My Go-Tos

Happy New Year's Eve day! I spent a stupid amount of time this morning contemplating what to wear tonight. I will be going out with a couple of girlfriends who always look cute; therefore, I've got to make sure I'm right there with them. 

I went to the mall yesterday to see if I could come up with an outfit that would make me look and feel great. Everything I saw didn't "look like me." I figured I would stop back again today with a pair of fresh eyes; however, after looking through my clothes, I may to resort back to my go-to pieces. 

Leather jacket by Jack from Dillards. I literally don't think I will ever find a jacket that I like better than this one. It looks good every time I slip it on, and I feel like a rockstar when I strut around. The color is so versatile. Best of all, it was only around $45 last season!

Never mind the fried ice cream I'm sharing with Ashley. Just check out the jacket ;-)

Skinny jeans. These are such a step up from boot cut and flared jeans. They really dress up an outfit, and I have found a couple of really comfortable pairs at Express. Such a great store. 

Booties. Love, love, love. There is nothing better than a good heel to boost your spirits - and your height. Women surely walk different when they have a couple extra inches under their feet. I like the short little booties because they are more like an accessory rather than a shoe. 

My newest go-to to join the family: Fossil stainless steal rose Stella watch. I have already been wearing this around the house this morning. I feel so important when I have a watch on my wrist. I'm sure I will still look at my phone for the time, but it's all about the look. 

Picture this baby on my wrist. Love. 

I hope everyone has a great night! Happy New Year!

GTL = GTMM

I have never actually seen The Jersey Shore, but because I haven't been living under a rock, I have a pretty good understanding of the unique jargon. Mike "The Situation" discusses the need to reach maximum potential by a daily does of GTL (gym, tan, laundry). Of course these are the only three things it takes to look and feel your best, right?

Does this look like a dude that needs anything besides GTL?

After searching through some gift cards, I decided that to reach my maximum potential today I will get in some GTMM. That's right. I will soon be going to the Gym. After some coffee and a quick shower, I will Tan and head to a 55 minute Massage. Early this afternoon, I lined up a Manicure downtown. Just a little GTMM on the last Friday of the year.

Don't be afraid if I look like this by the end of today...

Just call me Anna "The Bomb B#$%&."

What's My Age Again?

I decided yesterday that I am changing my age. I feel much more like a 24-year-old; therefore, that is my new age. Do you suppose that I can go to the courthouse to change it just like a new name?

As my head hit the pillow after a long night of serving, I started thinking about people's sensitivities to their age. Those that are old wish to be young, and vice versa. As a server, if someone appears to be younger than 30, it is my job to card those ordering alcohol. You would be surprised at how many people get worked up over this. "Are you really going to card me?" or "Ah, come on. Really?" Um... yeah. The stupid part is that those that make a big deal of it are generally younger than me. Sorry, but if you were born in 1985, then I will ask to see your I.D. Get over yourself; you aren't that cool.

On the flip side, sometimes they thank me for suggesting they look so young. You're welcome. Just doing my job.

Then there's the issue of "acting your age." Working in a sports bar showcases all types of actions. A lot of times I wonder if people leave their manners at the door. I realize that some people can't handle their alcohol, but that is no excuse to act like a complete child. There is no reason to make a huge mess, wrestle (yes, I've seen this done), or yell across the bar. It's embarrassing. I just have one question for these people: What's your age again?

Shower Time Essentials

Humans are creatures of habit. When people break too far into my daily routine, I get a little bit crabby. I realize the need for flexibility; however, I have grown fairly independent. If I "bend" for you, be flattered.

My daily habits even sneak into my shower time. I know when I like to shower, what products I like, and even the order of my scrubbing. I swear I do not have OCD, nor am I too crazy.

Shower time essentials:

Shampoo and conditioner. My mom and sister do not use conditioner. When I go home and miss this step, I am reminded how much I love the silky, smooth feeling of a quality conditioner. My favorite product is Pureology. It is not a water-based product, making it more dense that others. This allows it to last much longer than other shampoos and conditioners.

Face wash. I love the Neutrogena Acne Scrub. I don't have a lot of issues with acne (knock on wood), but I love the smell of this face wash. I really feel fresh and clean. I have also been known to use the Target Up & Up brand of face wash. Nothing better than a clean face!

