For Today Monday, August 31, 2009
Outside My Window...it is dark and raining
I am Thinking...that I have the blue's again....
I am Thankful...that I saved $100 today at the tag office
From The Kitchen...Grilled Steaks again with steamed asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes. Steaks were on sale again so, I could resist. Chicken later in the week and we'll see what else.
I am Wearing...a brown summer dress
I am Reading...New Moon...finally! finished Twilight
I am Hoping...that the blues will go away soon.
I am Hearing...the rain outside my window
I am Praying For...my friend Myrtis who was recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer, Roy Raley, for myself, and special prayers for my daughters Laura and Sarah. Laura is struggling with school and Sarah has become very rebellious lately.
A Quote...Faith is not believing that God will, It's believing God can
Around The House...all rooms are clean and all laundry is done.
One Of My Favorite Things...finding time to read.
A Few Plans For the Rest Of The Week...hopefully working out at the High School gym, and enjoying the 3 day weekend.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
"The Meaning Behind My Term "Baby Ducks" {long, but worth reading}
So, all of you know I have a heart and a deep passion for working with children, especially those ages 3, 4 & 5. But, did you know I have a deeper passion for those children that need a little more attention than others. I'm talking about those children who may be very shy, may have major behavior issues, sensory issues, ADHD, compulsive or impulsive tendencies, or have learning delays. There has been a few of "those" children who have blessed {yes blessed!} my life when they were at the Preschool. It's kinda when my whole "baby duck" thing started, I would have one or two that needed me more than the others did so, I always referred to them as my "baby duck" and then I slowly started referring to all the children as my "baby ducks" because they all need me in one way or another.
I'm not going to lie to you, some days those with the major behavior problems or compulsive or impulsive tendencies would be quite a challenge and I would have to dig deep for patience. But, it was always worth it! I have cried many times watching a child succeed, grow, overcome, and gain self esteem from the love, time, attention, discipline, teaching, and patience I have given to them. My staff has always recognized my passion for helping these "baby ducks", they have always supported me and have even learned the importance of why I do what I do. A few years ago I worked with a young man "Mr. Tony" {Miss Mary's son} who was a great teacher, I loved working with Tony and much like me also had a passion for baby ducks. One year he and I had 2 baby ducks at the Preschool and half way through the year we had to let one go due to circumstances that could not be resolved. We both had broken hearts over that and cried when we had to say good bye.
Even as I write this and I think back on some of my baby ducks I could cry over the accomplishments they made through the love bestowed on them at the Preschool. I remember one particular "baby duck" who had learning delays along with sensory, compulsive and impulsive issues finally writing his name for the first time and stuck his thumb up in the air and said "Look I finally did it, I'm a genius"!!!! Even now the memory of that brings tears to my eyes.
Several years ago I was asked to write an article for a Early Childhood Magazine. They wanted me to write about my "Problem Students"...ha!!! I didn't write my article on my "Problem Students" but I did write it on my "Baby Ducks".
This year my baby duck has come in the form of a high school senior. I participate in a program that Mount Dora High School has where they allow high school seniors to fulfill a class in a field they are interested in. Before I allow any student to come to the Preschool I am very firm with the instructor on "My Rules" and I also interview the students. First and foremost my responsibilities are to the children at the Preschool, anything I can do for others comes far after the children.
This year I have 3 girls coming over from the High School. I do have guidelines the girls must follow such as they are not allowed to be alone with the friends, they are not responsible for teaching a class, and they aren't allowed to do the other teachers dirty work..HA! They are there to learn from us, observe, help with "crowd control", help with art projects and to interact with the children. Two of these girls are considered regular mainstreamed seniors and the other is labeled as "special needs".
When I first spoke with the teacher that oversees this program every time she spoke about this girl she would say "special needs" in an almost whisper, which I found odd and began to irritate me. So, I finally said well before I agree to have her come over just what are her "special needs"? Is she in wheelchair, will she be able to walk up and down a ramp un assisted, will the children be safe around her, will she be safe....what???? She said {again in a whisper} ohhh...no nothing like that she's just "special learning needs" so, I reply by saying "Oh, you mean she's a baby duck", sure send her over and I'll talk with her! The teacher said "HUH"? after I explained she said well she doesn't talk much, and when she does she speaks very softly, so just let her sweep, or do some cleaning, or have her cut things out for you. She already took the program for being an Asst. Preschool Teacher but, failed the test so, there isn't much we can do. "What????? Isn't much we can do"???
All 3 of the girls have been an actual blessing to us, and all are very helpful to us and already love the friends. The one "senior baby duck" is indeed quiet and said little to nothing to me or anyone else the first day. I explained to the other teachers that I was keeping her with me, not that I doubted her or did not trust her, but that I was going to get her to open up to me. So, she helped me all week cleaning up from Tea Party, doing dishes, setting up for group etc. After I talked her ear off all week here's a few things I learned about her:
Just from watching her I knew she had no self esteem, considered herself stupid, ugly, fat, is very self conscious of herself and has little to no self worth. I learned that she lives with her mom, has no boyfriend, but has a best friend. I also learned from her that she failed the "special test" that would make her a teacher helper. I asked if she was taking the test again, she just put her head down and shook her head no and mumbled that she was too "stupid". I very gently touched her arm and said I don't like that word. I asked if you had someone help you would you try and take the test again? She just shrugged and I well I'm going to help you and so will Miss Mary and Miss Carmen.
I have this thing I say to the friends...I say I don't want to hear "I can't" or "I don't know how" I want to hear "I'll try" or I'm doing my best".
By the end of the week I saw that she was beginning to talk to the other girls that came over with her from the High School, at times smiling at and talking to the friends and being a "teachers helper" by reminding the friends to sit quietly or asking them their names. I asked her to prepare an art project for me and she said "I will try". I also learned that she loves going to her Church and that she is in the choir. I'd say all in all I made progress with my baby duck. I'm determined to help this girl feel better about herself, pass that test and help get her placed in a center with others that will continue to build her self esteem.
