Robin's Nest

Enjoying the Small Things...

2010-10-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been told not to play with your food?

Well...sometimes you just can't help it!

15 Years of Service

2010-10-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

I have been teaching at Capital Christian School for 15 years and was awarded with a plaque and a small gift certificate! We had a little luncheon for me, my fellow teachers and administrators to celebrate the special occasion. As you can probably tell from the lei that I am wearing, we had a Hawaiian theme...seriously you didn't think I would wear that as an accessory now do you? LOL! Also, had I known about the luncheon I would have certainly dressed up for the occasion! Oh well...Anyways, next to me is our new principal, Katie Nelson. I have been friends with Katie when I first taught at CCS and she was a 6th grade teacher at our middle school. She then became a middle school vice principal and then this year was asked to be our principal over in elementary. I can't tell you how thrilled that I am to be working for her and along side her! The woman in the middle is Wanda Hynson, our vice principal and on the far right is my fellow kindergarten teacher and best friend, Vonda Mellott. They were honored for 25 years of service. I am soooooo blessed to be working with such amazing women and gifted teachers and look forward to another 15 years a service at CCS!

Smile!

2010-10-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

This is what I am trying to do right now...

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do NOT lean on your own understanding..." Proverbs 3:5

Fall is Here!

2010-10-24T17:41:00.001-07:00

Hello Blogland! After a very busy start of a brand new school year I am glad to say that I am back! I had a GREAT summer but I was so ready to get started with a new group of sweet lil' friends to teach and love and can I say it truly has been love at first sight! My little class is so sweet and make it so easy for me to want to go to work everyday! We had our first field trip up to Apple Hill where we toured an Apple Farm and got to go to the Pumpkin Patch across the way. The rule was that the children can get a pumpkin as big as their head to take home but as you can tell, some of them over estimated how big their actual head is! LOL!

I love Fall! I love the changing of the leaves and I love the smell of pumpkin spice and hot apple cider. So I just wanted to say, "Hello Fall! We have been anxiously waiting for you and I hope that you stay for awhile! :)

The Babies Have Arrived!

2010-06-21T18:24:00.001-07:00

Look what the stork brought! LOL! They are sooooooooo sweet! Mama who was out searching for food when this video was made and babies are doing just fine.

Happy First Day of Summer!

2010-06-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

Look at what my friend Cristina found in her backyard!

Aren't they beautiful?!
Then yesterday on Father's Day look what happened...

They started to hatch and trust me when I say that they are adorable! She named the first baby Paco, the second one is named Tony Curtis (don't ask me why? LOL!) and the last baby is named Jaelynn. I however, thought that she should have named one of them Padre in honor of Father's Day since that was the day that they were born. They are so sweet and of course we have to keep our distance since their Mama is still tending to them but seriously, how can you deny the existence of God when you see something as beautiful as that? What a great way to start the first day of summer!
"Happy Summer Ya'll!"

Lil' Blue Scooter

2010-06-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

This is my lil' buddy Anthony! I have known him since he was in preschool and have had the privilege of having him in my summer school class! I love him so very much! His grandmother is our school bus driver and Anthony and his sister live with her. Anthony had a little scooter that he talked about and when it got run over by a car it just about broke my heart! Enter my cousin Austin...he had a scooter in his shed that he no longer used and said that I could have it if I wanted it. Which is just what I did.

Well, as you can see, this was one sad little scooter and since I didn't have enough money for a new one I knew that this would have to do. So...I channeled my inner Martha Stewart and made a feeble attempt to give it an "Extreme Scooter Makeover!" Since Anthony's favorite color is blue I tried to spray paint it "Ultra Blue" but the spray paint only made it look worse! However, I refused to be defeated and when I saw one of our maintenance crew painting the rails around our school I asked what kind of paint that they used and enter Rustoleum "Tranquil Blue" paint to the rescue! It took several coats of paint but I was finally able to get the look that I was trying to achieve. Then I added some new wheels and attempted to replace the handlebars. Again thank goodness for the maintenance men for those handle grips just would NOT budge!

Then for the finishing touches I found these cute little sticker decals with alphabet letters and I wrote out his name and also since I knew that Anthony was a fan of Spiderman, I added a couple of Spiderman stickers as well. Also, when I applied the stickers I added a clear finishing gloss so that they wouldn't peel off. I was pleased with the results and as you can see...

So was Anthony! Enjoy your lil' scooter buddy! It was made with LOTS OF LOVE!

"Happy St. Patrick's Day!"

2010-03-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

"Leprechauns!" Shamrocks! Erin Go Bragh!"
"It's St. Patrick's Day! Rah!!! Rah!!! Rah!!! Top of the Mornin' to Ya' All!"

Today at school, we thought that it would be fun to celebrate the occasion by serving "Green Eggs and Ham" for lunch! Let me just say that the rice krispie treat was consumed with much excitement and as for the eggs...well not so much! Some kids insisted that because they were green, they just had to be rotten! So much for trying to have a little creative fun! LOL!

To quote my dear friend, Dr. Seuss...

"Do you like
green eggs and ham?

I do not like them,
Sam-I-am.
I do not like
green eggs and ham!

Would you like them
Here or there?

I would not like them
here or there.
I would not like them
anywhere.
I do not like
green eggs and ham.
I do not like them,
Sam-I-am!"

Happy St. Patrick's Day my dear friends! Even though I am not Irish, I am for today! God bless you and may you find your pot of gold at the end of they rainbow!

Almost Wordless Wednesday...

2010-03-10T18:05:00.001-08:00

Can you spot what's wrong with this photo? Actually, it's kind of appropriate given the circumstances! LOL! P.S. This makes me love Wal-Mart even more!

Man...I should have kept THAT donkey!

2010-03-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

Three blog posts in one day! I feel so accomplished. Can I just say that I so admire my blog friends who mange to post daily...or even a few times a week! Honestly, my hat is off to you! ("Applause, applause!") I'm lucky if I do it once a month! I feel soooooooo bad about that but I think I am now on the right track! Now I'm gonna let you in on a little secret...one of the main reasons why I hadn't been blogging as of late was because of this...

Yes, I was a bad girl and ran a red light! No excuses! It is what it is but I finally learned that a "yellow light" means caution...slow down and NOT speed up! LOL! $425 later plus online driving school, I can safely say that I have finally paid my dues to society. Darn! Had I been riding "Cookie" the donkey, I probably wouldn't have been in this dilemma in the first place!

Parents and Friends!

2010-03-09T16:39:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I am a teacher and next to working with the children I have the awesome privilege of being able to get to know their parents! They bless me so very much! They not only entrust me with their children, but are so welcoming and encouraging as well! That means A LOT to me. More than you will ever know! Some of these parents have remained my friends even after their child has graduated out of my classroom. My friend Tina is one of them. She is so loving and gracious and I just love spending time with her and her sweet family! I had her son Matthew a couple of years ago and this year I have her precious daughter Alexis! Now, even though I am a teacher by profession, I am reminded through this simple children's poem of the following:

"An apple for the teacher, is really nothing new. Except when you remember, that parents are teachers too!" Thank you parents for ALL that you do for you are your child's "ULTIMATE" teacher and what would we ever do without our parents!

Donkey Basketball!

2010-03-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

Last night I played in a donkey basketball game and if you have never played or have seen donkey basketball before, let me give you a few of the rules:

1. You don't have to dribble the ball...thankfully.

2. You must hold on to your donkey at ALL times. If you let go and you have the ball then possession goes to the other team.

3. When you're passing the ball, one person (either the passer or the person receiving the pass) must be on their donkey.

4. You must be on your donkey to score.

You should also know that these donkeys are crazy. Some don't move at all! Others buck you off as soon as you try to get on them and a few will run like crazy when you put any weight on their backs. However, I had the sweetest donkey, he was gray and his name was "Cookie!" I was on the "Blue Team" and somehow, I ended up with the hugest egg helmet! Everyone else had these cool riding helmets...well, as cool as helmets can be and I thought I looked like "Humpty Dumpty" LOL! But I had to remind myself that the main reason why I was playing, was that we were raising money for our school's high school students to be able to go on a missions trip to Jamaica! We did well and the "Blue Team" won even though I slid off of the saddle and got my foot stuck causing me to be dragged across the floor! But hey, it was all done for a good cause right? Right! I love you "Cookie!"

Meet my lil' buddy "Cookie!"

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

It's a brand new year! A time for fresh starts and new beginnings! Don't dwell on the past but look to the promise of a bright new future! I will all of my dear family and friends a year full of peace, love and joy! Remember that life is too short and that we all have to make the most of it so don't forget to "live, love and laugh!" Welcome 2010, we have been eagerly waiting for you!

Holiday Greetings!

2010-01-01T17:33:00.001-08:00

Check out the holiday greetings that I got from a few of my celebrity friends! :) "Wink, wink!"

Thank you George, my darling! XOXO

Holiday Greetings from the Woods...

The "Real" reason Tiger is in hiding! LOL!

Now that the joke is over, here is my "Real" holiday greeting...

Wishing you "Real" peace, love and joy throughout the holiday season and into the new year!

May God bless you richly and abundantly!

Post Thanksgiving!

2009-11-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all of you out there in "Blogland!" I wanted to write a Thanksgivng post but I was up at my parents home in Grass Valley and it was storming and as a result, the internet was down. "Sigh!" What's a girl to do? Anyways, with times such as these, there is so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for family and friends and for the fact that I have a great job and get to work with the most amazing people on a daily basis. I also have a nice apartment and a car that works...FINALLY! The latter is a long story but many of thousands of dollars later I have a car that runs! Praise the Lord! With Thanksgiving, it really is the start of the holiday season and I hope that you will be blessed mightily and immensely!

