Sunday, September 30, 2007
Busy Weekend
My mother is in California with my sister Suzanne for the weekend(Suz is there for a work related conference but went out a few days early with my mother, so they could visit with my Aunt who lives out there). So, being good daughters, my sister Heather and I have been "taking care" of my father while she's gone. Ryun, the kids and I went over on Friday night and we ordered dinner from a new seafood place in Carver (Pier 18 it's called...their main restaurant is in Bridgewater, I think). It was really good. Ryun stayed and watched the game for a while (GO SOX!) with my father on the big screen, and my sister and I took the girls in to the hot tub. They thought it was so cool to be in there at night and Julia's first exclamation after getting in the tub, was "Look at all the stars!" On Saturday, I took Emily and Katherine to see the movie, "The Game Plan" which was really cute. Heather helped my father close the pool during the day yesterday. I made a fantastic batch of Chili for dinner, which we ended up adding to macaroni. The kids loved it. There was enough leftover to have another meal out of it so, I think tomorrow night's dinner will be chili dogs...yummy. We are heading back to Carver today to cook a roast beef dinner for Dad, and then back here tonight to watch the season premiere of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" with Emily and Katherine. Next weekend proves to be just as busy with a cookout, helping my sister move, and the Cranberry Festival at Edaville. This week we have the usual business, and my birthday, which will actually be celebrated on Saturday, after the cookout and moving, when my sister Heather will take the girls overnight so Ryun and I can go out to dinner.
Friday, September 28, 2007
My Response
If you answered "the goody two shoes", you answered correctly. I could have just as easily fit in to the "geek" category if I did any work in high school. I managed to get by with mostly A's and B's (with an occasional C in math) with little to no extra work outside of the classroom.
Honestly, at least until college (which is a whole other entry for another time) I could do no wrong. Teachers loved me. I wasn't a "kiss ass", I just always related to, and felt more comfortable around adults. I have always wondered if my being "angelic" in school had anything to do with my mother being the secretary for the vice principal, but, looking back, I would have been too afraid to get in trouble, regardless of whether or not she was there.
I could also, with a little more effort, probably fit in to the "all around great girl" category, had I been a little less self conscious and shy. I already had the school involvement thing going on and I was a pretty decent student. That part of my personality is still the same. By nature I am a shy and quiet type of person. For me to start a conversation (or for that matter sustain one) with someone I don't know is hard for me. Sometimes, "panic-like" hard.
Anyway, if you feel like it, why don't you tell me which category you fit in to "back in the day."
Honestly, at least until college (which is a whole other entry for another time) I could do no wrong. Teachers loved me. I wasn't a "kiss ass", I just always related to, and felt more comfortable around adults. I have always wondered if my being "angelic" in school had anything to do with my mother being the secretary for the vice principal, but, looking back, I would have been too afraid to get in trouble, regardless of whether or not she was there.
I could also, with a little more effort, probably fit in to the "all around great girl" category, had I been a little less self conscious and shy. I already had the school involvement thing going on and I was a pretty decent student. That part of my personality is still the same. By nature I am a shy and quiet type of person. For me to start a conversation (or for that matter sustain one) with someone I don't know is hard for me. Sometimes, "panic-like" hard.
Anyway, if you feel like it, why don't you tell me which category you fit in to "back in the day."
Thursday, September 27, 2007
In high school was I...
...the "geek" with straight A's, no friends (or a select few), and little to no social life?
...the "goody two shoes" who everyone thought was in the National Honor Society, active in school activities, with a few select friends, and little to no social life?
...the "all around great girl"...friends with everyone...the chess club and the cheerleaders and every clique in between, member of many after school clubs and activities, and a pretty decent student?
..."Miss. Popularity" with millions of friends, a huge social life and an okay student?
C'mon, play along...I won't be mad or insulted if you guess wrong. Puh-lease. That is so high school (and no, that's not a clue...LOL)! The answer will be posted soon.
...the "goody two shoes" who everyone thought was in the National Honor Society, active in school activities, with a few select friends, and little to no social life?
...the "all around great girl"...friends with everyone...the chess club and the cheerleaders and every clique in between, member of many after school clubs and activities, and a pretty decent student?
..."Miss. Popularity" with millions of friends, a huge social life and an okay student?
C'mon, play along...I won't be mad or insulted if you guess wrong. Puh-lease. That is so high school (and no, that's not a clue...LOL)! The answer will be posted soon.
Glory Days
I am not sure why exactly...maybe it's watching my kids get older...maybe it's just me getting older, but lately, I have been thinking a lot about high school, about growing up in a small town, and about how, sometimes, just sometimes, I want to go back. Back in time.
I think what got me going all nostalgic was thinking about the upcoming holiday season and about Thanksgiving specifically. I was thinking that I haven't been to a Thanksgiving Day football game in...well, way too long. The Thanksgiving Day football game was "the thing to do" after Carver High School was built. In weird twist of fate, our opponent is Middleboro. Carver vs Middleboro. Oddly enough, I don't think I have been to a game since we moved to Middleboro, 4 years ago. You would think there would be some sort of internal struggle regarding who to cheer for but, the choice for me is easy. No matter where I live, Carver will always be my hometown. Cheering for a team other than the Crusaders would just be immoral.
My class was the first class to go through the school from 7th-12th grade. We were also the last class to graduate from the region before Plymouth and Carver split and Carver, finally, stood alone. Everything as new...the school itself, the clubs, the sports, and some of the teachers. I was able to take part in the naming of our high school team name and Mascot, the Crusader. I remember it coming down to the Cobras and the Crusaders and actually praying that my choice, the Crusaders would win out. It was no surprise of course that the school colors would be cranberry and gray. I remember managing the softball and wrestling teams and, when the wrestling team won the state championship during the same year that I would earn a letter jacket, having to choose between getting my letter jacket or the championship wrestling coat. I chose the wrestling jacket. I have no idea what happened to my letters or pins. Managing wrestling was probably the most fun I had in school, made even more fun because the team was so good. I think during every year of my management, we won something, whether it be a state or divisional championship, not that my management had anything to do with it.
Anyway, I think I am going to go to this years game. It will be good to go back, and share with my own kids a part of my history.
I think what got me going all nostalgic was thinking about the upcoming holiday season and about Thanksgiving specifically. I was thinking that I haven't been to a Thanksgiving Day football game in...well, way too long. The Thanksgiving Day football game was "the thing to do" after Carver High School was built. In weird twist of fate, our opponent is Middleboro. Carver vs Middleboro. Oddly enough, I don't think I have been to a game since we moved to Middleboro, 4 years ago. You would think there would be some sort of internal struggle regarding who to cheer for but, the choice for me is easy. No matter where I live, Carver will always be my hometown. Cheering for a team other than the Crusaders would just be immoral.
My class was the first class to go through the school from 7th-12th grade. We were also the last class to graduate from the region before Plymouth and Carver split and Carver, finally, stood alone. Everything as new...the school itself, the clubs, the sports, and some of the teachers. I was able to take part in the naming of our high school team name and Mascot, the Crusader. I remember it coming down to the Cobras and the Crusaders and actually praying that my choice, the Crusaders would win out. It was no surprise of course that the school colors would be cranberry and gray. I remember managing the softball and wrestling teams and, when the wrestling team won the state championship during the same year that I would earn a letter jacket, having to choose between getting my letter jacket or the championship wrestling coat. I chose the wrestling jacket. I have no idea what happened to my letters or pins. Managing wrestling was probably the most fun I had in school, made even more fun because the team was so good. I think during every year of my management, we won something, whether it be a state or divisional championship, not that my management had anything to do with it.