I'm not going to lie to you, some days those with the major behavior problems or compulsive or impulsive tendencies would be quite a challenge and I would have to dig deep for patience. But, it was always worth it! I have cried many times watching a child succeed, grow, overcome, and gain self esteem from the love, time, attention, discipline, teaching, and patience I have given to them. My staff has always recognized my passion for helping these "baby ducks", they have always supported me and have even learned the importance of why I do what I do. A few years ago I worked with a young man "Mr. Tony" {Miss Mary's son} who was a great teacher, I loved working with Tony and much like me also had a passion for baby ducks. One year he and I had 2 baby ducks at the Preschool and half way through the year we had to let one go due to circumstances that could not be resolved. We both had broken hearts over that and cried when we had to say good bye.
Even as I write this and I think back on some of my baby ducks I could cry over the accomplishments they made through the love bestowed on them at the Preschool. I remember one particular "baby duck" who had learning delays along with sensory, compulsive and impulsive issues finally writing his name for the first time and stuck his thumb up in the air and said "Look I finally did it, I'm a genius"!!!! Even now the memory of that brings tears to my eyes.
Several years ago I was asked to write an article for a Early Childhood Magazine. They wanted me to write about my "Problem Students"...ha!!! I didn't write my article on my "Problem Students" but I did write it on my "Baby Ducks".
This year my baby duck has come in the form of a high school senior. I participate in a program that Mount Dora High School has where they allow high school seniors to fulfill a class in a field they are interested in. Before I allow any student to come to the Preschool I am very firm with the instructor on "My Rules" and I also interview the students. First and foremost my responsibilities are to the children at the Preschool, anything I can do for others comes far after the children.
This year I have 3 girls coming over from the High School. I do have guidelines the girls must follow such as they are not allowed to be alone with the friends, they are not responsible for teaching a class, and they aren't allowed to do the other teachers dirty work..HA! They are there to learn from us, observe, help with "crowd control", help with art projects and to interact with the children. Two of these girls are considered regular mainstreamed seniors and the other is labeled as "special needs".
When I first spoke with the teacher that oversees this program every time she spoke about this girl she would say "special needs" in an almost whisper, which I found odd and began to irritate me. So, I finally said well before I agree to have her come over just what are her "special needs"? Is she in wheelchair, will she be able to walk up and down a ramp un assisted, will the children be safe around her, will she be safe....what???? She said {again in a whisper} ohhh...no nothing like that she's just "special learning needs" so, I reply by saying "Oh, you mean she's a baby duck", sure send her over and I'll talk with her! The teacher said "HUH"? after I explained she said well she doesn't talk much, and when she does she speaks very softly, so just let her sweep, or do some cleaning, or have her cut things out for you. She already took the program for being an Asst. Preschool Teacher but, failed the test so, there isn't much we can do. "What????? Isn't much we can do"???
All 3 of the girls have been an actual blessing to us, and all are very helpful to us and already love the friends. The one "senior baby duck" is indeed quiet and said little to nothing to me or anyone else the first day. I explained to the other teachers that I was keeping her with me, not that I doubted her or did not trust her, but that I was going to get her to open up to me. So, she helped me all week cleaning up from Tea Party, doing dishes, setting up for group etc. After I talked her ear off all week here's a few things I learned about her:
Just from watching her I knew she had no self esteem, considered herself stupid, ugly, fat, is very self conscious of herself and has little to no self worth. I learned that she lives with her mom, has no boyfriend, but has a best friend. I also learned from her that she failed the "special test" that would make her a teacher helper. I asked if she was taking the test again, she just put her head down and shook her head no and mumbled that she was too "stupid". I very gently touched her arm and said I don't like that word. I asked if you had someone help you would you try and take the test again? She just shrugged and I well I'm going to help you and so will Miss Mary and Miss Carmen.
I have this thing I say to the friends...I say I don't want to hear "I can't" or "I don't know how" I want to hear "I'll try" or I'm doing my best".
By the end of the week I saw that she was beginning to talk to the other girls that came over with her from the High School, at times smiling at and talking to the friends and being a "teachers helper" by reminding the friends to sit quietly or asking them their names. I asked her to prepare an art project for me and she said "I will try". I also learned that she loves going to her Church and that she is in the choir. I'd say all in all I made progress with my baby duck. I'm determined to help this girl feel better about herself, pass that test and help get her placed in a center with others that will continue to build her self esteem.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
WEEK TWO
Well believe it or not, but Week Two brought no tears to the drop off door! We've had a few friends get grumpy about leaving, which is always so funny...to me, but not necessarily to mommy.
Actually, a few years back I had a little one start mid year and on his first day he jumped out of the car and yelled "To Infinity And Beyond" and to the heart break of his mom didn't even look back to say good bye and at pick up we had to bring him to the gate kicking and screaming because he didn't want to leave. His mom shared with me a couple years later that she bribed him each morning with the promise of a treat if he would come to the gate without crying to go home...LOL!!
This week I did find myself missing all my little friends from last year that have moved on to Kindergarten. I even missed those from several years back. I always think of former students on the First Day of School wondering how they are doing, what teacher they got, trying to figure out what grade they are in now. It's even fun looking at my new little ones and saying "Oh he/she looks like so and so that was here" or "Oh he/she reminds of this one little one we had here once"
This years group of Baby Ducks are so very sweet and I'm very tickled at how well they are all doing. I have a "helper" {thank the good lord since I lost my other one to Kindergarten}. I have a little one who is always walking around looking for me, because he has to know where I am {I'm so loving that, nothing like a cute admirer!}, I have one who went home and told his mommy that we have a "bunny mouse" at school...hahaha so loved that one! What we have is actually a Dwarf Hamster, who the friends have named "Roscoe" hahaha!! The same little one who said we have a Bunny Mouse is the cutest one to watch while I'm singing, he is so fascinated with my movements, my facial expressions and loves it when I use finger/hand puppets at Circle Time. He can't even sing from being so fascinated with what I'm doing...gotta love having a fan! They are all so darn cute, and the best thing is today was the 8th day of school and I've only had to use the "Time Out Chair" twice...can I hear a Woo Hoo??
