My sister and I were chatting last night and after reading my original "Name" post, we got to talking about silly names.
Apparently there was a Fanny Fennel on my mom's side of the family.
After my sister read the "La-a" name, we got pretty silly. Here are some of the names we came up with. Most of the names have a "partner" because my sister has this idea that she'd like me to have twins.
My friend Tyler and I decided that Ampersand would be a good name. Then they could change their name to &. Then, they could go by, "The child formerly known as &."
Nat and I decided that Ctrl, Alt, and Del would make great names for triplets.
We also decided that <, > and ^ were viable names for triplets. Natalee decided that < would have emotional issues due to her name, so we should start a therapy fund now.
I always thought Hey You and Stop That made great names for twins.
We decided that the names Semi Colon and Colon might cause them to get beat up at school.
We also thought that Shift and Tab might work too.
I think our discussion about unique names got a bit out of hand, but we had a fun time being silly. We are all about unique names (see previous blog "Names.") Heck, even Natalee is spelled differently than the normal NataLIE."
Any other odd names out there?
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wish List
As I am preparing to start another school year at the Youth Improvement Program, I am realizing that we are in need of some supplies. Since my budget comes from grants that I write, if I feel we need something for the program, I have to find the money. Please check out my list below and if you have anything that you are willing to donate, please let me know.
If you don't know what I do, I am the coordinator (and lead teacher) of the Steuben County Youth Improvement Program. The Steuben County Youth Improvement Day program was started as collaboration between the Steuben County Circuit Courts, Steuben County Probation Department, Steuben County Community Corrections, and the Steuben County Department of Child and Family Services. The program was created with the goal of providing a suitable alternative to expensive, out-of-home placements for the county’s juvenile offenders. The program provides services for both male and female students between the ages of 12 and 17 from the 9 local secondary schools. Any local secondary school student who is suspended/expelled, may be referred to our program by the Probation Department, County Courts, Department of Child Services, or by their home school administrators.
The program serves as a day treatment/reporting program for both pre- and post adjudicated youth. The program provides an alternative to out-of-home placement for the juveniles who violate their probation orders by violating their home school rules. The program provides supervision as well as an education to the youth who are/have been exhibiting delinquent behavior. Since our creation, the program has saved Steuben County over $1.35 MILLION in placement costs! Our students are not "bad" kids. They have messed up along the way and are working towards correcting those mistakes and getting back into public school. They aren't thugs or gangsters (although many try to pretend that they are).
Our program is run out of a slightly converted ranch style house in Angola. We have a kitchen and the students are able to cook themselves lunch. They have access to the toaster over, fridge, oven, microwave, dishes, etc.
We would be extremely thankful for any donations we were given. Also, if you know anyone who is willing to be a substitute for our program, please let me know. We tend to lean towards someone who has some educational experience or criminal justice experience, but I want to open the doors to anyone! We will need a maternity sub from mid-March through the beginning of May. These kids just need to know that someone cares for them. If you are willing to just donate a day or two of your time to come mentor, we would appreciate that too!
If you don't know what I do, I am the coordinator (and lead teacher) of the Steuben County Youth Improvement Program. The Steuben County Youth Improvement Day program was started as collaboration between the Steuben County Circuit Courts, Steuben County Probation Department, Steuben County Community Corrections, and the Steuben County Department of Child and Family Services. The program was created with the goal of providing a suitable alternative to expensive, out-of-home placements for the county’s juvenile offenders. The program provides services for both male and female students between the ages of 12 and 17 from the 9 local secondary schools. Any local secondary school student who is suspended/expelled, may be referred to our program by the Probation Department, County Courts, Department of Child Services, or by their home school administrators.
The program serves as a day treatment/reporting program for both pre- and post adjudicated youth. The program provides an alternative to out-of-home placement for the juveniles who violate their probation orders by violating their home school rules. The program provides supervision as well as an education to the youth who are/have been exhibiting delinquent behavior. Since our creation, the program has saved Steuben County over $1.35 MILLION in placement costs! Our students are not "bad" kids. They have messed up along the way and are working towards correcting those mistakes and getting back into public school. They aren't thugs or gangsters (although many try to pretend that they are).
Our program is run out of a slightly converted ranch style house in Angola. We have a kitchen and the students are able to cook themselves lunch. They have access to the toaster over, fridge, oven, microwave, dishes, etc.
We would be extremely thankful for any donations we were given. Also, if you know anyone who is willing to be a substitute for our program, please let me know. We tend to lean towards someone who has some educational experience or criminal justice experience, but I want to open the doors to anyone! We will need a maternity sub from mid-March through the beginning of May. These kids just need to know that someone cares for them. If you are willing to just donate a day or two of your time to come mentor, we would appreciate that too!
Wish List
Books: Of any kind. We would love to have a bookcase full of various books for them to read. Many of our students are intelligent and do fly through the work. We like the option of having them have quiet reading time each day.
Textbooks: I know that sometimes students in public schools are allowed to keep their textbooks if the school is "retiring" that set. Anything that is of the 6th grade level and up would be greatly appreciated. Along those lines, any workbooks that haven't been used.
Home schooling materials: I am going to start working with our local libraries to try and touch base with some home schooling circles in our area about providing us with some unused materials.
Furniture: We have a few "mushroom" style chairs, but after 4 school years and 100+ teenagers, they are looking a bit worn. Even a 2, 3, or 4 shelf bookcase.
Basketball Hoop: When the weather is nice, we use outside time as an incentive for good behavior. We often have a program full of teenage males and since we have very little backyard space but plenty of parking lot space.
3 Ring Binders: We assign each student a 3 ring binder to keep all of their course work. They are expected to return them at the end of their stay in our program. After 100+ students, ours are looking very worn. We use every size. The larger ones we use to keep all our course work together.
Silverware: Somehow are are down to 1 spoon and 2 decent forks.
If you have any of these items and are willing to donate them to a good cause, please let me know!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
No More Free T.P.
A&M could 'wipe away' toilet paper
School considers move a way to save money
Updated: Tuesday, 27 Jul 2010, 12:39 PM EDT
Published : Tuesday, 27 Jul 2010, 12:38 PM EDT
Josh Hinkle
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KXAN) - Toilet paper squares could soon be in high demand at Texas A&M University .
The school’s Department of Student Affairs is amid discussions to rid “free” toilet paper in its residence halls to save money.
School officials said the move could wipe away around $82,000 from the budget. Student Affairs is tasked with eliminating $2.2 million for fiscal year 2012, and this is among $40 million in cost-cutting methods proposed campuswide.