Anyway, I think I am going to go to this years game. It will be good to go back, and share with my own kids a part of my history.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
It's only 7 o'clock...
...dinner has been served, eaten, and cleaned up, all three kids have been showered and dressed for bed, and homework is all done.
Now that friends, is what feeling accomplished feels like.
Now that friends, is what feeling accomplished feels like.
Looking For Drama In All The Wrong Places
Personally, I have enough in my life without seeking it out but, for some reason, when other people do, it pisses me off. I have no idea why, but I am guessing that it's because if you want to be a drama queen/king, you go right ahead but really, you don't need to share it with me. Life doesn't have to be a soap opera, believe it or not, and what little "soap opera-like" drama I already have is enough, thankyouverymuch. Also, there's a difference between wanting to know and being downright freaking nosy and then sharing what you've learned with everyone you come in to contact with.
And, if that makes any sense at all then I guess I am doing ok.
And, if that makes any sense at all then I guess I am doing ok.
FYI: Take 2
Adventures In Education has been updated, with an "Opinion Needed" post regarding recess.
Opinion Needed
Emily has this thing at school called the "Zero Club." The only ticket in is to get all of your multiplication tables right on a timed test. Emily has not made it in yet. Apparently, she is following in my footsteps with the math thing (although multiplication was just a matter of memorization for me so it actually came easy). Anyway, I asked her yesterday who she played with at recess and she said she didn't get recess because she is not in the Zero Club yet. Apparently, her teacher told the class Friday that anyone who was not in yet, was going to have to stay in for recess until they were, and work on their multiplication facts. When I asked her how she felt about that she said she didn't care but, I just don't think that it's right. She may not care, but believe me you, a kid like Emily is going to start to care real quick when she has no method of getting her energy out for any period of time during the day. Besides that, it just doesn't seem like the way to teach her her multiplication tables is to in effect, punish her. I am not even sure how I feel about taking away recess for any reason, behavioral or otherwise. It seems to me that taking away recess for a kid who is talking to much or won't stay seated is only going to make things worse. If kids don't have that ever-brief period of time to run-free they will just act out in class instead.
Anyway, what's your feeling, on both the whole concept of recess itself, and Emily's situation specifically.
Anyway, what's your feeling, on both the whole concept of recess itself, and Emily's situation specifically.
FYI
I have updated both the blog roll (Welcome to the Esteemed List, Jen!) and the "Other Interests" link list.
Monday, September 24, 2007
God Help Me
I guess I am not smarter than a 5th grader. Emily brought home a math paper today. Square roots. I have no clue. I mean I get what a square root is but how you figure it out, yeah, I have no idea. The problem was "The square root of 121 is________." She came in and asked how to do it. I was at a loss so, I um, cheated and used the calculator. Then, shame on me, I just gave her the answer and told her to make sure to get an explanation from her teacher tomorrow as to how you actually figure out the problem. This is only 5th grade people. I am going to have to call in my sister Suzanne when we get in to the really tough stuff (like you know, anything beyond adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing). Because math? So not my thing.
I Hate Days Like This
You know the kind. The kind in which you have all kinds of grand plans to get things done (in my case, figure out exactly how I am going to organize and track the Entertainment Book sales, laundry, mat some of my photos that I had blown up for possible sale at an art festival this weekend (if I get the nerve up anyway), laundry, office cleaning, laundry, general housework, yup, you guessed it laundry) and you don't get even one of those things on the list done?
That was me today. I am sure it is somehow connected to even being lazy enough not to drive the mile or so down the road to get coffee. No coffee usually means little if any energy or motivation for me but being so lazy and unmotivated that I didn't even procure the coffee? Now that's bad people. Really bad. I have to bring Emily to voice later so I will be grabbing a coffee then for sure, and maybe it will hold me until the late hours of the evening, in which I will tackle some of the items on the list.
I hate days like this. I feel so...um, unaccomplished, or something.
That was me today. I am sure it is somehow connected to even being lazy enough not to drive the mile or so down the road to get coffee. No coffee usually means little if any energy or motivation for me but being so lazy and unmotivated that I didn't even procure the coffee? Now that's bad people. Really bad. I have to bring Emily to voice later so I will be grabbing a coffee then for sure, and maybe it will hold me until the late hours of the evening, in which I will tackle some of the items on the list.
I hate days like this. I feel so...um, unaccomplished, or something.
Julia and the "I Don't Cry At Preschool" Story
The title pretty much sums it up but yeah, for the first time last Thursday, I dropped Julia off at school and she didn't cry! Instead, she gave her teacher a hug and said, "Miss. Janet, you will make me happy!" YAY! When I came back to get her she said, "Mama, I am so happy you came back to get me!" As if there was any chance I wouldn't.
Back In Time
While looking over the selection of ground beef at Hannaford yesterday, some one bumped in to me, and said in a creepy voice, "Which meat looks best to you?" My first thought was, Do I have a sign on me that says please be rude and bump into me while I am shopping?" Then, I looked up, and was simultaneously transported back in time, about 15 years to my junior year in high school. You see it was my favorite teacher, my American History teacher, faculty member in charge of the student council, and the teacher, I along with a number of other students went to New York City with to participate in Model UN. It was so cool to run in to him! He knew my mother who worked (actually still does work) in the school system, and had both of my sisters in his class following me so we played catch up. I gave him the low down on me (married, stay at home mom of three girls etc) and he said, "Wow, three girls! So your house is full of drama, huh?" "Yup, pretty much," I said.
Julia And The Kick-Butt Redsox Story
A few weeks ago, the Red Sox were on, and Julia and I were watching them. They were winning and winning big. Julia decided that she wanted to bounce on my leg so as I was bouncing her I was saying, "The Red Sox are kicking your butt" over and over again. In retrospect, it was probably not the best phrase to chant while my "I repeat everything I hear" three year old was bouncing on my leg. So now? Every time she wants to bounce on my leg she says, "Hey Mama, wanna do the Red Sox are kicking your butt?" Like that is the name of the actual game of bouncing on my leg. I am glad I didn't say, "The Red Sox are kicking your ass." That could have been problem.
Julia And The Magic Toaster
Julia (after taking a bite of her toast): "Mama, it's not bread anymore!"
Me: " It isn't? What is it?"
Julia: "It's toast!"
Me: " It isn't? What is it?"
Julia: "It's toast!"
Saturday, September 22, 2007
No, it's nothing personal...
...I've just been busy. Busy in what I like to call "Entertainment Book Hell." That, and I haven't really had anything to say of late.
I will be back though, and soon.
I will be back though, and soon.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Why I Love Middleboro Schools
-Emily knows the superintendent, and he knows her. I already knew of course that he was awesome, if based just on the fact that he attends (as do the principals) every PTA meeting but, the fact that he knows my daughter? That means he is in the schools, meeting with the kids, visiting classrooms and watching performances. That, people, is a good superintendent. I know for a fact, not all of them are like that.