"If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily." -Gerald Good

This is a photo of my dad and I taken by my very own hand...not great but we were trying out my parents new camera. I am so proud of them...they're going digital! Mom opted out of the photo! :( She doesn't like taking pictures but when she's NOT looking, watch out for I will shoot and post! LOL! Aren't families fun? They truly are and when I think of mine, I truly count my blessings! To God be the glory for the things HE has done! Be THANKFUL, THANKFUL, THANKFUL!

Time Out!

2009-11-16T20:13:00.001-08:00

I didn't mean to do it! It wasn't intentional...it just happened! How? I really don't know...I think that it was the devil that made me do it! Okay...not really, and if I am really honest with myself it was just sheer laziness! "What is it Robin that YOU are talking about?" Okay...I am ashamed to admit that I haven't paid hardly any attention to my blog and that makes me sad! I just got so bogged down with the pressures of work and life that I really neglected my blog and when one of my dear friends thought that I had given up blogging for good, I knew that it was time to finally get with the program and jump back into action so to speak. I got a new camera for my birthday and I have taken lots of pictures and really do want to share many things with you so please forgive me for my laziness and hang in there with me! With that all said and done, let me give you a little preview of what has been happening in my little corner of the world....

We went on a trip to Apple Hill and got to tour a real apple farm! We were introduced to several varieties of apples and even go to taste some homemade apple juice. It was all so delicious! We saw a commercial apple peeler in action and then got to go out into the orchard to see how apples are grown and cared for. Then to top it all off, we went to a pumpkin patch and got to select our own pumpkin. It was a way to end a fun filled day! So here's to many more fun filled days to come and I REALLY can't wait to share them all with you in "Blog Land!"

A Picture is Worth 1000 Words!

2009-10-06T19:32:00.001-07:00

Someone took this random photo of me on a trip to Apple Hill that I took with my cousin Lani and her family. In the background is her "oh so happy" daughter Amanda. One of us didn't want to go that day and was literally forced! Can you guess who? I love this photo even though it isn't a very good shot...I literally can feel her pain and my lips look like the Joker's from Batman! LOL! :) P.S. Don't feel too bad for Amanda...I bought her a carmel apple and she cheered right up! I just love, love, LOVE that girl!

"The Bluebird of Happiness!"

2009-10-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

As you can see, Robin decided to get a lil' body art done! Yes...you guessed it right I got a tattoo! It was something that I always wanted and while some people might say that it is me just having a "midlife crisis" I say that is sooooooooooooo not true. I have finally gotten to the age where I have decided that "Life is too short" and you should go out and fulfill your dreams! LOL! I actually did put A LOT of thought into this because if you are going to mark up your body it better be with something that has meaning and purpose. So I chose a little bluebird. The reason why I chose this was because when I was a little girl, my grandmother always called me her "Little Bluebird!" I was called that because when I was a baby I had bright blue eyes but gone are those days and now I have hazel eyes...sigh! Also, I chose to have my lil' bluebird carry a yellow rose because my mother's favorite flower is a yellow rose and the meaning of a yellow rose signifies strong feelings of pure joy, gladness, happiness and friendship! I just LOVE that! So with all that said and done, I now have a "Bluebird of Happiness" to watch over me and guide me and that makes me very happy! :)

"Busy, Busy, Busy!"

2009-09-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

"Yippie skippy!" I have finally made it through the first month of school! Let me tell you, this is ALWAYS a busy time for me and even after ALL these years of teaching, it hasn't gotten any easier. I have taught for 15 years and if you have ever taught, then I bet you can relate! You have to just get in sync as you get acquainted with each little personality, establish a routine which means going over the rules again and again, and saying the same things so many times, that you start to sound like a broken record. You even start to wonder, "are these babies gonna ever catch on?" Then you start to miss some of the kids you had from last year, who of course by the end of the year did get it! So each and every year has its new challenges and getting back into the swing of things takes lots of time, love and patience! With ALL that said and done, can I just say, that I love, love, LOVE my new class. They are just so sweet and well behaved! I keep waiting for the "honeymoon" to be over or for the "the other shoe to drop" but I think that I can safely say that we are in for an amazing year. Even my fellow grade level teachers say that I have the "Dream Class!" I feel like a proud mama and I'm counting my blessings!

We always end our first month of school by having our "Annual Teddy Bear Parade" where we make bear hats and bring our favorite teddy bear to school. It is one of my favorite traditions that we do in kindergarten! Aren't they adorable? I'm am excited to see what this new year will bring and I feel very blessed and privileged to be a teacher! Here's to a GREAT year kids!

"Sweet Lil' Miss Rylie Kay!"

2009-09-14T18:39:00.001-07:00

My dear friend Carrie has the most adorable little baby girl named Rylie Kay who I think looks a lot like lil' Cindy Lou Who from "How the Grinch Who Stole Christmas." Don't you agree? I think that she is absolutely adorable and I could just eat her up with a spoon! Now since I don't have children of my own, I get my "baby fix" by spending time with her and just loving on her to "bits and pieces!" There is also one thing that me and lil' Miss Rylie Kay have in common other than our love for each other and that is our genuine dislike for peas as evidenced here in exhibit #1...

Now I had to come to lil' Miss Rylie Kay's defense here as she was making her feelings known rather loudly at dinner time the other evening and boy do I mean LOUD! Seriously, you can't deny that the girl has a great pair of lungs! So...I said to her mama that while I know that a baby needs her veggies, if she honestly doesn't like it, then get some other veggie that she would prefer instead! Honestly, if you had to eat something that looks like "Shrek" green colored vomit then you would be upset too right? EXACTLY! With that I rested my case! and she didn't have to finish and has now moved on to carrots! Now she is known as"Smiley Rylie" as evidenced in exhibit #2...

See? Now THAT'S more like it! Love you baby!

"Labor Day...Flavor Day!"

2009-09-07T10:55:00.001-07:00

One of the GREAT things about "Labor Day" is that it's really the last holiday of the summer for you to go out and enjoy the day with your friends and family! I know that there will be LOTS of BBQ's today! I, unfortunately am NOT a cook...that wasn't my gifting! LOL! Paula Deen I am NOT but I can follow a simple recipe and one that intrigued me was a recipe that I got for "Watermelon Salsa!" It is very easy to make and sooooooooo good too! While I can't take credit for it, I did look at various recipes on the web and you can also include other things such as pineapple, peaches and avacado! ( I will admit that I am an avacado fiend!) So here is the recipe to try and ENJOY!

"Watermelon Salsa"

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons browns sugar
• 3 cups chopped watermelon (about ½ full sized watermelon)
• ½ cup minced red onion
• ¼ cup mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons minced jalapenos (about ½ jalapeño)
• 1/3 cup cilantro
• ½ cucumber
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Whisk the lime juice and sugar until sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients in a medium size bowl. Toss gently. Refrigerate overnight.

So go out there my friends and turn your "Labor Day" into a "Flavor Day!"

"Down and Out!"

2009-09-07T10:32:00.001-07:00

Hi there!

"Happy Labor Day" to all of you in "Blog Land!" I know that I have been out of commission lately. Working summer school kept me busy, then I took a mini vacation to my parents home in Grass Valley only to come home and find out that my computer was on the "fritz" and my camera died! LOL! "Oh no! Say it ain't so!" Well of of you in "Blog Land" know that computers and cameras are essential when it comes to keeping a blog. Now that I am "back in action" so to speak, I am excited to share with you some of what has been going on in my life and I want you to be able to meet my new class! I have 22 kindergartners and they are absolutely adorable...wait till you see them! Pictures will be coming soon!

Well my friends, enjoy those last lazy days of summer! That is what I intend to do! Me and my friend Carrie love to spend the days hopping in her Jeep with the top down and let the wind mess up our hair and get bugs in out teeth! LOL! (Okay, maybe not THAT) But before you know it, Fall will soon be here and it will be time to put the top back up on the Jeep and get out our colorful Fall sweaters! In the meantime, I hope that you have a "Happy Labor Day!" and I will post again very soon! I PROMISE! For I'm baaaaaaaaaaaack! :)

"Summertime and the Livin' is Easy!"

2009-07-29T22:20:00.000-07:00

25 Things That I LOVE the Most About Summer...

Lounging by the pool with "Charlie the dog" and my sweet little cousin Anna too!
The smell of sunscreen but NOT the feel! I don't like feeling greasy! :)
Ice cold lemonade
Snow cones that give you a brain freeze!
Going to the drive in movies...yes, we still have them in Sacramento!
BBQ's
Going to yard sells and thrift shops
Flip flops
Getting pedicures so I can wear my flip flops
Watching fireworks
Going bowling
Going to old book stores and finding a bunch of good, cheap books
Running through the sprinklers
Going to free concerts in the park
Visiting museums
Working in my garden
Going to street fairs, eating cheap food and finding flea market treasures
Going to the zoo
Going to the library
Going to San Francisco
Hanging out at the beach
Going river rafting
Going to the State Fair
Going to San Diego...my hometown!
Celebrating my birthday!

So my dear friends, what kinds of fun and exciting things do you like to do during the summer? Do tell! :)

Wordless Wednesday...Almost!

2009-07-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

I know that you're not EVER supposed to play with your food, but sometimes you just can't help yourself! Mr. Turtle came out of his shell when he heard that pancakes were going to be served. Little did he know...LOL!

I've Been a Lil' Behind!

2009-07-23T11:10:00.001-07:00

I am soooooooooooo sorry that I have been a lil' behind on my blog! Summer has just flown by hasn't it? I have been working summer school and have been granted just one week of vacation time off! Yippie! I also just celebrated my birthday where I decided that I have "Age Dyslexia!" I am declaring myself to be 34! This is a rare occurance because next year it won't really work to my advantage and actually won't occur for me again until I am 50 when I turn 5! LOL! Why it's "The Curious Case of Robin Hellgren!" It's kind of like "Leap Year" where it only occurs every few years for you really only want to use it when the second number is lower than the first! So...if you haven't guessed already I am really 43! Honest! Don't you love my photo? I wish that I could deny that it is me but the hair is a dead give away! So NO WISECRACKS okay? Well my dear friends I hope that you are all having a wonderful and relaxing summer for we all deserve it don't ya think?

