isle, NC
37- Pine Knoll Shores, NC
38- Orlando, FL
39- Miami, FL
40- Key West, FL
41- Asheville, NC
42- Black Mountain, NC
43- Fayetteville, NC
44- The French Rivierra
45- The English Channel... and years later the Chunnel
46- Atlanta, GA
47- Newark, NJ
1- Myrtle Beach, SC
2- Washington, DC
3- Outer Banks, NC
4- London, England
5- Paris, France
6- Frankfurt, Germany
7- Barcelona, Spain
8- Lucerne, Switzerland
9- Cozumel, Mexico
10- New York, New York
11- Murray, Kentucky
12- Baltimore, Maryland
13- Gettysburg, VA
14- Mouth of Wilson, VA
15- Banner Elk, NC
16- Charleston, SC
17- Suffolk/ Hampton Roads/ Va. Beach, VA
18- Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus VA
19- Stone Mountain, GA
20- Stone Mountain, NC
21- Grayson Highlands State Park, VA
22- Big Creek Horse Camp, Smoky Mountains, TN
23- Memphis, TN
24- Little Rock, AR
25- Dallas, TX
26- Chicago, IL
27- Fort Worth, TX
28- Bossier City, LA
29- Lyon, France
30- Massanutten, VA
31- Roanoke, VA
32- Surf Side Beach, NC
33- Fort Caswell, NC
34- Lake Lure, NC
35- Chimney Rock, NC
36- Ocean Isle, NC
37- Pine Knoll Shores, NC
38- Orlando, FL
39- Miami, FL
40- Key West, FL
41- Asheville, NC
42- Black Mountain, NC
43- Fayetteville, NC
44- The French Rivierra
45- The English Channel... and years later the Chunnel
46- Atlanta, GA
47- Newark, NJ
Sunday, January 7, 2018
January 7... Writing Challenge 2018
A Trip I Want to Take This Year
This year I want to take a road trip with my sons and husband. They are great lovers of adventure and have pulled me into their web of chaos. Last summer, we never took a vacation at all because they were all working. As a result, I accepted a brief stint as a Summer Camp STEM teacher at Rockwell Elementary... and that ended up being a TRIP! For real!! One I really never thought I would take and one I really, seriously, no sarcasm at all enjoyed.
So about this road trip. I am thinking a trip that takes us to several points in the good old USA (land that we love). I don't know if we could pull off the whole 48 states thing but that surely would be a great long term goal. My boys were both asked today "where would (your mom) like to go?" Without knowledge of the other's answer, they both said "Lake McDonald, Montana". This makes me laugh because I think I have only mentioned this one or maybe three times after seeing an image on Pinterest. It might not even be all that beautiful for I have done NO research. The thing that rings true in my mind is that I said it and they remembered. (Note to self: choose ALL your words carefully for you NEVER know what they might remember).
I could go toward Texas, to the Midwest, New England especially Maine... or wherever. You see... the destination is totally unimportant. The people I will share the journey with, the memories we will make, and the solid foundation we will lay as dare I say, ADULT friends is the goal of my trip.
I guess I better start saving my money and get busy researching this place called Lake McDonald. Have you ever been??
This year I want to take a road trip with my sons and husband. They are great lovers of adventure and have pulled me into their web of chaos. Last summer, we never took a vacation at all because they were all working. As a result, I accepted a brief stint as a Summer Camp STEM teacher at Rockwell Elementary... and that ended up being a TRIP! For real!! One I really never thought I would take and one I really, seriously, no sarcasm at all enjoyed.
So about this road trip. I am thinking a trip that takes us to several points in the good old USA (land that we love). I don't know if we could pull off the whole 48 states thing but that surely would be a great long term goal. My boys were both asked today "where would (your mom) like to go?" Without knowledge of the other's answer, they both said "Lake McDonald, Montana". This makes me laugh because I think I have only mentioned this one or maybe three times after seeing an image on Pinterest. It might not even be all that beautiful for I have done NO research. The thing that rings true in my mind is that I said it and they remembered. (Note to self: choose ALL your words carefully for you NEVER know what they might remember).