Under the toilet paper plan, the school would provide “a few” free rolls to bathrooms at the start of the semester, which students would then later have to supply on their own.
School officials said larger dorm bathrooms - those meant for at least four students - will most likely keep free toilet paper in stock.
State higher education officials could not say whether this is a move other schools are considering to save money.
*****************************
Ok, I am all for cutting costs, but this will just cost the university more in the end. Students will just flush inappropriate wiping materials, like paper towel. Paper towel will cause the toilet to plug and flood, and then the university will have a real mess on their hands.
As if prepping to go away to college isn't difficult enough, now you have to remember to pack the Charmin too?
School considers move a way to save money
Updated: Tuesday, 27 Jul 2010, 12:39 PM EDT
Published : Tuesday, 27 Jul 2010, 12:38 PM EDT
Josh Hinkle
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KXAN) - Toilet paper squares could soon be in high demand at Texas A&M University .
The school’s Department of Student Affairs is amid discussions to rid “free” toilet paper in its residence halls to save money.
School officials said the move could wipe away around $82,000 from the budget. Student Affairs is tasked with eliminating $2.2 million for fiscal year 2012, and this is among $40 million in cost-cutting methods proposed campuswide.
Under the toilet paper plan, the school would provide “a few” free rolls to bathrooms at the start of the semester, which students would then later have to supply on their own.
School officials said larger dorm bathrooms - those meant for at least four students - will most likely keep free toilet paper in stock.
State higher education officials could not say whether this is a move other schools are considering to save money.
*****************************
Ok, I am all for cutting costs, but this will just cost the university more in the end. Students will just flush inappropriate wiping materials, like paper towel. Paper towel will cause the toilet to plug and flood, and then the university will have a real mess on their hands.
As if prepping to go away to college isn't difficult enough, now you have to remember to pack the Charmin too?
Names
Ayron and I are currently trying to decide on names. We know we have a loooong time before we have to make a final decision, but it's fun to browse and see what other people view as decent names. Seeing as how Ayron and I both have unique names, at times, we find ourselves shying away from unique names. I could never find any school supplies with "Carma" on them. But at other times, we like the uniqueness of our names.
Ayron got his unique spelling because at the time of his birth, 3 other boys (of all similar weight, length, etc) were born and they were all named Aaron.
I was given my name by my father. During my mom's pregnancy with me, her mother passed away. My father chose to name me after her. You don't find to many Carma's around! I have only ever personally met one other Carma who spelled it the way I spell mine. When I looked up the meaning of the name, I found out it is Hebrew and stands for "garden" or "orchid."
We just knew from the start we were going to name Taylor, Taylor. We actually chose that name regardless of the gender of the baby. Once we knew we were having a boy, I knew I wanted to use my family's name "Josiah" for a middle name. It worked out really well because we call Taylor "TJ" for short. TJ happened to be Ayron's grandfather's name. Grandpa TJ had been at Ayron's house the night he passed away. He just didn't feel right and knew that something was about to happen. He called Ayron and his brother over and hugged and kissed them goodbye. Sadly, TJ passed away as Tom was driving him to the hospital. That memory will stay with Ayron forever. Thus, we just knew that Taylor Josiah was the perfect name for child #1.
I have been browsing through some name banks on line and am amazed at the names people will give their children. Here are some funny ones. Please keep in mind that I find these names odd. If you have one of these names, I am not saying you are odd, heck I probably don't even know you!
La-a: Supposed to be pronounced "Ladasha." I would be the smart alec that would call her "La hyphen a."
Cube: While my mother was doing her OB rotation many years ago, a couple wanted to name their new son after the boy on the Mickey Mouse show. They wanted Cubby, Mom couldn't convince them to change the spelling. So to this day, that boy adult has the name of a 6 sided square.
Nevaeh: Ok, so I know it's "heaven" spelled backwards, but I have this theory. If you name your child anything like Angel, or Nevaeh, they will live up the opposite meaning of their name!
Alf: So not kidding. Found this while searching for boy names. Seeing this name makes me immediately picture a short brown fuzzy alien. It also makes me want to run and hide my cat before he gets eaten.
America: I have to wonder what spawned this choice for the parents. Were they afraid their child would forget the name of our country? Or maybe they have a thing about naming their children after the state they were conceived in. No joke, I know someone who did that.
Bertha: Really? Who in this day and age would name their daughter Bertha? It's one of those old fashioned names, like Betty.
Early: Apparently it is a boy's name. Wouldn't it be ironic if Early took 41 weeks to arrive?
Easter: Do they also have a child named Christmas and Thanksgiving?
Fanny: Makes me think of the joke we have for my mom's side of the family. When you get older, you develop the "Fennell Fanny."
Icy: Really? Someone named their daughter this? Was she born during a blizzard?
Pleasant: I'm willing to bet he is the teacher's worst nightmare.
Ayron got his unique spelling because at the time of his birth, 3 other boys (of all similar weight, length, etc) were born and they were all named Aaron.
I was given my name by my father. During my mom's pregnancy with me, her mother passed away. My father chose to name me after her. You don't find to many Carma's around! I have only ever personally met one other Carma who spelled it the way I spell mine. When I looked up the meaning of the name, I found out it is Hebrew and stands for "garden" or "orchid."
We just knew from the start we were going to name Taylor, Taylor. We actually chose that name regardless of the gender of the baby. Once we knew we were having a boy, I knew I wanted to use my family's name "Josiah" for a middle name. It worked out really well because we call Taylor "TJ" for short. TJ happened to be Ayron's grandfather's name. Grandpa TJ had been at Ayron's house the night he passed away. He just didn't feel right and knew that something was about to happen. He called Ayron and his brother over and hugged and kissed them goodbye. Sadly, TJ passed away as Tom was driving him to the hospital. That memory will stay with Ayron forever. Thus, we just knew that Taylor Josiah was the perfect name for child #1.
I have been browsing through some name banks on line and am amazed at the names people will give their children. Here are some funny ones. Please keep in mind that I find these names odd. If you have one of these names, I am not saying you are odd, heck I probably don't even know you!
La-a: Supposed to be pronounced "Ladasha." I would be the smart alec that would call her "La hyphen a."
Cube: While my mother was doing her OB rotation many years ago, a couple wanted to name their new son after the boy on the Mickey Mouse show. They wanted Cubby, Mom couldn't convince them to change the spelling. So to this day, that boy adult has the name of a 6 sided square.
