Sorry to All 4 of My Faithful Readers!

I don't know what it is with me and this blog. I think I have started posting more on facebook, and therefore I feel like everyone already knows what is going on with me. Also, this time of year...and I know I don't have to tell you this...leaves one short on time, energy, sanity, etc. I was just telling a friend on fb that it is more difficult to orchestrate 22 kindergarten students in a play than it is to herd fire ants. How do I know this? Trust me. I feel like I have been herding fire ants for several weeks now. You get one soldier back in line and the elves go berserk. You get the dancing dolls dancing, and the angels all lose their halos. It's just not easy. I am also testing for report cards..oh yes, the week before Christmas break. Furthermore, the church ladies are coming over Thursday night for the annual party and at this point they will have to step over dirty laundry, boxes from the decorations, clean laundry, and my husband. Yes, he's in the middle of the living room floor cutting out giant keys for the elves in the Christmas play. A well meaning younger friend of mine suggested the same menu for the party that they serve in college...two kegs and some queso. I explained why that would not work in this case. Well, I guess I should pick up the boxes, do the laundry, and move my husband. Oh yeah, and look for a more appropriate menu for Thursday night.

The One About Never Taking Another Day For Granted

It was NOT an ordinary day...far from it. Friday, December 4th was a little "off" from the beginning. I woke up with yet another headache accompanied by severe muscle spasms in my right side. It happens, and life goes on. But R. didn't feel like I should drive Caleigh and I to school, so he warmed up the car and took us. He had already delivered Conner to basketball practice at 6:30 a.m., but made the trip again because that's what he does. Around 10:45 the announcement came that snow flurries had been spotted, so kinder quickly put on coats, hats, gloves, and scarves and made our way outside to stick out our tongues and catch snowflakes. Doesn't everyone do that?? Then, mid-afternoon we were settled into a writing activity when...the fire alarms sounded in the building. Bewildered, and quite honestly thinking that someone had completely lost their mind to have a fire drill on a snowy Friday, we grabbed coats and headed for the exits. Needless to say, it was a false alarm. Again, it happens. As we made our way back into the building, I made eye contact with another teacher and said, "What else can happen today?" My mother told me never to ask that. I should have listened. R. picked the kids and I up at 3:45 and around 4 we headed out of Runge the "back way" to go run an errand in Karnes City. Halfway there we met a deputy going at least 100 mph toward Runge. My heart fell into my stomach with that feeling that you can only understand if you have had it. I told R. that something was wrong. I just felt it. When we got to KC the fire whistle was sounding and we watched the rescue truck leave. Again, that feeling and by this time I am shaking. I know something is wrong. Then the phone call. My friend Veronica from Runge, "Where are you?" I told her and her voice broke. She told me that the bus (we have one bus that brings students to school and takes them home) had been in a horrible accident and that someone in an SUV didn't make it. Her husband works for the volunteer fire dept. and was helping at the scene. R and I took the kids home, prayed together as a family, then left for the hospital with no idea what we would find. Our little community hospital was a HUGE blessing last night. They efficiently and with compassion and grace, dealt with the students, parents, administrators and faculty that quickly filled the lobby. There were hospital board members there also offering kind words to all and making sure that everyone was as comfortable as possible. Ministers from three area churches, R being one, stood nearby and worded prayers for the students, the families, the community, and the family of the one who lost his life. We anxiously awaited word from San Antonio where our co-worker and bus driver, expecting a child, had been airlifted. As the students were carefully checked out and released to their parents, the atmosphere changed in the room, from fear and dread, to relief. Students emerged to find their families and quite a few teachers never happier to see them. One of our sweet kinder students, walked into the lobby with his mom and sisters, saw me and just lit up with a huge smile. "Hi Mrs. Briley! Guess what? The bus crashed and my knees hurt!" As I wrapped he and his two sisters in my arms, I thought about how these children are so much a part of my life. While R and I were outside early on directing parents to the waiting area, my coworker/friend Sandy arrived. As shaken as I, she said the words that all of us were feeling. "These are all our kids, they are all our kids." Is it because we are such a small district? Because it is a special place? Maybe both these things and some others as well. All I know is that last night, amidst tragedy and anxiety, a school, a community, a family pulled together like never before. All students were eventually released from the hospital without serious injury. Our coworker and her precious unborn child were scheduled to be released this afternoon in San Antonio. God's unfailing hand was on us yesterday. An ordinary day? No. Actually quite extraordinary. There is a family in more pain than I can really imagine today. Our prayers will continue to be with them...and may we never take another day for granted, never fail to hug and kiss our children and tell them that we love them when they leave...even on an ordinary morning...

Okay Mom...Here I Am!

So sorry to have upset the blogging world with my short absence. Everything is okay, just needed a few days to adjust to the working world again. If you follow me on fb you know that my life is now consumed with practicing for the 2009 version of "Santa's Workshop" to be put on in a (gulp!!) mere two weeks by kindergarten. We've had questions, we've had excitement, we've had tears...and we haven't even made it to the stage yet. Today we had two feuding angels, a near fistfight between a toy soldier and an elf, and one soldier who spent the entire rehearsal in time out. It will truly be a Christmas miracle if we make it to opening night...and only night for that matter. To make my day more interesting, I had a runaway this morning...kindergarten style that is. He informed me early on that if I made him do handwriting he was not coming to school anymore...and he was serious. I did persuade him that handwriting is a valuable skill, helpful in moving him out of my classroom in a few months and on to first grade...he bought that. Then I moved his clothespin...correction, he made a poor choice and as a RESULT HE moved his clothespin...to yellow. That was it. He marched to his cubby, put his belongings in his backpack, put on his jacket (it's cold in S. Texas today after all), put on his hat, swung his backpack over his shoulder...and marched out the door...and to the office...to sign himself out??? I sat in my rocker with a dumbfounded look on my face and uttered the only words appropriate in such a situation..."You can't just leave school!" As he walked out the door, some still unknown smart child said, "Looks to me like he can." Thanks to a wonderful secretary and some divine intervention he was quickly returned and was soon happy again. Until later in the day when a well meaning classmate said, "Hey, that was kinda weird when you almost left school this morning...you just walked right out the door, you and your BAD attitude." Oh Calgon, take me away...far, far away.

25th Day of Thanksgiving

Today I am thankful for safe travel and time in Kerrville with family. I'm sure there will soon be a wild game of Scrabble--tomorrow the Aggie game--maybe shopping on Friday. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Days 23 & 24

Day 23 Today we delivered Thanksgiving food baskets to four families in our area. It never fails to bring me to my knees in gratitude for the blessings in this life that I enjoy every single day. I am thankful for our youth at church and for their enthusiasm for this project.

Day 24 Tonight we hosted the annual Karnes County Ministerial Alliance Community Thanksgiving service at our building. I am thankful for the unity displayed in that place tonight, for voices joined together in praise and thanksgiving. It just doesn't get much better.

Day 22 of Thanks

Today I am thankful for my community. It is always a wonderful thing when you have been in a place long enough to really feel that you belong. During our darkest days over the past couple of years we were constantly lifted up in prayer and supported in SO many ways by our friends and neighbors. We consider ourselves a part of all the surrounding towns and are blessed beyond measure.

Days 20 and 21

Okay, apparently this has become a two day at a time thing because I just can't keep up for whatever reason. Day 20, yesterday, I was thankful for naps. For the ability to crawl under the covers (electric blanket optional but appreciated on a cool and rainy day) and forget everything for a while. Today I am thankful for music. Music has always been very meaningful for and important to me. Whether I am the one playing (especially piano) or listening, it takes me away. I am amazed at the power that music has--it is memory evoking, mood altering, heart touching. I can't imagine a world without it.

Oops, I Got Lazy Again...or something like that

Day 18 I am thankful for stable CT scans and improving labwork! It is always a little hard on my nerves to wait for the results but it was good news when we finally got it.

Day 19 I am thankful for the cool rainy weather tonight and the fact that we have actually had "fall" this year. It has been a beautiful autumn this year, a gift from God.

Thankfulness--17th Day (and an update)

Today I am thankful for my home and and all the other material blessings that we so often take for granted. I get so caught up wanting "newer and better" that I forget how blessed I really am.