Body wash and a luffa. I don't get how people feel clean without a luffa. Lathering up with this little sponge produces wonderful bubbles that help me feel great! I generally use the Target Up & Up brand of body wash as well.

Bic razor blade. I shave every day. Period.

All this talk of showers makes me anxious to start my day. Off to the gym and to shower up! Make it a good one!

Snack Attack

I'm a snacker. I would just as soon eat little bits and pieces of things all day long than sit down for a big meal. I'm a huge fan of snack packs, pudding cups, and mini cans of veggies. I know this sounds quite strange, but it really is satisfying in a weird way. Just think, my taste buds can be quenched the entire day.

Some of my favorite combos:

Pumpkin yogurt. I love taking canned pumpkin and mixing it in with vanilla yogurt. A dash of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice tops off the sweet treat.

Dressed up cottage cheese. I like to mix different flavors with my cottage cheese. French dressing, pumpkin, fruits, and even jam are delicious ways to add variety to a rather plain snack.

Banana ice cream. I am a huge fan of ice cream. Slice a banana and freeze the smaller pieces. Grind up the frozen pieces in a blender. In a matter of seconds you have a nice bowl of banana ice cream. Of course, I always add a little bit of cinnamon (I'm in love with this spice).

Clearly these treats are on the sweet side. I cannot help but crave sugar all of the time! It's really terrible. I even contemplated "quitting sugar" after reading about a book that instructs you to do just that. The problem is that my snack attacks consist of a few M&Ms each day. I don't know if I will ever be ready to quit my precious chocolates :-)

Ready for an Ash Bash

Let the celebrating continue! Today is my best friend, Ashley’s birthday! I know her birthday often gets overshadowed by all of the excitement of the holidays, but that doesn’t make her special day any less important.

Ashley and I have an exceptional way of balancing each other out. What I lack in patience, she makes up for with an easy-going attitude. She understands what I’m thinking and never judges my decisions. Ashley offers me support when I most need it. Her caring attitude and thirst for life are contagious.

Ash and I have had many adventures together. Our trip to Chicago for a concert and shopping was an unforgettable experience. Let’s just say we ended up in a McDonald’s with security guards.  We were two naïve girls in the wrong part of town. By God’s grace we found our way to the Boyce Avenue concert. Beers and wings never tasted so good.

Just last summer, we headed to South Dakota to celebrate Independence Day. We baked our skin as we boated and lounged on the deck of the pontoon. The car rides were full of conversation, music, and giggles. There is nothing more we could have asked for.

I’m looking forward to spending the day with my best friend. I am definitely ready for an Ash Bash! Happy birthday girl!

Don't Forget

Merry Christmas Blogging Buddies!!! It's hard to believe that it is already the day that we all come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Without any snow on the ground this year, the Christmas 'vibe' is a little bit lost; however, the lights on houses, presents under the tree, and pounds of Chex Mix make me believe that it really is December 25th.

Yesterday afternoon, I went to the Christmas Eve service at my church. I always love the essence of the candlelight service. The lights of the candles resemble a room full of people sharing their love as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Everyone seems to be in an uplifted mood as they spend time with family and friends. Even though I was roasting and there were babies crying at every angle, I still loved being in the presence of so many people exerting so much love.

It's easy to forget what Christmas is really about, and yesterday's service invited us to hear the story as if we never had before. As the band played gorgeous background music and the Christmas story was spoken aloud, it is clear to me that the greatest gift we will ever receive is the love of Jesus Christ.

In case you have forgotten the story. I'm bringing in my old friend Charlie Brown and Linus to share what Christmas is all about.

Don't forget the gift of Jesus Christ :-) Merry Christmas!

Naughty or Nice

It's time to ask the age-old question: Have you been naughty or nice this year? Naturally, we have all had our naughty moments; we are in fact human. It's sort of a daunting question. I can see how kids are so easily scared by a "jolly" man with white facial hair and a bright red nose. Especially when he's asking if he would see our names on the naughty list. Leave me alone, man; it's none of your business.