Nevaeh: Ok, so I know it's "heaven" spelled backwards, but I have this theory. If you name your child anything like Angel, or Nevaeh, they will live up the opposite meaning of their name!
Alf: So not kidding. Found this while searching for boy names. Seeing this name makes me immediately picture a short brown fuzzy alien. It also makes me want to run and hide my cat before he gets eaten.
America: I have to wonder what spawned this choice for the parents. Were they afraid their child would forget the name of our country? Or maybe they have a thing about naming their children after the state they were conceived in. No joke, I know someone who did that.
Bertha: Really? Who in this day and age would name their daughter Bertha? It's one of those old fashioned names, like Betty.
Early: Apparently it is a boy's name. Wouldn't it be ironic if Early took 41 weeks to arrive?
Easter: Do they also have a child named Christmas and Thanksgiving?
Fanny: Makes me think of the joke we have for my mom's side of the family. When you get older, you develop the "Fennell Fanny."
Icy: Really? Someone named their daughter this? Was she born during a blizzard?
Pleasant: I'm willing to bet he is the teacher's worst nightmare.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Outrageous Chocolate Chip Cookies
I haven't blogged in awhile, and for that I am sorry. In recent news, we are pregnant with baby #2 and that pregnancy has caused me to rekindle my urge to bake sweets (although I won't eat them.) I found the following recipe in The Greater Fort Wayne Family Magazine. I would like to caution that this recipe makes A LOT of cookies. I still have 1/4 of the batter left to bake and have close to 74 cookies already.
2 C. Sugar
1 1/2 C. brown sugar
2 C. Margarine
2 C. Peanut Butter
2 tsp. Vanilla
4 Eggs
4 C. Flour
2 C. Oatmeal
4 tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. salt
12 oz. Chocolate Chips
Melt margarine and mix with sugars, peanut butter, and eggs. Then add the dry ingredients. Mix until blended. Then add chocolate chips. Roll into balls and bake at 350 for 10 to 15 minutes. Cookies will spread out and have golden edges when done.
As I typed up the recipe I realized that while it lists vanilla in the ingredients, it doesn't mention it in the actual prep of the cookie. I also just realized that I left it out! I am assuming my mistake doesn't matter because Ayron and Tj are happily devouring some warm cookies now. Beware, have a large glass of cold milk handy!
2 C. Sugar
1 1/2 C. brown sugar
2 C. Margarine
2 C. Peanut Butter
2 tsp. Vanilla
4 Eggs
4 C. Flour
2 C. Oatmeal
4 tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. salt
12 oz. Chocolate Chips
Melt margarine and mix with sugars, peanut butter, and eggs. Then add the dry ingredients. Mix until blended. Then add chocolate chips. Roll into balls and bake at 350 for 10 to 15 minutes. Cookies will spread out and have golden edges when done.
As I typed up the recipe I realized that while it lists vanilla in the ingredients, it doesn't mention it in the actual prep of the cookie. I also just realized that I left it out! I am assuming my mistake doesn't matter because Ayron and Tj are happily devouring some warm cookies now. Beware, have a large glass of cold milk handy!
Monday, July 12, 2010
What If...
I was lying awake last night (newly developed insomnia) and started to wonder, "what if..."
What if you had chosen right instead of left?
What if you had said "yes" instead of "no?"
What if things were black instead of white?
What if you were judged instead of doing the judging?
What if you listened twice a long as you talked?
What if you took a chance?
What if you trusted someone others wouldn't?
What if you truly followed your dreams?
What if you did someone no one would suspect of you?
What if we all told the truth, regardless of who it would hurt?
What if we actually spoke our minds?
What if we all decided to help a stranger?
What if you had chosen right instead of left?
What if you had said "yes" instead of "no?"
What if things were black instead of white?
What if you were judged instead of doing the judging?
What if you listened twice a long as you talked?
What if you took a chance?
What if you trusted someone others wouldn't?
What if you truly followed your dreams?
What if you did someone no one would suspect of you?
What if we all told the truth, regardless of who it would hurt?
What if we actually spoke our minds?
What if we all decided to help a stranger?
Monday, June 28, 2010
Win a Ride in a Duesenburg!
My husbands new company was instrumental in securing the Duesenburg Drag Races this year during the ACD Festival! If you have a child between the ages of 7 and 17, check this out. It will be an awesome event! Normally only a handful (7 or 8) of Duesenburgs are here for the Labor Day festivities, we already have close to 30 signed up!
http://www.classicaleventauctions.com/index.php
Scroll down to the lower right and click on the link under "Coloring Contest" to download the pdf file.
If you are interested in buying or selling a car at our Labor Day Auction, let me know! We will be holding our auction at the Classic City Center across from DeKalb High School. Our event is a family friendly event with activities for everyone in the whole family!
Come out and see Ayron auction live! We are also in talks to have the world's only blind (and licensed) auctioneer on the podium as well! It will be an awesome time!
http://www.classicaleventauctions.com/index.php
Scroll down to the lower right and click on the link under "Coloring Contest" to download the pdf file.
If you are interested in buying or selling a car at our Labor Day Auction, let me know! We will be holding our auction at the Classic City Center across from DeKalb High School. Our event is a family friendly event with activities for everyone in the whole family!
Come out and see Ayron auction live! We are also in talks to have the world's only blind (and licensed) auctioneer on the podium as well! It will be an awesome time!
Friday, June 18, 2010
I'll take a Nicholas Sparks book and a side of mayo
This one is for my sister (a librarian).
Woman, 74, put mayo in book drop
BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Police in Idaho think they might have solved a yearlong condiment crime spree.
BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Police in Idaho think they might have solved a yearlong condiment crime spree.
Authorities said a 74-year-old Boise woman arrested after pouring mayonnaise in the Ada County library's book drop box is a person of interest in at least 10 other condiment-related crimes.
Joy L. Cassidy was picked up Sunday at the library, moments after police say she pulled through the outside drive-through and dumped a jar of mayo in the box designated for reading materials.
Cassidy was released from jail and faces a misdemeanor charge of malicious injury to property.
Boise police say Cassidy is under investigation for other cases of vandalism that started in May 2009. Library employees have reported finding books in the drop box covered in corn syrup and ketchup.
Cassidy was released from jail and faces a misdemeanor charge of malicious injury to property.
Boise police say Cassidy is under investigation for other cases of vandalism that started in May 2009. Library employees have reported finding books in the drop box covered in corn syrup and ketchup.