-The level of appreciation from staff and administration for volunteering is phenomenal. It almost makes doing the Entertainment book fund raiser worth it! Seriously, it so nice to be appreciated!
-Despite functioning on a budget that is $1 million less than last year's, the level of enthusiasm and that "Welcome Home" feeling are still alive and well. It proves that while money matters, enthusiasm can work wonders.
In other unrelated news, I got the "unofficial" official word that Katherine will be getting Title I reading help again this year. I am very happy that she will have the same person as she did last year, and so is the person who said this to me last night: "I love when I get the same kids as I had last year, especially the good kids."
Also unrelated, but noteworthy just the same, Emily has decided to join the chorus at school this year. She is very excited about this naturally, and I am sure she will love it!
-The level of appreciation from staff and administration for volunteering is phenomenal. It almost makes doing the Entertainment book fund raiser worth it! Seriously, it so nice to be appreciated!
-Despite functioning on a budget that is $1 million less than last year's, the level of enthusiasm and that "Welcome Home" feeling are still alive and well. It proves that while money matters, enthusiasm can work wonders.
In other unrelated news, I got the "unofficial" official word that Katherine will be getting Title I reading help again this year. I am very happy that she will have the same person as she did last year, and so is the person who said this to me last night: "I love when I get the same kids as I had last year, especially the good kids."
Also unrelated, but noteworthy just the same, Emily has decided to join the chorus at school this year. She is very excited about this naturally, and I am sure she will love it!
Monday, September 17, 2007
For some unexplainable reason...
...I am overly excited about the Fall TV premieres.
Here is what I am watching:
New Shows:
Journeyman
Life
Private Practice
Kid Nation
K-Ville
Gossip Girl
Returning Favorites:
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Heroes
ER
Survivor
Bones
The Biggest Loser
and returning in the 2nd half of the season:
LOST
October Road
Wildfire
American Idol
Of course, it is highly unlikely that I will be watching these at the times they are actually on, with homework, dinner, kids, and meetings to attend to. That's what a DVR is for though. Chances are too, that the new shows to the list will more than likely have at least one that doesn't interest me and one or two canceled. I never used to watch that much tv, back in my working days. I worked four nights a week and it was just too much to keep up with.
What are you watching or planning to watch?
Here is what I am watching:
New Shows:
Journeyman
Life
Private Practice
Kid Nation
K-Ville
Gossip Girl
Returning Favorites:
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Heroes
ER
Survivor
Bones
The Biggest Loser
and returning in the 2nd half of the season:
LOST
October Road
Wildfire
American Idol
Of course, it is highly unlikely that I will be watching these at the times they are actually on, with homework, dinner, kids, and meetings to attend to. That's what a DVR is for though. Chances are too, that the new shows to the list will more than likely have at least one that doesn't interest me and one or two canceled. I never used to watch that much tv, back in my working days. I worked four nights a week and it was just too much to keep up with.
What are you watching or planning to watch?
Ah to be 27 again...
Biological Age: 31
Real Age: 27.2
Average Life Expectancy: 74
My Life Expectancy: 77.8
An interesting test that calculates your age and life expectancy.
Found via Jay.
Real Age: 27.2
Average Life Expectancy: 74
My Life Expectancy: 77.8
An interesting test that calculates your age and life expectancy.
Found via Jay.
Wording
So, Iam trying to design the business cards to go along with the Etsy shop I am in the process of setting up and for some reason, I can't come up with appropriate wording, or even better a catchy tag line.
What I am trying to say is that I am selling scenic prints but also that if you had someone or something or someplace that you wanted photographed, that I would do that too. For something that usually comes quite easily for me, I am having a heck of a time with this.
Any thoughts?
What I am trying to say is that I am selling scenic prints but also that if you had someone or something or someplace that you wanted photographed, that I would do that too. For something that usually comes quite easily for me, I am having a heck of a time with this.
Any thoughts?
No Escape!
Upon hearing this news, I relayed it to Ryun and said, "No matter where we live in MA, if this plan goes through, we will be near one." Wanna move to New Hampshire?'
Ryun: "Sure."
Of course we were kidding (well sort of kidding anyway but more on that in another post sometime).
Ryun: "Sure."
Of course we were kidding (well sort of kidding anyway but more on that in another post sometime).
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Teenager In The Making
Emily: "Mom, did you hear that Vanessa Hudgens posed naked and might be fired from Disney?"
Me: "No, I didn't Emily."
Emily: "Yeah, it was all the buzz at every cafeteria table last week."
Me: "No, I didn't Emily."
Emily: "Yeah, it was all the buzz at every cafeteria table last week."
Seasonal Candy Weaknesses
Halloween: Candy Corn
Christmas: Chocolate flavored candy canes
Easter: Cadbury Mini-Eggs
You?
Christmas: Chocolate flavored candy canes
Easter: Cadbury Mini-Eggs
You?
So...
...after much lamenting about the whole ribbon candy situation, Emily has solved the problem. While talking to Ryun about what we could do she said, quite matter-of-factly, "Mom, why don't you just buy fruit roll-ups?"
Leave to Emily to figure it out!
Leave to Emily to figure it out!
I Just Don't Care Anymore.
Ok, well that's actually a lie but I'm getting there. I am without any clue as to what it is going to take for Emily to understand the concept of cleaning her room. I have tried rewards. I have tried punishment. I have tried being sweet and kind. I have tried drugs (as in the ADHD med she is already on in her case and serious amounts of Tylenol for me who gets a headache just thinking about her room). I have tried talking to her. Screaming at her. Reasoning with her. Begging her. Threatening her with throwing everything out.
I just don't have the time to actually sit up there with her every damn day and tell her where things go and, besides that, she's ten. Hello? Shouldn't she understand by now what cleaning is? And what it means if you take a toy out to put it away? And why can Katherine do it? Why does she just go up and clean when asked? Yes...I know comparing is wrong so shoot me. I don't do it in front of them.
So my conclusion is this: I just don't care. I will change her sheets and dust her room, as well as clean her bathroom. But if there is a shit pile of toys and books on the floor? Well, lets just hope she can find them when she needs them, because the sympathy for lost items...yeah it's gone.
I just don't have the time to actually sit up there with her every damn day and tell her where things go and, besides that, she's ten. Hello? Shouldn't she understand by now what cleaning is? And what it means if you take a toy out to put it away? And why can Katherine do it? Why does she just go up and clean when asked? Yes...I know comparing is wrong so shoot me. I don't do it in front of them.
So my conclusion is this: I just don't care. I will change her sheets and dust her room, as well as clean her bathroom. But if there is a shit pile of toys and books on the floor? Well, lets just hope she can find them when she needs them, because the sympathy for lost items...yeah it's gone.
Ribbon Candy?
It's only a seasonal thing right? I am looking for it because Emily has to make a model of a plant cell and an animal cell and in the photograph we have the Cytoplasm looks just like ribbon candy. I have called two local candy shops, one that just opened in Middleboro and one fairly new one in Plympton but neither sell it. This is the one time that I wish Christmas stuff came out even earlier than usual because maybe then I could find it.
