Most of my readers are aware of the many committees and task forces I serve on as well as the volunteer positions I hold. If not (or if you just don't remember!), please see this post for the most recent list. My reasons for taking such an active role in the lives of my children through these committees are many and varied but first and foremost is my commitment to the education of my daughter's and the critical role I know parent involvement plays in their success. That being said, I don't join a committee, organization or take on a volunteer position just because it looks good. I do it because I want to and because I care and want to make a difference. In many of the committees I serve on or the organizations I belong to I dive right in, usually taking on some sort of role beyond just being a member. I give my full attention and dedication to my work on these committees and make sure that I am timely in all of my communications, carry out whatever tasks are expected of me and take an active, participatory role in all I do. There are a few areas in my life in which my commitment and dedication are lacking (mostly when it comes to taking care of me) but in the instances above in which my work will directly affect others, you can be sure that I will see whatever I start right through to the end.
Perhaps it is because of my overwhelmingly strong sense of responsibility that it bothers me when others don't share this intense dedication and commitment. It is frustrating beyond belief when someone else steps up to the plate to do something and they don't. It is even more aggravating when I step up the plate to do something and the lack of follow through of someone else impedes my ability to do my job well, or in the case I am referring to, at all. Exactly how hard is it to respond to my repeated inquiries so I can proceed with my tasks with the appropriate information? I can rest easy knowing I have done my part by trying, on multiple occasions to get the information needed. What I can't deal with is someone else's lack of follow through making me look bad.
Showing posts with label All About Me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label All About Me. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Back To Life
It was back to "real life" today for the Ellis Family and I think the kids were actually excited to get back in to a schedule. Other than having company for the latter half of the week, we didn't really do anything all that exciting. I think the kids wish we had, but for me, a nice relaxing week of nothing was needed and well deserved. Only Julia was slightly hesitant about heading back to school but this is normal for her. It has always been a bit of an adjustment for her to get back in to the swing of things after a break.
Reality for me means that I am very busy. As luck would have it, this week is fairly low key with meetings (only two which must be some sort of record). I was planning on going to the BOS meeting tonight but I think I am going to watch this one from home. I have a lot to do before my trip to DC next week and since I will be gone for three days, I want to be home with the family as much as possible before then. Tomorrow night I have the third of four planned Strategic Planning meetings for the School Department and Wednesday I will be at PTSA at the middle school. The kids have a few things going on (a basketball practice, playoff basketball game and a doctor's appointment for Katherine and Scouts, PTSA and a cookie sale for Emily). My lack of meetings will make this week easier, but certainly no less busy when you throw in the kids schedules.
My plans for the remainder of the afternoon are trip related. I need to figure out and arrange for transportation to and from the airport and the hotel as well as figure out exactly what I will need to bring for money (most expenses are paid for by the National PTA but there are a few things I will need to take care of). I need to make phone calls to confirm meetings with Senators Kerry and Brown as well as Congressman Frank. I am also going to finish putting together my binder with all of the information I need to have with me so that will be all set. After that, the OCD part of me will be making a complete listing of everything Ryun needs to know while I am gone. I wouldn't consider my self to be controlling or a control freak but when it comes to the kids, their schedules and routines, yes, I am slightly obsessed. That aside, there are certain things that I just always do...things like go through their school materials when they get home, make sure homework gets done etc. It has always just been my job and while I have every confidence that Ryun knows what to do and is more than capable of doing it, it will make me feel better to have it in writing. Even re-reading this I realize how crazy this sounds but, um, it won't stop me from doing it. I am just going to embrace the crazy...it is what it is, right?
Anyway, off to it. There are only a couple of hours left before the kids get home!
Reality for me means that I am very busy. As luck would have it, this week is fairly low key with meetings (only two which must be some sort of record). I was planning on going to the BOS meeting tonight but I think I am going to watch this one from home. I have a lot to do before my trip to DC next week and since I will be gone for three days, I want to be home with the family as much as possible before then. Tomorrow night I have the third of four planned Strategic Planning meetings for the School Department and Wednesday I will be at PTSA at the middle school. The kids have a few things going on (a basketball practice, playoff basketball game and a doctor's appointment for Katherine and Scouts, PTSA and a cookie sale for Emily). My lack of meetings will make this week easier, but certainly no less busy when you throw in the kids schedules.
My plans for the remainder of the afternoon are trip related. I need to figure out and arrange for transportation to and from the airport and the hotel as well as figure out exactly what I will need to bring for money (most expenses are paid for by the National PTA but there are a few things I will need to take care of). I need to make phone calls to confirm meetings with Senators Kerry and Brown as well as Congressman Frank. I am also going to finish putting together my binder with all of the information I need to have with me so that will be all set. After that, the OCD part of me will be making a complete listing of everything Ryun needs to know while I am gone. I wouldn't consider my self to be controlling or a control freak but when it comes to the kids, their schedules and routines, yes, I am slightly obsessed. That aside, there are certain things that I just always do...things like go through their school materials when they get home, make sure homework gets done etc. It has always just been my job and while I have every confidence that Ryun knows what to do and is more than capable of doing it, it will make me feel better to have it in writing. Even re-reading this I realize how crazy this sounds but, um, it won't stop me from doing it. I am just going to embrace the crazy...it is what it is, right?