I had to laugh. What did the library do that made her soooo mad that she thought, "Hmmm... some mayo in their drop box will teach them not to mess with me!" She has done this at least 10 other times. I have to wonder if she chose Mayo or that nasty impersonator, Miracle Whip. Why did she exclude mustard? All of these thoughts and no answers.
I have tried to edit this so when it posts it's not all smooshed together, but I just can't get it to work....sorry!
My Sick and Twisted Mind
Ok, so I am sitting in Magistrate Court at the moment and I forgot to bring my book with me. I have been surfing news sites for the past hour killing time and came across this article.
First thing that got me was the name of the company. Please tell me I am not the only one who giggled at that!
I am not saying that obesity is an issue to take lightly. I myself could stand to shed some pounds and am currently working on that issue.
After reading the article I then began to wonder, "Where in the world am I going to get a casket for Ayron?" (When the time comes, I love him and don't want him to go anytime soon).
For those of you who don't know who Ayron is, he is my husband. Ok, so no biggie right? Wrong. he is 6'10" and will not fit in the normal casket. I have to wonder if they make a "big and tall" casket store or if the one in the article could custom build something long enough. Heck, where to pro basketball players go to get their caskets?
I know death is a sad thought, but this article has me thinking that maybe cremation is the way to go!
First thing that got me was the name of the company. Please tell me I am not the only one who giggled at that!
I am not saying that obesity is an issue to take lightly. I myself could stand to shed some pounds and am currently working on that issue.
After reading the article I then began to wonder, "Where in the world am I going to get a casket for Ayron?" (When the time comes, I love him and don't want him to go anytime soon).
For those of you who don't know who Ayron is, he is my husband. Ok, so no biggie right? Wrong. he is 6'10" and will not fit in the normal casket. I have to wonder if they make a "big and tall" casket store or if the one in the article could custom build something long enough. Heck, where to pro basketball players go to get their caskets?
I know death is a sad thought, but this article has me thinking that maybe cremation is the way to go!
Monday, June 14, 2010
10 Years.
Saturday night we went to Ayron's ten year high school reunion. I started realizing that if he has been out of high school 10 years, then I have been out 9. It seems like 9 years is a lot of time, but then again, it doesn't.
I was amazed by one of his former peers who now lives in Switzerland. She is married to a gentleman that I went to high school with and while they were living in Boston they both decided they wanted to live overseas. So they up and moved. I can't imagine moving across the state, let alone across the ocean. I can't imagine living in a country were you don't speak the language and your parents aren't close. I admire anyone who has the knowledge and emotional strength to move to a different country. I wouldn't even know where to begin.
I started thinking about what I had managed to accomplish since graduating high school. I earned a BS, got married, bought a house, started a family, got a great job. It may not be a new life in a foreign country, but I'm happy with what I have accomplished. I have strong family ties and a job (although it can be frustrating) that is rewarding and allows me to inspire young minds that would normally be misunderstood in a public high school. No, it's no foreign country, but I will stick with what I have.
I was amazed by one of his former peers who now lives in Switzerland. She is married to a gentleman that I went to high school with and while they were living in Boston they both decided they wanted to live overseas. So they up and moved. I can't imagine moving across the state, let alone across the ocean. I can't imagine living in a country were you don't speak the language and your parents aren't close. I admire anyone who has the knowledge and emotional strength to move to a different country. I wouldn't even know where to begin.
I started thinking about what I had managed to accomplish since graduating high school. I earned a BS, got married, bought a house, started a family, got a great job. It may not be a new life in a foreign country, but I'm happy with what I have accomplished. I have strong family ties and a job (although it can be frustrating) that is rewarding and allows me to inspire young minds that would normally be misunderstood in a public high school. No, it's no foreign country, but I will stick with what I have.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Jell-O Cookies
Here is a new cookie idea I tried today. They turned out good and Ayron liked them so I think they are a "winner." I did make some "tweeks" that made it easier so I'll incorporate them below.
3 1/2 C. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Powder
3 Sticks butter (softened)
1 C. Sugar
2 pkgs. Jell-O (small packages of your favorite flavors, you could probably "mix and match")
1 Egg
1 tsp. vanilla
Sift the flour and baking powder together in a medium bowl. In a large bowl beat the butter with an electric mixer until fluffy. Slowly mix in the sugar and 1 package of the jello. Beat until incorporated. Mix in the egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until completely mixed. Place dough in fridge or freezer for a couple of minutes (keeps the mixture from sticking to your hands).
Shape dough into small balls and place 1" apart on cookie sheet (I recommend you line the pans with parchment paper). Then place the cookie sheet in the freezer for another couple of minutes. Use a clean glass to flatten the dough balls into circles (I actually dipped the glass in flour to prevent sticking). Use the 2nd package of Jell-o to "sprinkle" the cookies. Then place in a 400 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
I am assuming you could mix and match your two favorite flavors of Jell-O. I stuck with strawberry and Ayron liked them. I was certain that shaping the balls would dye my hands red, but it didn't. I was surprised!
I discovered that chilling the dough just made the process a lot easier.
3 1/2 C. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Powder
3 Sticks butter (softened)
1 C. Sugar
2 pkgs. Jell-O (small packages of your favorite flavors, you could probably "mix and match")
1 Egg
1 tsp. vanilla
Sift the flour and baking powder together in a medium bowl. In a large bowl beat the butter with an electric mixer until fluffy. Slowly mix in the sugar and 1 package of the jello. Beat until incorporated. Mix in the egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until completely mixed. Place dough in fridge or freezer for a couple of minutes (keeps the mixture from sticking to your hands).
Shape dough into small balls and place 1" apart on cookie sheet (I recommend you line the pans with parchment paper). Then place the cookie sheet in the freezer for another couple of minutes. Use a clean glass to flatten the dough balls into circles (I actually dipped the glass in flour to prevent sticking). Use the 2nd package of Jell-o to "sprinkle" the cookies. Then place in a 400 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
I am assuming you could mix and match your two favorite flavors of Jell-O. I stuck with strawberry and Ayron liked them. I was certain that shaping the balls would dye my hands red, but it didn't. I was surprised!
I discovered that chilling the dough just made the process a lot easier.
Adventures in Soap Making
I knew you could make your own laundry soap, but I had never tried it. Due to sensitive skin, I have to buy the All "Free and Clear" detergent and that can be costly with as much laundry as I do (Husband, 2 year old, and a dog create a lot of laundry). I knew my sister in law made her own soap and a lady my mom knows makes her own as well. My mom brought home some soap for me to try and I loved it. It doesn't have the dyes or perfumes that cause me to break out in hives.