My Lil' Trooper!

2009-06-28T14:45:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time, there was a little boy who "forgot" that when his big sister tells him to leave something alone 10 times, that he is actually supposed to do it!

Oh how life lessons can be difficult and at times, can be rather painful...poor lil' thing!

Meet my adorable little cousin, Andrew! He is also known as "Andy Bob" and he is my absolute pride and joy! Well, as you can see, sweet little Andrew had an encounter with an "ungarded" bicycle chain which required a quick trip to the doctor to get 6 stitches. "OUCH!" However, he did make the doctor's night, he was a perfect angel and didn't even flinch when they gave him shots to numb him! (Honestly, he is FAR MORE braver than I could ever be!) He sat there and watched everything and of course, asked a ton of questions! Who knows maybe someday he will grow up to be a doctor! :)

I love you my brave "lil' Trooper" and remember the next time someone says, "Don't touch!," do it okay?

Robin's 26 ABC's

2009-06-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I am a kindergarten teacher and I always start the year off by teaching my little ones their ABC's so with that in mind, I thought that it might be fun to share a little bit about myself using an ABC format. So here it goes...

A - Age: 42 soon to be 43 next month!
B - Bed size: Full
C - Chore you hate: Cleaning Toilets
D - Dog's name: Bella
E - Essential start your day item: Clothes
F - Favorite color: Pink

G - Gold or Silver: Silver
H - Height: 5'2"
I - Instruments you play: None
J - Job title: Kindergarten Teacher
K - Kid(s): None
L - Living arrangements: I live in Sacramento, CA
M - Mom's name: Joyce
N - Nicknames: Bluebird, Robbie and Obbie
O - Overnight hospital stay: Not yet...knock on wood!
P - Pet Peeve: Moody and rude people
Q - Quote from a movie: "No MORE wire hangers EVER!" from Mommie Dearest and "You had me at Hello" from Jerry McGuire
R - Right or left handed: Right handed but "Lefties" are smarter! :)
S - Siblings: Just me, myself and I!
T - Time you wake up: 5 a.m. but I don't get out of bed until 6:30 a.m. I am NOT a morning person though I try!
U - Underwear: I am sooooo boring "BUTT" (LOL) I'm a "granny panty" girl
V - Vegetable you dislike: Radishes
W - Ways/Reasons you run late: I'm way too tired and I'm a slow poke! Like I said before, I'm just NOT a morning person!
X - X-rays you've had: My teeth and full body x-ray for my physical
Y - Yummy food you make: I make a killer macaroni and cheese dish! Yum!
Z - Zoo animals you like: Giraffes, monkeys and Elephants,"Oh my!"

Thanks for taking the time to get to know a little bit about me BUT I would love to learn more about YOU!

It's Back! Not Me Monday!

2009-06-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

Well here we are again at the start of a brand new week and you know what that means...It is time for another fun round of "Not Me Monday" where I tell you about ALL of the things that I did NOT do last week. Yeah, right!

I did NOT lose my keys at Target this week only to discover that when I got home that they were not with me...I also won't tell you that when I called to see if I left them there that I had to identify them by claiming that yes, I was indeed the proud owner of the keys with the cute lil' pink plastic fish toy that's attached.

I won't tell you that even at my age I still play with "toys!" Yes, I work with five year olds ALL day long so really now, what do you expect? I also like drawing with chalk on the sidewalk and blowing bubbles too! Whoa! I didn't say that out loud now did I? "NO. NOT ME!"

I also won't tell you that when I went back to Target later that week, my car battery did NOT die on me! NO, NO, NO...say it ain't so! I was so ~~poised~~ and ~~calm~~ that I didn't call my father in a frenzy to ask him what to do next! Why didn't I call Triple AAA in the first place you ask? Because I was hoping that a Genie would appear and wave a wand and make my ~~damn~~ car work! Do you really think I would think that? "NO. NOT ME!"

I do NOT have a love/hate relationship with my car. "NO. NOT ME!" Seriously, why after replacing the breaks, rotors, a head gasket and a battery to the tune of about $5000 all within a few weeks of each other, would I be angry? Is it possible for me to get a divorce from my car and site "irreconcilable differences?" NO...That's just plain silly.

Finally, I won't admit to my foolish mistake of the ~~week~~/~~year~~/century because honestly, I don't make mistakes! "NO. NOT ME!" So therefore, I wont tell you that when I contacted one of my friends on "Facebook" that somehow I foolishly mistook her answer to making "new friends" as a slap directly aimed at me for not making enough time for her and our friendship in my rather busy work schedule. I'm also not going to admit my embarrassment that when after I wrote her an apology note stating that fact, that she had to explain to me that the "new friends" she was actually referring to was her "brand new boob job!!!" Oh my! Robin Dana...honestly, how did jump to THAT conclusion? "OH NO! THAT WAS NOT ME!" I guess that open communication REALLY is the key to maintaining good relationships! Sooooooooo my friends THAT was my week! How was yours?! :)

More Childhood Memories!

2009-06-07T17:02:00.001-07:00

"Aw...the Sweet Memories of Childhood!"

My dear friend Christy, from elementary school has been going through some old photos and came across this sweet birthday photo of her from one of her infamous birthday parties that she always held every year as we were growing up. Now let me be the first to tell you that Christy ALWAYS had the BEST parties and we all couldn't wait to go to her house especially when it came to celebrating her birthday! Her house was always a "hustle and bustle" of fun filled activity! There was always lots of kids, noise, music, animals and of course, there was the swimming pool! Oh how I LOVED it and I not only miss but truly cherish those times together.

Christy also is the granddaughter of Charles J. Correll who was best known for supplying the voice of "Andy Brown" on the long running radio show "Amos 'n' Andy" (1928-1955). Her mother Barbara was his daughter and they were (and still are) such a dear family. Christy's father was a coach and he was my U.S. history teacher when I went to high school and he ranks right up there as being one of my very favorite teachers. It's always fun to go down memory lane and as I get older it makes me realize what truly is the most important thing in life...your friends and family.

In the photo above, Christy is the cutie in the left corner proudly smiling with the birthday cake that her mother made. You can't really see it here but she always made the most gorgeous cakes and Christy has grown up to be quite the cake baker and decorator herself! Watch out Rachel Ray and move over Martha Stewart! LOL I am the one under the yellow arrow and with THAT hairstyle, I look like I could be the long lost daughter of "Squiggy" from the "Laverne and Shirley" television show! :)

5th Grade Memories!

2009-06-01T18:59:00.001-07:00

My dear friend Christy who I grew up with just recently came across these school photos at her parents house and "my oh my" how they brought back fond memories for me! My teacher's name was Miss Borich and she was one of my very favorite teachers. She taught the 5th grade at Hilltop Elementary School and she was also a photography buff hence the black and white photo. (Yes, that's me under the yellow arrow. Don't you love the plastered hair and chipmunk teeth? LOL)

Anyways, I remember that she was going to get married that following summer so all year she would give us updates about her wedding plans...us girls loved it! The boys...not so much! I even remember her fiance coming in from time to time and can I just say that they were the human models for "Barbie and Ken!" They were a stunning couple and very much in love. Well at the end of the year, we gave her a farewell party/bridal shower for she was going to be moving up north to start her "new life" as Mrs. Passoth. I even got a card and wedding photo from her that summer. She was a gorgeous bride and it meant so much to me. It truly made me feel special.

As I grew up I always wondered what had happened to her and upon finding this photo, my friend Christy found out the ~~Miss Borich~~/Mrs. Passoth had three children of her own, continued teaching and became "Teacher of the Year 2005-2006" within her own school district and was also given the honor of being chosen as "Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year" as well...AND oh yeah, how could I possibly forget...she also became "Ms. Elite 2008" with the United Nations International Pageant System Organization! Now talk about impressive! Here is a recent photo of her that I found...isn't she absolutely beautiful?

Trust me...she is as pretty on the inside as she is on the outside! She was and obviously still is an amazing teacher and I am so proud of her! Now here is a comparison test...who would you rather have as YOUR teacher?

This...

"Ms. Elite United Nation International 2008"
Mrs. Christy Passoth
(She looks just like Barbie!)

Or This?....

"Miss Googly Eyes 2009"
"Rockin' Robin"
(She looks like...a Muppet!)

You don't need to answer, for I already know...I would choose the tiara over the googly eyes too! :)

"Summer's a Comin'! Hop to it!"

2009-06-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

One of the sure signs that summer is coming, is when I start to hear the frogs croak at night! Some of my friends may not already know, but I am a teacher and this is always the time of year where we get ready to say "Good-bye" to our lil' friends and get ready for the Summer! We also have a BIG Open House Night where the students invite their parents and show them the various projects that they have been working on throughout the year! It is a fun time for all of us who participate. This year we had an "Animal Theme" and we chose to make frog hats for each of the students to wear. They are absolutely adorable but if I am truly honest with myself, they are ~~SUCH A PAIN TO MAKE!~~ (I didn't say that out loud now did I?) Well actually I did because my philosophy is that if the teacher is doing more work on the project than the student, then it really isn't a "Student Made" project now is it? LOL

Well long story made short, I caved into the pressure and made the ~~stinkin'~~ hats and willingly admit that now I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THEM! My co-teacher and good friend Vonda came up with the idea and also pointed out that F.R.O.G. also stands for "Fully Rely On God!" Well how can you go against that?! :)

Now here is a picture of me and Vonda! She's my fellow co-teacher, mentor and one of my very best friends. Vonda truly is the most amazing teacher that I know and I just love her to bits and pieces! I also appreciate the fact that she really truly loves me "frog warts and all!" :)

So my friends....Be a F.R.O.G. and "Fully Rely on God!" Take that "leap" of faith! That's what we did! (Now if I start turning green and begin to eat flies, then I'm gonna be in BIG trouble!)