Anyway, off to it. There are only a couple of hours left before the kids get home!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Suggestions
It is my intent to spend the entire afternoon outside tomorrow to take full advantage of the beautiful day that is coming our way. Ideally I would like to spend some of the time walking and some, perhaps, just sitting down and taking it all in. Normally, a walk along the canal suits these purposes just fine but I was thinking it would be nice to try something different. So,local readers, I am looking for your suggestions. Not to be extremely picky but here is my ideal description of someplace I would like to go:
-must be local to Middleboro (by local I mean in Middleboro itself or within 45 minutes of the town lines because I need to be home late afternoon for the girls and don't intend to head out until mid morning or so).
-must have paved or well packed down walkways (I am not at all opposed to walking through the woods but I imagine the woods would be a muddy, wet mess at this point with the snow melt and I am all set with that).
-must have some sort of option for sitting (benches would be ideal but if the walkway is paved, I don't mind just sitting along the edge) so I can just sit, relax, admire the scenery, take in the fresh air, and possibly even spend some time reading).
-Must not need four wheel drive as the only means of access (no four wheel drive on the van).
So there you have it. Suggestions welcome and appreciated!
-must be local to Middleboro (by local I mean in Middleboro itself or within 45 minutes of the town lines because I need to be home late afternoon for the girls and don't intend to head out until mid morning or so).
-must have paved or well packed down walkways (I am not at all opposed to walking through the woods but I imagine the woods would be a muddy, wet mess at this point with the snow melt and I am all set with that).
-must have some sort of option for sitting (benches would be ideal but if the walkway is paved, I don't mind just sitting along the edge) so I can just sit, relax, admire the scenery, take in the fresh air, and possibly even spend some time reading).
-Must not need four wheel drive as the only means of access (no four wheel drive on the van).
So there you have it. Suggestions welcome and appreciated!
Friday, February 04, 2011
Attics, Birds, Doors and Flowers
Last night I had a dream that Ryun and I were looking at the front door of our house, trying to figure out why there were pink flowers growing from the top of the door and why, when it was opened we could see directly through the ceiling to the attic where there were birds nesting and chirping away.
Um...yeah. People probably think my dreams are weird. Personally I think they are always symbolic of something and what would be weird is if I ever had a normal, run of the mill dream that had no clearly defined meaning.
I have become so good at analyzing my dreams without the aid of a dream dictionary that it is almost scary. I knew this dream would have something to do with letting go, love, happiness and self discovery. When I referred to the dream dictionary here is what I found:
To dream of chirping and/or flying birds, represents joy, harmony, ecstasy, balance, and love. It denotes a sunny outlook in life. You are experiencing spiritual freedom and psychological liberation.
Um...yeah. People probably think my dreams are weird. Personally I think they are always symbolic of something and what would be weird is if I ever had a normal, run of the mill dream that had no clearly defined meaning.
I have become so good at analyzing my dreams without the aid of a dream dictionary that it is almost scary. I knew this dream would have something to do with letting go, love, happiness and self discovery. When I referred to the dream dictionary here is what I found:
To dream of chirping and/or flying birds, represents joy, harmony, ecstasy, balance, and love. It denotes a sunny outlook in life. You are experiencing spiritual freedom and psychological liberation.
A door that opens into the inside, denotes your desire for inner exploration and self-discovery.
An attic symbolizes your mind, spirituality, and your connection to the higher Self.
To see colorful flowers in your dream, signify kindness, compassion, gentleness, pleasure, beauty, and gain. It is also symbolic of perfection and spirituality. Your dream may be an expression of love, joy and happiness. Alternatively, flowers in dream, especially if they are blooming, represent your hidden potential and latent talents.
Pink represents love, joy, sweetness, happiness, affection and kindness.
Looks like my interpretation was right on.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Do you ever...
...just want to apologize to your kids for their poor fortune in inheriting your worst qualities and traits? Or for their genetic makeup that was not of their choosing(obviously)? I don't know...maybe I am the only one.
I was thinking about this after a recent discussion with Katherine's teacher. You all know (well anybody that has been following this blog for a while knows) that my oldest daughter Emily has ADD. I don't think I or my parents necessarily realized it at the time but reflecting back, and looking at myself now as an adult, there isn't a doubt in my mind that I am the picture perfect painting of someone with attentional issues. It manifests in different ways as an adult. I am the world's worst procrastinator(though I do find that under pressure is the only way I work to my capacity). I jump from one thing to another before I have finished the first thing. My follow through skills leave a lot to be desired. I would literally forget my entire life if I didn't have it staring me down in multiple locations...calendars, post it notes, electronic devices etc. I can't even tell you what I am doing tomorrow without consulting my calendar. I don't plan anything that I am not forced to (for example scheduled appointments).
For Emily, her concerns are a direct result of her confirmed medical issues. After she was diagnosed with Epilepsy, as part of a normal barrage of testing to find out if her seizures had a definable cause, her MRI came back showing a "never before seen" abnormality in the frontal lobes of her brain. Since the frontal lobes control all things like attention and other executive functions, Emily's concerns in this area make sense. Though I have never had an MRI of my brain, I have no reason to believe that I have this same condition, nor do I for Katherine who is progressively displaying some of the same symptoms her sister and I have displayed, and some different ones as well.