We had to go to Rural King this morning to get something for the dog, so I decided to get the supplies needed to make my own soap. Here is how is broke down cost wise to make roughly 30 gallons of laundry soap.
Arm & Hammer Washing Soda $3.29
Fels Naptha Bars (we bought 6) $7.74
20 Mule Borax Laundry Booster $3.99
I also bought 2 large buckets for $2.99 a piece, but those are a one time expense, so I didn't add them into my cost analysis.
So the grand total of my purchase was 15.02 (without tax). Divide that by the 30 gallons of soap it will make and the final cost is roughly 50 cents a gallon! You can't beat that! I was spending at least $9 a month on laundry soap, but not anymore!
Here is the recipe for the homemade laundry soap that I will use.
1 bar of laundry soap (Fels Naptha)
1/2 C. Borax
1 C. Washing Soda
Grate the bar of laundry soap and melt on stop with just a little bit of water. Fill 5 gallon bucket 1/2 full with hot water. Add soap, borax, and soda. Mix well. Fill bucket with more hot water (enough to fill the 5 gallon bucket). Stir. Use 1/2 C. of the soap per load. Makes 5 gallons.
We had to go to Rural King this morning to get something for the dog, so I decided to get the supplies needed to make my own soap. Here is how is broke down cost wise to make roughly 30 gallons of laundry soap.
Arm & Hammer Washing Soda $3.29
Fels Naptha Bars (we bought 6) $7.74
20 Mule Borax Laundry Booster $3.99
I also bought 2 large buckets for $2.99 a piece, but those are a one time expense, so I didn't add them into my cost analysis.
So the grand total of my purchase was 15.02 (without tax). Divide that by the 30 gallons of soap it will make and the final cost is roughly 50 cents a gallon! You can't beat that! I was spending at least $9 a month on laundry soap, but not anymore!
Here is the recipe for the homemade laundry soap that I will use.
1 bar of laundry soap (Fels Naptha)
1/2 C. Borax
1 C. Washing Soda
Grate the bar of laundry soap and melt on stop with just a little bit of water. Fill 5 gallon bucket 1/2 full with hot water. Add soap, borax, and soda. Mix well. Fill bucket with more hot water (enough to fill the 5 gallon bucket). Stir. Use 1/2 C. of the soap per load. Makes 5 gallons.
Thursday, June 03, 2010
Start Strong: Building Healthy Teen Relationships Initiative
I was browsing through newspapers (on line of course) and came across this article from the IndyStar.
I have to say, I LOVE THIS IDEA!!! What took so long for someone to create something like this? We do something similar with our students in my program, but we are flexible enough and can make the time. Why couldn't this idea be incorporated into EVERY Health class in the nation?
I have to say, I LOVE THIS IDEA!!! What took so long for someone to create something like this? We do something similar with our students in my program, but we are flexible enough and can make the time. Why couldn't this idea be incorporated into EVERY Health class in the nation?
Another School Year Has Come and Gone
Yesterday I ended my fourth school year running the Youth Improvement Program. For those of you who don't know what I do, here is a brief idea.
I run a school for local juvenile delinquents. Some students I get are in trouble with the law,
some are just in trouble at school. I get what most teachers would categorize as the "worst
of the worst." We choose to see them as misunderstood and seek to help them become not
only better students, but well rounded members of the community.
This past school year was our biggest yet. We had 39 students come through our doors, and of those 39, 35 were successfully readmitted back into their "home" school. It was a busy and crazy year, but it was also fun. We had some "repeat" offenders, but it was great to watch how they grew and matured and took responsibility for their actions.
As we were playing "Hillbilly Golf" in the yard yesterday with all the kids we noticed a former student (let's call him T)moving into a house across the street. He came over to visit and it was great to see a success story 2 years after we had him in our program. He is working a great job. His girlfriend is a stay at home mother to their two children and they are planning their wedding. He starts school at Trine this fall and she starts Trine next week. He and his girlfriend have even taken in his younger brother and are making sure he completes his education as well. The visit from T reminded me why I do what I do.
Now it's time to take off the teacher hat and put on the criminal justice hat. I spend my summers working for Community Corrections and this summer I will be leading some juvenile work crews (hoping to score a tan as well!) as well as my normal court duties. As I sit in my quiet office, just 16 hours after the last student of this year walked out the door, I am lonely. I got used to having all 8 of the students here early asking questions or just hanging out and reading the paper.
I run a school for local juvenile delinquents. Some students I get are in trouble with the law,
some are just in trouble at school. I get what most teachers would categorize as the "worst
of the worst." We choose to see them as misunderstood and seek to help them become not
only better students, but well rounded members of the community.
This past school year was our biggest yet. We had 39 students come through our doors, and of those 39, 35 were successfully readmitted back into their "home" school. It was a busy and crazy year, but it was also fun. We had some "repeat" offenders, but it was great to watch how they grew and matured and took responsibility for their actions.
As we were playing "Hillbilly Golf" in the yard yesterday with all the kids we noticed a former student (let's call him T)moving into a house across the street. He came over to visit and it was great to see a success story 2 years after we had him in our program. He is working a great job. His girlfriend is a stay at home mother to their two children and they are planning their wedding. He starts school at Trine this fall and she starts Trine next week. He and his girlfriend have even taken in his younger brother and are making sure he completes his education as well. The visit from T reminded me why I do what I do.
Now it's time to take off the teacher hat and put on the criminal justice hat. I spend my summers working for Community Corrections and this summer I will be leading some juvenile work crews (hoping to score a tan as well!) as well as my normal court duties. As I sit in my quiet office, just 16 hours after the last student of this year walked out the door, I am lonely. I got used to having all 8 of the students here early asking questions or just hanging out and reading the paper.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Olympic Mascots
I was doing my usual morning check of yahoo news and came across this sports blog. I have to agree with Chris Chase, those are two goofy looking mascots.
The so called "taxi cab" light on the head reminds me of a pop up turkey timer and I simply want to push it back down. The one on the right looks like he we his pants. Heck, if I had creepy blue lobster claws for hands, I just might wet myself too!
I can't tell what the orange design is supposed to be. I can tell you that it looks like the orange guy has some serious cellulite going on around his midsection and legs, but then again, who doesn't have that issue?
The video only made me wonder how "George" is able to stand upright with such a gigantic head! Guess we'll just have to wait and see what other crazy things London does for the Olympics.
