Give Me A Break

I’m beginning to think I have a serious problem. My name is Anna, and I am addicted to chocolate. How do I know this? Not only do I dream in chocolate, but I found myself coming up with ways to persuade my students to give me candy. I’m horrible, I know.

How about this: Every time a student gives a pathetic excuse for an incomplete assignment, I say, “Give me a break.” Then that student will instantly know that he or she needs to buy me a Kit-Kat bar. And with that Kit-Kat bar will come an apology and 5 minutes for me to savory the candy one bite at a time… in silence.

Not a bad idea, right? Yes. It seems that I am dreaming… in chocolate. Maybe some day it will all come true. Until then, give me a break. 

Ms. "Fix It"

Broken? Bruised? Crooked? I’ve got just the solution. Duct tape.

My family used to own a big blue GMC Safari van. Not the prettiest vehicle in the world, but we all fit with plenty of room to spare. As it aged, it spent more time in the body shop than on our driveway. After a run-in with a pole, one of the side mirrors detached itself from the rest of the vehicle. 

My dad’s solution was a little bit of duct tape. He didn’t stop there. Not long after, parts of the interior were dressed up with silver tape. Classy, let me tell you.

The good news is that duct tape now comes in all colors and patterns. Feeling like cheetah print? Check. How about Zebra? Bright blue? Check, check. Duct tape has it all. Thank goodness.

Next time you find yourself at the hardware store, stop by the duct tape isle. You will be amused for hours. 

It's Gonna Be Awesome Baby!

A lot can happen in one day. Motivation gets lost. Self-esteem gets shot down. I’m here to remind you one thing….

That’s right, people! It’s time to refocus our priorities. Rethink how we feel about ourselves. Consider that to-do list stuck to your planner. Don’t think about the seven tasks that remain unfinished. Instead, look at those three jobs with the giant marks through them. Way to go! Three things down, seven to go! Totally awesome baby!

On your way home, don’t think about the horrible meeting with your co-worker. Think about how you constructed a grammatically correct email today! Woo hoo! Awesomeness.

Four loads of laundry waiting to be done. Don’t fret. Instead, think about that load of towels you folded last weekend. Great job, you awesome cat!

Yes, life gets busy. We don’t always perform to our best abilities. Now, more than ever, it is essential that we don’t forget to be awesome. 

Thank a Teacher!

I got home yesterday and turned on Nightly News with Brian Williams. I love catching up on what is going on in the world, and NBC just does it right. There was a segment about education, so my head immediately turned with interest.

After displaying “statistics” stating that our children are behind other countries in basically all subject areas. How uplifting, I know. They turned the focus to a room full of teachers being asked, “How many of you spend out-of-pocket money on your students?” Every hand in the room shot up. The next question: “How many of you spend more than 60 hours a week doing school work?” None of the hands budged.

It’s no secret that teachers don’t go into their profession for the money. In my mom’s words: “Teachers are special.” Just because most teachers are willing to sacrifice time and money for their students, doesn’t make them easy targets to take advantage of.

Not long after watching this segment, I found an article online titled, “Many Teachers Have Little or No Experience in the Classroom.” Talk about a downer. I have realized that when politics and the economy are struggling, people blame education. Yet again, an easy target.

I’m not trying to make excuses or throw a pity party. I’m here to say that things are going fine in education. Teachers are trying new things and doing their best to care for their students. Teachers are underpaid and underappreciated. If you don’t teach, you will never understand the work it takes to touch the lives of every student.

Do yourself, your children, your community a favor: thank a teacher.

The Simplest Thoughts

My mom and I were out and about checking out small town shops. It was nice to chat and cool down with a tea and iced latte. I clearly had school on my mind, because everything I saw I envisioned in a classroom. Including this:

I mean really, what else is there to say? My mom and I laughed when the clerk told us that a 1^st grade teacher had just purchased it for her classroom.

Why is it that the simplest things seem so difficult? Working hard doesn’t have to be extremely strenuous. Most of the time this means doing what is expected. In all parts of life, people barely do the minimum. Whatever happened to playing by the rules and doing what you are told?

Be nice to people. Novel idea, I know. Anyone that says this is too hard, I’d like to have a conversation with. “I’m in a bad mood.” “Someone was mean to me.” “I’m tired.” Wah, wah, waaah! These excuses don’t cut it with me. There is no reason to not be nice to others. So figure it out.