My family is already hearing funny little stories from me at home about my day. Laura and Sarah both have visited the Preschool to see the new group of Baby Ducks and agree that they are all so cute. What a blessing it is to me to have a job that I truly love, one that I look forward to going to each day, one that I take great pride in, and one that brings so much love to my day. Sure I have days when I question my sanity, I mean come on after all I'm working with {37} 3, 4 & 5 years olds. but, those days are usually far and few between. When those days come I normally say{ok I yell} "Please! someone go look at my calendar and tell me it's a full moon" and normally it always is!
I can't think of any place else I'd rather be than my wonderful, loving little Preschool! {Well...maybe in Sanibel}....ahhhhh wouldn't life be grand if I could open up a little Preschool in Sanibel???? Just think....a little beach front yellow cottage, with brick red shutters, Gerber Daisies growing in window boxes, I even have a name for this school "Miss Ladybug's By The Sea" Tea Parties on checkered blankets each day, Math could be our shelling time, Science could be spent in the Tide Pools...well a girl can dream can't she?
Actually, a few years back I had a little one start mid year and on his first day he jumped out of the car and yelled "To Infinity And Beyond" and to the heart break of his mom didn't even look back to say good bye and at pick up we had to bring him to the gate kicking and screaming because he didn't want to leave. His mom shared with me a couple years later that she bribed him each morning with the promise of a treat if he would come to the gate without crying to go home...LOL!!
This week I did find myself missing all my little friends from last year that have moved on to Kindergarten. I even missed those from several years back. I always think of former students on the First Day of School wondering how they are doing, what teacher they got, trying to figure out what grade they are in now. It's even fun looking at my new little ones and saying "Oh he/she looks like so and so that was here" or "Oh he/she reminds of this one little one we had here once"
This years group of Baby Ducks are so very sweet and I'm very tickled at how well they are all doing. I have a "helper" {thank the good lord since I lost my other one to Kindergarten}. I have a little one who is always walking around looking for me, because he has to know where I am {I'm so loving that, nothing like a cute admirer!}, I have one who went home and told his mommy that we have a "bunny mouse" at school...hahaha so loved that one! What we have is actually a Dwarf Hamster, who the friends have named "Roscoe" hahaha!! The same little one who said we have a Bunny Mouse is the cutest one to watch while I'm singing, he is so fascinated with my movements, my facial expressions and loves it when I use finger/hand puppets at Circle Time. He can't even sing from being so fascinated with what I'm doing...gotta love having a fan! They are all so darn cute, and the best thing is today was the 8th day of school and I've only had to use the "Time Out Chair" twice...can I hear a Woo Hoo??
My family is already hearing funny little stories from me at home about my day. Laura and Sarah both have visited the Preschool to see the new group of Baby Ducks and agree that they are all so cute. What a blessing it is to me to have a job that I truly love, one that I look forward to going to each day, one that I take great pride in, and one that brings so much love to my day. Sure I have days when I question my sanity, I mean come on after all I'm working with {37} 3, 4 & 5 years olds. but, those days are usually far and few between. When those days come I normally say{ok I yell} "Please! someone go look at my calendar and tell me it's a full moon" and normally it always is!
I can't think of any place else I'd rather be than my wonderful, loving little Preschool! {Well...maybe in Sanibel}....ahhhhh wouldn't life be grand if I could open up a little Preschool in Sanibel???? Just think....a little beach front yellow cottage, with brick red shutters, Gerber Daisies growing in window boxes, I even have a name for this school "Miss Ladybug's By The Sea" Tea Parties on checkered blankets each day, Math could be our shelling time, Science could be spent in the Tide Pools...well a girl can dream can't she?
Monday, August 24, 2009
A Simple Woman's DayBook
For Today...Monday, August 24, 2009
Outside My Window.....it's very dark.
I am Thinking....of my friend Kelly Raley, her husband Jack and his father Roy.
I am Thankful....for so many things.
From The Kitchen...tonight was grilled steaks, baked potatoes, and broccoli.
From The Learning Rooms...the letter Aa.
I am Creating....Loving Preschoolers.
I am Wearing...work out clothes...YES! work out clothes. Laura Ashley and I started a Strength Training Class at the High School...LOL...I can hardly move!
I am Reading....guess?? Yep! Still Twilight, although I'm making progress...sure wish I had time to read!!
I am Hearing...something on the TV.
Around the House...all is as it should be.
One of My Favorite Things...Blue Bell Nutty Chocolate Ice Cream...just had a bowl..yum yum!
A Few Plans for The Week...Julie's pampered Chef Party, Yoga Class {if I can move}, and work...always work!
Picture Thought...I would post a picture of Sarah's First Day of 10th Grade..but Kristen's camera wasn't working and she need mine to record Blake's First Day of 1st Grade.
Outside My Window.....it's very dark.
I am Thinking....of my friend Kelly Raley, her husband Jack and his father Roy.
I am Thankful....for so many things.
From The Kitchen...tonight was grilled steaks, baked potatoes, and broccoli.
From The Learning Rooms...the letter Aa.
I am Creating....Loving Preschoolers.
I am Wearing...work out clothes...YES! work out clothes. Laura Ashley and I started a Strength Training Class at the High School...LOL...I can hardly move!
I am Reading....guess?? Yep! Still Twilight, although I'm making progress...sure wish I had time to read!!
I am Hearing...something on the TV.
Around the House...all is as it should be.
One of My Favorite Things...Blue Bell Nutty Chocolate Ice Cream...just had a bowl..yum yum!
A Few Plans for The Week...Julie's pampered Chef Party, Yoga Class {if I can move}, and work...always work!
Picture Thought...I would post a picture of Sarah's First Day of 10th Grade..but Kristen's camera wasn't working and she need mine to record Blake's First Day of 1st Grade.
Monday, August 17, 2009
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
I base the success of the First Day of School on the number of crying friends I have and how long they cry for. I had 2 that cried briefly at drop off and of that 2 only 1 cried periodically through the day for a brief time so, I'm going to say that today was very successful. It was loud, crazy busy, and stressful at times trying to get every one's attention, but it's always like that they first day...what am I saying it's like that the first week {haha}.