The so called "taxi cab" light on the head reminds me of a pop up turkey timer and I simply want to push it back down. The one on the right looks like he we his pants. Heck, if I had creepy blue lobster claws for hands, I just might wet myself too!
I can't tell what the orange design is supposed to be. I can tell you that it looks like the orange guy has some serious cellulite going on around his midsection and legs, but then again, who doesn't have that issue?
The video only made me wonder how "George" is able to stand upright with such a gigantic head! Guess we'll just have to wait and see what other crazy things London does for the Olympics.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Not Sure
I am not sure what to think about a situation that accrued earlier this week at work. Before I tell you what happened, let me give those of you who have no clue what I do, some background knowledge.
I run a school for juveniles who are in the court system and have been suspended or kicked out of school. My program prevents the judge from having to use tax payer dollars to lock a student just so they can get their education. At a cost of $200 a day for lock up (per kid) times the 90 (or so) students I have had over the last 3 years, I have helped save the county a lot of money. In order to keep a full house of kids (my program is run out of an older ranch house that has had some conversions done) I will take school referrals (kids who are just in trouble at school, but not legally). This helps the schools out because they can still count the students in their head count (and receive the money from the state for the kid), but they don't have to deal with their problematic behavior. I take these kids at NO COST to the schools. I have a great working relationship with all the schools in the county I work and I LOVE MY JOB. That being said, here is what happened.
I had some school officials just drop in, unannounced. They had never been here before and thought they'd stop in to check on their student. I am sure I looked like a bum. I have been fighting a bug and wore jeans and a hoodie that day to work since I didn't think I would be seeing anyone official. So, I'm sure my laid back apparel through them for a loop. Like I said, my program is run out of a small house. It isn't much, but we make it work. If I need anything, I have to write grants for the money. I don't mind, sure I may complain, but it keeps me busy. So after taking a look around, one of the officials said, "Oh, so this is it?" It was said with a nasty derogatory tone and they were standing right next to me. I must have had a shocked look on my face because they immediately said, "Oh, you weren't supposed to hear that." What did they think was going to happen? I was standing right next to them. I bit my tongue and replied, "Well, we are small, but we are able to accomplish things with these kids that the public schools can't. We truly are the definition of 'No Child Left Behind.' AND we do it all without any financial help from your school. So far this year, we have helped 38 kids, 5 of them being your districts students. We aren't much, but we can work miracles because we give the kids a chance and we work with them, not against them."
So, was my reply to snotty? I was just appalled at their comment and had to defend myself. So many of the kids I get have been written off by their schools and their parents. They just want someone to give a crap about them and take an interest in their lives. We do that, we show them that someone cares and is willing to advocate for them. What I really wanted to say was, "Look here, you guys write off these kids and we take them in. We take in the kids you refuse to help and all the baggage they carry. We work miracles when you can't and we don't even charge you. You should be happy we exist." But I didn't. I still have to wonder if my response was appropriate.
I have to wonder if administrators see me as young and a bit juvenile myself. I am 26 (I actually had to stop and do the math in my head) years old and have been doing this job for three schools years now. I truly think I have grown more in this last year, and I know I have more growing to do. I have to wonder when people will stop seeing me as a young, novice teacher and more like an experience professional that can handle the toughest kids and help them succeed.
I am excited to say that a local guidance counselor "went to bat" for me during a meeting and praised our program. It made my heart swell. It was nice to hear someone verbalize that my program is working. The judge is happy with my program (he is the brain child behind the original program) and that also makes me happy. This Thursday Senator K is actually coming to visit our program and see just what it is that we do here. I look forward to showing him how we are able to work miracles with the students who have been left behind or just plain forgotten.
I run a school for juveniles who are in the court system and have been suspended or kicked out of school. My program prevents the judge from having to use tax payer dollars to lock a student just so they can get their education. At a cost of $200 a day for lock up (per kid) times the 90 (or so) students I have had over the last 3 years, I have helped save the county a lot of money. In order to keep a full house of kids (my program is run out of an older ranch house that has had some conversions done) I will take school referrals (kids who are just in trouble at school, but not legally). This helps the schools out because they can still count the students in their head count (and receive the money from the state for the kid), but they don't have to deal with their problematic behavior. I take these kids at NO COST to the schools. I have a great working relationship with all the schools in the county I work and I LOVE MY JOB. That being said, here is what happened.
I had some school officials just drop in, unannounced. They had never been here before and thought they'd stop in to check on their student. I am sure I looked like a bum. I have been fighting a bug and wore jeans and a hoodie that day to work since I didn't think I would be seeing anyone official. So, I'm sure my laid back apparel through them for a loop. Like I said, my program is run out of a small house. It isn't much, but we make it work. If I need anything, I have to write grants for the money. I don't mind, sure I may complain, but it keeps me busy. So after taking a look around, one of the officials said, "Oh, so this is it?" It was said with a nasty derogatory tone and they were standing right next to me. I must have had a shocked look on my face because they immediately said, "Oh, you weren't supposed to hear that." What did they think was going to happen? I was standing right next to them. I bit my tongue and replied, "Well, we are small, but we are able to accomplish things with these kids that the public schools can't. We truly are the definition of 'No Child Left Behind.' AND we do it all without any financial help from your school. So far this year, we have helped 38 kids, 5 of them being your districts students. We aren't much, but we can work miracles because we give the kids a chance and we work with them, not against them."
So, was my reply to snotty? I was just appalled at their comment and had to defend myself. So many of the kids I get have been written off by their schools and their parents. They just want someone to give a crap about them and take an interest in their lives. We do that, we show them that someone cares and is willing to advocate for them. What I really wanted to say was, "Look here, you guys write off these kids and we take them in. We take in the kids you refuse to help and all the baggage they carry. We work miracles when you can't and we don't even charge you. You should be happy we exist." But I didn't. I still have to wonder if my response was appropriate.
I have to wonder if administrators see me as young and a bit juvenile myself. I am 26 (I actually had to stop and do the math in my head) years old and have been doing this job for three schools years now. I truly think I have grown more in this last year, and I know I have more growing to do. I have to wonder when people will stop seeing me as a young, novice teacher and more like an experience professional that can handle the toughest kids and help them succeed.