I like the simplicity of this poster. There is no gray area. Just do it.

Communicate, Enunciate

While I am a girl of many talents, I was not blessed with the power to read minds.

"It takes all kinds." I understand this, and I realize that some people are much more shy than others. However, being shy does not mean cutting off communication with all human kind. I promise, it is not that hard to look someone in the eyes and tell them what you need/want/feel/believe.

Consider this scenario: I'm serving and ask a customer, "What would you like to drink?" The person points to their menu. Okay, what does that mean? Are you unable to speak?

And another: "Would you care for another drink?" The person responds with some type of grunt. What does that mean? We are not cavemen, so a simple "yes" or "no" would be sufficient.

Then there's the over-the-top communicator: I am up at the computer and the customer comes up to me to say, "I'm leaving now." Alright, thank you? I don't need a play-by-play, but have a nice weekend I guess.

Communicate, enunciate. Let's all work on this together.

What a Difference a Day Makes

Sometimes as I lay down to count a few zzz's for the evening, I reflect back on all of the events of the day. Of course this can be a time to learn from mistakes and even praise myself for the good things that may have occurred. And, of course, some days are more eventful than others. Not every day can be super exciting and packed with life lessons.

Yesterday was a total whirl-wind for me. It was like someone put me on a roller coaster without letting me know. Thanks for the heads up. Sheesh! 

In a nutshell, I managed to have a good day with my students (productivity and fun!!!), learn a huge teaching lesson in the span of approximately two hours, and "play bartender" until the wee hours of the night. I was emotionally and physically tired by the end of my Friday. 

When I woke up, I thought of this verse from Ecclesiastes 7:14: "On a good day, enjoy yourself. On a bad day, examine your conscience. God arranges for both kinds of days so that we won't take anything for granted." 

I was able to have all of that rolled into one long day. However, today I am feeling overwhelmed, refreshed, and ready to learn and move on. Yes, the saying goes as such: what a difference a day makes. 

Happy weekend :-)

Dirty Mouth? Clean It Up.

I overheard a student drop an “F” bomb the other day. While it is not shocking, I began thinking about my dirty mouth. I may seem like a sweet and innocent girl, but I have picked up a bad habit of swearing. I don’t need to be the one to tell you, but teachers shouldn’t swear in the presence of their students. Which means, I have to “clean it up” the moment I walk into my classroom. No fun, huh?

As I was thinking, I realized that I have really cut out my swearing. Good for me! I have only dropped one “oh, shit” all year. Whoop, whoop!

Then I began to think about my conversations with my friends. Holy, smart-ass. Yep, that’s me. My last chat with Ashley definitely consisted of a few “choice words.” I like to add them for affect. It’s all in good fun; what can I say? Ash and I are good at swearing and laughing.

What I have come to realize is that I have a remarkable filter. I know when to shut off my four letter words and when I am allowed to turn them back on. I guess that makes me a smartie.

My advice to all of you with dirty mouths: clean them up (when necessary). 

Missing Motivation

Has anyone seen my motivation? I seem to have misplaced it somewhere along with my favorite black hoodie.

In order to complete my student teaching experience, earn my teaching certificate, and graduate, I have to submit a teacher work sample that consists of lesson plans, assessments, sample work, and a whole lot of buzz words (“academic language”). It’s very tedious and not my idea of a good time.

I have been opening up the document every afternoon, and all that happens is… nothing. I have little direction and motivation. My “center” is a part of a pilot group that is trying out a new type of assessment, which means no one has a clue what’s going on. I have been trying to “go with the flow,” but this can only happen for so long. It is due mid-October, and I am not even through the first section.

Clearly, I need some help here people. So if you find my motivation, please contact me via Twitter @annajnelly. Thank you. 

Primp and Prime

What’s a girl to do with a couple extra hours? Or even 45 minutes? Makeup counter at Von Maur it is!

This summer, I had some time to kill before my friend’s wedding. I thought it would be a perfect time to treat myself to a little makeup renewal session. I plopped myself down in a comfy chair at the Clinque station. All I had to say was, “Give me smoky eyes.” And she did. It was great for me to see the differences in technique and colors. It’s not hard to find myself in a makeup rut that seems to deep to dig myself out of.