I have a really cute group of little ones, one came with a thumb guard to assist in giving up thumb sucking. I teased the parents by saying that had to fall under the category of child abuse. I was a thumb sucker and always wanted one of my girls to be one, but they never were. I find myself partial to thumb suckers, it always looks so cute, that or when they suck their 2 little fingers. Several years ago I had a parent paint their child's thumb with that nasty tasting thumb sucking stuff, I asked the child how they were doing, they said fine, I'm just sucking the other one, my mom didn't put that stuff on that one...haha!!
And, of course there was the one little one whose name we all knew by 9:30...hee hee! At lunch I was asking everyone how their day went and if they would be back tomorrow. I had one little one { I always do} that said NO! they wouldn't be back tomorrow. I always act so distressed over that and ask "Are you kidding me"? "For real, you aren't coming back"? Well, ok if you're sure, we will miss you, too bad because tomorrow is going to be better than today. That little one ended up pitching a hissy fit when it was time to go home..haha!
It was good to have the baby ducks back, but I'm off to bed....I'M POOPED!!!
I have a really cute group of little ones, one came with a thumb guard to assist in giving up thumb sucking. I teased the parents by saying that had to fall under the category of child abuse. I was a thumb sucker and always wanted one of my girls to be one, but they never were. I find myself partial to thumb suckers, it always looks so cute, that or when they suck their 2 little fingers. Several years ago I had a parent paint their child's thumb with that nasty tasting thumb sucking stuff, I asked the child how they were doing, they said fine, I'm just sucking the other one, my mom didn't put that stuff on that one...haha!!
And, of course there was the one little one whose name we all knew by 9:30...hee hee! At lunch I was asking everyone how their day went and if they would be back tomorrow. I had one little one { I always do} that said NO! they wouldn't be back tomorrow. I always act so distressed over that and ask "Are you kidding me"? "For real, you aren't coming back"? Well, ok if you're sure, we will miss you, too bad because tomorrow is going to be better than today. That little one ended up pitching a hissy fit when it was time to go home..haha!
It was good to have the baby ducks back, but I'm off to bed....I'M POOPED!!!
The Busy/Tired Woman's Day Book
For Today...Monday, August 17, 2009
Outside My Window...the sun is starting to set.
I am Thinking...that today was a good First Day of School, but that I am very tired!
I am Thankful...that we only had 2 little ones who cried...briefly!
From The Kitchen...Grilled Steaks, Baked Potatoes and Fresh Asparagus tonight, Tues. will be grilled chicken thighs and wings courtesy of my new cook...Cody! LOL, Laura's boyfriend loves to grill and I happily oblige him the duty! Wed. hopefully leftovers??? Cody can eat!! Thurs. will be Taco Salad and Fri. is date night.
From The Learning Rooms....learning to be a good friend!
I am Creating..."Good Friends".
I am wearing...a red sun dress, BUT I did have a snazzy new outfit on today for the first day of school.
I am reading...Twilight...still!! LOL...I just fall right to sleep these nights!
I am Hoping...that all goes well for the remainder of the week.
I am Hearing...the TV, I try and tune it out as much as possible.
Around The House...everything is as it should be, and one small load in the washer.
One Of My Favorite Things...3, 4 & 5 year olds
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...keeping order...LOL!!
Picture Thought...Laura has my camera so, I can't put the school day picture on
Outside My Window...the sun is starting to set.
I am Thinking...that today was a good First Day of School, but that I am very tired!
I am Thankful...that we only had 2 little ones who cried...briefly!
From The Kitchen...Grilled Steaks, Baked Potatoes and Fresh Asparagus tonight, Tues. will be grilled chicken thighs and wings courtesy of my new cook...Cody! LOL, Laura's boyfriend loves to grill and I happily oblige him the duty! Wed. hopefully leftovers??? Cody can eat!! Thurs. will be Taco Salad and Fri. is date night.
From The Learning Rooms....learning to be a good friend!
I am Creating..."Good Friends".
I am wearing...a red sun dress, BUT I did have a snazzy new outfit on today for the first day of school.
I am reading...Twilight...still!! LOL...I just fall right to sleep these nights!
I am Hoping...that all goes well for the remainder of the week.
I am Hearing...the TV, I try and tune it out as much as possible.
Around The House...everything is as it should be, and one small load in the washer.
One Of My Favorite Things...3, 4 & 5 year olds
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...keeping order...LOL!!
Picture Thought...Laura has my camera so, I can't put the school day picture on
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Anticipation
Well, I have my First Day of School outfit all laid out for tomorrow, my lunch is packed and I've had my shower and I'm ready to head to bed. Sure do hope I can fall asleep at a reasonable hour, I feel like a 4 year old on Christmas eve, anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus.
I'm really excited for tomorrow, everything at the Preschool is perfect, I'm very ahead on lesson plans and art projects. I'm also feeling very positive about all the changes I've recently made for the Preschool. It's such a great feeling starting out a new school year on such a good note!
I'm so thankful that God has been so patient with me. He knew my heart, but knew this new path would be a tough one for me. He ever so gently guided me along the way and now I'm stronger than ever.
Can't wait to see my baby ducks tomorrow!
I'm really excited for tomorrow, everything at the Preschool is perfect, I'm very ahead on lesson plans and art projects. I'm also feeling very positive about all the changes I've recently made for the Preschool. It's such a great feeling starting out a new school year on such a good note!
I'm so thankful that God has been so patient with me. He knew my heart, but knew this new path would be a tough one for me. He ever so gently guided me along the way and now I'm stronger than ever.
Can't wait to see my baby ducks tomorrow!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Open House
Ahhhh...the scent of new crayons, play dough and newly sharpened pencils. The look of freshly made bulletin boards, friend lists, and a squeaky clean Preschool. But, the sounds of giggles and squeals of "Miss Shawnie" are the absolute best!