Any thoughts on what else we could use that would look like ribbon candy? I was thinking playdough but we already have that planned for another part of the project and part of the grade is "variety of materials used."
Any thoughts on what else we could use that would look like ribbon candy? I was thinking playdough but we already have that planned for another part of the project and part of the grade is "variety of materials used."
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Does anyone know how to...
...make an image "unclickable"? As in not allowing someone to right click and save the image? I am trying to set up an etsy shop and want to set the pictures up in that manner. If not, I will just photoshop them with a "proof" statement faded in somewhere.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
NCLB: My Thoughts
The House Committee on Education and Labor began the hearings this week regarding the re-authorization of the No Child Left Behind Act.
There are a few key points that I would like to address.
I am pleased to report that the discussion draft includes a provision that if passed would allow states to use multiple indicators as opposed to a single test for accountability purposes. These indicators include such things like graduation rates, dropout rates, college enrollment rates and the percentages of students who successfully complete end of course exams for college preparatory classes. This has been one of my biggest "beefs" with NCLB. How can one test be the single determinant of accountability? While adding these other indicators to the mix seems to make sense, it does raise the possibility that things such as graduation rates could be inflated by the states to serve the purpose of making Adequate Yearly Progress. The draft also allows for states to get partial credit towards their Annual Measurable Goals for increasing the numbers of students who move from below basic to basic and proficient to advanced.
One of the major concerns I have with the draft is in the area of the testing procedures of English Language Learners. As it stands now, ELL are tested in their native language for up to three years. The new draft increases the length of time to seven years. This means that a student who entered the country in second grade could potentially make it all the way to ninth grade before being tested in English. Three years seems more than enough time for a student to learn the language. One point that I do agree with in this regard is that this draft allows states to exclude the assessments of early ELL (those here for less than one year) when determining AYP.
Under the current law all schools, regardless of their circumstances are treated the same and are subject to the same interventions. The new plan would create two separate improvement systems: one for "Priority Schools" that would include those schools that miss AYP in one or two student groups and need only minor interventions and another for "High Priority Schools" which would include those schools that miss AYP in most, if not all of their student groups and need more substantial assistance. Again this makes sense to me. If one school is doing worse than another, why should they have the same "penalties?"
The draft also calls for bonuses for "excellent teachers." It seems fair to me, but, the question "What is an excellent teacher?" comes to mind. Someone can not claim to be a "good teacher" just because they have a Masters' Degree, appropriate licenses and experience, and while I am big proponent of seniority and the like, it seems to me that things like tenure should be earned, and if it is earned it should not mean lifetime job security if teachers cease being competent.
Anyway, there you have it. It should be interesting to see how this turns out when all is said and done.
There are a few key points that I would like to address.
I am pleased to report that the discussion draft includes a provision that if passed would allow states to use multiple indicators as opposed to a single test for accountability purposes. These indicators include such things like graduation rates, dropout rates, college enrollment rates and the percentages of students who successfully complete end of course exams for college preparatory classes. This has been one of my biggest "beefs" with NCLB. How can one test be the single determinant of accountability? While adding these other indicators to the mix seems to make sense, it does raise the possibility that things such as graduation rates could be inflated by the states to serve the purpose of making Adequate Yearly Progress. The draft also allows for states to get partial credit towards their Annual Measurable Goals for increasing the numbers of students who move from below basic to basic and proficient to advanced.
One of the major concerns I have with the draft is in the area of the testing procedures of English Language Learners. As it stands now, ELL are tested in their native language for up to three years. The new draft increases the length of time to seven years. This means that a student who entered the country in second grade could potentially make it all the way to ninth grade before being tested in English. Three years seems more than enough time for a student to learn the language. One point that I do agree with in this regard is that this draft allows states to exclude the assessments of early ELL (those here for less than one year) when determining AYP.
Under the current law all schools, regardless of their circumstances are treated the same and are subject to the same interventions. The new plan would create two separate improvement systems: one for "Priority Schools" that would include those schools that miss AYP in one or two student groups and need only minor interventions and another for "High Priority Schools" which would include those schools that miss AYP in most, if not all of their student groups and need more substantial assistance. Again this makes sense to me. If one school is doing worse than another, why should they have the same "penalties?"
The draft also calls for bonuses for "excellent teachers." It seems fair to me, but, the question "What is an excellent teacher?" comes to mind. Someone can not claim to be a "good teacher" just because they have a Masters' Degree, appropriate licenses and experience, and while I am big proponent of seniority and the like, it seems to me that things like tenure should be earned, and if it is earned it should not mean lifetime job security if teachers cease being competent.
Anyway, there you have it. It should be interesting to see how this turns out when all is said and done.
Received Via Email
I LOVE this!
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals.
We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.
By Nicole Johnson
It started to happen gradually. One day I was walking my son Jake to school. I was holding his hand and we were about to cross the street when the crossing guard said to him, "Who is that with you, young fella?" "Nobody," he shrugged.
Nobody? The crossing guard and I laughed. My son is only 5, but as we crossed the street I thought, "Oh my goodness, nobody?"
I would walk into a room and no one would notice. I would say something to my family - like "Turn the TV down, please" - and nothing would happen.
Nobody would get up, or even make a move for the remote. I would stand there for a minute, and then I would say again, a little louder, "Would someone turn the TV down?" Nothing.
Just the other night my husband and I were out at a party. We'd been there for about three hours and I was ready to leave. I noticed he was talking to a friend from work. So I walked over, and when there was a break in the conversation, I whispered, "I'm ready to go when you are." He just kept right on talking.
That's when I started to put all the pieces together. I don't think he can see me. I don't think anyone can see me. I'm invisible. It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is
the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30, please."
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going. she's going. she's gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe.
I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:
No one can say who built the great cathedrals -we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into abeam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my
strong, stubborn pride.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his
friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women .
This excerpt from Nicole Johnson's novel The Invisible Woman, which I may just have to read next, upon finishing A Thousand Splendid Suns.
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals.
We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.
By Nicole Johnson
It started to happen gradually. One day I was walking my son Jake to school. I was holding his hand and we were about to cross the street when the crossing guard said to him, "Who is that with you, young fella?" "Nobody," he shrugged.
Nobody? The crossing guard and I laughed. My son is only 5, but as we crossed the street I thought, "Oh my goodness, nobody?"
I would walk into a room and no one would notice. I would say something to my family - like "Turn the TV down, please" - and nothing would happen.
Nobody would get up, or even make a move for the remote. I would stand there for a minute, and then I would say again, a little louder, "Would someone turn the TV down?" Nothing.
Just the other night my husband and I were out at a party. We'd been there for about three hours and I was ready to leave. I noticed he was talking to a friend from work. So I walked over, and when there was a break in the conversation, I whispered, "I'm ready to go when you are." He just kept right on talking.
That's when I started to put all the pieces together. I don't think he can see me. I don't think anyone can see me. I'm invisible. It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible.
Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is
the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30, please."
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going. she's going. she's gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe.
I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:
No one can say who built the great cathedrals -we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into abeam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my
strong, stubborn pride.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his
friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women .
This excerpt from Nicole Johnson's novel The Invisible Woman, which I may just have to read next, upon finishing A Thousand Splendid Suns.