I came out looking fresh and ready to spend the evening with friends. I was surprised at how well the makeup stayed on… even through brunch the next morning ;-) This was thanks to a new product that I just had to purchase.

Clinque Lash-Blasting Primer is designed to condition lashes before applying mascara. It really helps to keep lashes smooth and separate. No one like clumpy lashes. I have to say, it’s totally worth it. Why wouldn’t I want to add another step to my daily primp and prime. 

Peas Please

I’m a pretty big fan of canned veggies. Creamed corn, cooked carrots, sliced green beans, cut green beans. They all taste good in my belly. Now if I can only get the electric can opener figured out.

Growing up, my grandma Earleen was the best at remembering all of her grandchildren’s favorite foods. She was always stocked up on Honey Nut Cheerios, Fasco Root Beer, and strawberry shortcake. Every morning we would wake up and mix up a batch of Pilsbury blueberry muffins. I’m almost positive I ate about three muffins worth of dough along the way.

At one point in time, I must have got after the peas on my plate, because Grandma always made sure to have “little green peas for Anna.” I’m not complaining; however, why did she buy Health bars for my sister and peas for me? I would have been just fine with mint chocolate chip ice cream or puppy chow.

I still love those peas. Each time I dig my forks into them, I remember saying to my grandma with a smile, “Peas please.”

Self-Disclosure

I’ve always been a fairly chatty girl. I speak my mind and talk, talk, talk. I have a lot to say and no problems saying them. I try my best not to offend or be rude to others, but I’m beginning to wonder if I sound like my freshmen boys that have a case of ‘mouth diarrhea.’

My issue comes when I say too much. There are some parts of a person’s life that should remain private… Or at least you would think. However, if I am around someone that is engaged and makes me feel comfortable, I generally just keep yapping.

I have a friend that I see every few weeks, and it never fails, our conversations always turn personal and even serious. He keeps his opinions to himself until I ask. He listens and makes me feel like I matter. The bottom line is, I trust him. It is one of the most unique and unexpected friendships I have ever had, which makes me appreciate it even more.

I suppose my sporadic self-disclosure is far from the randomness that seeps from my students’ mouths.       

Competitive Bone

There is no doubt that Saturdays in the fall are spent watching football. I spent yesterday falling in and out of naps and free reading. Of course, ESPN was constantly playing in the background. Game after game, upset after upset, none of it had any impact on my mood. I began to wonder, "When was the last time I actually cared about the outcome of a game?"

I’ve always been a player on the court/field/course that enjoys the game more than the score. I want everyone to have fun and get along, so whether we win or lose is pretty minor. I know this may sound crazy, but that competitive nature is pretty foreign to me.

I honestly don’t quite understand how people get so worked up when their favorite team comes out on the losing end. I mean, there are people that are darn right crabby after a tough loss. I just want to say, “You have absolutely no control over how your favorite college football team performs, so get over it.”

After all of these years, I’m still searching for my competitive bone. I’m sure it’s in there somewhere…

Back in the Saddle

Isn't it amazing how our brains work? The ability to recall, memorize, and reflect upon different parts of our past and present is astonishing. Just when we think we have forgotten something, our mind searches to find a connect, jogging it all back to life.

It had been a few weeks since I served at my restaurant job, and part of me was wondering if I could still handle the pressures of the fast pace environment. But who am I kidding? I've been doing it for years, and it came right back to me in a jiffy. There were a few new things I needed to brush up on, including meeting a few of my new co-workers. Soon enough, I was back to chatting with customers and catching up with my friends. It was a nice change of pace from being around shyster teenagers ;-)

The expression, "it's just like riding a bike" couldn't be more true. Just think how long we can go without riding a bike, and suddenly our legs are pedaling through trails and tracks. It's a comforting thought to know that it doesn't take much to get back in the saddle again.

Four Eyes

I’ve been wearing glasses and/or contacts since the ripe age of thirteen. I’ve had my fair share of torn contacts, dry eyes, and bent frames. For some reason, keeping the smudges off of my glasses is a difficult task. I always ask my mom to clean them when I’m home. While I’m sure I could figure it out, my mom’s touch just seems to make them extra clean.