My summer has been spent creating lesson plans and carrying out the changes for the Preschool that have been on my heart for sometime now. This past week has been a frantic week of doing all the little last minute things to make the Preschool perfect for Open House and the First Day of School. One night I was there at 9:00 pm getting a new furry friend all settled in his home, last night I was there adding fish to the fish tank and arranging plants around the water/sand table abd making sure all was perfect for today's Open House.
This morning I was very eager to see all my returning and new friends. I received tons of hugs and heard squeals of Miss Shawnie and quickly realized that it was a mistake on my end by not ordering 2 Little Tykes Classic Pick Up Trucks. I have to say I have a wonderful little group of 37 baby ducks! I enjoyed each one of them this morning and can't wait for Monday and to begin our year together.
The Preschool consist of a group of 22 girls and 15 boys so, tattling will be excessive, and the boys will soon learn that "Girls Rule"...LOL! My younger group consists of 22, 3 and very young 4's, the kindergarten group consists of 15 older 4's that will turn 5 sometime throughout the year. With such a large group of little ones, the first few weeks of school will be VERY busy and I doubt I will have time for a "potty break" until after the 12:30 dismissal.
I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have a job that you truly love, are good at, take pride in and look forward to each day. The Preschool, the friends, the families and my co-workers give me all that and more. God has richly blessed my life in so many ways. I'm so thankful for his love, his patience, his guidance, his forgiveness and allowing me the ability to flourish in my work at the Preschool.
If you are a blog follower or a parent of a Preschooler I hope you will take time to check in every now and then to hear about my adventures at the Preschool, my friends and the funny stories that are sure to follow. I also pray that you are taking time each day to thank "HIM" for all that "HE" is doing to bless your life.
Blessings!
My summer has been spent creating lesson plans and carrying out the changes for the Preschool that have been on my heart for sometime now. This past week has been a frantic week of doing all the little last minute things to make the Preschool perfect for Open House and the First Day of School. One night I was there at 9:00 pm getting a new furry friend all settled in his home, last night I was there adding fish to the fish tank and arranging plants around the water/sand table abd making sure all was perfect for today's Open House.
This morning I was very eager to see all my returning and new friends. I received tons of hugs and heard squeals of Miss Shawnie and quickly realized that it was a mistake on my end by not ordering 2 Little Tykes Classic Pick Up Trucks. I have to say I have a wonderful little group of 37 baby ducks! I enjoyed each one of them this morning and can't wait for Monday and to begin our year together.
The Preschool consist of a group of 22 girls and 15 boys so, tattling will be excessive, and the boys will soon learn that "Girls Rule"...LOL! My younger group consists of 22, 3 and very young 4's, the kindergarten group consists of 15 older 4's that will turn 5 sometime throughout the year. With such a large group of little ones, the first few weeks of school will be VERY busy and I doubt I will have time for a "potty break" until after the 12:30 dismissal.
I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have a job that you truly love, are good at, take pride in and look forward to each day. The Preschool, the friends, the families and my co-workers give me all that and more. God has richly blessed my life in so many ways. I'm so thankful for his love, his patience, his guidance, his forgiveness and allowing me the ability to flourish in my work at the Preschool.
If you are a blog follower or a parent of a Preschooler I hope you will take time to check in every now and then to hear about my adventures at the Preschool, my friends and the funny stories that are sure to follow. I also pray that you are taking time each day to thank "HIM" for all that "HE" is doing to bless your life.
Blessings!
Monday, August 10, 2009
The Highly Anticipated....Change Part 2


Well, I've been pondering writing this blog for a few weeks and I came to the conclusion just to do it. To re-cap from Change Part 1, I love nothing more than to change the furniture around in my house, paint the walls a new color, change the color of my hair, etc... But, big change...whew, that's a tough one for me. I like being in my safe little world where there is no upheaval, no drama, etc...
However, over the course of the last 2 years I have felt a need for change. I'm a people pleaser so, I tend to put the needs, wants and opinion of others above my own needs, wants and opinions. I don't think being a people pleaser is necessarily a bad thing, I mean we should want to please others, do for others, etc.. it certainly makes me happy to do all those things. But, being a people pleaser can also leave you wide open for others to take advantage of you.
In my personal life I'm very happy, I like to please my family but, I also get very frustrated with them over things like the house. I like to have a clean house and to them it just isn't important. What I see as a mess, they see as a little clutter. I want them to pitch in more and they are happy with me doing it all..haha! So, I've had to work on compromise like when I do manage to get their help I don't go back and re-clean what they did {at least not while they're looking} and I've stopped coming in from work and instantly start fussing that the house is not the way I left it. It's taken prayer for me to get here and I will still think to myself is it wrong that I'm making the compromise, I mean what is wrong with wanting a clean house? I work hard, shouldn't I come home to a spotless house if I want to? The answer is no it isn't wrong to want a clean house but, I also know that for the most part my house does stay fairly clean and organized and after all I don't live alone, I live with my husband and 2 teenage daughters. The biggest thing that came from my prayer over this is how I ALWAYS preach to my Preschool families how not to sweat the small stuff, enjoy this time of your life with your children and NEVER blink because if you do that time is gone. So, the house isn't perfectly squeaky clean, sure there's a few dishes in the sink but, I have 2 teenage daughters that share their day with me, communicate daily with me, snuggle on the couch with me. I can't think of anything more important than that.
Here's the other area I've needed alot of prayer over....my work life. I LOVE my job, there's nothing better to me than spending my days with a group of 3, 4 and 5 years old's. Sure there are some days when I think to myself there's gotta be something else I could be doing and about that time I will have a little one come up to me and say here Miss Shawnie and when I try and take what they are handing me I realize it's a booger off the tip of their finger..I mean come on life just doesn't get any better than that!!! Seriously though I love my job, it's what I was meant to do in life. But, there have been changes that I have been wanting to do for myself, the children, their families and just for the school in general. The Preschool has an awesome reputation and I want to continuously build on that. I want it to be more than "just a job" to myself and my staff. For a while now I have accommodated my staff by giving them what they wanted even if it didn't always work in the best interest of me or the school. I did this because I wanted to please them. The problem is I have seen the need for change and have been wanting to make those changes ...change for the better...change for the future of the Preschool, the children attending and changes in the best interest of the school. It has to be more than a job. Here's where it gets really hard because I knew not everyone shared my views on the change. Where do I draw the line on compromising my values, or lowering my expectations? Where do I start accommodating the needs that are in the best interest of the school, the children and the growth it is in great need of? Well I started with prayer and through it was reminded that every now and then we are in need of "pruning". Pruning can be a hard task, it can even be a painful task, BUT if we don't do some pruning we won't grow or our branches can even die off. So, I took the word that I received and I'm doing some pruning at the Preschool. Sure it was hard, and it was certainly painful but, from just the little bit of pruning I've done so far I have seen great growth, as well as a re-newed, spirit within myself and the Preschool. God is so good! I'm thankful for his patience, his word, his love, his encouragement, his grace and his peace.