Today we saw Dr. Williams, R's orthopedic surgeon. The x-rays taken today looked good, although he will always be missing about 5 degrees of his extension range in that arm. That's a small price to pay considering. He told us that R. will also deal with arthritis issues in that arm for the rest of his life because of the way the tumor "chewed through" the bone. Again, a relatively small thing. Caleigh's appointment left us with more questions than answers today. Her neurologist asked us if we were ready to see an epilepsy specialist in Houston to discuss further options including surgery. Our answer? Uh, not really. They could possibly implant a vagus nerve stimulator to control the seizures since she has not responded to any of the medications satisfactorily. We agreed to wait a few more months and adjust her meds, we have 125 mg more to "play" with before she maxes out. She is already maxed out on the other one. So, we will wait, and pray while we wait, and see what happens.

Day 16

I am so thankful for the doctors, nurses, EVERYONE, medical who has cared for my family over the past few years. We have been so very blessed to have the best in medical care. It makes a difference. Tomorrow and Wednesday we will be traveling to SA to have several appts., labs, a bone treatment, CT scans, etc. We would appreciate prayers for safe travel and for good results.

15th Day

Today I am thankful for Christian fellowship. I have mentioned before that I love my church family. I do! Today was our Thanksgiving meal together, and it is such a joy to experience that sweet fellowship. It is something that I have experienced over and over throughout my life and it's so very special.

Days 13 & 14...because I got lazy!

Day 13 I am thankful for siblings-in-law. New word! I am very blessed, as I've said before, to have a loving extended family. Don't get to see everyone as often as we would like, but I still love them.

Day 14 I am thankful for Sonic diet strawberry limeade. I haven't had much of a taste for anything for the last couple of days, and I finally got some fluids down. May seem trivial, but there are still quite a few days of thankfulness to cover and it's Saturday. Don't judge me.

Being Thankful...Day 12

I am so thankful for my students! If you don't follow me on facebook you miss out on almost daily glimpses into my life in a kindergarten classroom. They make me smile, they make me laugh, they drive me nuts, but I LOVE THEM so much. I have been blessed to have great classes in my career...well, there was that one year, but seriously--thank you God that I spend my days with such precious children. I only hope I give them a part of what they give me each day.

11th Day of Thankfulness

Several things have been running through my mind today, but I have to take this time to say I'm thankful for all our men and women in the military. Their sacrifices are beyond comprehension. So many of the things that I'm grateful for wouldn't be possible without their service to this great country. Thank you.

10th Day

Today I am thankful for the school which my kids attend and that employs me. My children have the blessing of being in very small classes with highly qualified teachers, most if not all of whom are also strong Christian men and women. Both my kids have wonderful friends and love school. We are so very blessed.

Day 9

I am thankful for my friends today. I love that modern technology helps me to stay in contact with so many people and that we can often just pick up where we left off so to speak. The older I get the more I realize that true, deep, meaningful friendships are very much a gift from God. They are to be treasured and taken care of, something I should do a much better job of.

I notice as I look back over my blog that some days I have so much to say, and some days so little. It isn't that I'm less thankful for some things than others. This day has been one of those that has just taken every last ounce of being out of me. I need to rest, pray and find peace for my soul tonight.

On the 8th Day of Thanksgiving My True Love Gave to Me...

wait--wrong thing. I realize I may be writing much more than some of the other people who are keeping up with this month of thanks thing, but it really is good for the soul. When you are focusing on what you are thankful for, the other junk in life just seems to fade away. That being said, today I am thankful for a special group of people. NOTE: Excuse the slight sappiness in this category, but I LOVE my nieces and nephews!

Megan, you made me an aunt for the first time. You were the most precious baby and have grown into a beautiful young woman. You share my love of chocolate and teaching young children. You are going to be an incredible teacher. Ryan, you have always been able to melt my heart. You were such a sweet little boy, loving and curious. Now you are all grown up, but still very loving. You are amazingly intelligent and unique! Jake, you are my book loving boy! Your wisdom far surpasses your years. We all learn from you on a daily basis. I will vote for you when you run for president--you are the only 2nd grader I know who has his political views already ironed out. You and I will get Lissie straightened out one of these days! Reagan, our little bundle of energy! Your zest for everything you do is so much fun to watch. I wish we lived closer so I could watch you play sports. I love that you are so poised that you have already volunteered and read scripture in church. You would be a blast to have in the classroom. And Brilyn--I got to know you when you were just a few hours old. You make me laugh little girl--you are a hoot (yes I know, you are NOT a hoot you are Brilyn Grace Bridges! ) and you are very smart, too. Notice a theme, I have the SMARTEST nieces and nephews in the world! Each one of you is a blessing and a joy to me.

Day 7

Today I am thankful for my in-laws. I was fortunate to not only grow up in a loving, wonderful family but to marry into one as well. You know, incredible husbands like mine don't just happen. I am thankful that Russell was raised in a loving, Christian family...and that his mom knew that he needed that cake handle every once in a while (private family joke!) I not only love them for raising my husband so well, I just plain like them and enjoy being with them. Love you Me Ma and Pa Daddy!

6th Day of Thanks...and Happy Birthday to my Princess!

I'll get to today's thankfulness in a minute, but first I have to talk about this 9 YEAR OLD at my house. Nine years ago this morning Russ, Conner, and I made the trek to Temple to King's Daughters Hospital for a scheduled C-section to welcome our new baby girl. We knew that she had been measuring on the large side, but I was doing well and she was doing well, so we didn't think too much of it. We had been told not to be surprised if she weighed 10 lbs. We were surprised, however, when after pulling, tugging, sweating, and calling for backup, our doctor gasped and said, "Good Lord, I just delivered a toddler!" Our sweet, perfectly healthy baby girl weighed in at a whopping 11 lbs. She was all cheeks and the most precious baby girl. Her brother was proud, her Daddy was proud, and her Mommy was tired. We quickly became hospital celebrities with people even dropping by my room to see her. I lost 22 lbs in 2 days. Aside from the more humorous aspects of her birth, our sweet Caleigh Faith was an answer to many prayers. We had suffered 3 miscarriages in a short time and were exploring other options when I had a dream; a very vivid dream in which I was holding a blonde, blue-eyed baby girl...and I was deliriously happy. I never worried another moment after that dream. I just knew. Except for the blonde, blue -eyed part...but guess what? God even gave me the details! She is such a joy. She has brought laughter, love, and sweetness to our lives. She is intelligent beyond imagination, but as silly as any 3rd grade girl. R. and I were laughing this morning about how we went to the hospital that morning thinking we had the whole parenting thing down. Conner was 5, we knew what we were doing. WE KNEW NOTHING! This second child would challenge us in ways we never dreamed. She came out of the womb with her own agenda, and she is still plowing straight ahead. A couple of years ago I asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. A doctor? A teacher? A lawyer? "Well Mom, I think I want to be a nail technician and an animal rights activist. And a vegetarian." Since she had chicken fried steak for her birthday dinner tonight, maybe she has changed her mind. Happy Birthday My Love! You make me smile!

P.S. I am thankful for the ability to see the humor in almost any situation. It is a coping skill I suppose, and a gift from God!

Day 5

I am so thankful for my family of origin. My parents and three sisters are not only some of my greatest supporters and cheerleaders, they are just FUN to be around. We can laugh harder than any group of people I know (usually at Milissa! Oh come on, you KNOW how much we love you!!)--seriously, I am blessed to have each of them in my life. When Russell and I got married, we had three sets of our grandparents at our wedding, my mom's parents having both already passed away. The combined years of marriage including our grandparents and parents was something like 250 years at that time. What examples. I can honestly say that my parents instilled in me a love for the church. I never remember church being a "chore" or something we "had" to do--it was a joy! There is just no better legacy than that. And my sisters...what to say here. Donetta and I were given the gift of two little living dolls when we were 9 and 11 and while the four of us may have very different personalities, we are definitely sisters! I long for a day when we might all live closer to one another and spend more time together. Mom, Dad, Donetta, Michelle, and Milissa--I love you and thank God for you!

On the Fourth Day of Thanksgiving...

...I am SO thankful for my children. They are both growing up to be fine young people and I couldn't be more proud of them. They keep us busy and laughing. We seem to have weathered the storms of the past several years and have come through even stronger and closer as a family. When I think of life before them, well, I can't even really remember. They have each brought something to our family that makes us complete. I love you Conner and Caleigh!