It becomes clearer to me as we move through this life that these types of things obviously "run" in families. Whether there is an identifiable medical concern that could cause such attention deficits as in Emily's case, or if it is some intricate part of our genetic make up, I do not know. It is possible that simply the way we live our everyday lives has some influence on this as well. Are we making the right decisions about certain things? Could situations be handled in different ways achieving different outcomes in regard to the level of attention that is given?
I don't know the answers and I suspect I never will, at least not in a concrete sort of way. What I do know is this: I need to get rid of the guilt. I also need to remind myself that they may have gotten the worst but they also got the best of me. And if the best of me is some of what I see in them everyday? The best of me is pretty damn good.
I was thinking about this after a recent discussion with Katherine's teacher. You all know (well anybody that has been following this blog for a while knows) that my oldest daughter Emily has ADD. I don't think I or my parents necessarily realized it at the time but reflecting back, and looking at myself now as an adult, there isn't a doubt in my mind that I am the picture perfect painting of someone with attentional issues. It manifests in different ways as an adult. I am the world's worst procrastinator(though I do find that under pressure is the only way I work to my capacity). I jump from one thing to another before I have finished the first thing. My follow through skills leave a lot to be desired. I would literally forget my entire life if I didn't have it staring me down in multiple locations...calendars, post it notes, electronic devices etc. I can't even tell you what I am doing tomorrow without consulting my calendar. I don't plan anything that I am not forced to (for example scheduled appointments).
For Emily, her concerns are a direct result of her confirmed medical issues. After she was diagnosed with Epilepsy, as part of a normal barrage of testing to find out if her seizures had a definable cause, her MRI came back showing a "never before seen" abnormality in the frontal lobes of her brain. Since the frontal lobes control all things like attention and other executive functions, Emily's concerns in this area make sense. Though I have never had an MRI of my brain, I have no reason to believe that I have this same condition, nor do I for Katherine who is progressively displaying some of the same symptoms her sister and I have displayed, and some different ones as well.
It becomes clearer to me as we move through this life that these types of things obviously "run" in families. Whether there is an identifiable medical concern that could cause such attention deficits as in Emily's case, or if it is some intricate part of our genetic make up, I do not know. It is possible that simply the way we live our everyday lives has some influence on this as well. Are we making the right decisions about certain things? Could situations be handled in different ways achieving different outcomes in regard to the level of attention that is given?
I don't know the answers and I suspect I never will, at least not in a concrete sort of way. What I do know is this: I need to get rid of the guilt. I also need to remind myself that they may have gotten the worst but they also got the best of me. And if the best of me is some of what I see in them everyday? The best of me is pretty damn good.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Confirmed
I am happy to report that I will be attending the National PTA Federal Legislative Conference in March. I will have the opportunity to meet with Senators John Kerry and Scott Brown as well as Middleborough's Representative, Barney Frank and spread the PTA message (which can be found here).
In other related news, I am now officially serving a dual role on the MA PTA Board. I am both the State Advocacy Chair and the Federal Legislative Chair.
Who knew that when I joined the PTA six years ago it would lead to all of this?
In other related news, I am now officially serving a dual role on the MA PTA Board. I am both the State Advocacy Chair and the Federal Legislative Chair.
Who knew that when I joined the PTA six years ago it would lead to all of this?
Monday, January 24, 2011
And This Is Just Today's Agenda.
-condensing PTA Committee Reports and the newsletter
-updating the funds available reports for the Principals
-paying a few PTA bills
-printing the PTA Public Policy Agenda for 2011
-gathering responses to see if we will have a rescheduled School Council meeting Wednesday and emailing Mrs. L to let her know
-updating the new PTA treasurer with the details of what is what
-responding to PTA emails, writing a summary of the Federal Legislative call from last month
-continuing the development of the PTA website
-deciding if I can be available tomorrow nights PTA federal Legislative call
-printing and updating calendars for the bulletin board
-looking in to scheduling the PTA SHARP program at Nichols this summer (instead of HBB due to reconfiguration)
-emailing the PTA about up and coming volunteer opportunities
-typing up the notes for last weeks MKG/HBB School Council meeting
-planning for a meeting with Kate's teacher tomorrow
-rescheduling an appointment for Emily
I have a feeling all of this will go well in to the evening hours. Had I not made the decision to limit my intake I might have been asking for caffeine on an IV drip. It's a good thing I love every minute of all of this otherwise this list might look a bit more...daunting.
Break time is officially over. Back to it I go!
-updating the funds available reports for the Principals
-paying a few PTA bills
-printing the PTA Public Policy Agenda for 2011
-gathering responses to see if we will have a rescheduled School Council meeting Wednesday and emailing Mrs. L to let her know
-updating the new PTA treasurer with the details of what is what
-responding to PTA emails, writing a summary of the Federal Legislative call from last month
-continuing the development of the PTA website
-deciding if I can be available tomorrow nights PTA federal Legislative call
-printing and updating calendars for the bulletin board
-looking in to scheduling the PTA SHARP program at Nichols this summer (instead of HBB due to reconfiguration)
-emailing the PTA about up and coming volunteer opportunities
-typing up the notes for last weeks MKG/HBB School Council meeting
-planning for a meeting with Kate's teacher tomorrow
-rescheduling an appointment for Emily
I have a feeling all of this will go well in to the evening hours. Had I not made the decision to limit my intake I might have been asking for caffeine on an IV drip. It's a good thing I love every minute of all of this otherwise this list might look a bit more...daunting.