I have to admit I've been a bad little blogger as of late. For some reason I haven't had the brilliant ideas that generally pop into my head when I should be sleeping. I know, I know. It's frustrating for us all.

Here is my gift to myself as a blogger:

Isn't this such a strange tradition? A lump of coal if you are on the "naughty list." Apparently this silly tradition began with the idea that Santa didn't have enough presents for every child; therefore, the "bad" ones got the leftover lumps of coal for Christmas. If you ask me, it's not the kids' faults but the elves. Maybe they should have worked a little harder to make enough gifts for every child. We all deserve a second chance, right?

Even if you have been a cotton headed ninny muggins this year, don't let that get you down this Christmas. Whether you have been a naughty or nice, all that matters is that each day is a new start.

Good Reads

I was lacking any creative juices yesterday, hence the lack of posting. Even after a bag of M&Ms, my mind was not in the right place. Lucky for y'all, I'm forcing myself to get back on track today.

As you may recall, I was reading an excellent book called The Paris Wife by Paula Mclain. I finished it in no time, and I was feeling ready to conquer another novel. Without recommendations from friends or online, the library can be a very overwhelming place. There are tons of blogs that give reviews on popular books. I also visit Amazon or Barnes and Noble to see what people are reading.

After browsing around online yesterday, I found the Goodreads.com. You can rate books that you have read, as well click on books that looking interesting to you. Based upon your selections, the website offers suggestions and recommendations for your reading interests. It's awesome! There are tons of genres and books to choose from. It truly is a avid reader's dream.

Yesterday I picked up The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides. I hope today I can pull myself together and get some serious pages read! Make it a great day!

I Flunked Today

My mom has been a first or third grade teacher for my entire life; it is what I have always known her to be. She speaks highly of her students, and I can tell her time with them is precious. Growing up, my brother, sister, and I "graduated" each year, advanced to the next grade, while my mom always remained the "same age." We used to always joke with her and say that she flunked yet another year.

I flunked a few grades today. I spent some time in my mom's third grade classroom, listening and observing their silly comments and often ridiculous actions. After being in a secondary school environment for so long, there were some obvious changes.

For one, these people are little. I realize that this is quite obvious, but really, they are small. Their chairs are puny; the bathrooms are teeny-tiny. Their little shoes that are always untied are the size of my hand. It is so crazy to think that we were all that small at one point in time.

The noise is a different kind of noise. There is never a complete silence.... ever. I do not like when students talk out of turn or have what I call "word vomit," but this is inevitable in an elementary school. At one point, my mom had the kids play "Jolly Old Saint Nicolas" on their recorders. Thanks Mom, but I could have gone without the squeaking and squealing of these cheap instruments.

At any rate, it was fun to see the environment my mom is a part of each day. I now have faces to all of the names of her students. I enjoy the thirst for learning that these little guys have; if only we could continue this throughout our lifetimes. I have to say, I'm quite glad that I flunked today.

Once a Reader, Always a Reader

Now that I have some time off, I'm having a hard time filling it. Free time makes me anxious; I find myself wandering around cleaning, running errands, and thinking way too much. Although, I must say I do feel much better after deep cleaning my room (I actually scrubbed the baseboards and walls... Mom would be proud). Needless to say, a trip to the library was in order. I found a book that I just can't put down.

The Paris Wife is about Hadley Richardson, the wife of the extremely talented and well-known Ernest Hemingway. It is set in the 1920s, and the couple travels from Chicago to Paris. They run with a circle of the most elite writers, Ezra Pound and Gertrude Stein. I am infatuated with their lifestyle and relationship. This is my favorite time period to read about; the jazz age, prohibition, and female rights. It just always tends to spark my interest.

This morning, I got to thinking about my "reading history." I can still remember my very first chapter book that I read in first grade. Judy Blume's Freckle Juice.

I remember feeling so cool as I flipped through the pages of the chapters. The most exciting part was that I finally needed a bookmark :-)

Since then, I have been reading, reading, reading. I love the sense of accomplishment as I close back cover. I love the gained knowledge and being wrapped up in someone else's adventure. Books have so much to offer everyone.

I'm sure I will be completing yet another book in the next few days. Like they say, once a reader, always a reader.