3rd Night of Thankfulness

I have learned a great life lesson today. It wasn't fun. Honestly, it hurt...a lot. I am telling you, it is often true that the harder you try to get it all together, the harder Satan works to tear it all apart. He is sneaky though, and sometimes uses the most unlikely ways of getting US to tear ourselves apart. When you let anyone or anything (even a "helping" profession) become too important, things will self destruct. If I didn't care so much about what I do and how I do it, it wouldn't matter what anyone else thinks about it. I however, have put WAY too much stock into what other people think for ENTIRELY too long. It's over. I know who I am, I know who's I am, I know my heart and my intentions, and as long as I periodically do some self reflection and CONSTANTLY pray for guidance, I AM OKAY! Really! No matter what anyone thinks. They don't have to like me, and I don't have to like them. I will treat them as a child of God. That's it. I am above all the mess of this world and NOTHING, NOTHING, is more important than my relationship with Christ. I happen to also believe that He meant for me to put my family next. I have to be comfortable with those two things before I can consider anything or anyone else.

So what am I thankful for tonight, when my whole body aches with the pain of worldly chaos and meanness? That it doesn't matter. At all.

A Month of Thankfulness

Several friends on facebook are naming something each day of November that they are thankful for. I thought I would borrow the idea and do it on my blog. I should probably start with being thankful that I caught my typo and didn't just post something about "faceboob". Oops! Seriously, I am already a day behind so I will catch up tonight. Here goes:

For November 1st: I am thankful for our church family. We laugh together, cry together, worship together, take care of one another, and I just love each and every one!

For November 2nd: I am thankful for my husband. I just can't seem to get over this sickness. Tonight he searched high and low and finally found some shower soothers for me (by Sudafed, and I LOVE them!). He is working on laundry right now and I am supposed to be in bed. He is incredible.

And now I will take Dr. Russell's advice and go to bed. Hope you have a blessed week!

P.S. Glad you're home Dad. Hopefully you and Mom will both rest better and it will be a quick recovery! You guys do a pretty amazing job taking care of each other as well!

If You Don't Like the Weather...

wait five minutes and it will change. Right? It was warm and sticky all day long. I came home and took a nap--and when I woke up fall was back! Not only that, but when I went to Wal Mart this evening, they were playing "There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays". Puh-leeze! I am NOT ready for that. I have to somehow get through a book/costume parade, trick-r-treating in downtown Runge, going to the pumpkin patch in Karnes City and to the park in Kenedy followed by a pep rally--THEN going to a football game tomorrow night. Hard to think about Christmas when Halloween is still looming. Oh well, better get some things done. Caleigh is dressing as a zebra for the book parade tomorrow and I think I have to wash something...

On My Heart

Lots on my heart tonight, but the words are stuck. Our preacher, otherwise known as the man in my life, talked tonight about how God is on our side. What more could we ask? Really, when the storms are raging and it is hard to take a deep breath, He is all we need. I have been reading some amazing stories on other blogs this week. There are families going through some trying times right now, that are inspiring countless readers with their faith and trust in the One on whom we can depend. I need to be more like that. Less complaining, more praising; less worrying, more trusting; less fear, more faith. Less critical, more loving. Fewer regrets, more cherishing the moment. After all-- as the saying goes, "life isn't about the number of breaths you take, but about the moments that take your breath away".

Cold Front and Kindergarten Collide

Oh. My. Goodness. The day started out rather well for a Monday and turned on me. Wow. There really isn't anything else to say. Don't you love it when I quote Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse? If you haven't read it you should, it's by Kevin Henkes and it's one of Caleigh's all-time favorites (and mine!). I am feeling somewhat better after all the sleep I got Sunday. I really think that is the only way my body was going to start healing. I have felt much better overall today, though the cough is back now that it is nighttime. I am going to go to take the knockout medicine after I post this and try to get a good night's sleep. Millie and I had issues last night. Evidently she was cold and we fought over bed space all night. Who knew a small Boston Terrier could take up so much room? I knew they were snugglers but Sugar never slept in the bed with us. This dog is s-p-o-i-l-e-d. Shh...don't tell her. When we got home from school the kids put her sweater on her that we bought on clearance last summer when the temp was 143 degrees. She is much more appreciative now than when they insisted on trying it on her in July.

For those who don't follow me on facebook (Mom & Dad!) I will close tonight with something truly amazing. Several days ago Conner mentioned that he was really considering playing basketball this season. My heart and stomach lurched at the same time (all moms know that feeling). I didn't say much, except that we would support him whatever he decided. All I could think about were the endless nights that I watched him writhing in pain on the floor due to the pain he was in. I pictured him as he was just 2 short years ago, in a wheelchair unable to put weight on his feet/legs at all. Today he got in the car and announced that he will be #12 on the basketball court. He starts practice on November 6 and has a game the following Monday. I don't know exactly what will happen--I feel that he will pass the physical. He has been doing some conditioning and has made quite a bit of progress. Whatever happens, I know he will give it his all. Oh, and he will be playing tennis and golf as well. How can anyone not believe that God is alive and well?

It's 2:15 a.m. and all is not well...

...due to the fact that I have bronchitis AND insomnia. I finished making 50 or so goodie bags for the Yellowjacket Band a little while ago and sleep is evading me. I did take a nap earlier in the evening which could be part of the problem. This illness has been coming on for several weeks and I am ready to bid it adieu. We will hope that with the antibiotic I was prescribed, and the knock out cough medicine I can get over it soon. Conner is already on antibiotics for the same thing, and Caleigh came home and went to bed about 5:30. She is still asleep, so I hope she isn't next. She is generally my healthy child when it comes to things like this so hopefully...

That's about it for tonight (this morning!) but I am working on putting some thoughts together about the wonderful training that I experienced this week. I hope to post pictures tomorrow night of a very excited group of kids headed to State Marching Contest. Whatever happens, they are giving it their all and we are very proud of them. I'm going to go try to sleep for a little while.

I'm Still Kicking...Just Not Very High

Sorry I haven't written much lately. We have had several different things going on that have really taken my attention away from my blog. To make a long story short (stop laughing those who know me well!)--I just cannot find the time for any quality thoughts, much less the time to record those thoughts. Between being under the weather, dealing with some major stresses at school, and being out of town 3 days this week, I am just swamped. Did you know that it is a hundred times harder to prepare for a sub for three days than to be at school? No joke, it is just way too hard to be gone from the classroom. I am fortunate to be able to attend the Capturing Kids' Hearts workshop and I KNOW I will be blessed. I just have to get past waking up at 5, leaving at 6 to get to SA, participating in a challenging and emotionally draining training from 8-4, plus a 1 1/2 hour trip home. So, I may not be writing much for the next few days. Next time you hear from me I will hopefully be healthier, more rested, and more emotionally stable. Or you could hear from me tomorrow if the spirit moves me. Stay tuned.

The Day I Slept Through Blogging...and everything else.

You know you must be tired when you come home from work early to take your child to the doctor, return home from said appointment and collapse in bed only to wake up 8 hours later. I was OUT! The only thing I did at 11:30 when I woke up was eat a small snack, take my daily medication, and go back to bed. So how does one feel after about 13 hours of sleep? Tired. You heard me, I am still tired. My job is taking every bit of energy I have, plus a large amount that I DON'T have. The result, I am just tired all the time. I am tired of saying I'm tired, I am tired of being tired. I love teaching, I love kids, I don't love the stress or the neverending nature of my job. My quest for perfection and the very nature of what I do cause an imbalance in my life. I have a small class, and we have some big problems. Out of respect for privacy and a sense of professionalism, I can't discuss the problems. Just know that they weigh heavily on me. If you are one of those people who think that teachers play all day, please say a prayer for yourself and one for me. I really need it right now. Tomorrow is Friday and I will think of some blessings to count.

Welcome to My Monday, No Tuesday, Wait...

It really has been a Monday kind of day. It seems that a three day weekend doesn't bode well for Tuesday in Kindergarten. Oh, it was an interesting day to say the least. My usually sweet little students had glazed over, strange looks on their faces all day. They were somewhat mean to each other and not so nice to the teacher either. It is always a battle at math time regarding who gets to sit by the teacher on the floor, today it was World War III. Walking in line is a challenge still, even after 7 weeks, today it was seemingly impossible. The two worst words that kindergarten students know (stupid & shut up) were both heard in my room today (not by the teacher--come on now!), and much scribbling was seen on papers. All I could think of at 3:20 was a line from The Cosby Show when one of Rudy's teachers had a hard day at school..."You go home, and YOU go home, all of you go home. And I am going to go home, and take a bubble bath, and re-examine my life." And I am going to eat a brownie, because that helps. (my words, not Cosby's) I KNOW tomorrow will be a better day.