Last year around Thanksgiving, we found that my brother’s puppy, Nala, had a new chewing obsession. As a young puppy she was overly infatuated with shoes. It was pretty disgusting, because we had to put all of our shoes on the kitchen counter (I swear we aren’t dirtballs).

So what was her new obsession? You guessed it. Glasses. After completely demolishing my brother’s pair, maybe we should have known. I suppose everyone thought it was a freak accident until we found the little booger under a chair chomping on my precious pair of J-Lo frames (that had a bit of bling on them, might I add). I was furious. Nala and her puppy-like instincts always rubbed me the wrong way, but that day I had had enough. I was fuming.

Not long after, I bought a new pair of glasses. Cheetah print and way too cute. I mean, if I’m going to have four eyes, they may as well be stylish. 

Sleepy Pants

I'm all about being comfortable. Throwing on a pair of sweatpants at the end of the day is a luxury we all deserve. I know I don't look to attractive in baggy Nike pants and an oversized sweatshirt full of holes and stains, but I really don't care.

I also believe in professionalism. Obviously, I would never wear my lounge wear to school. Of course my editor pants from Express are quite comfortable, but I have not problem peeling them off at the end of the day.

The problem comes when people confuse comfort with professionalism. Coaches often have their players dress up on a game day. The reason for this is that if you dress well, you will play well. I have to say, I completely agree.

So here's my issue. When did it become acceptable to wear pajamas to class... or even in public for that matter. Pajamas were made for one reason. To sleep in... in the comfort of your own home. There is no need for me to see girls walking around school wearing Tweety Bird flannel pants. I guarantee that if you look sloppy, you will not perform at your best level.

Leave the sleepy pants at home... in bed.

Need... Sugar... Now...

I would like to think we’ve all been there; however, I’m not so sure. Cravings come and go, but sugar cravings just stay. The taste of those little crystals dissolving on my tongue is pure heaven. I realize that sugar comes in all forms, and I appreciate that. I love sugar in Twizzlers, Coco Puffs, my aunt’s monster bars… you name it; I love it.

I recently witnessed a student scrapping out the bottom of his Sour Patch Kids wrapper with his index finger. I mean, he might as well have just stuck his tongue in there or dumped the sugar on his head. He just had to get that last lick.

The amount of sugar teenagers consume absolutely blows my mind. There was another student that remarked about having a Scratch cupcake (most amazing baked good in the world) during fourth period. Only seconds later did he pull out a Butterfinger to start chomping on. He may be a skinny fart now, but I know his metabolism will catch up sooner or later.

Trust me, I love that sugar. I just hope that I never look like those kids with glossy eyes saying, “need… sugar… now…”

It's a Bird... It's a Plane...

It’s no secret that I spend a lot of time surfin’ the web. I find myself clicking one article that leads to the next. Honestly, I need to get a hobby.

So, don’t even ask how I came across this:

No words.

Wait, I do have a few things to say. Holy patterns. I know that mixing patterns can work, but I also know that sometimes a solid color is the best way to go. Is that a knock-off version of paisley? Because that is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I suppose adding the “pop of color” was a good choice on the stylist’s part. I mean, you really can’t go wrong with a checkered patterned, silk tie. Or can you?

Where does one wear such a get-up? I was thinking the circus, but maybe to a classy high school variety show? I know I wouldn’t want to be the character sitting next to this suit. No one would even know I existed.

In case you’re wondering. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope. It’s Nick Cannon. Nice work, buddy.

The Child Ban

We’ve all been there. You’re taking a leisurely trip to the grocery store for butter and eggs when you hear a screaming kid in isle four. The crying and begging is usually deafened slightly by a mother threatening, “If you don’t be quiet, we are going to leave right now.” Um, duh. That’s exactly what the kid wants to do. I may not be a parent, but I’m smart enough to know that one.

I suppose it is slightly expected to hear screeching kids at the grocery store, but what about when you stop at Starbucks for a soothing latte to go along with a good book? Not a place for kids. Recently I saw this sign at a local coffee shop.

  

I’ve read of places banning children, or limiting the hours that they can be there. Am I a bad person for agreeing with these establishments? I really do have a heart, and I kinda like kids, but there really is a time and place for loud noises. I would rather there be a “helpful smile in every isle” rather than a pouting toddler. 