Such an Idiom

There are so many different literary terms. Personification, mood, simile, euphony, and the list goes on for days. For most people, these terms enter and exit their lives each day without even recognizing them; however, as an English teacher, they are constantly on my brain.

The other evening, I was watching Wheel of Fortune. I love this show because I am quite capable of solving the puzzles in a quick fashion. I try not to get too cocky, but I'm pretty sure it's a gift. Doing word puzzles is my cup of tea.

Did you catch it? Spotting idioms can make me feel like such an idiot.

Idioms: common phrases or terms whose meanings are not literal, but are figurative and only known through their common uses.

The other day, my students were trying to figure out what "cream of the crop" meant. Of course it means the best or elite, but how were they supposed to know that? How did I know that? These sneaky little sayings come from all over; we learn their meanings through using and hearing them every day. Their origins are interesting. These phrases add interest and excitement to the normal day to day speech and writing.

In fact, it could be cool to incorporate them into a mini writing assignment (my wheels are turning this morning). I'm sure the students would have a field day with such an assignment. They might even ask if they can turn in a baker's dozen of them. I will probably be head of heels for their accomplishments. Wouldn't that be the icing on the cake.

Are you annoyed yet? I can be such an idiom, but I can't help myself.

High Five Time

I am lucky to be living in a community that has miles upon miles of trails that are perfect for running, biking, dog-walking, and rollerblading. Some of the trails sneak around a few small lakes, while others sporadically pop up in town.

A few years ago, I was running around a couple of smaller lakes. I like this spot because there are almost always men fishing and couples walking their dogs. It was a warmer, summer morning. As I jogged, I was approaching another runner. Like always, I was preparing myself for a quick wave and “good morning” as we passed. This time was a little different. The runner offered me a high five. Of course, I accepted; however, I was a little taken aback.

Ever since that day, I have been mildly obsessed with the idea of ‘exercising high fives.' Sometimes when I’m running beside someone on the treadmills at the gym, I envision giving them a quick high five or even a little shout out. Then I realize how strange it would be if I blurted out, “Keep it up!” or “Great form!”

Just the other day at school, the P.E. teacher gave me a high five. This may not seem like that big of a deal, except how often do you really get a high five? Does your boss offer you one at the end of a long workday? Do you get a high five after purchasing a new pair of jeans at the Buckle?

Can you imagine? “Thanks for shopping with us!” (Insert high five).

The bottom line is, I like 'em. It’s high time we present others with more high fives.

Wisdom from the Greatest

It’s always nice to feel appreciated. As I mentioned, yesterday was my last day student teaching with the junior high kids. When I arrived at school, the teacher’s lounge was full of goodies and a note wishing me luck as I continue on my teaching journey. Sure, I’ll have some M&Ms and cheese dip :-)

My cooperating teacher does a very good job at making people feel special. She bakes cupcakes for the students on their birthday (unbelievable, I know). Knowing this, I wasn’t surprised to find a nice gift and kind words on my desk next to my freshly graded papers.

I was touched to see a little booklet nicely bound with the words “Advice for a Junior High Teacher” from junior high students. Each of my students had written out on a note card any piece of advice they believe I would need to be a good junior high teacher.

Here were some of my favorites:

Be kind and respectful. Everyone needs to be reminded of these important traits.

Make schoolwork seem fun. While this can be a challenge, it’s worth the extra effort.

Be patient. I was surprised at how many students mentioned the importance of being patient in lessons, as well as when communicating with them. Everyone learns and communicates at different speeds.

Don’t give a lot of homework. Sorry buddy, but that’s life.

Discipline the ‘naughty ones’ but be fun too. Yes, teaching is about finding a balance.

Have students move around and talk. Junior high students like to socialize; it is important to allow for this in lessons.

Just have fun. Enough said.

This booklet full of advice will travel with me to my next adventure. After all, this wisdom is coming from the greatest little dudes around. 

Where I Need to Be

The time has come. Today is my last day of student teaching! I can hardly believe that two and a half years ago I decided to go back to school to become an English teacher. This morning on my drive to school, my mom called to wish me a 'happy last day.' After a restless night's sleep, I was feeling a little emotional. We quickly reflected on the last eight weeks, sixteen weeks. I got a few tears in my eyes, realizing that this is where I need to be.