I could go toward Texas, to the Midwest, New England especially Maine... or wherever. You see... the destination is totally unimportant. The people I will share the journey with, the memories we will make, and the solid foundation we will lay as dare I say, ADULT friends is the goal of my trip.
I guess I better start saving my money and get busy researching this place called Lake McDonald. Have you ever been??
Saturday, January 6, 2018
January 6...Writing challenge 2018
Finances Shymances....
This Year I will manage my finances better by being more self-controlled with whim spending. You know, where you just throw the thing into your real life or virtual cart and then feel astonished that your “little purchases”cost $300 freaking dollars! I most often feel heart attack symptoms at the grocery store due to this phenomenon!
I have always been pretty miserly and was taught to earn and save money by my awesome parents. My mom often would agree to pay x dollars for something I wanted with me filling in the rest. This was genius because it helped me judge if something was worth MY money or not. It probably alleviated a lot of crap being bought and hanging around untouched for years until the dump or Goodwill was gifted with it.
My parents also made the choice to let me earn money for things that were not required. For example, my mom gave me money for lunch and gas once weekly during high school. If I spent carelessly, I’d be hungry or at home come the weekend! Again, pretty genius thinking. I never fell into credit card traps in college because I KNEW you had to pay for that crap eventually.... and probably a lot more with interest! Yikes!
Lastly, my Dad taught me to be generous and giving with my money! If somebody wanted something, work your hiney off to get it for them if you wanted them to have it. I’m thinking of the Dark Tower game purchased on a visit to Salisbury one fall weekend when I was in sixth or seventh grade. It was not necessary, needed, and perhaps not even deserved. But the magic of it was, he made it happen! The cost (maybe 74 bucks?) was ridiculous and I LOVED that thing! I am pretty sure we still have it in Wilkesboro! Maybe it’s an antique? All this to say.... gift giving should be a bit crazy! And your money can make it happen!
These truths exist in 2018...
1-Everybody (pauper and millionaire alike) has financial issues. Don’t let them control you.
2-Everything is expensive and getting more so. If you find a deal on something you love and use, go for it!
3-You can’t take any money or things with you after you leave this Earth. Enjoy your life and the people you’ve been gifted to treasure. Do this and fianances will be become a little less important.
This Year I will manage my finances better by being more self-controlled with whim spending. You know, where you just throw the thing into your real life or virtual cart and then feel astonished that your “little purchases”cost $300 freaking dollars! I most often feel heart attack symptoms at the grocery store due to this phenomenon!
I have always been pretty miserly and was taught to earn and save money by my awesome parents. My mom often would agree to pay x dollars for something I wanted with me filling in the rest. This was genius because it helped me judge if something was worth MY money or not. It probably alleviated a lot of crap being bought and hanging around untouched for years until the dump or Goodwill was gifted with it.
My parents also made the choice to let me earn money for things that were not required. For example, my mom gave me money for lunch and gas once weekly during high school. If I spent carelessly, I’d be hungry or at home come the weekend! Again, pretty genius thinking. I never fell into credit card traps in college because I KNEW you had to pay for that crap eventually.... and probably a lot more with interest! Yikes!
Lastly, my Dad taught me to be generous and giving with my money! If somebody wanted something, work your hiney off to get it for them if you wanted them to have it. I’m thinking of the Dark Tower game purchased on a visit to Salisbury one fall weekend when I was in sixth or seventh grade. It was not necessary, needed, and perhaps not even deserved. But the magic of it was, he made it happen! The cost (maybe 74 bucks?) was ridiculous and I LOVED that thing! I am pretty sure we still have it in Wilkesboro! Maybe it’s an antique? All this to say.... gift giving should be a bit crazy! And your money can make it happen!
These truths exist in 2018...
1-Everybody (pauper and millionaire alike) has financial issues. Don’t let them control you.
2-Everything is expensive and getting more so. If you find a deal on something you love and use, go for it!