Help! Someone Stole My Weekend!

Where did it go? How can an hour of math go by sooooo slllowwwlllyyyy, and three days of weekend fly by like nothing??? I don't get it. I will say I enjoyed it, in all of it's quickness. I got some extra rest and some laundry done. Oh and coming up, it's sure to be an interesting week this week... it's homecoming. Great, kindergarten just NEEDS a reason to get excited. I might as well face it, with homecoming, Halloween, pumpkin patch visiting, Community helper, hospital visiting, Thanksgiving, week off, Christmas play, winter vacation coming up...we are going to be a little excited in Room 12. Does anybody have a good vitamin to recommend for this slightly older kindergarten teacher? I suddenly feel so. very. tired.

Life Just Doesn't Get Any Better Than This...

I LOVE cool rainy Sunday afternoons. There is no school tomorrow, so I don't feel the pressure to do anything there. My house has been messy for so long that it really doesn't even matter anymore. I can just BE, at least for this afternoon. I found my comfiest puppy dog pj's (Caleigh and I have matching!), sent Russell off to prison for the afternoon, and I am headed for some blissful solitude. My kids are now old enough that they have no problems finding entertainment for themselves. The one thing that is bugging me at the moment is that I didn't get any pictures at marching contest yesterday. I had my camera, but at Judson early in the morning it was SO COLD that I couldn't think straight. Plus, I was as nervous as the kids. Then, somehow between the two shows, I got really sick. I'm not sure what happened but I couldn't even get out of the car at Harlandale. I listened to the performance. So, on one of the biggest days of my son's life thus far, I totally failed to get pictures. C'est la vie I suppose. There will be many more days to commemorate. His aunt Gigi did get one picture, and thanks to her his baptism a few years ago is on video and YouTube. I try. My peaceful afternoon is calling to me now.......

Post Without a Title

Up at 6, leave by 7, test again, raining HARD, no recess, running behind, pep rally, OUT OF CONTROL KIDS, leave school at 4, back at 5 (drop off Conner, pick up Caleigh), home for a little while, BACK to school for game at 7, work concession stand for Band Boosters, home at 10:30, COOKING DINNER (????), hope to get to bed by midnight, BECAUSE....Up at 4 a.m., school by 5 a.m., drive to SA, watch band march, drive across SA, watch band march again, home sometime tomorrow night, pardon me if I am yawning on Sunday AND please don't bother me on Monday.

What To Do On a Rare Day Off

How did I get a day off you ask? Because we are having to see Caleigh's neurologist more often right now while we titrate her medications, today we made that dreadful trip to the Medical Center. Instead of working this morning then making a flying trip to SA, I took the whole day. My plan was to sleep in a little, clean my house, do laundry, and casually drive to get Caleigh and make a NON-rushed trip to SA. Ha ha ha ha ha. I woke up feeling AWFUL this morning, achy body, sore throat, coughing. I dragged myself out of bed, made a puny attempt at cleaning the house, didn't get ANY laundry done, ran late getting to Runge to get Caleigh, and FLEW to SA, arriving 5 minutes late to our appointment. Thankfully our neurologist loves us and it was all good. She had a good checkup--he feels that we are on third base in our quest for a homerun in treating her epilepsy. We ran around SA looking for Russell a flu shot, didn't have any luck, then FLEW back to Kenedy to get Conner to band practice, 30 minutes late. So, on a rare day off, what did I do??? Nothing new.

Send the Yellowjacket band some positive thoughts on Saturday. They will be marching Saturday morning at Judson, then Saturday afternoon at Harlandale. We will be the bleary eyed people following them around all day. (Yes, another Saturday for the record books!) Go Band!!!

Wow, what a wacky Wednesday!

Up too late, slept through alarm, grumpy daughter, pants wrinkled, testing students, trouble with Palm, Palm better, flu shot, consult with counselor, missed half of lunch, chicken and dumplings, prepared for WRONG math lesson, kids ROWDY, made kids do QUIET table work, prepared for RIGHT lesson, second counselor consult of the day, science experiment, clouds ruined our hypothesis, kids running amuck, meltdown for one student, third consult with counselor....Asked them at the end of the day to share one positive thing about the day: "We had SO MUCH FUN today!" God bless them.

Count Your Blessings Name Them One by One

I have been trying to focus more on the blessings of this life and less on the struggles. It may not show here on my blog, but I will try to do better. Some things that come to my mind tonight...
1. The love of family, near and far, close and extended.
2. My marriage. He even took me to a $5 jewelry sale at the hospital this evening. What more could I want?
3. My children. They make me smile. Caleigh and I have cuddle time early every morning. Conner and I have TV/talk time every night. Needless to say I treasure early morning and late evening.
4. When my students' faces light up as I greet them at the door with a handshake every morning.
5. Friends. I feel especially blessed by the prayers of friends.
6. Church family, not just the ones here in Kenedy, but all over the place. Sweet fellowship.
7. Knowing that my basic needs are met and those of my family. I see examples everyday of how fortunate we are and how much there is to do in this world.

And on, and on, and on....

Another Crazy Busy Saturday

Last Saturday, as you will remember, I enjoyed a 21 hour workday. This week, only about 14 hours. I was blessed to be able to attend the 26th annual Kindergarten Teachers of Texas conference (KTOT) in Corpus Christi. The positives included a great conference with a lot of practical ideas as well as some validation for what I have been doing so far this year. Dr. Jean Feldman was there, and a wonderfully humorous award winning cartoonist and author, Mike Artell. The downside, I don't enjoy a 5 a.m. wakeup. Also, the drive home was treacherous. The weather was so bad that we felt fortunate to make it back. There was unbelievable cloud to ground lightening and rain that was torrential. The water runoff from the fields looked like raging waterfalls all along the highway, the ditches were overflowing and water covered much of the road. It made for a slow, tense drive home, but thankfully we made it safe and sound.

This non-stop craziness is going to have to end in the near future. I need some downtime. I feel like I have literally been on an out of control carnival ride for 7 days now, with very little rest. But how much fun to be a part of AFC Aggie weekend last week, and how blessed I was to attend a great conference, and Conner even got a haircut! And thank you God for the rain...which I hear again on my patio...which will be great to fall asleep to.

This is What Happens When I Don't Have a Weekend

My son needs a haircut. Can you tell? Oh my stars, he can hold a pencil in his curl. Last Saturday, as you have heard, we were busy from 7 am to 4 am the following morning. This Saturday I am blessed to be able to attend the KTOT conference in Corpus Christi all day. Someone NEEDS to take Conner to see Mr. Bob the barber, in the worst kind of way.

I also have the messiest house in the state of Texas. While my son is experimenting with using his hair to carry school supplies, my daughter is like the human tornado who MUST leave her mark on every room in the house. I spend so much time focused on work, I just can't seem to find a balance. They tease me at school because I am SO picky about my room being neat--I really should invite everyone over so they can see that it doesn't transfer to my homelife.

This was random tonight. Sorry. Tomorrow night is Fall Festival at school, another late night but lots of fun. Better get some rest now.

Things I Have Been Pondering

1. Why, when you tell one child to stop doing something, do 3 others have to try it. Just to see if it applies to them as well?
2. Why do 8+ hours on a school bus = 8 days of wear and tear on your body? I am still not back to normal!
3. Why do my son's mischievous moods always coincide with my daughter's short temper days?
4. Why can't I ever find my clothes or my cooking utensils after my husband helps me? Now, I can hear it already--"AT LEAST HE HELPS!" Yes....but until you've searched all over two counties for your whisk or your brown camisole, don't knock my pondering the situation.
5. What does the President do on the rare days that he doesn't wake up thinking of ways to make teachers' lives more difficult? Thank you kindly sir, but I want to spend some time with my OWN family. American kids don't need more time in school, they need more stable home lives so that they can focus on learning. With all due respect, get a grip Mr. President.
6. Why does everyone's pencil need sharpening at exactly the same time?

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things

Proud Mom of a future Aggie. I love spending time with my boy!

Our group.

The rally--wall to wall Christian athletes!

The quad.

A picture that needs no title!

I LOVE the Aggie Band!!!