Artwork
Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you Julia's first official preschool paper...the world famous preschool hand print.
She did much better today, BTW. She still broke down when I left but, when I came back to get her, the teacher told me that she settled down much quicker than she did on Tuesday.
She did much better today, BTW. She still broke down when I left but, when I came back to get her, the teacher told me that she settled down much quicker than she did on Tuesday.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
There Simply Aren't Enough
Hours in the day that is. Or at least enough hours that are spent awake.
Things I want to get done:
Post about the renewal of the NCLB Law, which is currently under review.
Re-do my living room. I am going with a beach/lighthouse theme. The whole idea is in my head, and I have even purchased a few things to go along with the whole theme but...
I need to re-do Julia's room first. She is about ready to get moved from the crib to the bed which is going to mean a bunch of her toys that currently reside in the living room will be relocated to her bedroom. We could do this now but it makes more sense to get the bed situation squared away at the same time.
Figure out exactly how to get Emily to clean her room, and actually keep it that way (hey, a girl can dream can't she?).
Set up an Etsy shop with some of my pictures for sale. I think I have a marketable skill here and I want to see if I can do anything with it.
I know there is more but that 's enough for now, I think. Short of, you know, not actually sleeping I don't see the list dwindling much.
Things I want to get done:
Post about the renewal of the NCLB Law, which is currently under review.
Re-do my living room. I am going with a beach/lighthouse theme. The whole idea is in my head, and I have even purchased a few things to go along with the whole theme but...
I need to re-do Julia's room first. She is about ready to get moved from the crib to the bed which is going to mean a bunch of her toys that currently reside in the living room will be relocated to her bedroom. We could do this now but it makes more sense to get the bed situation squared away at the same time.
Figure out exactly how to get Emily to clean her room, and actually keep it that way (hey, a girl can dream can't she?).
Set up an Etsy shop with some of my pictures for sale. I think I have a marketable skill here and I want to see if I can do anything with it.
I know there is more but that 's enough for now, I think. Short of, you know, not actually sleeping I don't see the list dwindling much.
Quizzes
| Which Positive Quality Are You? Your Result: Peace You are Peace. Peace is the opposite of anger and destruction. Peace is calm. It tears down barriers; it brings us together. Peace is a noble goal sought by the good of heart. "May peace prevail on earth." | |
| Friendship | |
| Love | |
| Charity | |
| Faith | |
| Courage | |
| Which Positive Quality Are You? | |
You Feel Like You Don't Fit In 42% Of The Time
You have a place in the world, even though you may forget on the bad days. You fit in pretty well, but you don't always feel like it. All you need to do is keep the right outlook and stay true to yourself. You will go places.
Do You Have a Place in This World?
Create Your Own Quiz
| What Be Your Nerd Type? Your Result: Social Nerd You're interested in things such as politics, psychology, child care, and peace. I wouldn't go so far as to call you a hippie, but some of you may be tree-huggers. You're the type of people who are interested in bettering the world. You're possible the least nerdy of them all; unless you participate in other activies that paled your nerdiness compared to your involvement in social activities. Whatever the case, we could still use more of you around. ^_^ | |
| Literature Nerd | |
| Gamer/Computer Nerd | |
| Artistic Nerd | |
| Drama Nerd | |
| Anime Nerd | |
| Science/Math Nerd | |
| Musician | |
| What Be Your Nerd Type? Quizzes for MySpace | |
All found via Jay.
Cuteness
This is Julia on her first day of preschool last week. She's sitting on the front stairs of the new Memorial Early Childhood Center.
Adorable, if I do say so myself.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Update: She Did It!
Julia has survived her first ever preschool day with out Mommy, and Mommy has survived her first ever PTA mail pickup (just don't even ask).
All is right with the world (and y'all know that because I just said that, something is bound to go wrong).
All is right with the world (and y'all know that because I just said that, something is bound to go wrong).
Coupons: My Response
I do clip 'em and use 'em. I also go through the circular every week and make my list based on what's on sale. Doing this, and clipping coupons, I save between $30-50 per week on food shopping. I suppose it helps too, that I am not picky about brands, or opposed to buying generic. If store brand bread is on sale and less expensive than say, Wonder, then I buy the store brand. Honestly, it all tastes the same to me.
Rather than writing a new one...
...may I direct you to last year's 9/11 post, in which you will see a photo essay of a collection of news and other type items Ryun and I saved in the days following the attacks.
The Preschool Difference
Emily's first day at the same age Julia is now...just over 3 years: The parents were allowed to stay and observe. Emily (remember she was just 3 years old) came up to me and said, "Ok Mom, you can leave now."
Katherine's first day at closer to 4 years old: She wasn't thrilled with the whole idea, but was basically fine when all was said and done. I heard a few "No Mama" comments when I was leaving but that was about it.
Julia's first day (today) : Let's just say it involved a lot of prying her off of my leg. And a lot of ear piercing screams. And a lot of tears (if you count mine after I got back in to the car, I think we could have formed a small pond actually).
I wasn't surprised by this of course, but it might have been the hardest thing I have ever done.
Katherine's first day at closer to 4 years old: She wasn't thrilled with the whole idea, but was basically fine when all was said and done. I heard a few "No Mama" comments when I was leaving but that was about it.
Julia's first day (today) : Let's just say it involved a lot of prying her off of my leg. And a lot of ear piercing screams. And a lot of tears (if you count mine after I got back in to the car, I think we could have formed a small pond actually).
I wasn't surprised by this of course, but it might have been the hardest thing I have ever done.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Sunday, September 9, 2007
ADHD: A Story And My Take On What's Real and What Isn't.
First, the story, that undoubtedly will sound remarkably familiar to some of you.