I am excited to say that a local guidance counselor "went to bat" for me during a meeting and praised our program. It made my heart swell. It was nice to hear someone verbalize that my program is working. The judge is happy with my program (he is the brain child behind the original program) and that also makes me happy. This Thursday Senator K is actually coming to visit our program and see just what it is that we do here. I look forward to showing him how we are able to work miracles with the students who have been left behind or just plain forgotten.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
The Forgotten Mothers
I was chatting with a friend yesterday about Mother's Day. We both agreed that Mother's Day had gotten a bit blown out of proportion and turned more into a "Hallmark" holiday than anything else. She asked me if it was odd for me to buy someone else a Mother's Day present when I am a mother myself. I thought about it and to me it isn't odd. But that is not the part of the conversation that stuck with me. As I thought about our conversation I realized that several of my friends are mothers without haven given birth. So this is my "Happy Mother's Day" to them. I am not going to name them by name, but by initials.
C.B.: You are a mother. Each year you help mother/teach/inspire 30 kids to become great learners for the rest of their lives. You spend countless hours planning and teaching each child. You recognize their learning styles and help them become who you know they can be. You deal with problematic students on a daily basis and yet you keep going. For that, you are a mother. You help with your 5 nieces and nephews. For that, you are a mother. You care about the students your husband coaches. For that, you are a mother. So Happy Mother's Day to you!
D.Y.: I know I speak for several mothers when I say, thank you for helping us keep our sanity when it comes to our own children. You are always willing to help nanny our kids when we are at our breaking point. You take our kids so we can have a weekend away. You let our kids sleep in your bed. You take our kids trick or treating (so you can have a cut of the candy ;) ).For that, you are a mother. You deal with kids all year long during play/musical productions. You teach them how to dance, act, and sing. For that, you are a mother. You are more of a mother than you realize. Happy Mother's Day.
N.R.: You let me crash at your place in college. You provided me a place to escape a witch of a roommate. You stood up for me when said witch roommate turned me in for having a weapon (it was a freaking pocket knife!) and the police came and all that happened due to it. For that, you are a mother. I couldn't have made it through labor without you. You stood by my side the enter time (I am still surprised you didn't pass out!). You listened to me call you every name under the book through the pushing process, and yet you just calming told me, "You have to breathe. Do it for Taylor." For that, you are a mother. You helped me become a mother and helped me kick our mother (gee, guess I really didn't need to use initials on this one since that gave it away) out of the room. I see how you play with Tj and encourage him to read. For that, you are a mother. You help "mother" college students through their research projects and papers. For that, you are a mother. So Happy Mother's Day!
C.B.: You are a mother. Each year you help mother/teach/inspire 30 kids to become great learners for the rest of their lives. You spend countless hours planning and teaching each child. You recognize their learning styles and help them become who you know they can be. You deal with problematic students on a daily basis and yet you keep going. For that, you are a mother. You help with your 5 nieces and nephews. For that, you are a mother. You care about the students your husband coaches. For that, you are a mother. So Happy Mother's Day to you!
D.Y.: I know I speak for several mothers when I say, thank you for helping us keep our sanity when it comes to our own children. You are always willing to help nanny our kids when we are at our breaking point. You take our kids so we can have a weekend away. You let our kids sleep in your bed. You take our kids trick or treating (so you can have a cut of the candy ;) ).For that, you are a mother. You deal with kids all year long during play/musical productions. You teach them how to dance, act, and sing. For that, you are a mother. You are more of a mother than you realize. Happy Mother's Day.
N.R.: You let me crash at your place in college. You provided me a place to escape a witch of a roommate. You stood up for me when said witch roommate turned me in for having a weapon (it was a freaking pocket knife!) and the police came and all that happened due to it. For that, you are a mother. I couldn't have made it through labor without you. You stood by my side the enter time (I am still surprised you didn't pass out!). You listened to me call you every name under the book through the pushing process, and yet you just calming told me, "You have to breathe. Do it for Taylor." For that, you are a mother. You helped me become a mother and helped me kick our mother (gee, guess I really didn't need to use initials on this one since that gave it away) out of the room. I see how you play with Tj and encourage him to read. For that, you are a mother. You help "mother" college students through their research projects and papers. For that, you are a mother. So Happy Mother's Day!
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Financial Food for Thought
While browsing on line I came across this article. I TOTALLY agree with what Jeff Yeager said, "But what we're missing is the golden epiphany of the time -- not can we save, but what do we need?"
I used to be a coupon FREAK! Scouring websites and papers and cutting out ANY coupon I found. It didn't matter if I used that product or not, it was a coupon! Who knows when I would want to save 30 cents on 5 cans of Pringles?! I finally realized I was spending time throwing out coupons that I didn't use. Now I browse the coupons and if it's a product I use (or one I know a friend uses: diapers, etc). I'll clip the coupon. 9 times out of 10, I just buy the store brand because it ends up being cheaper than the name brand (even if I had a coupon for the name brand).
I still plan our our weekly meals and use that to plan my grocery list. Make the weekly menu not only streamlines the grocery buying process, but eliminates the "What's for dinner?" question that so often used to lead to, "I don't know. I didn't get anything out to thaw so lets just go out to eat."
I also liked Yeager's thoughts on housing. Sure, I'd LOVE a bigger house, but a bigger house would lead to more space, which would lead to me feeling the need to fill all the new space with new stuff, stuff we didn't really need. I like my small house. At times I wish I had more cupboard space, or a bigger bathroom, etc. but who doesn't?
We are actually in the process of getting rid of crap we have that we don't use. If it truly is crap, it is going to to the curb for spring clean up. If it is decent and something we could sell, then it goes on craigslist, ebay or in the garage sale. Everything else gets put in a place. I think we have 3 lawnmowers right now. Only 1 of which we actually use. We have a lawn rake, it's a gas powered thing and to tell you the truth, I'm not sure what it is supposed to do. All I know is that Ayron thought we needed it so when my Dad offered it to him (My dad moved from MI to SC), Ayron took it. We have 3 snow blowers. One doesn't work. One does work, but is smaller. Our third one was given to us by Ayron's dad when they moved. It is a monstrosity, but it clears the driveway in 2 passes down and back, so I think we'll keep that one! I have boxes of Corelle dishes that I have yet to open. They were given to us as wedding presents. If I haven't used them in the five years we have been married, why am I hanging on to them?
As for "less destructive habits," we have discovered a few. About once a week we bike to the local school park to let TJ play. We get our exercise biking and he gets to run off energy in the playground. It often turns into a social event because the school is a halfway mark between our house and friends house (she also has a two year old boy who loves to run around). We go to the mentioned friend's house and feed the fish in the pond behind her house. The boys LOVE to throw the bread into the water and watch the fish fight over it. If I have a bread product that goes hard, it gets tossed in the "fish" baggie and when the baggie is full, we go feed the fish. We also let TJ play outside in the rain. That was the most entertaining for all involved. He loved it! Sure I had a muddy two year old and an equally muddy husband afterwards, but they wash, and so do their clothes.