Break time is officially over. Back to it I go!
Friday, January 21, 2011
PTA Update
During a MA PTA Board Meeting via conference call yesterday, I found out I may have the opportunity to attend the Federal Legislative Conference in DC this March. To help put this in to perspective a bit regarding how excited I am about this possibility, last years guest speaker was Michelle Obama. I am not sure who it will be this year.
The first day of the conference is workshops. I have already picked the workshops that I would like to participate in (Taking It To The Hill: PTA's 2011 Public Policy Agenda, 21st Century Voices: Using the Power Of Social Media to Persuade and Inform, Education and the Federal Budget, and Using Family Engagement to Drive Student Achievement). The next day is visits to Capitol Hill to meet with our MA senators and representatives to bring forth our PTA message and the Public Policy Agenda.
If this all works out, I couldn't even begin to tell you how excited I would be to do this.
We also started planning our visit to Beacon Hill to discuss the budget with our local and state representatives. We have a room reserved that hold 50 people (100 if we are standing). It will be sent out to PTA members statewide to attend and we (or me being he advocacy chair) will present our thoughts and concerns regarding the state budget and how it relates to children. I am pretty excited about this too (except for the part that involves driving or otherwise commuting to Boston).
Over the next few weeks I plan to do a lot of homework. I am going to review all of my information about advocacy, how a bill becomes a law, when bills are brought forth, deadlines, the re-authorization of ESEA, and the just released 2011 Public Policy Agenda. I want to make sure I am 100% confident and ready (even though at this point I have committed a lot of this to memory already).
The first day of the conference is workshops. I have already picked the workshops that I would like to participate in (Taking It To The Hill: PTA's 2011 Public Policy Agenda, 21st Century Voices: Using the Power Of Social Media to Persuade and Inform, Education and the Federal Budget, and Using Family Engagement to Drive Student Achievement). The next day is visits to Capitol Hill to meet with our MA senators and representatives to bring forth our PTA message and the Public Policy Agenda.
If this all works out, I couldn't even begin to tell you how excited I would be to do this.
We also started planning our visit to Beacon Hill to discuss the budget with our local and state representatives. We have a room reserved that hold 50 people (100 if we are standing). It will be sent out to PTA members statewide to attend and we (or me being he advocacy chair) will present our thoughts and concerns regarding the state budget and how it relates to children. I am pretty excited about this too (except for the part that involves driving or otherwise commuting to Boston).
Over the next few weeks I plan to do a lot of homework. I am going to review all of my information about advocacy, how a bill becomes a law, when bills are brought forth, deadlines, the re-authorization of ESEA, and the just released 2011 Public Policy Agenda. I want to make sure I am 100% confident and ready (even though at this point I have committed a lot of this to memory already).
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Cool Mom
I just signed on to Emily's i tunes account and download some of her music to my i pod touch, because yes, I am just cool like that. Here's the latest playlist generated from her music:
Firework by Katy Perry (LOVE this song)
Just A Dream By Nelly
Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars (LOVE this one too!)
Ke$ha Tik Tok
Raise Your Glass Pink
Check It Out Nicki Minaj
Time Of My Life Black Eyed Peas
B.O.B. Magic In Me
Enrique Iglesias Baby I Like It
Freak the Freak Out Victoria Justice
Comin' Home Dirty Money
Grenade Bruno Mars
Sara Barielles King Of Anything
The "coolness factor" goes both ways. Emily has some music from the 80's and before on her i pod including NKOTB, Air Supply, old school Bon Jovi, Men At Work, Hall and Oates, AC DC, Aerosmith, Jimmy Buffett, Kool and the Gang, MJ, U2, Journey and more. She also has a fair amount of country music, my other favorite genre.
And of course she also has some Barry Manilow on there. Let's face it, no music collection could possibly be considered complete without a little Barry.
Firework by Katy Perry (LOVE this song)
Just A Dream By Nelly
Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars (LOVE this one too!)
Ke$ha Tik Tok
Raise Your Glass Pink
Check It Out Nicki Minaj
Time Of My Life Black Eyed Peas
B.O.B. Magic In Me
Enrique Iglesias Baby I Like It
Freak the Freak Out Victoria Justice
Comin' Home Dirty Money
Grenade Bruno Mars
Sara Barielles King Of Anything
The "coolness factor" goes both ways. Emily has some music from the 80's and before on her i pod including NKOTB, Air Supply, old school Bon Jovi, Men At Work, Hall and Oates, AC DC, Aerosmith, Jimmy Buffett, Kool and the Gang, MJ, U2, Journey and more. She also has a fair amount of country music, my other favorite genre.
And of course she also has some Barry Manilow on there. Let's face it, no music collection could possibly be considered complete without a little Barry.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
We had a snow day today...