After earning a degree and working in 'the real world' for a while, deciding to venture back to school was easy. Starting over as I watched my friends begin jobs and families was difficult. I even envied the fact that they had bills to pay (I may take this comment back as the student loans start pouring in). I am grateful to have friends and family that have supported me through prayers and comfort. They continually reminded me of the importance of patience.

After today, I plan to relax. Since I am a busy body, this will only last one day before I'm bored and ready to figure out the next stage of my life. I can only read so many books, run so many errands, and clean so many random places.

What is my next step? I plan to substitute around the area this spring. I will be job searching and hopefully interviewing. I have no doubt that there is a place for me. Teaching is my passion; it is what I was meant to do. I am excited about my profession. I know that this is right where I need to be.

Formatting Faux Pas

The past few days I have spent a significant amount of time grading papers. I actually stopped at a mirror to make sure my eyes were not bleeding. Thankfully, they are still placed neatly in their sockets.

I am grading 7^th and 8^th grade personal narratives and essays. I realize that not everyone likes to write, nor is everyone a particularly good writer. I am also aware that it takes all kinds, meaning I can forgive a few sporadic comma errors. 

I learn more about myself as a writer, as well as a teacher, each time I grade. Understanding that writing does not come easy to all students is essential when it comes to teaching and grading. Each student has his or her own strengths that should be recognized.

With all of that being said, I have a hard time letting go of a few writing elements. Of course, word usage is a biggie for me; however, it’s the formatting that drives me bonkers. I have been surprised at what some students have not been exposed to. I just find it hard to believe that people don’t know how to double-space. Kids want to boldface and italicize the strangest words. Apparently WRITING IN ALL CAPS means something special? Personally, I feel like they are yelling at me.

I understand that no one is perfect, but I also understand when a paper looks all jacked up. When there are random spaces and fonts all over the page, I have a hard time taking that writer serious. I’m sure I’ve made errors, perhaps even on this blog. I really don’t want to eat my own words, so I will do my best to refrain for any formatting faux pas.

Kleenex Confession

I would like to preface today’s post by saying I am not a dirtball.

It’s the season for the sniffles. I know that colds are “common,” but are they really supposed to last an entire week? Last week, I had every symptom. I started out with a sore throat that phased into a cough and ended in snotty sniffles. This may seem disgusting, but I swear I am leaving out the gory details. I was taking numerous medicines trying to avoid sleepless nights and dramatically coughing on my students. I would have to say I did pretty well, and I am glad to report that I feel like I am back in the ‘land of the living.’

Here’s what I have concluded about cold and flu season: the world will never have enough boxes of Kleenex. I have little packages in my purses, totes, and even my car. I have boxes all throughout the house. With that being said, I am never without a Kleenex.

This leads me to my dirtball problem. I find Kleenex in all of my coat pockets. And, yes, sometimes they are… used. Ugh! I’m disgusting. Just yesterday I was leaving the gym, and I found three Kleenex in my fleece. I slid my hand in my peacoat only to pull out another Kleenex from who knows when.

Am I dirtball? Or would you rather see snot running down my face?

All I can say is, you probably don’t want to borrow a Kleenex from me. This is my confession. Good day. 

Tree Time

Deck the halls. Deck the trees. Deck the houses. Deck, deck, deck, decorating all around! I hope to get in my car and buzz around looking at Christmas lights sometime soon. Maybe I will even grab a Christmas CD and cup of hot chocolate as I jingle all the way around local neighborhoods.

Do you think I will find anything like this?

My parents never did the outdoor lights. It used to make me mad because I thought people believed we were a bunch of grinches; however, now I understand that it is a lot of work. I can always be thankful that my parents spent the time to get a live tree from the local tree farm outside of town. While it is a bit of pain, the smell is totally worth picking up the needles off the floor one by one.

We've had quite a few tree themes over the years, but never were we so lucky to have accomplished this one:

This is a book worm's dream! Who cares about the gifts under the tree. The tree contains all the gifts itself :-) Maybe this will be my goal next Christmas tree time.