Aggie FCA 2009 is a memory. And what a memory it is! The theme for Saturday's rally was "Rooted"--"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7. What a fabulous experience for about 40 of our Runge High School athletes. There were over 1500 students present, and our group received recognition as the third largest group in attendance. Pretty cool for a little 1A school. We had an action packed day, beginning at 8:30 am and ending about 4:30 am this morning when I finally got home, showered and collapsed. What a day! Praise God for a safe trip, an incredible time of fellowship and worship, and memories that will last a lifetime.

What A Pain in the Neck

No really. Literally. I have the worst pain in my neck. I have known for some years now that I have degenerative disc disease in my neck. I was told about 15 years ago that I would need to have something done eventually. Several years ago when we had our car accident, the ER doctor was confident that I hadn't sustained any serious injuries in the accident, but couldn't believe I was walking around with my neck in the shape it is in. Now, this morning, I was sitting on Caleigh's bed helping her pick out clothes and I turned to the left to look at something. Should not have done that. I have been in pain all day long. Pinching, nauseating, sick pain. And tomorrow I get on a bus at 8 am, go to College Station, walk the A&M campus, go to watch the Aggies play football, then get back on the bus to return home around 1 am Sunday morning. I have been so excited about this trip, but now I am slightly worried. We shall see.

Changing the subject, the other pain in my neck (my washing machine) was pronounced dead earlier this week. We are now the proud, broke, owners of a new washer. Nothing fancy, but plenty expensive none the less.

Well, I am all out of good news for the day. Have a wonderful weekend.

Kinder Kuteness

I am seriously rethinking my decision to tough it out all day at work today with a headache. It wasn't the worst one ever, but it was very unpleasant and it made my day go on for about 72 hours. Really, I'm not kidding. So, because my brain is not working well, here are a few of my funnies from recent days.

1. "Hey new kid, if you mess up on your writing you should use the pink end of the pencil to erase!" Just in case he didn't learn that at his last school...
2. "I don't know if my bellybutton goes in or out, but I know this--it is REALLY dirty! Wanna see?" Uh, no.
3. Mrs. Briley, drawing a story summary on the board..."And this is the mommy frog..." Student: "Are you sure that's a frog?" Art never was my strength.

Teaching isn't easy but is sure provides a lot of laughs.

Autumn Has Arrived!!

Yea!!! My favorite time of year. What a gift from God that the first day of fall came complete with a cold front. It was a beautifully rainy, cool day. All is well with the world. Well, maybe not, but all is well in my world. I need my own version of ACORN reform in my driveway. My car is covered with sap every morning and you can't even see the driveway for the acorns. Soon the leaves will join them and our summer lawn fashion of "dried weeds" will give way to the new fall fashion lineup of acorns and leaves. Who says I don't handle change well???

Welcome Home and Job Well Done!

I am sitting at my computer in Smalltown, TX USA this afternoon but my thoughts are in North Carolina. I am joining many others in prayers of thanksgiving today as my friend Christi and her children welcome Ryan home from deployment to Iraq. He is with, hopefully I will get this right, 1st Bn 2nd MarDiv out of Camp LeJeune and is a hospital corpsman. Christi and I met as we were completing our teacher certification through LeTourneau University's Graduate and Professional Studies program in Austin. We have prayed for each other through life's storms over the past few years, and rejoiced for one another when all was well. She is an incredibly strong and Godly woman, a fantastic mother, but I am sure she is thrilled to have the one who completes her back on American soil today. For you Kerrville people, this is amazing to me, she is neighbors and good friends in NC with Laura Plaster McGuire and her family.

Thanks Ryan, for a job well done. And thanks to all the men and women who serve our country day in and day out, at the expense of their own safety and time with their loved ones. Welcome home!

What Did We Do Before Facebook?

I made the number one mistake of all times for a mom in the year 2009--I referred to my son's bottom on facebook. His immediate response? I AM GOING TO DEFRIEND YOU! In my difficult teen years, did I ever threaten to defriend you Mom and Dad? Did I ever follow up with "And I will deny all your friend requests for the rest of my life?" I didn't think so. Life is so very different now. I am hearing from people almost daily that I haven't seen or heard from in years. We are casually catching up on each other lives over the past 10 to 20 years in some cases. I would have a hard time picking up the phone and calling someone from the past, but I can type a message with no qualms. I chat with my sisters, sisters-in-law, mom-in-law, cousins, aunts and uncles, friends...communicated often over the summer with my oldest niece who was studying and playing in Italy. This blog allows me to keep my family up to date on the kids, Russell, our lives in general. The world seems to be getting smaller in so many ways. Is this good? Bad? I would love to hear what you think. Regarding Conner's bottom, he got two shots today at the doctors' office. The upside, he is feeling much better already. Now if I can just get back on his friend list...

42 is the new 22

So I go to WM to buy some acetone to remove my solar nails--can't wait until the weekend when I MIGHT have time to go get them done...anyway, the register beeps and flashes a warning to the cashier to check my ID to be sure that I'm over 18. She glances up at me, and quickly (QUICKLY!) proceeds with the sale. This after I have been having a conversation today on facebook with some friends about how I am feeling my age teaching kindergarten. I am REALLY dreading the day I can't get up off the floor after teaching math down there and the kids have to go for help. Who will they get? What will they say? You never know with 5 year olds. Back to the WM story...the cashier must have heard me wince, because she stopped, looked at me, and asked, "Now honey, would you really want to go back? You know, to 18?" Hmmm....No, not really. Maybe 30...just far enough back to be able to move better, have less grayish hair (as my students call it), and fewer lines on my face. But I have learned a lot over the past years, things that come with age, maturity, God's hand in my life. I think I am where I am supposed to be at the moment, and to wish for anything else doesn't seem right. So I will learn to love aching bones, grayish hair, and a wrinkled face. And if you run into a 5 year old looking for help for his teacher, for goodness sake come get me off the floor.

Monday is What Happens While We're Waiting for Friday

Well, isn't it? Sorry John Lennon for messing with your quote. I could have used Paris Hilton's newly famous quote but I don't quote Paris. Our Monday has been quite peaceful and nice, with the exception of having a sick teenaged boy in the house. Conner was tested for flu and strep, both negative, and we are awaiting mono results. Our nurse practitioner, the best in the world in case you haven't heard, has been watching this child for long enough that she knows not to let negative test results fool any of us. He is medically quite strange. Hopefully he will start feeling better--fall is his most difficult time of year with allergies AND arthritis. Caleigh starts dance tomorrow night. She is excited to be in the same class with all of her Runge friends this year, plus some old friends who go to other area schools. It should be a great year. I'm off to find my heating pad. This back pain is getting old. Hope your Tuesday is blessed. Love, sb

An Attitude of Gratitude

"He bestows rain on the earth; he sends water upon the countryside." Job 5:10

Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the rains of the past few days. The grass is already getting greener, we even have puddles! In a world that sometimes seems to be so out of control, I am just so very thankful for the one WHO IS IN CONTROL. We were privileged to celebrate the first birthday of our adorable one year old friend Blake tonight with many of his family and friends. Blake had a rough beginning in this life, but God has abundantly blessed him and he is happy and healthy on his birthday. We have much that we are appreciative for in our own family as well. Father, we are so very greatful for all you have done, all you are doing, and all that you will do in our lives.

Thursdays are the New Monday

I don't know why, but they are. This was a long day and it isn't over yet. I am, however, enjoying the thunder and rain, even if the dog won't leave my side. She is currently sitting under the computer desk hugging my feet. She HATES thunder. She will only calm down if you hold her on her back like a baby and speak soothingly to her. And that ship sailed 8 years ago when Caleigh left infancy. Not that I don't long to rock a baby, but did I mention that this is a dog? I work all day telling people to sit on their bottoms, then I do homework duty with a 3rd grader and an 8th grader (Math is hard in 8th grade!), usually cook dinner (not much cooking happened tonight though), start the laundry (okay, Russell did it tonight)...alright, so maybe I haven't done all that much...but I'm still not going to rock and sing to the dog. Sorry Millie.

Could Someone Please Explain to Me...

why a change in the weather renders students from kindergarten all the way up completely out of control?

why the more prepared and organized I am at school, the more unprepared and disorganized I am at home?

why I must say "please sit on your bottom" 87,693 times a day? This related to number 1. On my headstone it will say, "Here lies Mrs. Briley. Please sit on your bottom. Lord knows she never got to sit on hers."

why my hair, nails, pedicure and every other vanity issue I have all need to be redone at the same time? I look like I feel. Not pretty.

Why??