...and I have been up since 4:30 this morning. There really is something wrong with that. I woke when Ryun walked out the door to go check out the snow situation and see if he was going to try to get to Mass Eye and Ear for work. He came back in shortly afterward and announced that he was going to shovel out and make the attempt. At that point it was snowing heavily, with visibility next to nothing, and roads that were plowed but still not great. I though he was crazy but he is one of those people that goes to work unless something catastrophic happens (for example, the end of the world). After he shoveled and left, I couldn't fall back asleep (probably because I was nervous about him getting to work safely). At 5:40 I got a phone message from him saying he made it as far as exit 6 on 495 (coming from exit 3) and that he was turning around. After thanking him for coming to his senses, I hung up and tried to go back to sleep. I ended up getting up at 6 (thank you internal alarm clock). Had I known this was going to happen, I might have thought twice about staying up until 1AM. The kids didn't wake until 8 (ish) so we had a nice couple of hours to ourselves. I spent it chillaxin' on the couch, paying only slight attention to an episode of HIMYM, followed by Modern Marvels: Corpse Tech. Uh...yeah.
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Ring Ring Ring
I don't like to talk on the phone. Actually, I pretty much hate it. It is much worse for me from an anxiety perspective when I actually have to talk to someone on the phone that I don't know. Even when it is someone who I am completely comfortable with (who are far and few between) I still would rather talk in person or even better through some other form of communication (email, text).
Whoever invented caller id is my hero. When the phone rings and I can see who it is calling, I can make a decision about whether I want to talk. I have to be in the mood to talk and in the right frame of mind. I can almost guarantee that if someone is calling from a number I don't recognize or worse, from a blocked line, I won't answer. I am just not comfortable being put on the spot.
Another phone related issue...when someone calls and does not leave a message. Even more annoying than that...when someone calls repeatedly and doesn't leave a message. Obviously if you are calling me you have something to say. I have a voice mail so you can say it, so would you, pretty please?
So, to the person who has called multiple times today (at least I am guessing it is the same person but regardless) not only from a blocked line but also not leaving a message: Unblock your number and I may answer and for the love of God leave a message!
P.S. Yes, I know have a little stranger/social anxiety. Knowing is half the battle though right?
Whoever invented caller id is my hero. When the phone rings and I can see who it is calling, I can make a decision about whether I want to talk. I have to be in the mood to talk and in the right frame of mind. I can almost guarantee that if someone is calling from a number I don't recognize or worse, from a blocked line, I won't answer. I am just not comfortable being put on the spot.
Another phone related issue...when someone calls and does not leave a message. Even more annoying than that...when someone calls repeatedly and doesn't leave a message. Obviously if you are calling me you have something to say. I have a voice mail so you can say it, so would you, pretty please?
So, to the person who has called multiple times today (at least I am guessing it is the same person but regardless) not only from a blocked line but also not leaving a message: Unblock your number and I may answer and for the love of God leave a message!
P.S. Yes, I know have a little stranger/social anxiety. Knowing is half the battle though right?
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thankful
In keeping with tradition, I posted on Facebook everyday during the month of November (ok, well a lot of days) one reason I was thankful. I kept track of all of these posts and thought I would chronicle them here.
-Today I am thankful in advance for the patience and understanding the universe is hopefully going to bestow upon me so that I will actually survive the teenage years.
-Today I am thankful for my patience and easy going nature. Both have come in quite handy.
-Today I am thankful that my teenage daughter actually likes me for a minute. Those of you with teens know how precious a moment in time like this truly is.
-Today I am thankful for my ability to read. It may seem silly, but reading brings me so much pleasure and knowledge, I can't imagine my life without it.
-Today I am thankful because Ryun has been back to work for two weeks. I know how lucky we are that he is back and only missed seven months.
-Tonight I am thankful for the enthusiastic group of PTA volunteers who came up with some great ideas for the PTA and community.
-Today I am thankful for all who have, all who are and all who will serve this country. Thank you hardly seems like enough.
-Today I am thankful for caffeine.
-Today I am thankful for whatever this random motivation that has found its way to me over the past couple of days. Crossing things of of the to do list feels good.
-Today I am thankful for and so very proud of Julia.
-Music can be such a powerful thing. There have been many times in my life where music has inspired me, soothed me and gotten me through a rough day. For this reason, I am thankful for music and my ability to hear.
-Today I am thankful for the gift of sight. I have seen many beautiful things in my life and for that I am very grateful.
-Today I am thankful for my parents and my sisters. Put simply: my family rocks!
-Today I am thankful for my children. They have taught me more about life, love and patience than I could have ever thought possible.
-Today I am thankful for Katherine. Eleven years ago today (Thanksgiving Day 1999) I was blessed with one of the most amazing and beautiful reasons to be thankful...my daughter Katherine Elizabeth. Happy 11th Birthday Katherine...thank you for bringing so much joy and laughter to my life!
Happy Thanksgiving!
-Today I am thankful in advance for the patience and understanding the universe is hopefully going to bestow upon me so that I will actually survive the teenage years.
-Today I am thankful for my patience and easy going nature. Both have come in quite handy.