However, over the course of the last 2 years I have felt a need for change. I'm a people pleaser so, I tend to put the needs, wants and opinion of others above my own needs, wants and opinions. I don't think being a people pleaser is necessarily a bad thing, I mean we should want to please others, do for others, etc.. it certainly makes me happy to do all those things. But, being a people pleaser can also leave you wide open for others to take advantage of you.
In my personal life I'm very happy, I like to please my family but, I also get very frustrated with them over things like the house. I like to have a clean house and to them it just isn't important. What I see as a mess, they see as a little clutter. I want them to pitch in more and they are happy with me doing it all..haha! So, I've had to work on compromise like when I do manage to get their help I don't go back and re-clean what they did {at least not while they're looking} and I've stopped coming in from work and instantly start fussing that the house is not the way I left it. It's taken prayer for me to get here and I will still think to myself is it wrong that I'm making the compromise, I mean what is wrong with wanting a clean house? I work hard, shouldn't I come home to a spotless house if I want to? The answer is no it isn't wrong to want a clean house but, I also know that for the most part my house does stay fairly clean and organized and after all I don't live alone, I live with my husband and 2 teenage daughters. The biggest thing that came from my prayer over this is how I ALWAYS preach to my Preschool families how not to sweat the small stuff, enjoy this time of your life with your children and NEVER blink because if you do that time is gone. So, the house isn't perfectly squeaky clean, sure there's a few dishes in the sink but, I have 2 teenage daughters that share their day with me, communicate daily with me, snuggle on the couch with me. I can't think of anything more important than that.
Here's the other area I've needed alot of prayer over....my work life. I LOVE my job, there's nothing better to me than spending my days with a group of 3, 4 and 5 years old's. Sure there are some days when I think to myself there's gotta be something else I could be doing and about that time I will have a little one come up to me and say here Miss Shawnie and when I try and take what they are handing me I realize it's a booger off the tip of their finger..I mean come on life just doesn't get any better than that!!! Seriously though I love my job, it's what I was meant to do in life. But, there have been changes that I have been wanting to do for myself, the children, their families and just for the school in general. The Preschool has an awesome reputation and I want to continuously build on that. I want it to be more than "just a job" to myself and my staff. For a while now I have accommodated my staff by giving them what they wanted even if it didn't always work in the best interest of me or the school. I did this because I wanted to please them. The problem is I have seen the need for change and have been wanting to make those changes ...change for the better...change for the future of the Preschool, the children attending and changes in the best interest of the school. It has to be more than a job. Here's where it gets really hard because I knew not everyone shared my views on the change. Where do I draw the line on compromising my values, or lowering my expectations? Where do I start accommodating the needs that are in the best interest of the school, the children and the growth it is in great need of? Well I started with prayer and through it was reminded that every now and then we are in need of "pruning". Pruning can be a hard task, it can even be a painful task, BUT if we don't do some pruning we won't grow or our branches can even die off. So, I took the word that I received and I'm doing some pruning at the Preschool. Sure it was hard, and it was certainly painful but, from just the little bit of pruning I've done so far I have seen great growth, as well as a re-newed, spirit within myself and the Preschool. God is so good! I'm thankful for his patience, his word, his love, his encouragement, his grace and his peace.
THE BUSY WOMAN'S DAYBOOK.

For Today...Monday, August 10, 2009
Outside My Window...it is dark, but still so hot! UGH...tired of the heat!
I am Thinking...that today went very well { it was the first day back for my teachers }.
I am Thankful...for so many things, but very thankful that Laura is not only adjusting to her college classes but, that she has made friends, doing well and is actually enjoying it very much. { I think she may be growing up }.
From The Kitchen...Bacon Cheeseburgers per Laura's request. She did great on her first exam today, called me very excited over it so, I told her she could do dinner pick tonight for doing a good job!
From The Learning Rooms...Laura has a small amount of homework, Sarah is still on summer vacation and I'm making the Preschool perfect for the new & returning Baby Ducks!
I am Wearing...a turquoise top and a khaki skort
I am Reading...LOL still on Twlight...I get so busy I don't take time to stop and read
I am Hoping...for a good week at work...new teacher vs. returning territorial teacher...fingers crossed!
I am Hearing...Laura and Cody laughing in the Living Room and Sarah's tv in her room.
Around The House...just need to do the dinner dishes and one small load of laundry.
One Of My Favorite Things...Blue Bell Nutty Chocolate Ice Cream...double yum!
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...grocery shopping for the Preschool, getting new fish, new gerbils, and new flowers for the science room, Open House on Fri, and finish the back to school shopping for Sarah...sure hope she comes home with more than one shirt this trip!
Picture Thought...this always shows up at the top for some reason??? Wherever it shows up at, it is of Sarah after getting her Learners Permit!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
CRANKY PANTS
Boy oh boy have I ever been wearing a pair of XL cranky pants the last few days!!! I "think" the worst of it is over. It all kinda started on Saturday or at least that is when the pity party started! I had to be at the Preschool at 8am to oversee a Parish Preschool Workday. I prefer to sleep in on Saturdays. So, I had a bit of an attitude about having to be up early AND having to work on my day off instead of being thankful for the help of others, who gave up their Saturday morning to help me with a ton of work around the Preschool. By the time I got home I was so hot and tired that all I wanted to do was take a cold shower and climb into bed. That was when Laura Ashley said mom would you go with me to shop for stuff for school?? Ugh....sure honey just let me lay down for 15 minutes to catch my breath....