Strong vs. Weak

How are you feeling today? Physically? Emotionally? If the answer is "strong," then you are correct in today's society. If you answered "weak," then society tells us that you have some work to do. Where did these ideas come from? Does strength always overpower weakness? Can the weak ever win?


People go through difficult times; they are forced to overcome and defeat. These times do take strength; however, this comes from many moments of weakness. The times when we cry and seek help are forced to be hidden. We are unable to share those with too many people; we have to look strong to the world. Why? 


I heard Garth Brooks's "Standing Outside the Fire"


"We call them strong 
Those who can face this world alone 
Who seem to get by on their own 
Those who will never take the fall... 


We call them weak 
Who are unable to resist 
The slightest chance love might exist 
And for that forsake it all" 


If someone is forced to face this world alone, they will have times of weakness. If someone is unable to resist, they will become stronger. Each day is about growing stronger through recognizing the weaknesses. 


No one knows what strength looks like, nor weakness. We all just know that being weak is unacceptable. It should be strength that we strive for each day. I would like to challenge this, for it is the weak moments that make us strong. Embracing these moments make us stronger each day. Life is not about defeating and hiding; it's about knowing and loving. 

Sugar Me Up Baby

‘Tis the season for sugar. I enjoy spreading the joys of cookie, sugar, and candy eating all year round; however, most relish in sugar highs as the Christmas season approaches. Isn’t it the Twelve Days of Cookies? Something like that ;-)

Just the other day, I got a call from my mom. “We are placing orders for favorite meals and treats while everyone is home for Christmas.” I’m not quite sure why she even asks because she gets the same answers each year. Mike says Chex Mix. Sarah requests almond bark pretzels. My favorite: chocolate crackle cookies. Cookie + sugar + chocolate = Anna’s reason for being.

Of course, we spend a day making a huge mess in the kitchen while jammin’ out to ‘N Sync’s “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays.” Mom always sneaks in her Mannheim Steamroller at some point. It’s always a special time to reminisce past Christmas memories, travels, and gifts. Probably the most disturbing memory I have involves Mike on the tuba, Sarah belting out her vocal talents, and me tooting on my trumpet. I believe Mike even had a Santa hat on. Like I said, it was disturbing.

As I sit here smiling, I can taste those cookies and hear my sister singing Justin Bieber’s “Mistletoe.” All I can say is, sugar me up, baby.  

You're Special

Everyone is unique. Everyone has a story to tell. We are all special in our own way.

My mom has always made it a point to let us know how special we are. It didn't take me long to realize that she got this from her dad. Every time I leave my grandpa’s house, I receive a big, warm hug along with the comforting words, “You’re special.”

I started writing the reflection for my final student teaching experience, and all I could think about was how each student has a unique quality; each student adds a new dimension to the classroom. It is easy to allow someone to annoy us, and as humans we are quick to judge. The moment I find out people's stories or learn about their new interests, they appear different in my eyes. I usually have a newfound compassion for those people.

My mom does an excellent job of making her students feel special, and I aspire to do the same. I want my students to leave my classroom feeling good about themselves; I want them to feel special.

Just in case no one has told you today, you’re special. 

Right At Your Fingertips

There’s no hiding it now. It’s cold out. Now since it’s December, there is no use complaining about the weather. Yes, it’s cold; yes, this happens every year. People in the Midwest tend to complain about snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Of course, I would rather it be 80 degrees and sunny; however, this is December in Iowa. I have learned that rather than complain about the chilly temperatures, it’s better to buddle up and shut up.

Whenever I head out the door, I double check to make sure I have my purse, cell phone, and keys. In the winter, I am sure to add coat, scarf, and mittens to the list. I’m usually doing eight things at once, so I know that a double check of these items is always in order. Don’t worry; I’m a female, which means multi-tasking in part of my nature.

Let’s say I’m checking an email on my Blackberry as I walk to my car. In the summer, the only issue I may have would be tripping over my own feet. In the winter, I have to worry about dropping my phone in the snow and pressing the wrong buttons with my plumped up fingers from my North Face mittens. It really is a rough life.