3-You can’t take any money or things with you after you leave this Earth. Enjoy your life and the people you’ve been gifted to treasure. Do this and fianances will be become a little less important.
Friday, January 5, 2018
January 5...Writing Challenge 2018
A Time I Don’t Want To Forget
My mind is so full of memories that feel like they will never fade. But like the world we live in, clutter causes the beautiful things to be hidden from view. One specific time, I don’t want to miss is a beautiful sunny summer afternoon on the deck of our condo we refer to as the Mountain House.
My boys had just turned three and four and they loved life. EVERY thing was exciting and their eyes danced with each new day’s possibilities. This particular afternoon their awesome Nana invited them to finger paint. And finger paint they did.....every surface in sight. The loved covering their sweet little chubby hands with paint and “monogramming”the table, deck railing, even a wall of the building. We stripped them down to their underwear and they morphed themselves into Indian warriors and ancient Shahmen and monsters and things I can’t even recall. It was innocent. It was pure joy. It was lovely! And in those laughter filled, judgement free moments, my heart sang a tune that still finds me today as I look at the 16 and 17 year olds that stand before me. Even tho the day was nothing special or razzle dazzle by world standards, this is a time to never, ever forget!
My mind is so full of memories that feel like they will never fade. But like the world we live in, clutter causes the beautiful things to be hidden from view. One specific time, I don’t want to miss is a beautiful sunny summer afternoon on the deck of our condo we refer to as the Mountain House.
My boys had just turned three and four and they loved life. EVERY thing was exciting and their eyes danced with each new day’s possibilities. This particular afternoon their awesome Nana invited them to finger paint. And finger paint they did.....every surface in sight. The loved covering their sweet little chubby hands with paint and “monogramming”the table, deck railing, even a wall of the building. We stripped them down to their underwear and they morphed themselves into Indian warriors and ancient Shahmen and monsters and things I can’t even recall. It was innocent. It was pure joy. It was lovely! And in those laughter filled, judgement free moments, my heart sang a tune that still finds me today as I look at the 16 and 17 year olds that stand before me. Even tho the day was nothing special or razzle dazzle by world standards, this is a time to never, ever forget!
Thursday, January 4, 2018
January 4...Writing Challenge 2018
Something I Would Like to Try This Year I have Never Tried Before
This year I would like to be fit and FEEL healthy and strong enough to ZIPLINE!! I conquered the Alpine Tower at ASU and felt jelly legs and squeamish stomach but DID IT!! The boys have Ziplined several times and I always wanted to go...but feared being out of shape and holding them back OR being just too darn fat to comfortably do the thing.
Ideally, I will do this with those same boys and enjoy the experience. The biggest appeal is the exhilaration that seems to be on EVERY person's face I have ever observed completing this goal.
The WHEEEEEEE feeling sounds totally fun and exciting! I have read about some options but I am going to have to do my research to get the absolute BEST bang for my buck!! Stay tuned....
This year I would like to be fit and FEEL healthy and strong enough to ZIPLINE!! I conquered the Alpine Tower at ASU and felt jelly legs and squeamish stomach but DID IT!! The boys have Ziplined several times and I always wanted to go...but feared being out of shape and holding them back OR being just too darn fat to comfortably do the thing.
Ideally, I will do this with those same boys and enjoy the experience. The biggest appeal is the exhilaration that seems to be on EVERY person's face I have ever observed completing this goal.
The WHEEEEEEE feeling sounds totally fun and exciting! I have read about some options but I am going to have to do my research to get the absolute BEST bang for my buck!! Stay tuned....
Wednesday, January 3, 2018
January 3....Writing Challenge 2018
Your Day In Ten Words
Chaos filled middle school mayhem....field trips are worth it!
Chaos filled middle school mayhem....field trips are worth it!
Tuesday, January 2, 2018
January 2... Writing Challenge 2018
Three Goals for this Month... The Second in A Series of Journal Prompts
1- I want to continue to chase better health. Pound dropping and faster workout times are nice, but my ultimate goal is a lifestyle I can manage for the remainder of my Earthly days. An investment of time and energy in my health promotes overall wellbeing, makes me a nicer human, and makes my pants not feel like they are made completely of rubber bands.