"Amanda and Robbie Sitting in a Tree..."

2009-05-17T19:06:00.001-07:00

This is my sweet cousin Amanda and her wonderful boyfriend Robbie. (With a name like that how could you NOT like him?) LOL! Well, anyways, Amanda is a "Disney"-aholic. If she could, she'd probably spend every weekend in Disneyland. It has often been said that "a dream is a wish your heart makes." Ever since she was a little girl, she's dreamed that her "Prince Charming" would propose to her in front of the castle at Disneyland. Three weeks ago her dream came true. Her boyfriend Robbie, took her on a surprise trip to Disneyland. As is customary, they found the perfect "spot" to watch the fireworks that evening but about 5 minutes before the show started, Robbie took her by the hand and went up to the security guard (the one who makes sure no one gets too close to the castle.) He whispered to him to ask if he could go up the ramp to propose to her. The guard obliged warning that he only had a few minutes. Well, that was all he needed! And of course, she said "Yes!" I am sooooo happy for them and I am begging them to let me be the "flower girl" at their wedding! LOL! "Live, Laugh and Love" you two for you're in for the time of your lives! I love you both!

Congratulations Amanda and Robbie!
May ALL your dreams come true!

Dusty...

2009-05-17T17:53:00.001-07:00

My friend Diana, had the cutest little Cocker Spaniel named Dusty and I had the opportunity to dog sit for him from time to time. Can I just say that he was the sweetest dog EVER. Honestly, I never met a dog as sweet as the "Dust Buster!" That was my special pet nickname for him for seriously one's heart would burst with love within minutes of being with him. He didn't have the affect on just me...he was that way with EVERYBODY. Well these past few months, Dusty was in poor health and he was very old...14 years old to be exact. Anyways, my precious friend did ALL that she could to make him comfortable and finally had to put him to sleep last weekend. This was really one of those moments that I so dreaded! I told Diana that if Dusty were human...I think that he would have been a minister. Why do I say this? Because that little dog showed me that we needed to be "anxious for nothing" (Philippians 4:6-7) and despite his poor health, it was evident that the "joy of the Lord was his strength!" (Nehemiah 8:9-12) Seriously people could learn a thing or two from animals! They live day to day and just accept their circumstances and move forward because they have to. I know that some people don't believe that there will be animals in Heaven, but I don't believe that is true for in God's word it says that the "Lion will lie down peacefully with the lamb" (Isaiah 11:6) and I believe that Dusty will be right there in the midst of them! I really do! I even like to think that I can hear God say, "Here boy" and see Dusty come a waddling after him with his cute stubby little tail wagging just taking a stroll on the infamous "streets of gold!" So I believe that he isn't gone...he's just in a better place...waiting...that's all...waiting along with our other loved ones who have come and gone and made such an impact on our lives. So "Live, Laugh and Love" for tomorrow it may all go away...

P.S. The photo of my "sweet little Teddy Bear" was taken with my camera phone...I wish that I had a better photo but it was all that I had and his sweetness still shines through! :)

"I'm alive! Really!"

2009-05-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of my "Blogdom Friends!" Well after my second bout with the flu...I am offically back to the "Land of the Living" and hopefully it will stay that way for awhile. Not to worry though, it wasn't the infamous "Swine Flu" that everybody is up in arms about but I just couldn't resist posting the above picture since I think that I have actually figured out how it ALL started...LOL! Honestly, I'm sooo glad to be back for I have missed my friends and doing the things that I love which is to write and post pictures that I love and that make me smile! So, let the good times begin...again! I pray that you have a blessed week! "Live, Laugh and Love!" That's my new motto!

Sick...Sort of...

2009-04-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

I ended this week doing something that I hadn't planned on doing...I blew the head gasket in my car and woke up with no voice and a headache! I also needed to go to school because our school is having an "Open House" but with no transportation that made things a little complicated...I thought I would start my Saturday with one of my very favorite poems from Shel Silverstein. Every time I read this, it makes me smile and I hope that it brings a smile to your face too...


"Sick" By Shel Silverstein

"I cannot go to school today,"
Said little Peggy Ann McKay.
"I have the measles and the mumps,
A gash, a rash and purple bumps.
My mouth is wet, my throat is dry,
I'm going blind in my right eye.
My tonsils are as big as rocks,
I've counted sixteen chicken pox
And there's one more--that's seventeen,
And don't you think my face looks green?
My leg is cut--my eyes are blue -
It might be instamatic flu.
I cough and sneeze and gasp and choke,
I'm sure that my left leg is broke -
My hip hurts when I move my chin,
My belly button's caving in,
My back is wrenched, my ankle's sprained,
My 'pendix pains each time it rains.
My nose is cold, my toes are numb.
I have a sliver in my thumb.
My neck is stiff, my voice is weak,
I hardly whisper when I speak.
My tongue is filling up my mouth,
I think my hair is falling out.
My elbow's bent, my spine ain't straight,
My temperature is one-o-eight.
My brain is shrunk, I cannot hear,
There is a hole inside my ear.
I have a hangnail, and my heart is - what?
What's that? What's that you say?
You say today is. . .Saturday?
G'bye, I'm going out to play!"

So my friends...when things don't go your way do something good to yourself to make you smile and you just may be pleasantly surprised!

Check me out...here I am all dressed up but with nowhere to go! But I won't let "nuthin' get me down!" Happy Saturday!

Separated At Birth...

2009-04-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

I'm an only child and I was named after my dad who is named Robert...but goes by the name of Bob. Anyways, we like to spend time lots of time together and usually I will go see my parents once a week for lunch on the weekends OR if my dad wants a haircut. Yes, that is what I said.

Now let me be the FIRST to tell you that I DON'T cut hair but I do cut my dad's hair. I really don't know how this came to be. I think that it came about when they moved to Grass Valley and my dad didn't have a place to go so I volunteered and the rest they say is history! But I think the "REAL" reason why he still has me do it, is because it's FREE!

Now here is a picture of my dad getting his haircut. Notice how I cut it? My technique is the "Traditional Bowl Cut Style" or the "60's Style Beetle Cut!" Anyways, while I was cutting his hair recently, I made the most amazing discovery...check it out and see for yourself...

Why it's none other than the infamous "Captain Kangaroo!" Can you see the resemblance? OMG! I LOVED that show! Remember the magic drawing board that kept us guessing until the picture was almost finished? Remember when it rained ping pong balls? Awww the memories of childhood! Honestly, I think that there is something that their mothers neglected to tell them but the truth is obviously evident for ALL to see!

My father on the other hand, refuses to see the resemblance and thinks that it really isn't ALL that funny! So I will not further embarrass him and post anymore picture of him with the infamous "Captain Kangaroo Do" and I will NO longer call him "Bobby-Roo" or I will risk being disinherited! Not only that, but I do have to show pictorial evidence that while my hair cutting skills are practically nil' they aren't THAT bad either...so here is the END result!

I love you Dad! And if I get more hair cutting offers as a result of THIS post, I have YOU to thank!

Good Friday...

2009-04-09T21:04:00.001-07:00

I know that it has been awhile since I have been to the "Land of Blog" but after a very busy few weeks, I am happy to say that I am back!

Today is "Good Friday" which is a time to reflect on the passion, or suffering and death on the cross of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Just prior to Spring break, our school had what is called "A Visit to the Cross." First, we as a class filled out a little slip of paper of all of the things that we wanted to have the Lord forgive us for. Then we placed our slips in an Easter basket and took it with us to the chapel. Once we were in the chapel, we placed our basket at the foot of the cross and said a prayer of forgiveness and thanksgiving. It was a really precious time and the children really seemed to understand the "True" meaning of Easter.

I also had a friend who gave me a "Crown of Thorns" that her husband brought back from a trip that he took to Jerusalem. I was so honored that she shared it with me and I had to admit that when I saw it, I realized that I would never be able to truly understand how great, how wide and how deep God's love is for EACH and EVERYONE of us! It truly was a stoic moment when I shared this visual to the children because I saw in their eyes maybe for the very first time, the personal realization that Jesus truly had to suffer great pain for our wrongs but the beauty of it was that we could talk about the significance of redemption and that while Christ so desperately wants to forgive us, he also wants to have a relationship with us as well. The children were very enthralled and receptive and it made me realize that children can understand WAY more than what we give them credit for.

In the Bible, Jesus says, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. Mark 10:13-16

After we left our basket and had our time of sharing and prayer in the chapel, we talked a little bit about the Resurrection. We as a school, chose not to have Easter parties but will have "Resurrection Celebration" when we return. What will happen on Tuesday when we return, is that we will have our baskets with us and all of our slips have been stamped, "Paid in Full" and we will burn them in a bonfire and have our individual celebrations in each of our classrooms. The children really seem to understand the significance of what forgiveness and redemption is all about and are looking forward to this momentuous event . This is a tradition that we do every year and when we celebrate back in our class, I like to have a cake in the shape of a lamb for Jesus is known as the "Lamb of God" and he is also our "Good Shepherd."

As a shepherd, Jesus takes care of and looks after His sheep. His sheep are the people of this world who have accepted Him and believe He will take of them. Sheep are completely reliant on the shepherd to take them to where there is food and protect them from wolves and other predators that would enjoy devouring a sheep that was left unprotected. The sheep in Jesus' flock need not fear anything for He has never lost a sheep that was placed in His care.

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep." John 10:11

"Happy Good Friday" and I pray that you ALL have the most wonderful and "Blessed Easter!"

A Mother's Love

2009-03-09T22:36:00.000-07:00

My best friend Carla, sent me these amazing pictures of a mother squirrel rescuing her baby! I was so awestruck that I just had to share them with you...they are absolutely incredible!

The look on the dog's face is priceless! Oh how powerful a mother's love is! God's love is just like this as well...Nothing is too small or too big for Him to handle. He so wants to love and protect us and when God is with us, who can be against us?