The authors last remarks about toilet paper made me laugh. What good is buying the cheap 1 ply toilet paper when one drop of liquid makes the whole sheet disappear? I will stick with my White Cloud toilet paper thank you very much!
So I am curious. What things are you doing to keep your spending habits under control (or to change them)?
I used to be a coupon FREAK! Scouring websites and papers and cutting out ANY coupon I found. It didn't matter if I used that product or not, it was a coupon! Who knows when I would want to save 30 cents on 5 cans of Pringles?! I finally realized I was spending time throwing out coupons that I didn't use. Now I browse the coupons and if it's a product I use (or one I know a friend uses: diapers, etc). I'll clip the coupon. 9 times out of 10, I just buy the store brand because it ends up being cheaper than the name brand (even if I had a coupon for the name brand).
I still plan our our weekly meals and use that to plan my grocery list. Make the weekly menu not only streamlines the grocery buying process, but eliminates the "What's for dinner?" question that so often used to lead to, "I don't know. I didn't get anything out to thaw so lets just go out to eat."
I also liked Yeager's thoughts on housing. Sure, I'd LOVE a bigger house, but a bigger house would lead to more space, which would lead to me feeling the need to fill all the new space with new stuff, stuff we didn't really need. I like my small house. At times I wish I had more cupboard space, or a bigger bathroom, etc. but who doesn't?
We are actually in the process of getting rid of crap we have that we don't use. If it truly is crap, it is going to to the curb for spring clean up. If it is decent and something we could sell, then it goes on craigslist, ebay or in the garage sale. Everything else gets put in a place. I think we have 3 lawnmowers right now. Only 1 of which we actually use. We have a lawn rake, it's a gas powered thing and to tell you the truth, I'm not sure what it is supposed to do. All I know is that Ayron thought we needed it so when my Dad offered it to him (My dad moved from MI to SC), Ayron took it. We have 3 snow blowers. One doesn't work. One does work, but is smaller. Our third one was given to us by Ayron's dad when they moved. It is a monstrosity, but it clears the driveway in 2 passes down and back, so I think we'll keep that one! I have boxes of Corelle dishes that I have yet to open. They were given to us as wedding presents. If I haven't used them in the five years we have been married, why am I hanging on to them?
As for "less destructive habits," we have discovered a few. About once a week we bike to the local school park to let TJ play. We get our exercise biking and he gets to run off energy in the playground. It often turns into a social event because the school is a halfway mark between our house and friends house (she also has a two year old boy who loves to run around). We go to the mentioned friend's house and feed the fish in the pond behind her house. The boys LOVE to throw the bread into the water and watch the fish fight over it. If I have a bread product that goes hard, it gets tossed in the "fish" baggie and when the baggie is full, we go feed the fish. We also let TJ play outside in the rain. That was the most entertaining for all involved. He loved it! Sure I had a muddy two year old and an equally muddy husband afterwards, but they wash, and so do their clothes.
The authors last remarks about toilet paper made me laugh. What good is buying the cheap 1 ply toilet paper when one drop of liquid makes the whole sheet disappear? I will stick with my White Cloud toilet paper thank you very much!
So I am curious. What things are you doing to keep your spending habits under control (or to change them)?
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Brown Eyed Susans
I decided to try another recipe from my Grandmother's cook book. This one was incredibly easy and fast.
Brown Eyed Susans
1 1/2 C. Bisquick
1/3 C. oil
1 lrg. box instant vanilla pudding
2 eggs
1 box junior mint candies
Mix the first four ingredients. Drop by teaspoonful on ungreased baking sheet. Place a candy on top of each cookie and pat flat. Bake in a 350 oven for 12 to 14 minutes.
Here are the before and after pics.
Brown Eyed Susans
1 1/2 C. Bisquick
1/3 C. oil
1 lrg. box instant vanilla pudding
2 eggs
1 box junior mint candies
Mix the first four ingredients. Drop by teaspoonful on ungreased baking sheet. Place a candy on top of each cookie and pat flat. Bake in a 350 oven for 12 to 14 minutes.
Here are the before and after pics.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Another Sleepless Night
Last night I was absent minded listening to the news while I was cooking dinner. I discovered that they were talking about a former student of mine. Thank goodness for my DVR because I was able to "rewind" and listen again. She had been missing since Monday evening. I immediately called my staff and alerted them and started brainstorming. Who could she be with? Where would she have gone? Etc.
I formulated some ideas and called the Auburn Police Department and informed them of who I was and gave them my "ideas."
I was up all night wondering where she could be and what made her think that leaving home would solve any problems she was having. I racked my brain trying to think of anything she could have said while she was in my program that would lead us to her. Needless to say, I didn't sleep.
This morning I learned that she had been found and was safe and all was well.
It's events like this that make my job difficult. I love my job, I get to work with so many interesting students. Yeah, I get pain in the bottoms who can be problematic, but what teacher doesn't? Every student I take in, I become emotionally attached to. Obviously they need help and to know that someone cares about them or they wouldn't have made it to my program. I get to know them in a different manner than their public school teachers would have the opportunity to. I become emotionally invested in their lives and I didn't realize how much it got to me until last night. I was worried all night like she was my daughter. I was pacing the house and racking my brain.
I love my job and the crazy kiddos that come with it, but I could do without the worrying and sleepless nights!
I formulated some ideas and called the Auburn Police Department and informed them of who I was and gave them my "ideas."
I was up all night wondering where she could be and what made her think that leaving home would solve any problems she was having. I racked my brain trying to think of anything she could have said while she was in my program that would lead us to her. Needless to say, I didn't sleep.
This morning I learned that she had been found and was safe and all was well.
It's events like this that make my job difficult. I love my job, I get to work with so many interesting students. Yeah, I get pain in the bottoms who can be problematic, but what teacher doesn't? Every student I take in, I become emotionally attached to. Obviously they need help and to know that someone cares about them or they wouldn't have made it to my program. I get to know them in a different manner than their public school teachers would have the opportunity to. I become emotionally invested in their lives and I didn't realize how much it got to me until last night. I was worried all night like she was my daughter. I was pacing the house and racking my brain.
I love my job and the crazy kiddos that come with it, but I could do without the worrying and sleepless nights!
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