Luckily, after some snooping around online, I found these:

Never miss a beat when you slide on these puppies!

Yes, these are designed for easy access to the many gadgets we have acquired. Multi-task away with the sleek appearance of these gloves from Echo. This is just one of those items we can stare at in amazement saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?” From here on out, the world will be right at our fingertips. 

I Got It From My Mama

 Every once in a while, my best friend says to me, “Wow, you really sounded like your mom just now.” Oh man. What does that mean? Usually it’s the tone of my voice or some corny saying. It may even be something as simple as an unplanned laugh. If something corky or silly comes out of my mouth, I’ll just say, “I got it from my mama.”

I absolutely love this picture. Three smiling gals :-)

In high school, this would have been the most embarrassing comment. I mean, no teenager wants to be associated with her mom. “Like, OMG, she is such a dork.”

As I set off for college, Mom was still a little dorky; however, she quickly became my best place to vent. If my professor ticked me off or I was feeling homesick, my mom was on speed-dial. Dare I say, she was slowly becoming a friend?

My mom is the easiest person to talk to; she is the easier person to yell at. She is not offended when I simply say, “I don’t feel like talking right now.” Mom just says she loves me and we hang up the phone (of course, I call back within an hour ready to chat). When decisions get tough or I need advice, my mom is by my side.

When I decided to follow my heart and my parents’ footsteps into the teaching profession, our friendship added another dimension. We are now able to “teacher-talk” until we are blue in the face. This is slowly becoming my favorite part of our relationship.

Now when I hear that I sound like my mom, I grin a little. Mostly, because I know it is true. I catch myself saying things to my students and even my younger sister that would have come straight from my mom’s mouth. Yes, it’s true. I got it from my mama. Love you, Mom. 

Win 'Em Over

I know this may be hard to believe, but sometimes it takes quite a bit of work to get junior high and high school students excited about learning vocabulary, examining literature, or reading in general. Sometimes it's like pulling teeth trying to generate discussion. I just don't understand why all kids don't want to talk about symbolism and irony in The Great Gatsby.

I've been trying to come up with ways to "win over" my students. Of course, there is always bribery. I just don't like dangling Tootsie Rolls in front of their faces in order to get someone to give me a definition of personification. Shouldn't they just want to help me out? Shouldn't they feel a little bad for me when I'm standing in front of the class patiently waiting for some poor soul to raise his or her hand? But, they don't. They would rather have the Tootsie Roll. Lame.

I also try to figure out their interests. I don't care who you talk to, Justin Bieber is still cool in junior high, at least with the girls. I've read the Twilight Saga, so I'm good with that. Overall, I know what is going on in most sports. I watch the news; I love movies. Geez, I'm cool. Shouldn't they just appreciate that?

Here's how I really got my "in:" glitter shoes. Yep, the day I came to school with my silver Steve Madden flats was the day their mouths dropped. Then, I really took over when I wore my glitter Chuck Taylors.

Now my students are asking me to wear these babies. See guys, I really am cool. I'm winning these kids over one pair of shoes at a time.

Nail Art

It’s no secret that I love nail polish. I have shared my favorite colors and brands, as well as my fear of naked nails in public. It’s time you learn where and how this obsession began.

As a young girl, I became fixated on Klutz books. The pages of these books include everything from stencil art to cat’s cradle to paper airplanes. There are zillions of creative ideas and information in these books; they are truly amazing.

 I learned how to make friendship bracelets, jewelry, and most importantly, nail art. Numerous times I walked around with pigs on my toes, fish on my fingers, and I even painted little baseballs on the toes of one of the little boys I babysat. Yes, I was truly obsessed. It was so much fun using toothpicks and other strategies to get intricate designs on my nails.

The other day, I ran across this picture:

It made me wonder if I still had it in me, and if I was too old to walk around with ladybugs on my fingernails. Do I really want green kiwis distracting me all day long? As on right now, I have decided to stick with the solid colors. If I feel crazy, I may throw on a little glitter. Until then, I have retired my nail art.

Shoulder Swag

Nothing says comfort like a sweatshirt. It doesn't matter how many holes and stains appear throughout the years, there are just some sweatshirts I will never part with. My hand-me-down Mustangs sweatshirt from my dad has holes around the cuffs that fit my thumbs just perfectly. I have a few beloved college hoodies that managed to make it to and from class.