"What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee..."
Psalm 56:3

Not Me Monday!

2009-03-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

I wont tell you that even though I did NOT participate last week in McMama's "Not Me Monday" post, I did NOT have the nerve to put my name on "Mr. Linky's" list just so that I could be a part of the "In Crowd" now would I? Really that would be dishonest and just plain wrong so I won't tell you that I actually did that!

I also won't be revealing that I decided to wash my black coat and didn't realize that I had my black cell phone in there and washed that too! Seriously, that would be just plain irresponsible and careless of me!

Then when I went to the AT&T store with my mother to get a replacement phone, I wont tell you that my mother had to also point out that this is the second cell phone that I had that was destroyed by water...the first having fallen into the toilet! (A clean toilet...and YES I made sure that "Mr. Cell Phone Dealer" knew that!) By the way, he was very cute but any chance of him asking me out was destroyed by my meddling mother and due to the fact that I treat cell phones so carelessly! You have to applaud a man who loves his job! He did a mighty fine job too...he encouraged me to get insurance so that this doesn't ever happen again!

Do I tell you that I whined like a two year old when the particular cell phone that I wanted wasn't available in the color I wanted? NO! I won't tell you that because that just sounds so vain and frivolous! (But gosh I really did love that silver model! It was soooo cool but I had to settle for basic boring black! Blahhhh!)

I did NOT accidently run into the boys bathroom by accident! Actually, I should have stayed in there because it was far cleaner than the ladies room! I did NOT just say that, did I? "No. Not Me!"

I did NOT eat a whole sleeve of Girl Scout Thin Mints in one setting! NO, I did NOT! That would be just plain gluttony! Does it help if I admit that I did in fact have a "Diet Coke" to go with it? It's all about balance people! Not only that,but you just have to keep those cute little Girl Scouts in business! It's good for the economy and besides that, have you ever seen a Girl Scout cry? It's not good, not good at all!

Well THAT was my fun weekend in a nutshell! Tomorrow is Tuesday...it's bound to get better right? Right! So have a GREAT week my friends and go out and get yourself some Girl Scout Cookies! I promise you that you wont be sorry! LOL...

It's Ruby Martini...with a Twist!

2009-03-03T18:45:00.000-08:00

My cousin has a cute little pug that you can't help but adore...her name is "Ruby Martini with a Twist!" You gotta love it!

Actually, it looks more like a pig's tail to me! LOL! Okay now here is my joke for the day in honor of my blogger friend Wayne. Brace yourself now...Charles Dickens walks into a bar and orders a martini. The bartender asks, “Olive or twist?” "Ba dump bump!" I know, it's pretty lame, I willingly admit it...so maybe that is the real reason why the dog looks sooo depressed!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-02-24T21:53:00.001-08:00

"Dance Ballerina Dance!"

What "Miss Kitty" is really thinking is, "Why do these *&$@ shoes hurt! It's because I have 'cankles' isn't it?" LOL! Now friends, don't go all PETA on me and know that "Miss Kitty" wasn't harmed in any way, when taking this photo. Can't you tell that she's spoiled rotten? She's a total "Diva!" As a matter of fact, when dancing in the "Nutcracker," she ran off with the "Mouse King" and hasn't been on stage ever since! You just can't take the "alley" out of the cat! I guess that you can honestly say that she is officially "retired!"

P.S. Hey, Miss Kitty! "Poor Pitiful Pearl" called and she wants her tutu and pointe shoes back...NOW!"

Tell a Joke Tuesday

2009-02-23T20:57:00.001-08:00

My blogger friend Wayne created "Tell a Joke Tuesday." Now don't you think that's a fun way to start the week? After all, who doesn't love a good laugh?

So here's my joke for the week...Brace yourself now for some side splitting laughter! LOL

A man was driving home one evening and realized that it was his daughter's birthday and he hadn't bought her a present. So he drove to the mall and ran to the toy store and asked the store manager, "How much is that new Barbie in the window?"

The Manager replied, "Which one? For we have the following...

'Barbie goes to the gym' for $19.95,
'Barbie goes to the Ball' for $19.95,
'Barbie goes shopping' for $19.95,
'Barbie goes to the beach' for $19.95,
'Barbie goes to the Nightclub' for $19.95
AND then there's 'Divorced Barbie' for $375.00"

"Why is the Divorced Barbie $375.00 when all the others are $19.95?," the father asked.

The store manager replied, "Divorced Barbie comes with Ken's car, Ken's house, Ken's boat, Ken's dog, Ken's cat, Ken's furniture and all of Ken's savings."

Honestly, I NEVER thought that it would work. I always thought that G.I. Joe was more of Barbie's type. "Ba dump bump!"

Tribute Tuesday

2009-02-23T17:46:00.000-08:00

My blogger friend Wayne created "Tribute Tuesday" where we take time in our lives to honor those friends and family who are near and dear to us. This week I chose my sweet little cousin Andrew Robert.

Andrew is the fifth child of my cousin Lani and he is the most loving and affectionate child that I know. His full name is Andrew Robert. His middle name is in honor of my father. While my father's real name is Robert, we call him Bob. I immediately nick named him "Andy Bob." I know it sounds very "hillbilly" but I'm known to give my close friends and family nicknames. It is my special way of letting them know just how near and dear to me they are! It truly is a term of endearment.

Andrew has always been a happy child. He is very sweet and tenderhearted. I don't have children of my own but I love him as if he were my own. He fills that void in my life and we do lots of fun things together. When he was younger he would come to school with me and visit with my students and by the end of the day he had a classroom of "instant friends" who eagerly waited for his next visit. Together we have gone to the movies, church, field trips, shopping and to our favorite theme park, Marine World! Being with Andrew brings out the "little kid" in me and honestly, what can be better than that?

I truly cherish the times that we have together because I know that there is going to be a day when Andrew will have his own circle of friends and hanging out with "Cousin Obbie" will be nothing but just a fond memory of the past. Hey, I totally understand that...it is called growing up and when that moment happens, I promise that I won't cry because it's over, but I will smile because it happened.

I read this poem once and it touched me so and this is my hope and dream for my sweet little boy...

Little Boy / Little Man
Author: Clair Peach

What Are Little Boys Made Of?

Hopes and Dreams
Mischief and Laughs
Climbing up Trees
Splashing in Baths
What are the best men made of?
Hugs and kisses
Cuddles and Joy
Patience and kindness
Will make a man from this boy

Thank you "Andy Bob" for being such a joy and blessing to my life. Your childlike faith inspires me everyday! Please know that I will ALWAYS be there for you and I love you so very, very much!

"Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” Mark 10:15

And the Winner is...

2009-02-21T19:07:00.001-08:00

When I was in high school, I lived in San Diego which is 2 hours away from Los Angeles. A couple of years in a row, my father happened be in that area doing business and my mother and I hung out at the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion (this was before the Kodak Theater was built) to watch the rehearsals for the Academy Awards. We were such fans and would wait at the back entrance as celebrities would go in and out to rehearse for the BIG event...THE OSCARS.

I saw many celebrities - Lauren Bacall, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Ginger Rogers just to name a few. It will probably be the only time in my life that I had such a close encounter with celebrities and I loved every minute of it. Who doesn't like going to the movies and seeing their favorite celebrity up on the big screen? Yes...I am a fan of the movies and yes, I have made phony acceptance speeches in the mirror as I held my hair brush, pretending it was an Oscar! Call me crazy, silly or just plain "star struck," but I live for this time of year!

Well this year is NO different. I have my "designer gown" all picked out...a beautiful shade of pink sweats, my bucket of popcorn and my picks for the winners. So who do I think will win? Here is my list...

Best Supporting Actor - It will and should go to Heath Ledger. He was amazing as the Joker in The Dark Night and he deserves it. His performance sent chills down my spine! What a loss...

Best Supporting Actress - I so wish for a tie in this category. Viola Davis was phenomenal in Doubt. She had a powerful scene where she held her own playing against Meryl Streep. I also liked Penelope Cruz's performance in Vicky, Christina Barcelona as the crazed ex-wife of Javier Bardem. (Can I just say...I LOVE Javier Bardem? I do, I do!)

Best Actress - As much as I love "my Angelina" and want her to adopt me or at least babysit her children, it's not her year. It will be Kate Winslet for The Reader and she is due but then again I am hearing whispers that it could be Meryl Streep for Doubt. No doubt about it, it is going to be exciting to see who wins!

Best Actor - I love you Brad Pitt but I don't think it is going to be you my friend! It is either going to be Mickey Rourke or Sean Penn...I am hoping for Mickey. His beloved dog just died and I love a good comeback story. Also, 9 1/2 Weeks was one of the first R rated movies I ever saw and I thought he was hot! He was a bad boy back then and I had a thing for bad boys! (Okay, I STILL do) "Wink! Wink!"

Best Movie - Hands down, it's going to be Slum Dog Millionaire. It was touching, exciting and heartbreaking and if it doesn't win I will be very surprised! This one has "Oscar" written all over it.

Well there you have it in a nutshell...Robin's Oscar Picks for 2009. I am so excited. Hugh Jackman will be the host (I "heart" him and his accent) and they say that the show is going to be action packed and full of surprises. "Yippie, Skippy!" So if you're in the area, put on your "designer gown," bring some snacks and come on over and we'll have an evening of fun, fun, FUN!

UPDATE - Well the Oscars are over and I did fairly good on my predictions! I should have made bets in Vegas! LOL...too bad Mickey didn't win..."sniff, sniff."

BEE-Lieve!

2009-02-21T17:59:00.000-08:00

Do you know that the bumble bee aerodynamically is NOT supposed to be able to fly? I learned this fact from a mighty woman of faith and a speaker in her own right, named Thelma Wells. She pointed out that the body of the bumble bee is way too big, and its wingspan is too narrow for it to be able to fly. Yet, NOBODY told him that he can't and so therefore he defies the odds of science everyday and is able to do the work that God has ordained him to do!