2- I want to WRITE every day. Not for work, not for an assigned task, but to just explore my own thoughts and challenge my ability to perform on command. Lots of folks keep saying, "you should write a book" and that idea always brings a little glint to my eye (and a little nausea to my stomach). BUT THIS I DO KNOW... I will never, ever be a writer if I don't practice, practice, practice. Day two and I am still going.. so that's a plus!!
3- I want to do some self-reflection and determine what things, places, events, and people truly make me happy. I am approaching a crossroads in the not too distant future where I could find myself with two roles that will not require my full attention. One being mom... because my boys are growing and changing and will {eventually} not be sharing a roof with me. The second being that of teacher. I am eligible to retire in seven years.... which seems like a LONG time away, but the past seven years have flown by and I must start preparing now because I am NO GOOD at change. The realist in me says.. teacher and mom will always, ALWAYS be a part of who am I until I breathe my last breath, but I will have some power over how those titles and how I will infuse them into my "new" lifestyle. I need an exit plan and a next thing... always have... always will!
As a side note, I have never been big on goals. Perhaps that is why I am always feeling like I am NEVER finished with anything. Let's see how this goes... stay tuned!!
1- I want to continue to chase better health. Pound dropping and faster workout times are nice, but my ultimate goal is a lifestyle I can manage for the remainder of my Earthly days. An investment of time and energy in my health promotes overall wellbeing, makes me a nicer human, and makes my pants not feel like they are made completely of rubber bands.
2- I want to WRITE every day. Not for work, not for an assigned task, but to just explore my own thoughts and challenge my ability to perform on command. Lots of folks keep saying, "you should write a book" and that idea always brings a little glint to my eye (and a little nausea to my stomach). BUT THIS I DO KNOW... I will never, ever be a writer if I don't practice, practice, practice. Day two and I am still going.. so that's a plus!!
3- I want to do some self-reflection and determine what things, places, events, and people truly make me happy. I am approaching a crossroads in the not too distant future where I could find myself with two roles that will not require my full attention. One being mom... because my boys are growing and changing and will {eventually} not be sharing a roof with me. The second being that of teacher. I am eligible to retire in seven years.... which seems like a LONG time away, but the past seven years have flown by and I must start preparing now because I am NO GOOD at change. The realist in me says.. teacher and mom will always, ALWAYS be a part of who am I until I breathe my last breath, but I will have some power over how those titles and how I will infuse them into my "new" lifestyle. I need an exit plan and a next thing... always have... always will!
As a side note, I have never been big on goals. Perhaps that is why I am always feeling like I am NEVER finished with anything. Let's see how this goes... stay tuned!!
January 1.. Writing Challenge 2018
I have decided to write daily. I preach "readers read and writers write" to my students ALL THE TIME. And I do one of these a lot.. writing is the loser. So I will resolve to try to write a little each day. I have found a plethora of monthly writing prompts and may stick to the plan or in normal Maria fashion go completely off the predetermined path and take a twisting, turning path of my own making.
Today's prompt is "What are you most looking forward to?"
As 2018 begins, I realize my oldest "baby" is graduating and turning 18 in six short months. These are HUGE milestones, but I am truly looking forward to them. Mack is ready...oh so ready... to enter the next chapter of his life. He is already a young man and operates mentally in the adult world. I don't want to wish my life away and I can't deny that I find myself feeling winsome for bygone days with those little fellas. Regardless, I will look forward to coming days and new forms of old relationships with those I love most.
Today's prompt is "What are you most looking forward to?"
As 2018 begins, I realize my oldest "baby" is graduating and turning 18 in six short months. These are HUGE milestones, but I am truly looking forward to them. Mack is ready...oh so ready... to enter the next chapter of his life. He is already a young man and operates mentally in the adult world. I don't want to wish my life away and I can't deny that I find myself feeling winsome for bygone days with those little fellas. Regardless, I will look forward to coming days and new forms of old relationships with those I love most.
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