As much as I love these sweatshirts, they rarely make it out in public. They are not exactly the most attractive pieces. If only we could have the comfort of those wore-out hoodies without sacrificing style.

Well, my friends, the day has come. Recently, I have become a huge fan of the off-the-shoulder sweatshirts.

They are perfect with skinny jeans and boots; however, you can dress them down with leggings and UGG boots. They also partner well with an interesting necklace or a bright colored razor back tank.

I'm not a huge fan of 80's style; however, we really should have paid closer attention to Kelly Kapowski.

As the weather gets colder, I urge everyone to show some should swag.

Pits and Peaks

It's common at the end of the day to review your lowest pit and highest peak. Last night I had dinner and drinks with a few girlfriends. This was most definitely the peak of my entire week. It was great to "catch up" while swapping stories over wings and breadsticks.

Our conversations moved quickly, as so many female chats do. As we were skipping around from topic to topic, someone brought up Pinterest. This website is like a personalized, virtual bulletin board. There are ideas on style, DIY crafts, interesting pictures, quotes, and even recipes. It truly is an endless cite that takes you all over the web.

While I had always thought that this website was completely amazing, after last night's discussions over Pinterest, I have some differing opinions.

Pits and Peaks of Pinterest:

Pits

Time sucker: I've learned to not even click on this cite unless I have plenty of time to spare, meaning at least an hour. I'm not even joking. If you want to waste time, get online. There are so many websites, ideas, links that make it incredibly easy to lose track of time. It makes my head spin.

Unrealistic, image crusher: Looking at model-like women can really bring a person down after a while. What world do these women live in? Where I'm from people go to the grocery store in Nike yoga pants and a sweatshirt. I don't generally hit up the local farmers market decked out in this Fall's latest fashions. Dang it, beautiful ladies wearing $300 boots and layers of stunning jewelry. Life is not fair.

Expenses: I love the clothes and styles shown in all of the pictures, but whenever I click on them I am greatly disappointed with the prices. I'm sorry, but a $98 sweater is just not in my budget right now. Oh how I wish it was.

Peaks

Endless ideas: If you are looking for a project, gift idea, recipe, new 'look,' quote, book.... and the list goes on, then Pinterest has it, no questions asked. It truly is amazing.

Time filler: Let's say there are 35 minutes left before you can leave for work. You don't want to start a new project; you don't want to be productive. It's time to do some pinning.

Good for a laugh or a smile: There are numerous funny quotes and goofy pictures to keep you laughing for hours. No matter the time of day, we can always use a smile or a laugh.

If you have time, need an idea or a good laugh, get to pinning. If you are an important, busy person, stay away; stay far away.

Just Toting Around

I am a fairly organized person, which means small compartments organizational tools found at Target and IKEA are my friends. My pencils need a place to rest; my socks need their own separate container from my sports bras. I live in an organized world, and I prefer to keep it that way.

Some time ago, I discovered totes. I mean seriously, what did I do before these handy little bags? My first tote came from my grandma. Along with a purchase of socks, she got a free tote. Lucky for me, she didn’t know what to do with the black bag lined with hot pink. Why are older women so confused if there is not a zipper? It’s not like I’m dumping out everything I own all over the streets. I don’t need a zipper to keep my things in order.

After that black tote began to rip and tear, I realized that I needed to find a replacement. A free bag from who knows where can only last for so long. I was thumbing through one of my Mom’s Land’s End catalogues when I found an array of totes, coming in all shapes and sizes. Within minutes, I purchased one online that was on sale. A useful bargain; who can pass that up? 

I toted that pink bag around from class to class. When I went to Panera Bread to study on the weekend, my tote was by my side. I even transferred my iPod and running shoes into it when I hit the gym.

After seeing all of the uses for my incredible tote, I realized that I must purchase another. Soon after that, I was online buying one for my mom. My totes from Land’s End are amazing. They are durable, water resistant, and show no signs of wear and tear. Kudos to Land’s End once again for quality products. I will forever be toting around with these stylish, functional bags.