I know that many of us have dreams that we wish to fulfill but are sometimes discouraged from achieving that goal because of doubt, insecurity or negative thinking that often gets in the way. However, God wants so very much to give us the "desires of our hearts" Psalm 37:4. And nobody can take that away from you for if it is God's will then NOTHING can get in the way to hinder that dream. Hey,if the bumble bee can do it, then so can we! So go out and BEE the BEST that you can BEE! All that you have to do is BEE-Lieve!

Happy Monday!

2009-02-15T22:30:00.001-08:00

"To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did. When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better."

Concentrate on this sentence...

"The Will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you. Something good is going to happen to you today, something that you have been waiting to hear."

"Happy Monday!"

Not Me Monday!

2009-02-15T21:36:00.000-08:00

I did NOT forget my Mother's birthday this week. I mean seriously how could I do such a horrible thing? After all, we celebrate it on the same day every year but this year as I was celebrating sweet little Allyson's birthday who happens to be a student in my classroom, it wasn't until we were in the middle of her blowing out the candle on her cupcake that I realized that I had some serious "explaining to do!"

Then in my attempt to buy my mother a birthday present, I didn't pick up an item from the sale rack at WalMart...NO. NOT ME! Honestly people, this is the woman who gave birth to me and she deserves nothing but the best. But then again, when there is a sale how can one resist? NO. NOT ME!

Well if one didn't think that was bad enough, I lost my debit card after my quick excursion to the WalMart. What...you say? How could I do such a dumb thing as that? I so wish that it was NOT ME but it unfortunately was..."sniff, sniff." Not only that, but when I tried to explain my "designer debit" card that my mother insisted we get together, the manager looked at me like I was insane! I really can't blame him I was insane at that moment...with panic!

Then came the phone calls to the bank and to my mother! Let's just say that my phone call to the bank was much easier and pleasant than the one to my mother was. Yes, I am an adult woman, but after hearing a long lecture about responsibility from my mother, I was made to feel just like one of the five year olds that I teach! Oh how I wish I was five sometimes...it was would a whole lot easier. I didn't just say that now did I? NO. NOT ME!

I also was unable to get a temporary debit card...that's a long story in itself but it resulted in me waiting ALL day Friday for Fed Ex to deliver me a new debit card. As soon as I saw the truck out in front of my house I ran out and thanked the delivery man profusely and then went on a shopping spree! Yes indeed! I NOW had money so to speak and it was burning a hole in my pocket book. "Robin Dana, don't you have ANY self control?" NO. NOT ME! And how was YOUR week?

"Happy Valentine's Day!"

2009-02-14T11:27:00.001-08:00

"We loved with a love that was more than love." ~Edgar Allan Poe

Enjoy the day with your family and loved ones and take the time to say "I love you!"

On a funnier note...

"I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon." ~Author Unknown

Tribute Tuesday

2009-02-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

My blogger friend Wayne created "Tribute Tuesday" where we take time in our lives to honor those friends and family who are near and dear to us. This week I chose Jim and Irene. They are the parents of my best friend Carla. You see, I grew up as an only child and longed for brothers and sisters. My parents always told me that once they had me they "threw away the mold!" I think that what they really meant was that one "perfect" (okay, maybe not quite perfect) child was WAY more than enough! LOL...

My "Other" Parents...Sweet Irene and Jim...Aren't they just precious!?

Anyways, when we moved to San Diego, there was a family that lived across the street from us and they had a four children...three girls and one boy. Well, they had one little girl named Carla that was the same age as I! We were inseparable! We were the preschool version of "Lucy and Ethel." I loved being at Carla's house with all of the noise and activity that always took place. She loved being at my house where it was peaceful and quiet...and boring! Zzzzz!

Carla's parents were wonderful! In fact they called me their "Daughter Number 4!" I was a part of their family suppers, birthdays, holidays and even went on vacations with them! Jim was also my junior high Spanish teacher. I so wanted to impress him that I studied my tail off just to get good grades because I wanted to please him so. He also blessed and mentored me when I chose to become a teacher many years later.

Together we have shared joys and heartache and I am eternally grateful for their love and devotion that they shared not only with each other but to me as well. While I have grown up and moved away, I still stay in touch with them and my visits with them are deeply treasured. From Jim and Irene I have learned that it isn't just "flesh and blood" that makes a family. It is love and devotion that does. I love you Jim and Irene with all of my heart. Thank you for taking me under your strong wings and helping to make "this little Robin" fly!

Tools Of Truth...

2009-02-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

"I delight to do Your will, O my God." Psalm 40:8

Prayer for the day...Taken from Praying God's Will for Your Life by Stormie Omartian

Dear Lord,
Help me to continually say yes to YOU. Help me not to be afraid to trust in YOU and Your will for my life. I want to experience everything that YOU have for me.
Amen

"My First Award!"

2009-02-01T22:05:00.001-08:00

Thanks to my "Blogger Buddy Wayne," I have become the recipient of the Honest Scrap Award! However, in order to receive it, I must dig deep and reveal 10 dark secrets about myself as well as share this honor with seven friends out there in "Blog Land," so here it goes!

1. When I was 5, I was playing "Tarzan" with a cord that was attached to my mother's curtains and I thought it would be great to tie it around my neck before I took my fateful swing and nearly hung myself in the process. I had to nurse a serious rope burn for days!

2. When I was 12 my mother made me drop out of the "Girl Scouts" because she didn't want to be stuck with the mandatory job of selling "Girl Scout Cookies" and she knew that I wouldn't do it. I can't argue, I love eating "Thin Mints" not selling them! LOL

3. I am bitter because I never got an "Easy Bake Oven." My dad said that it was a waste of money...he couldn't believe that a light bulb could actually bake a cake. I blame him to this very day that because I didn't get one, that is the REAL reason why I am such a lousy cook!

Isn't it beautiful?! Maybe someday...LOL!

4. In junior high, I used blue and purple eyeshadow to make a killer bruise on my leg in order to avoid running laps in P.E. I almost got away with it until my coach realized that bruises don't "sparkle!"

5. I have a tattoo of a bluebird on my back. It is in memory of my grandmother who always called me her "Bluebird of Happiness." She called me that because I had blue eyes when I was a baby.

6. My grandmother was a bit "eccentric" and thought that it would be fun to feed my cousin's goldfish some "Scotch," YES, "Scotch!" Needless to say, he instantly went "belly up" and we had to go get a new goldfish to take the place of beloved "Goldie." May God rest his soul! (Do goldfish have souls?)

Do NOT do this at home..."Naughty! Naughty!"

7. When I graduated from college my mother sent an invite to my graduation ceremony to President Bush (Not the son, the father) I got a very nice form letter back from Barbara Bush. My mother does those types of things...it can be very embarrassing at times.

8. I am a "Diet Coke" addict and can drink up to 6 cans a day...I know that is soooo bad. My dad says that if I ever need a kidney transplant, he isn't giving me one of his...I'm not surprised, he didn't get me an "Easy Bake Over" either! Yeah, yeah, I know, get over it Robin!

9. I once gave myself blonde highlights and ended up looking like "Cruella DeVille!" (I did it to impress this guy that I liked...let's just say that HE wasn't impressed!) Another time I dyed my hair a shade of red and it turned out pink! I don't do pink! Now I just leave my hair alone!

My "Alter Ego!" I don't think Cruella likes "pink" either!

10. I've been to the "Rose Parade." I went with my friend Suzanne and we got up super early in the morning to go see it. We had a great time but actually, I had more fun watching the drunks who had been partying the night before than watching the floats go by. Seriously! When you see one rose petal float, you've seen them all. The drunks were far more entertaining!

Well there you have it my friends! The good, the bad and the ugly! Since I am new to blogging I really don't have seven friends that I can give this honor to but I will choose 7 blogs that I so enjoy reading and hope that you will too!

1. Wayne's Window To The World
2. My Charming Kids
3. Kelly's Corner
4. Bring The Rain
5. The Life, Faith & Creativity of Jessica Turner
6. Insights From The Magic Tutu
7. In Stitches

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-28T00:38:00.000-08:00

Check out these modest sunbathers! LOL

Tribute Tuesday

2009-01-26T21:10:00.001-08:00

My blogger friend Wayne created "Tribute Tuesday" where we take time in our lives to honor those friends and family who are near and dear to us. This week, I chose Diana who is my close friend of mine from work. I have known her for over 14 years and think of her as my "Second Mother." She has 4 daughters of her own and does in fact call me "Daughter #5." Our inside joke, is that she had a wild time in Vegas and hooked up with an Elvis Presley impersonator who is my "real" father and because she couldn't afford another mouth to feed she gave me up for adoption at birth! Now where is Brad and Angelina when I needed them...LOL!

I truly feel blessed to have Diana in my life. As I am writing this, I find it strange for me to call her "Diana" because everybody at work calls her "Rara" which is the name that her grandchildren lovingly call her. Even the kids at school call her "Rara" but my special name for her is "RaMa!"

"Rara" is the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back if she knew that you needed it. She is always there for me when I need her and taught me that you should always "Bloom where you are planted." What I took from that is that even if we aren't where we want to be in life, don't look back with regret and be content with what God has given you. When you show contentment and reach out to others, God will indeed bless you. My beautiful "RaMa" you have done that for me and much more! Please know that I am always here for you and that there isn't ANYTHING that I wouldn't do for you! I love you so very, very much!

This is a picture of me and "Rara" at our staff Christmas party. She dragged me kicking and screaming because I didn't want to go! She begged me and said that I could be her "date" because we were both "dateless." That is a doll that I am holding...I said that he was our "date" because I was afraid that once she saw me in that dorky hat, she would in fact stand me up! LOL!

Not Me Monday!