Once upon a time, a little girl was born. Everything about her mother's pregnancy and the little girl's entrance in to the world was normal. As the little girl progressed through the stages of development, it quickly became apparent to those around her that she was "different." She progressed much more quickly than what would be considered "normal." She walked early, talked early, and reached virtually all developmental milestones before expected. She also displayed advanced levels of intelligence...in a intuitive, insightful, perceptive and well-spoken kind of way. She knew things that a young child of her age just shouldn't know or understand yet, and while the book-smarts were there, this "other" type of intelligence was the more noticeable one of the two. She was always "on the go," never staying with one activity for too long, eager and ready for the "next best thing." She was a joy to be around and had a very well developed sense of humor. As the girl grew older and reached school age, subtle concerns with her level attention would arise. Teachers would say she was a "little immature" for her age, that her organizational skills were lacking, that she was a little fidgety in class, and various things of that nature. During the summer between 1st and 2nd grade, the little girl was diagnosed with a seizure disorder. An MRI came back showing an abnormality in the frontal lobes of her brain and a neuronal migration disorder, consistent with a diagnosis of a "tuberous sclerosis-like" condition. During her 2nd grade parent-teacher conference, er teacher noted that the little girl was showing a high degree of difficulty with staying on task, organization, turning in homework, and was slightly disruptive in the classroom. Her mother, showing elevated concern decided to contact her daughter's neurologist to see what he thought, as well as research through reading, Tuberous Sclerosis, Epilepsy, ADHD and Frontal Lobe Function. One article she read told her that between 2 and 25% of children with Tuberous Sclerosis will have attentional and/or behavior problems. Another article told her that an estimated 20-30% of children with Epilepsy will have concurrent ADHD. Many articles regarding the function of the frontal lobes of the brain told her that abnormalities in this area will affect such things as self regulation, and task management skills such as organization, planning and self monitoring. Yet another article told her that 1 out of every 25-30 children will have a diagnosis of ADHD. After researching signs and symptoms of ADHD and Executive Function Disorder, it became clear to her mother that her little girl was indeed displaying many of the symptoms associated with these two conditions. A 504 Plan was put in to place and certain accommodations were made (sitting in the front of the classroom, transitional cues when switching from one activity to the next, and eventually a separate test setting for standardized tests, as well as a check in person who would physically check her bag and make sure she had all of her things with her for home). This seemed to work well enough but as she grew older still, and the demands of school and life in general became greater, as well as the hormones of puberty coming in to play, things began to grow remarkably worse. Her mother was having a very difficult time understanding why it was so difficult for her daughter to follow a simple set of directions, why she was continuously forgetting things, why her temper was out of control, and why she was becomingly increasingly distracted and unable to complete certain tasks. Her mother decided it was time to take action. It was very hard for her to see her daughter struggle. It was hard for her to watch her daughter who was wise beyond her years, have a difficult time with even the most basic of tasks that involved any kind of sustained attention, mood regulation or basic direction following. She began treating her daughter's environmental allergies, starting her daughter on a some what regular exercise regimen through a local kids gym, and introduced a "Chart and Rewards System" at home. All three of these things seemed to help and drastic improvements were noted but, there were still serious problems with distraction, attention and following even the most basic sets of instructions. At previous appointments with her daughter's neurologist, a medication called "Focalin" had been discussed. Her mother had been hesitant in the past about medicating her daughter any further than she already was for her Epilepsy, but felt she had exhausted all of her options, and finally gave in.
That, my friends is the story of my daughter Emily. Emily is what I consider to be a very real, accurately diagnosed version of ADHD/EFD. She has the medical back ground to support it and the obvious symptoms ranging from poor organizational skills to mood regulation concerns.
In short, I am a strong believer in a medical reason behind ADHD. I am also a strong believer in certain "external forces" affecting attention and self regulation. I think certain food sensitivities and additives come in to play as do things like lack of structure and and unclear rules and expectations. I also think there is a certain degree to which "genetic predisposition" can come in to play (as in you are more likely to have it if a close relative does type of thing). I also believe that the intense pressure of being a kid in today's world, and the required amount of downtime they have are too inhibiting. Kids are meant to run and play and just, well, enjoy life.
For the record, Emily has been taking the Focalin since school started. It has been kind of hard to tell whether or not it is working yet, but, I am sure time will tell. I hope it does but, if it doesn't, I will continue to search out answers.
Once upon a time, a little girl was born. Everything about her mother's pregnancy and the little girl's entrance in to the world was normal. As the little girl progressed through the stages of development, it quickly became apparent to those around her that she was "different." She progressed much more quickly than what would be considered "normal." She walked early, talked early, and reached virtually all developmental milestones before expected. She also displayed advanced levels of intelligence...in a intuitive, insightful, perceptive and well-spoken kind of way. She knew things that a young child of her age just shouldn't know or understand yet, and while the book-smarts were there, this "other" type of intelligence was the more noticeable one of the two. She was always "on the go," never staying with one activity for too long, eager and ready for the "next best thing." She was a joy to be around and had a very well developed sense of humor. As the girl grew older and reached school age, subtle concerns with her level attention would arise. Teachers would say she was a "little immature" for her age, that her organizational skills were lacking, that she was a little fidgety in class, and various things of that nature. During the summer between 1st and 2nd grade, the little girl was diagnosed with a seizure disorder. An MRI came back showing an abnormality in the frontal lobes of her brain and a neuronal migration disorder, consistent with a diagnosis of a "tuberous sclerosis-like" condition. During her 2nd grade parent-teacher conference, er teacher noted that the little girl was showing a high degree of difficulty with staying on task, organization, turning in homework, and was slightly disruptive in the classroom. Her mother, showing elevated concern decided to contact her daughter's neurologist to see what he thought, as well as research through reading, Tuberous Sclerosis, Epilepsy, ADHD and Frontal Lobe Function. One article she read told her that between 2 and 25% of children with Tuberous Sclerosis will have attentional and/or behavior problems. Another article told her that an estimated 20-30% of children with Epilepsy will have concurrent ADHD. Many articles regarding the function of the frontal lobes of the brain told her that abnormalities in this area will affect such things as self regulation, and task management skills such as organization, planning and self monitoring. Yet another article told her that 1 out of every 25-30 children will have a diagnosis of ADHD. After researching signs and symptoms of ADHD and Executive Function Disorder, it became clear to her mother that her little girl was indeed displaying many of the symptoms associated with these two conditions. A 504 Plan was put in to place and certain accommodations were made (sitting in the front of the classroom, transitional cues when switching from one activity to the next, and eventually a separate test setting for standardized tests, as well as a check in person who would physically check her bag and make sure she had all of her things with her for home). This seemed to work well enough but as she grew older still, and the demands of school and life in general became greater, as well as the hormones of puberty coming in to play, things began to grow remarkably worse. Her mother was having a very difficult time understanding why it was so difficult for her daughter to follow a simple set of directions, why she was continuously forgetting things, why her temper was out of control, and why she was becomingly increasingly distracted and unable to complete certain tasks. Her mother decided it was time to take action. It was very hard for her to see her daughter struggle. It was hard for her to watch her daughter who was wise beyond her years, have a difficult time with even the most basic of tasks that involved any kind of sustained attention, mood regulation or basic direction following. She began treating her daughter's environmental allergies, starting her daughter on a some what regular exercise regimen through a local kids gym, and introduced a "Chart and Rewards System" at home. All three of these things seemed to help and drastic improvements were noted but, there were still serious problems with distraction, attention and following even the most basic sets of instructions. At previous appointments with her daughter's neurologist, a medication called "Focalin" had been discussed. Her mother had been hesitant in the past about medicating her daughter any further than she already was for her Epilepsy, but felt she had exhausted all of her options, and finally gave in.
That, my friends is the story of my daughter Emily. Emily is what I consider to be a very real, accurately diagnosed version of ADHD/EFD. She has the medical back ground to support it and the obvious symptoms ranging from poor organizational skills to mood regulation concerns.
In short, I am a strong believer in a medical reason behind ADHD. I am also a strong believer in certain "external forces" affecting attention and self regulation. I think certain food sensitivities and additives come in to play as do things like lack of structure and and unclear rules and expectations. I also think there is a certain degree to which "genetic predisposition" can come in to play (as in you are more likely to have it if a close relative does type of thing). I also believe that the intense pressure of being a kid in today's world, and the required amount of downtime they have are too inhibiting. Kids are meant to run and play and just, well, enjoy life.
For the record, Emily has been taking the Focalin since school started. It has been kind of hard to tell whether or not it is working yet, but, I am sure time will tell. I hope it does but, if it doesn't, I will continue to search out answers.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Tomorrow...
...my take on the ADHD controversy.