-Today I am thankful that my teenage daughter actually likes me for a minute. Those of you with teens know how precious a moment in time like this truly is.
-Today I am thankful for my ability to read. It may seem silly, but reading brings me so much pleasure and knowledge, I can't imagine my life without it.
-Today I am thankful because Ryun has been back to work for two weeks. I know how lucky we are that he is back and only missed seven months.
-Tonight I am thankful for the enthusiastic group of PTA volunteers who came up with some great ideas for the PTA and community.
-Today I am thankful for all who have, all who are and all who will serve this country. Thank you hardly seems like enough.
-Today I am thankful for caffeine.
-Today I am thankful for whatever this random motivation that has found its way to me over the past couple of days. Crossing things of of the to do list feels good.
-Today I am thankful for and so very proud of Julia.
-Music can be such a powerful thing. There have been many times in my life where music has inspired me, soothed me and gotten me through a rough day. For this reason, I am thankful for music and my ability to hear.
-Today I am thankful for the gift of sight. I have seen many beautiful things in my life and for that I am very grateful.
-Today I am thankful for my parents and my sisters. Put simply: my family rocks!
-Today I am thankful for my children. They have taught me more about life, love and patience than I could have ever thought possible.
-Today I am thankful for Katherine. Eleven years ago today (Thanksgiving Day 1999) I was blessed with one of the most amazing and beautiful reasons to be thankful...my daughter Katherine Elizabeth. Happy 11th Birthday Katherine...thank you for bringing so much joy and laughter to my life!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 12, 2010
I have a feeling...
...that the "busy, I barely have but a minute of free time, oh my gosh am I ever going to finish all I have or want to" season has officially begun.
Take this weekend. Tonight the girls and I are heading to my sisters house so we can be there tomorrow morning for my nephews last soccer game of the season. After that, we are having professional pictures of the kids taken. We will drive back tomorrow late afternoon so I can be home in time to attend the First Carver High School Hall Of Fame Awards Ceremony that night. Sunday I have another wake to attend (at the exact same funeral home no less as the one I was at earlier in the week for a family friend, this one is for my great aunt).
Next weekend we have the parade in Plymouth and Ryun's company holiday party (kudos to them for planning it early) on Saturday. I am pretty sure the plan for Sunday will be decorating the house for the Christmas (which we usually do Thanksgiving weekend but we have other thing going on).
On Thanksgiving, we will be heading to my sisters house for dinner and combining that with celebrating Katherine's 11th birthday (which is on Thanksgiving this year just like it was on the day she was born). Friday I am going to join the masses and shop and Saturday we will be at the Middleboro Christmas parade.
This doesn't even consider the myriad of meeting and kids events that will be going on in between. It's all good though. Busy is what actually keeps me sane...seriously.
Take this weekend. Tonight the girls and I are heading to my sisters house so we can be there tomorrow morning for my nephews last soccer game of the season. After that, we are having professional pictures of the kids taken. We will drive back tomorrow late afternoon so I can be home in time to attend the First Carver High School Hall Of Fame Awards Ceremony that night. Sunday I have another wake to attend (at the exact same funeral home no less as the one I was at earlier in the week for a family friend, this one is for my great aunt).
Next weekend we have the parade in Plymouth and Ryun's company holiday party (kudos to them for planning it early) on Saturday. I am pretty sure the plan for Sunday will be decorating the house for the Christmas (which we usually do Thanksgiving weekend but we have other thing going on).
On Thanksgiving, we will be heading to my sisters house for dinner and combining that with celebrating Katherine's 11th birthday (which is on Thanksgiving this year just like it was on the day she was born). Friday I am going to join the masses and shop and Saturday we will be at the Middleboro Christmas parade.
This doesn't even consider the myriad of meeting and kids events that will be going on in between. It's all good though. Busy is what actually keeps me sane...seriously.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
In the never ending quest...
...for self improvement, I did the following things today:
-joined a gym for the first time in my life. The last time I got regular exercise (except for spots here in there for a week or two at a time) was probably high school gym class. That was 17 years ago. It's pathetic and shameful to even admit that but if I am not 100% honest and upfront about this I'll never break through whatever it is that has been holding me back. Besides the obvious physical benefits of exercise, I am almost just as much looking forward to the mental benefits. There is no doubt that a little boost of self confidence and faith in myself, both of which I have always lacked, will be a good thing.
-took out of the cabinet the 31 (yes 31) recipe/cookbooks that I have and haven't used in God knows how long so I can page through them, pick out recipes that I will use and compile them in to one spot (perhaps a binder with dividers). I really need to put more effort and more variety in to what I cook around here. The fact that I cook 95% of what we eat (as opposed to eating out or ordering in) is good but I could certainly be healthier about it than I am.
I have no idea what has taken me so long but, over the past couple of days, I have come to a lot of conclusions. The biggest and most important one? I need to do a hell of a lot better job taking care of myself than I do. Yes I am only 35, but at the same, time...I am 35. This is only going to get harder the older I get. I also can't help but think about how fast time passes. Do I really want to look, and more importantly feel this way for the next 35 years? I can't keep doing this to myself...or to my kids. I have so much more to offer them, but besides that, I want to be a good example. There are some parts of my life in which I do set a good example. In the area of self care, good examples for the kids are lacking...severely. I want them to grow up being confident, independent women. It's partly up to me to show them how to do that.