We're Part of the Family

Do you know the song? It's lovingly referred to as "All in the Family" at our congregation thanks to our dear sister Faye who has gone on to sing it in Heaven. If you can get the picture of Archie Bunker out of your head, think about the words..."When a loved one meets sorrow, we all feel the pain..." I had a call from a friend tonight who is going through that valley--I received the call because I have walked the same path. As I listened to the pain and frustration in her voice, I fought back tears of my own. I felt transported to a time in the recent past when I watched my own child suffer and felt that answers were never going to come. This isn't someone I talk to every day, but we share the bond of Christ and we are moms who love our children and would do anything for them. Except sometimes we can't...and that hurts. Even as I watch Conner grow stronger each day, I know that there are others at another point on the path we have been on. Please pray for hurting children and hurting parents tonight, and that they will be covered with peace and sweet rest.

Monday, Monday...lalala

Hi everyone, hope your weekend was great. Many of you had three days, I had only two, but I enjoyed them thoroughly. Got lots of sleep and a few projects tackled. Found out we missed calls from friends wanting to go do fun things on Saturday--must start checking voicemail. Thought I was totally prepared for school and had a few "moments" today, but they will still learn what they need to learn in Kinder and be ready to go to 1st grade in spite of their teacher. My own two children were dragging this morning as was their Mom. All in all though, not bad for a Monday. We have to run now, Conner has band practice and I will work in my room while he practices. Sorry for the intense lack of interesting news tonight. I just reread this and realize that I'm writing like I think.

Out of the Mouths of Babes

Didn't get to post last night because our football game was moved to Thursday night and we were out until almost 11 p.m. Between my lllooonnnngggg week in Kindergarten and acting as a bouncer at the game (there's a reason teachers get in free) I just came home, did laundry, and collapsed. I wouldn't have done laundry but today was wear your college colors day and my Maroon Out shirt was dirty. It is so cool when our faculty wears their college colors, we have more maroon per capita than any other small school I know. Just in my hall there were six A&M shirts, including my principal. That's one of the reasons I love my job! Now, for some snippets from the past two weeks from the other reasons I love my job (my students):
1. While reading a book to them about chameleons--"Mrs. Briley, can I look at that picture of those Canadians?"
2. "My foot has a headache and it wants to go home now."
3. Me: Oh boys and girls, you are SO SMART! Kinder Friend: Ms. Garcia made us that way! (their Pre-K teacher... I hope they remember me next year!)
Have a blessed and restful weekend!

Thank You Lord For A Much Better Day!

Kindergarten was once again a peaceful happy place to be today. The things that needed to happen for peace to return happened, and all is well. For now. There are some things outside the world of school that I need to discuss, but I totally do not trust myself to say anything at the moment. I will say something I shouldn't. Please just pray (God knows the situation well) that changes will occur. He knows what, where and who. I know this is weird, but I really did want to share that my day was better! Have a great Thursday!

Speechless...Well, Almost!

Yes. I know it is hard to believe. It's just that I've had one of those days. Sorry the picture is maybe a little strong, but I use a free educator's clipart site and I'm a little limited. Why the stress? At one point today while I was dealing with the terrible trio in the boys' bathroom, one child was rolling down the hall and another shimmied up a pole...almost made it to the ceiling. I'm not going to discuss my students' issues on my blog but I wanted you to get a glimpse of my Tuesday. By 3:45 when the last one is safely in their vehicle, I feel like I have played in an NFL game. This after a day yesterday that spanned 14 hours and ended with a dance moms meeting--I'm certain this is like the 8th level of you-know-where. I don't do meetings with dozens of other moms very well (and the one poor, poor man that braved it!). So if you follow me on facebook you know that I am going to bed now, and dream of my new job as inspector 18 at the Hanes Underwear Plant. Goodnight.

No Prayer Request Too Big or Too Small

I've been thinking for some time now about how we (I) put God in a box sometimes. How we try to limit Him as to what He can accomplish based on our human standards. I have had the opportunity to approach God's throne in prayer so many times in recent months. "God please heal my son and deliver him from the horrible pain he is in." "God please let my daughter's seizure disorder be easily treated. Please let her brain and heart studies be normal." "God, could you please cure my husband's cancer? We are such a team and I need him. I know it is aggressive and advanced, but please let him achieve total remission." Then this past Sunday morning: "God, I'm tired, stressed, I'm trying to make breakfast and get lunch started at the same time. I'm on my way to teach Sunday school and worship you. Give me a break--I just need to find my slip in these 3 baskets of unfolded laundry so I can get ready." And there it was. In my hand. Can He cure disease? Ask Russell who is in total remission. Ask Caleigh who has a healthy brain and heart and is responding well to seizure medication. Can He help with pain? Conner ran a mile today. Will He do something as "small" as help me with my stressful schedule? I believe He can and He will and He has and He does. Just ask!

Let's Hear it for the Weekend!!!

I have never been so ready for a weekend in all my life. Although I feel like a bad mother for not being at the football game tonight to watch my son perform at halftime and support my Yellowjackets, I am so thankful to just be HOME!! Oh how I am ready to be at home for a couple of days. My first week of kindergarten was okay as first weeks go. I knew that it would be a little more intense than 3rd grade, but I wasn't prepared for how tired I have been. Bone aching, mind numbing, unbelievably tired. Being sick hasn't helped at all, but maybe I will adjust quickly. Not to being sick, but to school...oh, you know what I mean. I am already in love with my students. They each have such unique, cute personalities. Enough about school, though it's funny how living there 12-15 hours a day makes it the main subject I talk about.

GREAT NEWS!! Russell had his scans yesterday and saw Dr. B today--he got a thumbs up--still in remission! Everything is going very well and we are so thankful to all of you who are praying and thankful to the Great Physician who is in control of it all. Dr. B did lecture him about some moles that he came across in his exam today that he didn't like the looks of at all. We will now meet a dermatologist to add to our family of doctors. Whatever it takes to keep him healthy but sheesh, all we need is one more doctor to address one more health concern. Caleigh also got a good report from the neurologist yesterday. She is doing well on the new meds and we will see him in a month to check on things again.

That's about all I know. Hope your weekend is a restful, happy one. Oh, and don't call me before noon tomorrow. I think I have earned some sleeping late! If you really need something, I'm sure Caleigh will be up eating cold cereal or pop tarts, she'll be glad to take a message. Good night! sb

An Equation Even Super Teacher Could Do Without

Working Extremely Hard for 3 Weeks + Not Enough Sleep + Sharing Germs With Little Ones = I Would Bet Money That I Have Strep Throat. Except what a dumb thing to bet on, because I lose either way. I left at lunch today to take Russell to SA for his scans and Caleigh to the neurologist. I have felt worse and worse as the day progressed. Somehow I have to get through tomorrow and then rest this weekend. And clean house. And do laundry. And go to a football game. And prepare for and teach Sunday school. Maybe instead of strep I just have anditis. Either way, I need Tylenol and bed.

Everything I Need to Know I Learned in...Yes, Kindergarten!

Lesson 1: Don't ask your students to describe your hair color. They will tell the truth. I am impressed with their vocabulary, though. Who knew they could use "grayish" so well.

Lesson 2: No matter how much energy you have when you arrive in the morning, they will deplete EVERY LAST OUNCE OF IT! (And all the caffeine in the world during your conference time will not help!)

Lesson 3: Be sure you count the plastic lizards before you start handing out bribes incentives.

More lessons later, I can no longer think. Something to do with my grayish hair and low energy I believe. Love, sb

One Down...179 to Go!!

I can't believe that I have a 3rd grader and an 8th grader. We are still at school at 8pm, bless their hearts. Conner has band practice and I am trying to get organized for tomorrow. WHAT A DAY!!! This is hard work! We did leave and go to Barth's where I somehow found the energy to eat some soup and a salad. It was wonderful to see huge smiles on both kids' faces at dinner. They love school. Hope you all had a great day as well! Love, sb

'Twas the Night Before School and All Through the House...

Guess which one is faking?? The one who took a nap with her Mom this afternoon. Tomorrow morning may be a little tough, but I'm sure the special song that R. has written for the occasion will soften the blow of the alarm clock. Hopefully! Happy first day of school everyone!!

Look Mommy, He Has Hair!!

Brilyn approves of Uncle Russell's new locks--well, not locks exactly but perhaps sprouts! We enjoyed having Steve, Regina and Brilyn here today. Regina and I attempted a come and go jewelry show. We didn't have a lot of people show up, but we certainly enjoyed the ones who did come by. If you live in the area and didn't get to come, give me a call if you would like to look at the catalog.