Where's My Face??

Ever since I visited the Clinque counter in high school, my face has been concealed, powdered, bronzed, and touched up. I love makeup. I love how it shapes a person's attitude along with her face. I know my mood definitely changes according to my shade of eyeshadow. While my mother believes I'm beautiful without makeup, I have an added confidence after my daily application.

The only problem is, sometimes my face just needs to breathe. There is nothing better than a touch of eye makeup remover and a good scrub with Clean & Clear. After a long day, my pores need to be unclogged. Can't you just hear them screaming, "Let me breathe!!!"

Even Kim Kardashian leaves her house without a face.

Every once in a while, I decide to let my face have a rest. Which means, no makeup for an entire day. You may think this sounds dramatic, but it really does not happen for me very often. As I go through today with no makeup on, I will continue to ask myself, "Where's my face??"

In-State Rivalry

It happens every year. The Cy-Hawk football game. And, of course, it’s all anyone is talking about. Let the comparisons and trash-talking begin.

Iowa State University vs. University of Iowa:

College Entertainment:

            Sororities/Fraternities vs.  4th ranked “Top Party School in America” by Princeton Review 

Theme Song:

“Cyclone” by Baby Bash vs. “Black and Yellow” by Wiz Kahlifa

Major:

Farmers vs. Pharmaceuticals

Mascot:

            Cy vs. Herky 

And the list goes on…

But, let’s talk about what really matters: Did you see the suit and tie combination on Kirk Herbstreit? Man, is he easy on the eyes!?!

The questions is: do you “move your body like a cyclone” or “everything you do, do you do it big”??

It's Just Not Okay

There is a time and place for everything. That includes clothing. For instance, let’s say it’s mid-July and only 64 degrees out. But do you throw on a cashmere sweater and a pair of cords? Heck no! It’s just not acceptable to be wearing that outfit in the middle of summer (at least in the Midwest). Would you wear a tank top in December? I didn’t think so.

Ever seen a pair of these sexy mamas???

Wouldn’t these look great with a black dress while attending a fancy smancy event? Or to go out dancing with the girls? I think so!

How about with jeans to your high school English class? Um… not so much. You think you’ve seen it all, and then in walks a blonde high school senior with glitter pumps. First of all, it’s not even 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Second, I don’t even need a second reason. I’m sorry, but it’s just not okay.

Building My Toolbox

I’ve never thought of myself as a carpenter; however, I am beginning to reconsider. While I may not building shelves or laying tile, I am building my toolbox for success.

I’m not trying to sound corny or turn off any of my avid readers. Something, or should I say someone, just sparked this idea for me yesterday.

I am constantly learning new tricks to keep students engaged. Each day I find myself treading water, jumping from lesson to lesson, praying that someone learns something. I’m beginning to think my headaches are attributed to brain-usage-overload and not my lack of caffeine.

I’m not complaining one bit. Each time something works, I place it in my toolbox. When a lesson flops or my students get off track, I simply (and sometimes harshly) throw that tool out the window.

I’m learning along with my students. I’m building my teacher toolbox. Yes, I’m Bob Anna the Builder. 

Ms. Pee Body

There are a few beverages that seem to slide right through me. This morning, I learned that hot tea is one of them. I am going to try and share this story without giving too much information. Let’s just say, I visited the lady’s room four times before lunch this morning.

Growing up, my mom was always sure to ask if anyone needed to use the restroom before we traveled any distance longer than 30 minutes. My family is pretty notorious for stopping every hour to stretch, use the restroom, and purchase more liquids to consume (makes sense, right?). Our family vacations could have been nearly a day shorter had they not consisted of so many “breaks.”

My bladder has not gotten any larger over the course of my life. That’s right, I still am the one that holds up trips. However, I have gotten more discrete about asking to stop. “Where is the next gas station?” “I don’t know, do you need to go now?” “Um, yea, just whenever.” (Keep in mind I wanted to stop… like three miles ago).

I may be growing up, but I’m still a Ms. Pee Body. 

Can't We All Just Get Along?

The time has come. Everywhere I go people are covered from head to toe in their favorite team colors. Every conversation begins and ends with talk of pass interceptions and coaching techniques. That’s right. It’s football season. 