All of this is certainly motivation. The real motivation though is that I know, deep in my core, that I was given this life to serve a greater purpose. I don't feel like I am living up to what I know is my fullest potential and that is both physically and mentally painful. If I don't push through this and push on, I will never get to experience whatever this greater calling is (and I just know there is one). Knowing is half the battle...now it is time for action.
So as the saying goes: Today is the first day of the rest of my life. I am done looking back. It's only forward motion from here.
-joined a gym for the first time in my life. The last time I got regular exercise (except for spots here in there for a week or two at a time) was probably high school gym class. That was 17 years ago. It's pathetic and shameful to even admit that but if I am not 100% honest and upfront about this I'll never break through whatever it is that has been holding me back. Besides the obvious physical benefits of exercise, I am almost just as much looking forward to the mental benefits. There is no doubt that a little boost of self confidence and faith in myself, both of which I have always lacked, will be a good thing.
-took out of the cabinet the 31 (yes 31) recipe/cookbooks that I have and haven't used in God knows how long so I can page through them, pick out recipes that I will use and compile them in to one spot (perhaps a binder with dividers). I really need to put more effort and more variety in to what I cook around here. The fact that I cook 95% of what we eat (as opposed to eating out or ordering in) is good but I could certainly be healthier about it than I am.
I have no idea what has taken me so long but, over the past couple of days, I have come to a lot of conclusions. The biggest and most important one? I need to do a hell of a lot better job taking care of myself than I do. Yes I am only 35, but at the same, time...I am 35. This is only going to get harder the older I get. I also can't help but think about how fast time passes. Do I really want to look, and more importantly feel this way for the next 35 years? I can't keep doing this to myself...or to my kids. I have so much more to offer them, but besides that, I want to be a good example. There are some parts of my life in which I do set a good example. In the area of self care, good examples for the kids are lacking...severely. I want them to grow up being confident, independent women. It's partly up to me to show them how to do that.
All of this is certainly motivation. The real motivation though is that I know, deep in my core, that I was given this life to serve a greater purpose. I don't feel like I am living up to what I know is my fullest potential and that is both physically and mentally painful. If I don't push through this and push on, I will never get to experience whatever this greater calling is (and I just know there is one). Knowing is half the battle...now it is time for action.
So as the saying goes: Today is the first day of the rest of my life. I am done looking back. It's only forward motion from here.
Monday, October 25, 2010
More On The Election
As mentioned in the previous post, I find election calls to be an annoying waste of my time. I don't need a phone call to help me make my decision regarding who to vote for. However, in most cases, I try to at least listen to what the person on the other end has to say and maybe even have an educated discussion with them. If I get more than one phone call from a specific candidate though (read: Charlie Baker) it is considered by me to be rude and somewhat intrusive. This is what I was referring to in the last post when I interrupted the person on the other end of the line before they had a chance to talk. More annoying than the call itself? It's the bleeping pre-recorded messages that I keep getting from Senator Brown asking me to support Baker. These calls lack pretty much everything that could potentially influence my decisions on election day; personal connection, ability to have a conversation if I so desire etc.
And no, I wasn't planning on voting for Baker anyway, but pre-recorded messages from Senator Brown (who I also didn't vote for) certainly wouldn't sway me.
And no, I wasn't planning on voting for Baker anyway, but pre-recorded messages from Senator Brown (who I also didn't vote for) certainly wouldn't sway me.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
If someone could please tell me...
...how it is even possible that next week I will be going to an informational meeting at Middleboro High School for parents of incoming first year students, that would be great.
And really how does this happen in what literally feels like the blink of an eye?
And really how does this happen in what literally feels like the blink of an eye?
She was just two weeks old in that picture and I swear to God and all that is holy it was just like yesterday that I took that.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Volunteer Experience
Below is a list consisting of every volunteer position I have held (since Emily began school anyway). I am in the process of developing a resume that will include in some form my volunteer experiences. I am still not sure how I am going to get this in to resume form without it being pages long as I also need to include some descriptions of what each volunteer position entailed and what I was responsible for. I have a feeling I may need to pick and choose or highlight specific pieces that I feel are important. At some point, I hope to transfer some of these skills and others acquired through my life and work experience to the workforce. Anyway, here is the list.
| Miscellaneous | |
| Religious Education Teacher | September 2004-June 2005 |
| Girl Scouts | |
| Junior Troop Leader | September 2006-June 2007 |
| Brownie Troop Leader | September 2007-June 2008 |
| Middleborough Elementary PTA | |
| Cultural Enrichment Chairperson | September 2006-June 2007 |
| Fundraising Chairperson | September 2007-June 2008 |
| Mardi Gras Carnival Co-Chair | September 2007-June 2009 |
| Advocacy Committee Chair | September 2009-present |
| President | September 2008-present |
| Nichols Middle School PTSA | |
| Member | September 2008-present |
| Massachusetts PTA | |
| Advocacy Team | September 2009-present |
| State Advocacy Chairperson | April 2010-present |
| Federal Legislative Chair | January 2011-present |
| Middleborough Public Schools | |
| Parent Volunteer | September 2004-present |
| Memorial Early Childhood Center School Council | September 2009-present |
| Henry B. Burkland School Council | September 2010-present |
| Nichols Middle School Council | September 2010-present |
| Henry B. Burkland School Spring Dance Chair | September 2010-present |
| Title I Parent Advisory Council | October 2010-present |
| Anti-Bullying Task Force | May 2010-present |
| Health and Wellness Committee | November 2010-present |
| Strategic Planning Committee | December 2010-present |
| Yes 4 Middleboro Schools PAC | March2007-present |
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Influence
I felt only slightly bad last night cutting off someone calling for my vote during the election by saying, "I made my decision regarding who to vote for before your call, and it wasn't for your candidate" before the speaker even had a chance to say anything.