I am trying to get some much needed rest before Monday. My fibromyalgia is really giving me fits. I woke up early this morning with horrible muscle cramps in both legs. Nothing like having a breakfast of a banana, some pickles, and 2 Magnesium tablets. But it worked!

This post is getting really weird, so I think I'll just quit for now. Have a great evening and a wonderful day tomorrow.

Meet the Teacher Night '09 is History

Here are some before and after pics of my classroom. This was the most back breaking move-in ever. I don't think R. and I will recover any time soon. But it is worth it!

After:

Before:

We had a great Back to School/Meet the Teacher night tonight. I have the cutest group of kinder students to work with this year! I am getting more excited by the minute. Caleigh and Conner each had a great time as well, and Conner is even ready for school to start now. If I haven't mentioned it here before, we are extremely proud that our elementary campus is an exemplary campus this year. Our high school barely missed exemplary but they are recognized as is our district. We are very YELLOWJACKET PROUD!! Hope you all are ready for back to school! love, sb

My Baby Boy is 14 Today!!!

Wow, another long and busy day. While I am thinking about it, I forgot to mention last night that the cardiologist left me a detailed voice mail that everything on Caleigh's monitor was within normal limits. We are so very thankful for the prayers, and relieved that there are no problems. Today is a special day, we are celebrating Conner's 14th birthday. Where has the time gone? It seems like yesterday that I was holding my tiny firstborn. Most everyone who reads this blog probably knows Conner's story, but in case you don't--he is a living miracle. I had a very complicated pregnancy and when he was finally taken by emergency c-section 5 weeks early, the doctors could not believe that he survived. The placenta and cord had multiple blockages--scientifically he should never have been able to live. But God had other Plans! He is an amazingly compassionate, kind young man with his father's wacky sense of humor and his mom's brown eyes. He can discuss sports stats in a way that boggles my brain completely and he has a math brain that is unbelievable (don't know WHERE that came from!). Due to his diagnosis over the past couple of years of JRA and RSD, he lives with pain that is sometimes debilitating and almost always present, but his smile is present as well. We love him, and cannot wait to see what else God has planned for him. When he was little we would say he was Daddy's buddy and Mommy's love--he still is. Love you buddy--Happy happy birthday!

And So It Begins

You might be a teacher in a small rural school in the wilds of south Texas if part of your inservice involves information on how to avoid being spooked by the bat colony's activities...the bat colony that took up residence in your school over the summer...I wouldn't lie about this. We even have, are you ready for this? ...a "bat man". I respect the little mammals, but I don't care to be around when they are swooping about...and 20 of them flying around the halls at one time is more than I can handle. Things seemed to have calmed down, though now we are talking about the ag teacher building something called a bat house for them to roost in. I don't quite understand, do you then have someone sneak up on the bat house and carry it far far away once they go to sleep? Just asking. It is after 11 pm and my family has not eaten dinner. Better get that done and go to bed. Don't judge me, I'll get on track next week and get the family on track with me. Things are just a little crazy at the moment. It's enough to drive one batty. Sorry.

The Countdown Has Started

9 hours until I will be sitting in Teacher Inservice for the 2009-2010 school year. We had a wonderful Sunday, though it was a little bittersweet as we said goodbye for now to two sweet families of our congregation. I had a lovely nap this afternoon then we headed to Runge to work in the classroom again. It is really looking close to ready now, complete with animal print border on the bulletin boards and almost everything put away. I even went crazy yesterday and cleaned out my filing cabinets--it feels GREAT to have that done. Every year at this time I start to question my choice of careers, then as it starts to come together I get excited--I'm worse than the kids really! Gotta run so I can be sure I have clothes for tomorrow and maybe even get some sleep. Thanks for checking in--love, sb

Too Tired To Type

Spent 12 and 1/2 hours working at school today. Still not finished. Found out lesson plans that were already complete are not going to work. Enough said.

A-V-O-I-D-A-N-C-E

The plan was to work in my classroom ALL afternoon after having my hair done and lunch with a friend. HOWEVER, they decided to wax the floor in front of my classroom so I couldn't get in. What's a girl to do? Why not just redecorate a bathroom at home? That's an essential back to school chore, right? I still need new curtains, couldn't find anything here...and I want to paint it. Okay, so at best it is a partial remodel. But there is some satisfaction in having both Conner and Caleigh's rooms done, and now their bathroom as well. Just don't look at our room, the living room, the family room, ANY of our other bathrooms, the kitchen, the laundry room...or my classroom. I'll get there.

Thank You For the Prayers

It has been a long day. Our appointment with the cardiologist lasted for almost 3 hours. He did an EKG, an echocardiogram, and put a 24 hour Holter monitor on Caleigh. The great news is that he didn't see any structural problems with the heart at all--he said her heart was as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. He is a very sweet older man from South Africa and he is VERY thorough. We went from a room where they took her vitals and did the EKG, to an exam room, to an echocardiogram room to a consultation/conference room. They kept offering us drinks etc. so often that Russell decided we couldn't really afford to be there. Pretty fancy in his opinion. Anyway, we will take off the monitor tomorrow and mail it to him, then he will call us. We don't expect any problems, praise God! I think the urgency was due to the number of "PVC's" they saw on the EEG. The EKG today didn't show that many. He wasn't even sure they WERE PVC's, and thought they could be PAC's. He will explain that more in detail if necessary after the Holter monitor. We are also very thankful for God's protective hand tonight as we were leaving SA. We came alarmingly close to having a major accident. I had to stop on I10 and the car behind me evidently wasn't paying attention. I looked in the rearview mirror in time to see that car sliding sideways into the other lane of traffic--I even saw the terrified look on the driver's face. R. and the kids just heard the brakes squealing and they all braced. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Conner isn't feeling well tonight so I am going to feed my family and put them to bed. Love, sb

Prayers Would Be Appreciated!

This may be a rambling entry--and that doesn't surprise you does it? I am a little bit concerned about something and would appreciate your prayers. Recently when Caleigh saw her neurologist he performed an EEG. This is something that they do periodically to keep an eye on things. I didn't realize it, but it also traces the heart's activity along with brain activity. Evidently, there was an abnormality of her heart rhythm. The doctor assured us that this is usually not a big deal with kids, but he wanted her to see a cardiologist to be sure. I kept forgetting to call and schedule it during office hours, but at last week's follow-up with the neurologist he reminded us to call the cardiologist. I went by his office since we were already in the building and they took our information. The appointment person told me that they were already scheduling into October unless a doctor looked at her EEG and thought it was important for her to be seen right away. This was last Thursday. On Friday they called and left a voice message on my cell that he wanted to see her Monday morning. I just got that message today. Blame it on the new cell phone I guess, but I got out of a training this afternoon and there was the message from Friday. I called them and left a message, not expecting to hear back today. They just called me and want to see her tomorrow morning. I am just uneasy. She has complained off and on for some time of chest pain, but you just never think...Please pray as we take her to SA in the morning that all will be well. Thanks--love, sb

Goodbye Summer Vacation!! We Loved You!!

Here is an action shot of Conner at the back to school party.



Here is Caleigh with her BFF Jaelyn.

Here is me in a swimsuit.

YOU KNOW BETTER THAN THAT!!! The last picture I have of me in a swimsuit was taken when I was about 3. I think I even had a bikini. Seriously, we had a great time tonight. Along with swimming and hotdogs the kids heard Russell give a great devotional. I don't know where the summer has gone, it just flew by. I have training tomorrow and half a day on Thursday, the classroom is still a long way from complete and my house...oh my....but for one last time tonight we forgot about everything left to do and just enjoyed being with friends. And that is as it should be.

What Is It???

I don't know what is wrong with me...I have walked around in a fog for the last 48 hours. I feel very heavy-hearted and I'm not sure why. Is it that summer is almost over? Is it part of the readjustment period that our family is in? What? I hear myself telling everyone that we are great, everything is going well, and inside I feel, well, different. Is it a delayed reaction to everything from the past 8 months? I don't know. It's frustrating, that's for sure...just when everyone starts to comment that my smile is back all I want to do is cry. Oh well, I'll give myself a couple of weeks to get my smile back...9 brand new kindergarten students are counting on having a happy teacher. In the meantime I'll try to think of happy posts--nobody likes a weepy blog!