Sunday came and I returned to the Preschool to do ceiling to floor cleaning, this time dragging my hubby along to put together doll strollers, trucks, soccer goal, etc, etc... Came home again hot and tired and became very cranky when I walked in a saw that my girls did nothing around the house while I was working "on my day off" at the Preschool. Their answer was well we didn't know, you didn't leave us a note. Seriously why should I leave a note telling someone to do something when the mess is staring them in the face!!!! Grrr!!!!
Sunday night I was so stiff, sore and achy from all the work I had done and that was when the migraine came. I knew I was over doing it and instead of paying someone else to do the Preschool cleaning or asking a team of Church ladies to help I had to go and show everyone how strong I was and do it all by myself. Ugh...when will I ever learn just to ask for help!!
My migraine grew worse and instead of slowing down I just plunge ahead and work even harder. My solution to the migraine was to take a Muscle Relaxer. The "DR." in me thought I should do this since my body was so sore from all the heavy work I had done. I took this "EVIL" pill knowing that it would throw me into the worse mood ever!! And, it didn't disappoint me or my family!
Oh...did I mention I spent 6 hours at the Mall with Sarah yesterday and all she came home with was a shirt....that's all ONE SHIRT!!!!! Double Grr!!! And, I've slept on the couch for 3 nights due to all the coughing Mike has done from this cold he has. When I woke this morning I knew my mood was at it's worse when Mike walked in and said "I think I'm sick"...."Gee honey ya think"????!!!!! I unleashed such fury on him from that comment...down to telling him how sick I was of listening to him coughing up a lung and that I was making him an appt. to the Dr. and that if he didn't go I would spend the night at the Preschool {haha...I always threaten by family that I'm running away to the Preschool}. Well he did go and he does have Bronchitis and has no one to blame but himself for not going to the Dr on Monday when I first suggested it.
Anyway, I went to work and did the floors today and worked my aggression and rotten mood out into making those floors sparkle. I am feeling somewhat better and have not liked myself at all the last few days AND I really need to learn how to make time for myself, ask for help, slow down, etc..etc...BUT, I really need to throw those rotten EVIL muscle relaxers in the trash. I'm blaming my hissy fit and cranky pants tantrum on those pills and I'm sticking to that story!
Sunday came and I returned to the Preschool to do ceiling to floor cleaning, this time dragging my hubby along to put together doll strollers, trucks, soccer goal, etc, etc... Came home again hot and tired and became very cranky when I walked in a saw that my girls did nothing around the house while I was working "on my day off" at the Preschool. Their answer was well we didn't know, you didn't leave us a note. Seriously why should I leave a note telling someone to do something when the mess is staring them in the face!!!! Grrr!!!!
Sunday night I was so stiff, sore and achy from all the work I had done and that was when the migraine came. I knew I was over doing it and instead of paying someone else to do the Preschool cleaning or asking a team of Church ladies to help I had to go and show everyone how strong I was and do it all by myself. Ugh...when will I ever learn just to ask for help!!
My migraine grew worse and instead of slowing down I just plunge ahead and work even harder. My solution to the migraine was to take a Muscle Relaxer. The "DR." in me thought I should do this since my body was so sore from all the heavy work I had done. I took this "EVIL" pill knowing that it would throw me into the worse mood ever!! And, it didn't disappoint me or my family!
Oh...did I mention I spent 6 hours at the Mall with Sarah yesterday and all she came home with was a shirt....that's all ONE SHIRT!!!!! Double Grr!!! And, I've slept on the couch for 3 nights due to all the coughing Mike has done from this cold he has. When I woke this morning I knew my mood was at it's worse when Mike walked in and said "I think I'm sick"...."Gee honey ya think"????!!!!! I unleashed such fury on him from that comment...down to telling him how sick I was of listening to him coughing up a lung and that I was making him an appt. to the Dr. and that if he didn't go I would spend the night at the Preschool {haha...I always threaten by family that I'm running away to the Preschool}. Well he did go and he does have Bronchitis and has no one to blame but himself for not going to the Dr on Monday when I first suggested it.
Anyway, I went to work and did the floors today and worked my aggression and rotten mood out into making those floors sparkle. I am feeling somewhat better and have not liked myself at all the last few days AND I really need to learn how to make time for myself, ask for help, slow down, etc..etc...BUT, I really need to throw those rotten EVIL muscle relaxers in the trash. I'm blaming my hissy fit and cranky pants tantrum on those pills and I'm sticking to that story!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Laura's First Day of Medical Asst. Classes

Well she did it...my little girl went off into the world on her on without me and survived!!! She did however call me on her lunch break to tell me she was doing ok, but that it was very different, she was coming home with a ton of homework and would be having her first test on Thurs.
I know most of you know that I have 4 daughters and Laura is not the oldest but, she is the one out of the four who seems to need me the most...and I'm NOT complaining! Today she started classes at Central Florida Technical College. This term she is taking Anatomy, Medical Terminology, and hmmm..I forgotten the other class. She will go M - Th 8 - 3:30 so, she has a full schedule. If all goes as planned at the end of 2 years she will be a Certified Medical Assistant and will also take her State Boards to be Certified to take X-Rays. At that time if she decides she can enroll in the Sonogram Program {they make GOOD money} she says she doesn't care how much they make she DOES NOT want to stay closed up in a dark room all day doing Sonograms. She has already put in a request to do her Internship at the Jewitt Clinic at the RDV Sports Complex and is hoping she will get hired after she completes the Internship and takes her State Boards for X-rays.
Central Florida Technical College is not your standard College it's more of a Technical School which is a better option for Laura but, is also why I think she found it just a tad difficult today. Her class is made up of an assortment of people of different ages and nothing at all like High School. She did meet one person her age so, that is a good thing.
Tonight at dinner Mike was making fun of me by telling Cody {Laura's boyfriend who was over "helping" her do her homework} that I had packed Laura's lunch for her today. I said well that was only because it was the First Day of School. Laura replied by saying you mean you aren't going to pack it everyday for me????