2009-01-26T19:56:00.000-08:00

I did NOT make a quick Wal-Mart run yesterday without realizing that I hadn't combed my hair ALL day. You can imagine my surprise (or NOT) when I looked in the mirror and saw that I looked like a rooster! By the way if you happen to have seen me when I was out and about, please note that THAT WAS NOT ME!

I'm also NOT going to tell you that when I went to the Wal-Mart I had to buy these cool looking Pop Tarts.

Seriously, how cool are they? What will they think of next? Do you think that they are sending out a subliminal message by putting Barbie's picture on a Pop Tart? I'm just sayin' people..."Oh No,That Was Not Me Thinking THAT!"

Speaking of Barbie, I am going to go off on a tangent here because while my little girlfriends growing up were playing with their Barbies and dreaming of being one day just like her, I ripped off my Barbie's head from her body and stuck her on the end of my pencil just for the fun of it! What a nice little girl I was huh? Oh...I forgot, that was "Not Me!"

I am so glad that I did NOT go to the dentist and have to get shot up with novocaine twice because the first shot wouldn't take. That just wouldn't happen to sweet lil' old me now would it? "No, Not Me!" I also wont tell you that I ended up being so numbed up that I didn't realize that I was biting the dental assistant until she yelled at me to stop! I actually could feel bad about that but it served them right for hurting me in the first place! Do you think that feeling two novocaine shots and a drill digging so far down into your gums that you feel it all the way down to your toenails is something that I particularly look forward to? "No, Not Me!"

Do I tell you that when I went to the dentist, I took a magazine from the waiting room and didn't put it back? No, I WON'T tell you that but if I did, let me first say that by the time I pay my dental bill, they will have enough of my money to not only redecorate their waiting room but they'll also be able buy a whole new slew of magazines as well! I soooooooooo wish that wasn't me but as I sit here looking at my brand new "People" magazine, I think of it as a parting gift! (Okay, ya'll before you start branding me as a thief, haven't you done something like that?) Actually...it wasn't me that did that...Oh NO, NO, NO...it was my "alter ego." Yeah that's it!

Finally, I most certainly won't tell you that on my way home from work, a beautiful flock of birds went flying over my car and decided to relieve themselves ALL over the hood! At least my sun roof wasn't open! Needless to say, I didn't make it home right away...thank goodness for drive thru car washes! Do you think this is a sign of my week to come? "NO, NOT FOR ME!" It will be a good week! It will be indeed! So there you have it in a nutshell my friends...I pray that you have a better start of the week than I did!

The Babies Knew It All Along...Great!

2009-01-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

So did they know something that we didn't? Your guess is as good as mine!

Ah! How sweet it is to share some laughs...

Isn't it nice to have a shoulder to lie on?...

And then sometimes we need just to be reassured with a nice warm hug! And then there are those times...

When we really don't have ANY words to say...LOL "May God Bless America!"

"Let Sleeping Dogs Lie..."

2009-01-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

Sorry that I haven't posted these last few days...it seems that I have been "Lazy as a Dog!" but after my little time of rest, I will be back better than ever!

Favorite Things Friday!

2009-01-16T19:31:00.000-08:00

What are a few of My Favorite Things you say? Well let me tell ya!

1. My Family - That of course is a given but they are ALWAYS there for me and love me faults and all...I'm also very proud of the heritage that they have given me.

My dad is Swedish and my mom is Puerto Rican...I lovingly refer to myself as "Sweder-Rican!"

2. Red Velvet Cupcakes...my VERY favorite indulgence! (I've NEVER met a cupcake that I didn't like!)

3. The story of The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle...it reminds of 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things are passed away; behold, new things have come." When I grow up I wanna be a beautiful butterfly!

4. Dandelions because "a weed is a flower that just doesn't know it."

5. Mrs. Beasley - I had a Mrs. Beasley doll when I was young and she is a favorite memory of my childhood. Mrs. Beasley, I think that you still rock! It looks to me like she has had some "plastic surgery!" LOL

6. AND it wouldn't be a "My Favorite Things Friday," if I didn't mention The Sound of Music...Yes, it is one of my very favorite movies...A classic!

Wordless Wednesday...Sort of!

2009-01-14T00:16:00.000-08:00

Why do we try so hard to fit in with the "In Crowd?" Be an original...be YOU! Now I am off to go find my "Rabbit Ears!"

I know that this post says "Wordless Wednesday" but I can't help it, I have the "gift of gab" or is it the "gift to blog?" That's more like it!

Tribute Tuesday

2009-01-13T18:41:00.001-08:00

My blogger friend Wayne created "Tribute Tuesday" as a way to honor our friends and loved ones who are near and dear to us. The person that I wish to have the very first honor on my blog is my beloved Nana. Her name was Delight and she held true to her name. She always had a twinkle in her eye and quite an ornery streak as well! She loved to sing, dance and play the piano and when she entered a room everybody lit up because they knew that when "Dee Dee" as she was affectionately known as, came around we were all going to be in for a jolly good time!

One of my favorite memories of Nana when I was young, was when she would go out to play bingo with the nuns. Now mind you, we weren't catholic but she said that it didn't matter because she loved God just like they did and not only that, they had great wine as well. Honestly, I think that the wine was supposed to be for communion purposes ONLY but I NEVER did bother to ask. I could go on and on and I know that I will post more stories about her in the future but I also wanted to mention that Nana was a great woman of faith. She had her struggles and endured some very tough times but through it all if she taught me anything of value, it was to learn to forgive myself and others, embrace life and find laughter in everything! Oh yeah, AND don't forget the most important thing..."a little sip of wine will make you feel mighty fine!" I love you Nana so very much and you will always be in my heart forever and always!

I LOVE this picture because I think that it captured her great sense of humor which was a BIG part of who she was. When she took this picture she was trying to be "Oh so hip!"

"Blue Monday"

2009-01-12T19:01:00.001-08:00

They say that "Blue Monday" is supposed to be the most depressing day of they year. Why? I really don't know...maybe it is because of all of those unpaid Christmas bills, broken New's Years Resolutions or because many people start coming down with the post holiday blues. Well it's time to do something about that! I have decided to shake off my own "blue" feeling by showing off some lovely blue things that are inspired by Designer Rachel Ashwell who is know for her beautiful Shabby Chic designs. I love the Shabby Chic look! Some people call it "secondhand stylishness" or "loveable eyesore." Well I happen to think that it is quite beautiful and elegant!

Isn't it pretty! Now I am ready to go out and "paint the town shades of baby blue cause red is so passe!"

Not Me Monday!

2009-01-11T22:20:00.000-08:00

My, my, my time sure does fly! It seems like I was just doing this a week ago...oh yeah I was. Well it is another round of "Not Me Monday" where I can be "real" and admit the things that I supposedly did NOT do this week!

I did NOT cheat and look up who the Golden Globe winners were on the web because I didn't want to waste my time watching if none of my favorites were going to win! Why would I do that? Honestly, it's NOT like I'm an impatient person..."No. Not Me!"

I did NOT tell a white lie to one of my friends and tell her that I was not able to go with her to see another friend because I had plans to go out and celebrate my father's birthday. Yes, I really did celebrate my dad's birthday BUT that was during the day, and she was planning to go out that evening...when the Golden Globes were on. Well it's a good thing that she doesn't read blogs because she will never, ever know that I did NOT do that. Whew!

I will NOT admit that I am a huge Law and Order fan and am watching a marathon as we speak...really why would I do that when I really need to get ready for school this week?

I did NOT go and wait 15 minutes in line at Petco to buy 20 live crickets to feed to my classroom's pet toad because if I didn't I would have 21 unhappy children who would think that I wanted to starve their beloved "Splatman" on purpose! The things that one will do for kids...They can't say that I do NOT love them cause I do...very much so!

I did NOT forget my dad's birthday last Friday! How could I possibly do that! He is very proud of the fact that he was born on the same day as Elvis Presley and Richard Nixon. You know Dad, I wouldn't boast too much about Nixon, after all he was impeached!

I did NOT watch the Golden Globes and upon seeing Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt try and figure out a way that they could legally adopt me into their family. Really that would be just plain silly but if they wanted to I'm more than willing. I know that Dad would let me go especially now since I forgot all about his birthday!

So there you have it folks...all the things that I would NEVER do because I am just so darn busy...NOT! Have a GREAT Monday...I plan to!

Today on Oprah...

2009-01-08T18:54:00.001-08:00

What REALLY happened when Tom met Oprah!

Our Loving Father...

2009-01-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason that the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1

No Me Monday!

2009-01-04T19:40:00.001-08:00

Well it is that time of the week where we can be "real" with on another and admit the things that we have done...or maybe not done..."wink! wink"

First of all, I did not post my weekly "Not Me Monday" blog on a Sunday because I saw that other people from MckMama's blog had done so. I'm not one that wants to be a part of the fun and follow the crowd. No, that's not me!

I did NOT wear bed clothes ALL day long today. Now, I know that Sunday is supposed to be our day of rest but I wouldn't do that literally...really now!

I did NOT contemplate calling in sick tomorrow at work after being off for two weeks. Why would I do that? I had two weeks to be productive and get all that I wanted accomplished done right? Right? RIGHT?

I did not get on ebay and make bids on things that I really didn't need...I mean really it is just after Christmas and I don't need one more thing! Right? Well maybe just one more thing...SHHH! Don't tell okay?

I did NOT break several of my New Year's Resolutions. After all, I even posted them as a reminder so that I wouldn't forget! No I would not do that...never, never, NEVER!

I did NOT forget to put willpower and self control on my New Year's Resolution list. Really now, why would I do that? I have plenty of self control since I NEVER use it...uh oh, I think that it is time to go back to the list.

I did NOT go look at my school calendar and try to figure out when my next day off is...that would be tacky of me. I just had two weeks off why would I want more time off...to play maybe? "No. Not Me!"