Tonight...finishing up The Kite Runner and going to bed.
That is all.
Tonight...finishing up The Kite Runner and going to bed.
That is all.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Julia...
...had her first official day of preschool today! It was the classroom/meet the teacher visit. She seemed to enjoy it, I think. It was kind of strange I thought, that she left willingly and she was intensely shy but, I know that with time she will adjust and be fine. I am not looking forward to actually leaving her on Tuesday because I know she will not be cool with that but again, she'll adjust.
I took pictures of course, but something is wrong with the part where my USB card plugs into my camera, so it will have to wait until I manage to get to CVS and put them on a disk.
I took pictures of course, but something is wrong with the part where my USB card plugs into my camera, so it will have to wait until I manage to get to CVS and put them on a disk.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
You know...
...people always talk about how it's such a shame that kids don't "play" anymore, like back in the "old days." They think that kids spend too much time on the computer, or watching tv, rather than playing with actual toys or (GASP) going outside.
Here's my " I am having a Mom moment" response to that: Computers and tv? At least they don't turn your living room in to a bomb scene. At least they don't have small frickin' parts that, no matter how successful you think you were at getting your three year old to clean them up, there is always that one that somehow got missed and manages to find it's way under your foot causing you to yelp in pain and practically fall and break your neck (No, that's never happened to me, why do you ask?). Small parts, I've decided should be outlawed. There a pain in the ass, literally and figuratively.
So there.
Here's my " I am having a Mom moment" response to that: Computers and tv? At least they don't turn your living room in to a bomb scene. At least they don't have small frickin' parts that, no matter how successful you think you were at getting your three year old to clean them up, there is always that one that somehow got missed and manages to find it's way under your foot causing you to yelp in pain and practically fall and break your neck (No, that's never happened to me, why do you ask?). Small parts, I've decided should be outlawed. There a pain in the ass, literally and figuratively.
So there.
Opinion Poll
ADHD: all in your "head" so to speak or a diagnosable, medical condition? Or a combination of both?
What I mean is are you of the belief that ADHD is as a result of poor parenting, too much tv and other various non-medical causes, or do you think it has a biological , and perhaps genetic cause? Or, do you feel that both medical and non-medical causes come in to play?
Have at it.
My opinion to follow in an not so distant future entry.
What I mean is are you of the belief that ADHD is as a result of poor parenting, too much tv and other various non-medical causes, or do you think it has a biological , and perhaps genetic cause? Or, do you feel that both medical and non-medical causes come in to play?
Have at it.
My opinion to follow in an not so distant future entry.
Today at the supermarket...
...the same guy bumped in to the cart with Julia sitting in front 3 times! The first time, it was one of those "this aisle is not wide enough for two carts" situations. Still, he bumped in to it and didn't apologize or say "Excuse me." No big deal really but when he did the same thing again a few aisles later, and it almost looked intentional, and still didn't apologize, I thought it was weird. The third time was when we were at the checkout and the cart was pushed through the lane to the end so as to put the groceries in. There was plenty of room for people to pass through and I swear to God it looked like he steered the cart purposefully right in to Julia. I started to wonder if he had something against cute, blue eyed blond toddlers or if I knew the guy and he thought he was being funny or something. He looked in no way familiar to me though and besides, you'd think if he knew me he would have eventually said something. My, "Do I know you?" look went to a glare pretty quickly but, I don't think he even noticed. I watched him walk out and he actually looked drunk so maybe that was it. Still, three times in to the same carriage in the space of an hour? That's just strange. Not to mention rude.
FYI
Adeventures in Education has been updated, and will be updated on a more regular basis now that school is back in session.
Back!
School is back in session which means that this blog will be updated again, more regularly than it was over the summer.
Emily and Katherine seem to have gotten off to a good start. It hasn't seemed too difficult to get back in to the school "frame of mind" for them or myself. I started them going to bed at their "school year" bedtimes (7:30 ish for Katherine and 8:30 for Emily) late last week. Typing that reminds me that I never posted my "Your Ideas For A Smooth School Transition" entry that I post every year, asking y'all for your tried and true ideas for the best morning routines, hassle free home work time, quick lunch ideas, and any other secrets related to a smooth school year that you want to share. So, lets consider this entry just that. Have at it.
I'll tell you a couple of things I have decided to do this year. The first one is that I have been getting the kids up one half hour earlier than I did last year. This means I have been getting myself up earlier as I need that "me" time first thing in the morning. So I have been up between 5:30-6 and they have been up at 6:15. The bus comes at 7:50 so the extra half hour just cures the "rush-rush" problem, and usually gives them some free time before they leave to watch tv, play or whatever.
I have also decided that until they are fully ready and have nothing left to do aside from grab their bag and walk out the door, the tv stays off. I noticed last year and in years past takes them a lot longer to get ready when it is on, and it's just one more distraction that they don't need.
The biggest thing I have done is introduce a "Charts and Reward System." They both have a chore chart, as well as a morning and evening chart. The morning and evening charts are the same (make bed, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, comb hair for the morning chart and shower, do homework, lay out clothes for the next day, pack school bag, brush teeth for the evening chart). The chore charts are different. Katherine is responsible for putting a new bag in when Ryun empties the trash, setting the table, cleaning her room, helping to clean the toys in the living room, being a good "parent helper (basically, helping out when asked) and being happy (which encompasses of course just being happy and being polite and nice to her family). Emily's responsibilities include, being a parent helper, being happy, clearing the table, cleaning her room, helping clean the living room, and helping out with laundry when asked. The reward part of the thing is that if they get the majority of their stars during a one week period on the morning, evening and chore charts, they get to pick out a new book (which I have stock piled recently after going to Borders Bargain books area and Job Lot). If they get all of their stars on all charts, all week, they get $5. I have hung a bulletin board in the hallway with their charts on it. So far, they seem to be pretty impressed with the whole idea. Lets hope it lasts.
I sound so insanely organized that even I am saying, "Oh God, she's one of people. You know the ones who have it all together to the point that one could almost be envious? But, lets face it. This is way beyond what I, under normal circumstances, would be doing. Using me and the word organized together is almost joke-like. I seem to have gotten a little better with age and after having children, but still, at the core, I am about the least organized person there could be. The main reason I am doing all this? It's for Emily, who desperately needs the structure. I figure Katherine can't be hurt by it either. It's all about keeping the peace.
Emily and Katherine seem to have gotten off to a good start. It hasn't seemed too difficult to get back in to the school "frame of mind" for them or myself. I started them going to bed at their "school year" bedtimes (7:30 ish for Katherine and 8:30 for Emily) late last week. Typing that reminds me that I never posted my "Your Ideas For A Smooth School Transition" entry that I post every year, asking y'all for your tried and true ideas for the best morning routines, hassle free home work time, quick lunch ideas, and any other secrets related to a smooth school year that you want to share. So, lets consider this entry just that. Have at it.
I'll tell you a couple of things I have decided to do this year. The first one is that I have been getting the kids up one half hour earlier than I did last year. This means I have been getting myself up earlier as I need that "me" time first thing in the morning. So I have been up between 5:30-6 and they have been up at 6:15. The bus comes at 7:50 so the extra half hour just cures the "rush-rush" problem, and usually gives them some free time before they leave to watch tv, play or whatever.