And, yes I did cry this morning as she was leaving. Wanna know why??? Because she was wearing Nike's...that's right!! You see the 3rd day of Kindergarten Laura came home and told Mike at dinner that the boys in PE could run faster than her and she said it was because they wore shoes that had a check mark on them...LOL {Nike's}. She said if she had a pair like that she would be able to beat them at running. So, right after dinner that night Mike took her to the mall to buy her a pair of Nike's. The next day she came home and proudly announced she could now run just as fast as the boys!!
I know we are supposed to cut the apron strings, cut the cord or whatever you want to say and I might even try it in a year or two, but right now I'm happy that my 18 year old daughter still needs me and likes it that I pack her lunch...{ok, she's to lazy to do it herself I know this, it's just that the other sounds better}.
I know most of you know that I have 4 daughters and Laura is not the oldest but, she is the one out of the four who seems to need me the most...and I'm NOT complaining! Today she started classes at Central Florida Technical College. This term she is taking Anatomy, Medical Terminology, and hmmm..I forgotten the other class. She will go M - Th 8 - 3:30 so, she has a full schedule. If all goes as planned at the end of 2 years she will be a Certified Medical Assistant and will also take her State Boards to be Certified to take X-Rays. At that time if she decides she can enroll in the Sonogram Program {they make GOOD money} she says she doesn't care how much they make she DOES NOT want to stay closed up in a dark room all day doing Sonograms. She has already put in a request to do her Internship at the Jewitt Clinic at the RDV Sports Complex and is hoping she will get hired after she completes the Internship and takes her State Boards for X-rays.
Central Florida Technical College is not your standard College it's more of a Technical School which is a better option for Laura but, is also why I think she found it just a tad difficult today. Her class is made up of an assortment of people of different ages and nothing at all like High School. She did meet one person her age so, that is a good thing.
Tonight at dinner Mike was making fun of me by telling Cody {Laura's boyfriend who was over "helping" her do her homework} that I had packed Laura's lunch for her today. I said well that was only because it was the First Day of School. Laura replied by saying you mean you aren't going to pack it everyday for me????
And, yes I did cry this morning as she was leaving. Wanna know why??? Because she was wearing Nike's...that's right!! You see the 3rd day of Kindergarten Laura came home and told Mike at dinner that the boys in PE could run faster than her and she said it was because they wore shoes that had a check mark on them...LOL {Nike's}. She said if she had a pair like that she would be able to beat them at running. So, right after dinner that night Mike took her to the mall to buy her a pair of Nike's. The next day she came home and proudly announced she could now run just as fast as the boys!!
I know we are supposed to cut the apron strings, cut the cord or whatever you want to say and I might even try it in a year or two, but right now I'm happy that my 18 year old daughter still needs me and likes it that I pack her lunch...{ok, she's to lazy to do it herself I know this, it's just that the other sounds better}.
A Busy Women's Day Book
For Today...Monday, August 3, 2009
Outside My Window...the sun is not yet up.
I am Thinking...lots of different things. Today my little girl starts Tech/College classes and I have many different emotions going on...excitement, nervousness, sadness...
I am Thankful...for my personal saviour Jesus Christ for whom all things are possible!
From The Kitchen...haha this question makes me laugh every week. It's so hot who wants to cook? And, by the time I get home each day, I'm far to tired.
From The Learning Rooms...at the Preschool I made it through March on the Lesson Plans. This week I will be getting the friends names on things, and crossing off LOTS of things on "My Things To Do List"! At home, ugh... Sarah will never become the avid reader that I want her to be.
I am Creating...goals for this upcoming school year.
I am wearing...jammies {the ones that Mike says will never go away...ha!}
I am Reading...Twlight....still! It is good, but I tend to fall asleep when I read, since it is the only time I sit still.
I am Hoping...Laura has a good day, is safe on her drive to and from school, makes at least one friend today, stays positive and does not become overwhelmed as she tends to do.
I am Hearing...the ceiling fan.
Around the House...all is clean, I've been up since 4am. Did I mention that my little girl is starting classes today....in Orlando???!!!
One Of My Favorite Things...Snickers Almond candy bars. {if I never lose this unwanted fat, its no one's fault but my own!}
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...LOTS of last minute things to do around the Preschool, and I'm hoping to take Wed. & Thurs. off to rest, relax, and take Sarah shopping for back to school clothes.
A Picture Thought...Laura's First Day of College/Tech School. {I'll have to edit this later to add the picture}
Outside My Window...the sun is not yet up.
I am Thinking...lots of different things. Today my little girl starts Tech/College classes and I have many different emotions going on...excitement, nervousness, sadness...
I am Thankful...for my personal saviour Jesus Christ for whom all things are possible!
From The Kitchen...haha this question makes me laugh every week. It's so hot who wants to cook? And, by the time I get home each day, I'm far to tired.
From The Learning Rooms...at the Preschool I made it through March on the Lesson Plans. This week I will be getting the friends names on things, and crossing off LOTS of things on "My Things To Do List"! At home, ugh... Sarah will never become the avid reader that I want her to be.
I am Creating...goals for this upcoming school year.
I am wearing...jammies {the ones that Mike says will never go away...ha!}
I am Reading...Twlight....still! It is good, but I tend to fall asleep when I read, since it is the only time I sit still.
I am Hoping...Laura has a good day, is safe on her drive to and from school, makes at least one friend today, stays positive and does not become overwhelmed as she tends to do.
I am Hearing...the ceiling fan.
Around the House...all is clean, I've been up since 4am. Did I mention that my little girl is starting classes today....in Orlando???!!!
One Of My Favorite Things...Snickers Almond candy bars. {if I never lose this unwanted fat, its no one's fault but my own!}
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...LOTS of last minute things to do around the Preschool, and I'm hoping to take Wed. & Thurs. off to rest, relax, and take Sarah shopping for back to school clothes.
A Picture Thought...Laura's First Day of College/Tech School. {I'll have to edit this later to add the picture}
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