I would like to say all this football talk drives me crazy, except I often find myself grinning from ear to ear. I like football just as much as the next girl, and I really enjoy school and team pride.

Of course, there will always be those fans that take it to the next level. I will never understand the purpose of bashing and heckling other teams. Can’t we all just get along? I mean most of these arguments result in nothing but anger and frustration.

My smile fades when people try to compare teams that are nothing alike. What’s the point? Is this all so they can feel better about the next time they get schooled by someone in their own conference? Ugh. Frustration.

Can’t we all just be happy that there is a winner? My competitive nature could kick in any time now. But, until then, can’t we all just get along?

#hashtag

I enjoy Twitter. Random comments and quotes from people all around the world. It really doesn’t get much better than that. Not to mention, there is a great deal of news that is shared. Just the other day, there were “technical difficulties” during a football game. During those critical moments, I was able to follow UNI Athletics to stay up to date with the time, score, and even yardage. It’s actually pretty awesome.

We have also started using Twitter in the classroom. Students are asked to come up with clear and precise answers to questions. After all, they only get 140 characters to get their point across.

Along with Twitter comes some strange terminology. Hashtags. Mentions. Trending topics. When I first started tweeting, I thought I was doing it all wrong; however, I have come to find out that there is no “right” way to tweet. Whatever, whenever, however. That’s the beauty of Twitter. The randomness continues without pressure.

If I have an interesting or random thought that needs to be shared with me tweeps, you better believe I get excited to share. Because, let’s get real, I have a lot to say. You can follow me @annajnelly #gettoit 

Fro Yo, Yo...

epic: A highly overused term that used to mean something that is tremendously large, powerful, or exciting, but has now comically been redefined to describe commonplace things.


I am going to jump on the bandwagon and say, something epic happened to me yesterday. I discovered a new frozen yogurt shop. As we were driving by, I gasped... started freaking out and driving like a madwoman. Should we stop? (hint, hint) Thank goodness we did.

Happy Saturday

Let me explain how things roll at these incredible frozen yogurt shops. First, you start with whatever flavor you would like. Don't be afraid to mix and match... a little suicide. Next, the toppings. Oh my gosh, the toppings. I went with with raspberries, brownie chunks, and M&Ms. Heaven a little cup. Finally, they weigh your creation in order to charge you correctly. A beautiful process that I plan to revisit frequently. 


The worst best part: I got a punch card. What can I say? It's fro yo, yo!

Smells Like Teen Spirit

Holy, moly were the kids wacky yesterday! They told me it was because it was Thursday. I was under the impression that they waited until Friday to lose complete focus. Apparently Monday and Tuesday are devoted to “being tired” and Thursday and Friday to getting revved up for the weekend. So, does that mean I only get Wednesday for complete focus?

With pep rallies, football games, and volleyball matches, social lives are taking over classroom duties. I mean who wants to read Jonathan Edwards when they can iChat about last weekend’s drama? My dad was right when saying, “the only thing that matters to teenagers is themselves… and, of course, their social lives.”

Well then, let me step out of the way. Heaven forbid teenagers learn and stretch their brains. I wouldn’t want anyone to miss out on the latest gossip. I mean, the two that continue to flirt in the hallway may be destined for one another. I cannot… will not... stand in the way of a budding romance.

Yes, I must say, it smells like teen spirit around here. 

I'm Melting, I'm Melting

Here in Iowa, we have a thing called weather. I’ve heard they have it everywhere, but I’m not positive. Well, yesterday it decided to rain. This seemed to make the local farmers and yellow ducklings quite happy. High schoolers, on the other hand, not so thrilled.

Rain is wet. Meaning, those standing outside in the rain were wet. I didn’t think this would be a hard concept; however, for some reason, it was. As the students walked into the building, drenched in rain, all I could think was, “get an umbrella.” If you see that there are clouds in the sky, prepare for rain. Better yet, listed to the weather before leaving the house. Or, how about all these smart phones with weather apps? Hello, let’s figure this one out!

I understand that rain can be a giant pain in the rear, but it is not the end of the world. Although, it may be the end of a good hair day.

I shouldn’t have been surprised when I heard teenagers over dramatizing a simple element like rain. “I’m melting, I’m melting!” Oh please.