I don't know why really, but political calls annoy me. I understand why they are made (mostly for polling purposes I assume) but I wonder how much influence they have on how someone votes. I know for me if you call me asking for my vote I am just going to be aggravated by it. Maybe it is because I am someone who actually researches and educates myself about the candidates and I don't need a phone call to help make my decision. I wonder the same thing about lawn signs. Do these signs actually influence or change the way someone votes? I guess it might make a difference to someone who doesn't do the research and votes solely on the basis of who signs they have seen the most of. Is this any way to vote though? I suppose the candidates don't care, as long as they are elected. It is just a major turn off for me when someone doesn't educate themselves about who will represent them and clearly, someone who votes based solely on signs, is not making a well informed decision.
It isn't all that shocking that every political call I have gotten in this election year has been from a Republican candidate. It makes sense in the current political climate. I am registered as an independent (or is it called undeclared now?) but I honestly don't think I have ever voted for a Republican. I just wanted the option. I truly do vote for the person, not the party. It just so happens that I have always liked more what the Democratic candidate had to say.
I don't know why really, but political calls annoy me. I understand why they are made (mostly for polling purposes I assume) but I wonder how much influence they have on how someone votes. I know for me if you call me asking for my vote I am just going to be aggravated by it. Maybe it is because I am someone who actually researches and educates myself about the candidates and I don't need a phone call to help make my decision. I wonder the same thing about lawn signs. Do these signs actually influence or change the way someone votes? I guess it might make a difference to someone who doesn't do the research and votes solely on the basis of who signs they have seen the most of. Is this any way to vote though? I suppose the candidates don't care, as long as they are elected. It is just a major turn off for me when someone doesn't educate themselves about who will represent them and clearly, someone who votes based solely on signs, is not making a well informed decision.
It isn't all that shocking that every political call I have gotten in this election year has been from a Republican candidate. It makes sense in the current political climate. I am registered as an independent (or is it called undeclared now?) but I honestly don't think I have ever voted for a Republican. I just wanted the option. I truly do vote for the person, not the party. It just so happens that I have always liked more what the Democratic candidate had to say.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Why...
...do overwhelming thoughts of what I need and want to do (with day to day things and life in general things)need to flood my head just before bed time? I am pretty sure that I will not be able to sleep now because my brain won't shut off.
Also? I really should keep a good old fashioned paper and pen style journal in addition to this one. There are just some things that aren't meant for public consumption.
One more thing? I should totally write a book. After I get over myself.
And that, is my rant for the night. Going to cue up the "sleepy time" play list on the ipod and attempt to sleep.
Also? I really should keep a good old fashioned paper and pen style journal in addition to this one. There are just some things that aren't meant for public consumption.
One more thing? I should totally write a book. After I get over myself.
And that, is my rant for the night. Going to cue up the "sleepy time" play list on the ipod and attempt to sleep.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Jackhammer
I woke up this morning with a massive headache...complete with nausea and distorted vision. Somehow, I managed to get the kids off to school without dying in the process (why yes, I am super Mom), then took four ibuprofen and went back to bed. I woke up a couple of times because the phone rang but basically slept until noon. Upon waking, I immediately felt guilty thinking about how I had wasted half the day (yes I realize how ridiculous this is).
So, even though I could have stayed in bed for hours longer, I got up, ate something and attempted to tackle the to do list. This was met with little success (although if I had put, "clear the DVR out and watch hours of tv" I could have crossed that off). The headache lingered (though it was less severe) for most of the afternoon. As the day progressed I felt better and managed to cook a delicious dinner for the family (meatloaf, mashed potatoes and carrots...total comfort food for a blah, yucky day).
I am still not feeling quite right but markedly better in comparison. And yes, I am still annoyed by how much time was wasted while I slept the day away. Sometimes? I really need to chill the heck out when in comes to the to do list.
So, even though I could have stayed in bed for hours longer, I got up, ate something and attempted to tackle the to do list. This was met with little success (although if I had put, "clear the DVR out and watch hours of tv" I could have crossed that off). The headache lingered (though it was less severe) for most of the afternoon. As the day progressed I felt better and managed to cook a delicious dinner for the family (meatloaf, mashed potatoes and carrots...total comfort food for a blah, yucky day).
I am still not feeling quite right but markedly better in comparison. And yes, I am still annoyed by how much time was wasted while I slept the day away. Sometimes? I really need to chill the heck out when in comes to the to do list.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)