The Moment You've Been Waiting For

I promised my daughter several days ago that I would post a "before" picture of the classroom. I kept forgetting my camera, then I had a couple of days of migraine problems, etc. So at long last, this is what we have been working on...

Russell says this is not a "before" picture, but actually a "during" picture as we have put in some 12 hours of work already. The shelves in the back of the room (there are 5 built in cabinets) are already reorganized in this pic, that was QUITE an ordeal as was cleaning out the closets (not quite finished). We are making progress. We worked again today for about 3 1/2 hours and I am TIRED. So now you know why I haven't been posting a lot--stay tuned for the afters in a week or so!

Not Much To Say...Guess I Won't Be Blogger of the Year!

It has been a very quiet day around our house. We spent 3 1/2 hours Monday night and 3 1/2 hours last night at school working on the classroom. I am still cleaning out closets and shelves and cubbies and all the places people can stick stuff in a kindergarten classroom. It looks worse now than when I started, but we will get there. Tonight we had church, so all I did at school was unload a few things from the car when we picked up Conner from band. I promised Caleigh, who along with her Dad are great classroom helpers, that I will post a "before" picture of the classroom. I forgot the camera tonight, but you can look forward to that tomorrow evening. Prepare to be amazed. I am going to call it a night. I am battling my old foe fibromyalgia pain right now, which could explain my lack of motivation. This too shall pass...quickly I hope. Love, sb

A Busy Day...Aren't They All

I posted this info on Caringbridge but I know people are out of the habit of checking that site since I don't post there daily. So here's a recap of our day in San Antonio. R. saw his orthopedic surgeon and had x-rays of his arm today. He has had some pain recently near the elbow and Dr. Williams says this is tendon stretching pain--actually a good thing. He also told him that the arm will continue to be somewhat fragile for the next year at least, and that he may never regain complete range of motion. This was not "bad" news as he can almost bend it all the way now and healing isn't even complete. He reminded him of the things to avoid, including heavy lifting. Oops. He has broken that rule a few times recently. Oh well. Also, Caleigh saw the neurologist today and he is pleased with where we are medication wise for now. He will continue to monitor her monthly for a while as we work through all the issues. We were able to visit with someone at the pedi-cardiologist's office today and initiate their evaluation of her. We will know more in a few days as they review her EEG from Dr. G. and decide how quickly she needs to be seen. In between appointments I got my nails done and we did a little (very little) back to school shopping. I detest trying to find appropriate clothing for my 8 year old. The things marketed for that age group are horrible. But that's another post...

Meanwhile Down At The Ranch...

Here is the most handsome, kindhearted, intelligent, loving cowboy in the whole world...says his Auntie! We finally got to go to Kerrville this weekend and enjoy watching this young cowboy who is taking the rodeo circuit by storm. Okay, so he is at least rocking the mutton bustin' scene. We met up with my parents Friday evening and drove to Bandera to the Twin Elm Guest ranch rodeo to watch Jake and visit with my sister Michelle. Jake got 2nd place and according to the grandparents (who are now local rodeo regulars in the area) is getting better each week. He actually got first place last week and also rode (a horse, not a sheep) all by himself in the grand entry parade. He went to cowboy camp this summer and the lady who worked with him told Michelle that he is an absolute natural. I will continue to support him until he switches to bull riding, at which time there is not enough Valium in the world for me to watch. I had a hard enough time watching guys I didn't even know Friday night. The second picture is of the Young Guns (self named, I kid you not) who have dreams of being in the PBR someday. Is that even how you say that??? Oh well, good luck Cutter, Riley and Jake. I'm already praying.

Tired With A Capital T

Blah. I don't know what my problem is tonight, except that the more I have to do the less I feel like doing. I am wiped out. Blah. We worked at school for several hours this afternoon but that shouldn't make me want to collapse this evening. Blah. I have laundry accumulating at an alarming rate, and I still haven't touched the boxes of books in the family room. Blah. Not to mention, I think I will just drop everything tomorrow, go to Kerrville, visit with family, pick up my son, and head back home to find all. this. still. waiting. for. me. Aren't you glad you visited my blog tonight? Blah.

Jesus and Me

I bought Caleigh a little $1 painting set at Dollar Tree today (because I'm just generous like that) and she was working on it this afternoon. She asked me what I thought the box at the bottom was for. I distractedly (because that's my middle name) answered that I wasn't sure. She thought for a minute, then replied: "Well, I think I'll just do my best to draw a picture of me and Jesus there." I love the hearts of children! How many of us draw pictures of ourselves with Jesus? When do we lose that? Children somehow seem to feel closer than we do as adults to our Creator and our Savior. It sat outside to dry and ran a little, it's hard to make out that picture. But Jesus knows that it's there. So does this Mommy's heart.

It Could Be Worse

So I'm trying to convince my husband how lucky he is to have me. I tell him often how fortunate I am to have him, but I get nothing but complaints. Well, at least he complained once. Actually, I overheard him telling Caleigh she was Imelda Jr., referring to the woman with all the shoes some years ago...Anyway, he was implying that I am Imelda Sr. He has issues with my inability to pass up flip flops everywhere we go. So what if I only wear them to go outside and water the plants, he just doesn't understand...I could have MUCH worse habits, even in the shoe department. You never know when the occasion might arise for some bejeweled footwear that only cost $3, plus it brings me happiness. I really think he should consider himself blessed.

The Balancing Act That is My Life

First, look! He has a floor!!! I am so proud!!

Now for the not so happy news. It has officially started...the craziness that is my life when it comes to the time known as Back to School. I jumped in the car today and took off on that 10 mile drive to my other world, no looking back. Of course I dragged Russell with me. We spent about 3 hours moving my personal belongings from 3rd grade to kindergarten. We didn't even finish. Meanwhile, Conner inspired Caleigh to give her room a thorough cleaning and rebirth...so we have that going on at home. Also, I have 3 big boxes of books, etc. in our family room that were the result of Conner's cleaning HIS room. I have to go through them and take some to school, give some away, etc. All of this made me tired, so I took a nap and Russell cooked dinner. Spaghetti. Now my kitchen looks like, well, like Russell cooked dinner. The goal: to start school on August 24th with a clean classroom (make that 2 of those), 2 clean bedrooms (belonging to my children), a family room with no boxes, and the remains of one messy, though delicious, spaghetti dinner gone. I'll keep you posted.

Old Friends...Are the Best!

We have had a great weekend, busy but good. Russell, Caleigh and I worked some volunteer hours at the prison's hospitality center. We did some housework. We rested. We visited with our good friends the Keeneys who were passing through town on their way home from the beach. Friendship and fellowship with other Christian families is one of God's greatest blessings anyway, but our two families share such an interesting connection. We have truly been through some of life's most joyous moments together, such as the births of 3 of our 4 combined children. Conner was already around when we met. We have also shared some moments that only true friends could help each other survive. I'm serious, you would not believe some of the things our two families have been through over the past 11 years. I could go on and on, but I'll just say it was great to see you guys as always and YES, it is our turn to visit you. We are thankful that God put you in our lives!

We're Back...and So Are Those Feelings

We had a whirlwind 24 hours in SA while Russell received his final iron infusion. We were not able to see the orthopedic surgeon at this visit due to time conflicts, so we will go back in a couple of weeks to see him. We didn't actually see the oncologist at this visit either, but did get all our orders for next month when they will, for the 2nd of many times post-treatment, do scans. He will also get his Zometa at that visit, a drug that helps strengthen his bones. Caleigh sees the neurologist at that time as well to evaluate the new medication. So far, so good with that. Thank you Lord!

I tend to hyperventilate when I think about having to miss 1 1/2 days of school on the first week back, but this is our new normal. It will only be every 9 weeks, so it will have to be okay. God has blessed me with a very sweet, kind teaching partner next year who has already said that it will be fine. I still have so many conflicting feelings about the way last year went, but at the end of the day, all I can say is that you do what you have to do. I am a people pleaser, peacemaker by nature but sometimes things just don't go smoothly. I have read so many validating things about caregiving/cancer and I KNOW that I have done the best that I could. For people who "don't understand" to understand, they would have to experience what we experienced and I don't wish that on anyone. Can you tell that I still have some unresolved issues? All I know to do is keep praying that I can find the peace I need, forgive those who inflicted extra pain on me during a crisis that already hurt, and move on.

When I write my book on Surviving Life as I Know It, I will have a chapter on the month of May 2009 for sure. Enough for now.