I have also decided that until they are fully ready and have nothing left to do aside from grab their bag and walk out the door, the tv stays off. I noticed last year and in years past takes them a lot longer to get ready when it is on, and it's just one more distraction that they don't need.
The biggest thing I have done is introduce a "Charts and Reward System." They both have a chore chart, as well as a morning and evening chart. The morning and evening charts are the same (make bed, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, comb hair for the morning chart and shower, do homework, lay out clothes for the next day, pack school bag, brush teeth for the evening chart). The chore charts are different. Katherine is responsible for putting a new bag in when Ryun empties the trash, setting the table, cleaning her room, helping to clean the toys in the living room, being a good "parent helper (basically, helping out when asked) and being happy (which encompasses of course just being happy and being polite and nice to her family). Emily's responsibilities include, being a parent helper, being happy, clearing the table, cleaning her room, helping clean the living room, and helping out with laundry when asked. The reward part of the thing is that if they get the majority of their stars during a one week period on the morning, evening and chore charts, they get to pick out a new book (which I have stock piled recently after going to Borders Bargain books area and Job Lot). If they get all of their stars on all charts, all week, they get $5. I have hung a bulletin board in the hallway with their charts on it. So far, they seem to be pretty impressed with the whole idea. Lets hope it lasts.
I sound so insanely organized that even I am saying, "Oh God, she's one of people. You know the ones who have it all together to the point that one could almost be envious? But, lets face it. This is way beyond what I, under normal circumstances, would be doing. Using me and the word organized together is almost joke-like. I seem to have gotten a little better with age and after having children, but still, at the core, I am about the least organized person there could be. The main reason I am doing all this? It's for Emily, who desperately needs the structure. I figure Katherine can't be hurt by it either. It's all about keeping the peace.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Not So Random Pictures
Below are pictures taken this morning, the first day of the new school year.
It is beginning to get scary how mature and grown up Emily is starting to look.
Always the one for the "serious" pose. LOL.
She is just so darn cute.
It's all I can do not to pinch those cheeks, let me tell ya.
The now infamous "sitting on the rock first day of school picture(Emily's words, not mine)."
I knew that I was having a good influence when Katherine exclaimed, without provocation from me, "Wouldn't this be a good pose?"
It is beginning to get scary how mature and grown up Emily is starting to look.
Always the one for the "serious" pose. LOL.
She is just so darn cute.
It's all I can do not to pinch those cheeks, let me tell ya.
The now infamous "sitting on the rock first day of school picture(Emily's words, not mine)."
I knew that I was having a good influence when Katherine exclaimed, without provocation from me, "Wouldn't this be a good pose?"
Random Pictures
Julia had her nails painted for the first time a couple of weeks ago. Of course, y'all know I had to take a picture!
As mentioned previously, Ryun and Emily went to the Red Sox game over the weekend. This is the picture I took just before they left! Scary how much they look alike sometimes.
As mentioned previously, Ryun and Emily went to the Red Sox game over the weekend. This is the picture I took just before they left! Scary how much they look alike sometimes.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Technical Qestion
Emily and Katherine have a computer upstairs (a Gateway to be exact). Because she is brilliant, Emily somehow figured out how to put a username and password on it so that when you boot up, before you can do anything else, you have to enter a password. Great, right? Not so great though when you completely forget the password.
I like to think of myself as somewhat "computer savvy" but this one has me stumped. I re-booted and hit F1 to get to the settings and went to the security tab. One of the options was "clear user password" which I tried to do and it didn't clear. I also tried just using the Gateway restoration disk and booting from the CD, but it said something about NT files and that I couldn't boot from the CD because of that.
I can't seem to think of what else to do (I even tried entering random passwords to see if it would eventually error and just do whatever but that didn't work either.
So all my technical people...any suggestions?
I like to think of myself as somewhat "computer savvy" but this one has me stumped. I re-booted and hit F1 to get to the settings and went to the security tab. One of the options was "clear user password" which I tried to do and it didn't clear. I also tried just using the Gateway restoration disk and booting from the CD, but it said something about NT files and that I couldn't boot from the CD because of that.
I can't seem to think of what else to do (I even tried entering random passwords to see if it would eventually error and just do whatever but that didn't work either.
So all my technical people...any suggestions?
If it weren't for the last minute...
...nothing would ever get done.
And, more specifically in my case, if I didn't wait til the last damn minute to sort the Entertainment books for the MECC, I might have realized sooner that I didn't get a box of envelopes, thereby preventing me from sorting any further and potentially preventing me from having them ready in time for the sale to begin on Thursday.
And, further, if I had half a brain in my head, I might have realized before saying I would take on the monumental task, that I do enough and am too damn busy as it is without adding something else to the mix.
And, if I sign up to do this again next year, you may as well consider me to be insane because two years in a row? I don't think insane is a strong enough word actually.
And, I know you aren't supposed to start a sentence with "and" but I am anyway. So there.
In other news, I sorted and folded all kinds of laundry today which makes me feel all accomplished and what not.
I also made a super-easy dinner that EVERYONE in the family loved. Now that's an accomplishment!
(Yes, I am aware of how disjointed this entry sounds...I am just not in the mood to fix it).
And, more specifically in my case, if I didn't wait til the last damn minute to sort the Entertainment books for the MECC, I might have realized sooner that I didn't get a box of envelopes, thereby preventing me from sorting any further and potentially preventing me from having them ready in time for the sale to begin on Thursday.
And, further, if I had half a brain in my head, I might have realized before saying I would take on the monumental task, that I do enough and am too damn busy as it is without adding something else to the mix.
And, if I sign up to do this again next year, you may as well consider me to be insane because two years in a row? I don't think insane is a strong enough word actually.
And, I know you aren't supposed to start a sentence with "and" but I am anyway. So there.
In other news, I sorted and folded all kinds of laundry today which makes me feel all accomplished and what not.
I also made a super-easy dinner that EVERYONE in the family loved. Now that's an accomplishment!
(Yes, I am aware of how disjointed this entry sounds...I am just not in the mood to fix it).
Monday, September 3, 2007
Game Day
I can't believe that I forgot to mention that Emily won Red Sox tickets! Every year, during the last week of school, Jason Varitek sponsors the Reading Matters contest. Students pledge to read nine books (one for each position on the baseball field) over the summer. A postcard is mailed back in and a drawing is held for various prizes. Emily won two tickets, right behind the Red Sox bullpen for yesterday's game. She took Ryun (of course!) and they had fun. He took her early so they could go out to breakfast and see the "sights" on Yawkey Way. They had their picture taken by a Red Sox Fan Foto Staffer, which you can find here (select yesterday's game, Sunday, September 2, and gallery 1). For those who don't know us in "real life" their picture is number 30.
We found out last week during our many visits to the school that her 4th grade teacher won tickets too, just because it was her student who participated in the contest. Her teacher sat in the row right behind Emily.
Ryun and Emily had a great "father/daughter day!
We found out last week during our many visits to the school that her 4th grade teacher won tickets too, just because it was her student who participated in the contest. Her teacher sat in the row right behind Emily.
Ryun and Emily had a great "father/daughter day!
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