Well friends there it is all the things that I didn't do! So tell me now what didn't you do this week? Do tell! Happy Monday Y'all!

"Happy New Year!"

2009-01-01T11:13:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the year 2009! Out with the old and in with the new right? A time for NEW beginnings so you now what that means right? It is now time to put that pen to the paper or in this case, keyboard to the blog and make those resolutions that we have been holding off to make! Hopefully for me, writing down everything down will help me to actually stick with it! Who knows maybe I will last more than a week this time! So here it goes!

1. Have the willpower to follow through on THIS list!

2. Make exercise a priority.

3. Keep the 5 pounds that I lost when I had the flu off and possibly lose a few more...thus the exercise!

4. Read more books.

5. Read the Bible EVERY day and find a Bible study class that I will enjoy and actually finish.

6. Make one new friend.

7. Learn to cook something other than microwave dinners and macaroni and cheese.

8. Learn to use my camera and take professional looking pictures...for me professional means not blurry and no red demonic looking eyes! LOL

9. Get back into scrapbooking.

10. Save money!

Well there it is! Simple (I hope), short and sweet! My list for the New Year and EVEN if I skip a day or start falling behind, I will strive to "pick myself up, dust myself off and start ALL over again!" So "Happy New Year" everybody! Wishing all of you unconditional love, acceptance and inner peace knowing that God gives us an extraordinary meaning to the lives that we live. May God bless your richly and abundantly!

A Picture Mosaic

2008-12-31T10:04:00.000-08:00

Hey there! Check out my "Picture Mosaic!" Isn't it cute? God has blessed me with the MOST wonderful friends and family. Hey! Doesn't the girl in the middle, on the bottom row look like a lot like "Cousin Itt?" Yep, I sure do see the resemblance!

Wordless Wednesday...Sort Of!

2008-12-31T09:18:00.000-08:00

Presenting "Bunion" Barbie! Girl, it's about time you FINALLY got off your tiptoes and wore some REAL shoes! Be proud of who you are and start acting your age...Ken doesn't need to be impressed anymore! By the way, I don't really know why you chose him to begin with, I always thought that G.I. Joe was more your type!

Tackle It Tuesday...

2008-12-30T15:13:00.001-08:00

I find it depressing to realize that "Piglet" has a more exciting life than I do! You go "Piglet!" You sure do know how to "Tackle It!"

P.S. Is Piglet a boy or a girl? Just wondering...The same goes for "Tweety"...

Yes, I know it is time for my vacation to end and for me to go back to work!

Please Pray...

2008-12-29T19:00:00.001-08:00

I currently have a prayer request for little 8 week old Stellan. He is the miracle baby of MckMama, My Charming Kids (See the MckMiracle button on my blog) and he has just been diagnosed with RSV and is very sick in the hospital. He has already been through so much but I know that we serve a mighty God and that with Him, ALL things are possible.

I also, ask for prayer for my dear friend Amanda who is currently fighting kidney cancer and will have to undergo radiation and chemotherapy. This is all so hard to comprehend and I am at a loss for words. However, when I look at the picture above, I realize that I don't need to say anything for God is right there beside each and everyone of us and knows our thought and hears our prayers even before they are spoken. Sometimes we just need reminders of that. Prayer is so powerful and I am always comforted by the knowledge that God will NEVER leave us nor forsake us. Thank you Lord for ALWAYS being there and for ALL that you do. Give my friends healing, comfort and peace tonight. Amen.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-24T11:07:00.000-08:00

I have a new job this Christmas! Jealous?

"The Friendship Tree"

2008-12-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

Martha Stewart I am not but I have a friend who got in touch with her "inner Martha" and made the most adorable Christmas tree. It is called a "Friendship Tree" and she decorated it with copies of photos of her with her friends taken throughout the year. To add a little bit of holiday "glitz," she embellished the photos with a little bit of glitter and then clipped them onto various tree branches using decorated clothes pins. The clothes pins were decorated with glitter and an assortment of jewels. Very simple, yet very elegant as well! I not only think that it is absoulutely adorable but what a clever idea especially when you have your friends over for the holidays. It is ideal as a centerpiece and I for one was very honored to see my photo up on the "Friendship Tree!"

Not Me Monday!

2008-12-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

Today I did NOT do the cardinal sin of Christmas and become one of those horrid "re-gifters!" "No! Not me!" How could I do something like that? Really now...

I did NOT get one of those annoying Christmas cards where family members try to outdo their lists of accomplishments and draft up a phony one about my incarceration...I wouldn't do such a thing would I? "No! Not Me!"

I do NOT have a terrible cold and I won't get anybody in my family sick for Christmas...no, no, NO!

I did not flush one of my aggressive tropical fish that I had in my fish tank down the toilet because he was becoming Hannibal Lechter who was trying to eat all of my other fish. Really, how could I do such a thing? I know that the Bible says "Thou Shall NOT Kill" but I'd like to think that Mr. Tiger Barb is swimming out to sea where he can attack algae and fish his own size like the Great White Shark! I am praying as we speak that someone from PETA won't read this post! If there is a protest outside my house my response will be "No! THAT wasn't me!"

You know that I wouldn't do something dumb like do a load of laundry and realize that I forgot to put soap in the washer and have to do the load ALL over again! "No, THAT wasn't me!"

I'm also NOT going to tell you that when I stepped out briefly to go get some breakfast that I didn't wear two completely different pairs of slip on shoes! One blue and one brown...I would NEVER do something like that! "No! Not Me!"

I still don't believe in "Santa Clause." "No! Not Me"...but if you should have an encounter with him, please let him know that I have been a very good girl! PLEASE!

Happy Monday my dear friends...it is only three days until Christmas! Yikes I have to go get my Christmas shopping done! Gotta Go! You didn't think that I was one of those organized types that got my shopping all done and my gifts all wrapped did you, THAT IS SO NOT ME! (However I do wish that it were true...sigh)

Verse For the Day...

2008-12-21T18:42:00.000-08:00

So many times I get caught up with the mistakes of the past that I miss out on the blessings that God so wants to bestow on me. I need to keep reminding myself that if God can forgive me for my past mistakes, then why can't I forgive myself? That isn't freedom, that is bondage and my goal for the new year starting NOW is to let go of the past and remind myself that HIS mercies are NEW every morning. I know that with total faith and belief that can only come from my Heavenly Father, that I will finally be able to be free from the bondage of my past and be able to be ALL that God wants me to be...Amen!

"Oh Come Let Us Adore Him!"

2008-12-21T14:07:00.000-08:00

This week we at school, we had a special holiday chapel. It is one of our favorite chapels of the year where each classroom gets a chance to share their favorite Christmas Carol with the whole school. It was also announced that our class won the School Scrip Contest! My students each got a Baskin Robbin's Certificate and I won $100 Dollars! I was so excited...so like any good steward of one's money I saved it right? Nope...I bought an ipod nano!

Aren't they pretty? I got a blue one and I am excited not only to be able to listen to music but be able to upload some of my very favorite photos. Sometimes a girl just needs to be able to splurge on herself without any guilt! As for my sweet class pictured above, aren't they adorable. This was a picture that we took prior to our annual Christmas Holiday program. We had a multicultural theme and as always they were a hit. Then we ended our fun week with a "Happy Birthday Jesus Party." One of my students wanted to know just how old Jesus was...I got a variety of answers from 1 to 1000...I actually know that he is WAY older than that but kids you gotta love em' and I do! So come let us adore HIM and have a blessed holiday season!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-17T20:16:00.001-08:00

"Hey! Don't YOU dare bring that ketchup over here!" Okay...I know that it's Wordless Wednesday but how could I not comment on this one? I just couldn't resist...this is what I want for Christmas minus the bun!

I am Thankful!

2008-11-27T13:06:00.001-08:00

Reasons to be Thankful...

I am Thankful for ALL the blessings that God has bestowed on me...

I am Thankful for a wonderful family that taught me to love the Lord with all my heart!

I am Thankful for loyal and faithful friends that love me for me! Faults and all!

I am Thankful for a wonderful job with amazing people who inspire and motivate me everyday.

I am Thankful for my new apartment....a new home, a new beginning!

I am Thankful that God's mercies are new EVERY morning and I need to continue to remind myself of that!

I am Thankful for good health.

I am Thankful for ALL that I do have and need to stop myself when I find myself saying, "Yeah, but I still wish...

Finally, I am Thankful that God has given us ALL the gift of today and if anyone should come upon reading this blog, I pray that God not only blesses you but that it also inspires you to reflect on what you have to be Thankful for in your own life!

P.S. Don't you love the picture? It is a photo that I took with my little buddy, Blaze who was a student in my class last year. It was the only photo that I had that beautifully captures the Season of Harvest and Thanksgiving. (Okay, I must confess that it was taken around Halloween time but I won't tell if you won't! "Wink! Wink!")

Not Me Monday!

2008-11-24T18:29:00.000-08:00

Today I did not start the day off checking out websites instead of getting ready for work like I really needed to. "No! Not Me!"

I did not attempt to glue 21 turkeys with orange fork feet just so that my kids could get take them home in time for Thanksgiving thus burning my fingers off in the process by using a hot glue gun! "No! Not Me!"

I am not addicted to hot glue guns and think that they are one of man's greatest inventions next to the wheel! "No! Not Me!"

I did not rush out of work and fail to tell my friend "good-bye" because I didn't want to stay any longer than I had to so that I could go to Wal Mart and buy some jeans. "No! Not Me!"

I did not eat three cupcakes today and justify it by stating it was because I was sick on Saturday and Sunday, that I needed to make up for lost time! "No! Not Me!"

I did not lose it when I saw my tire pressure light go out for the third time and run the car to Les Schwab Tires only to have them tell me that was nothing wrong thus making me feel stupid in the process. "No! Not Me!"

I did NOT steal the gossip magazine from the waiting area of Les Schwab Tires so that I could have something to read when I took my Calgon "Take Me Away" bath! "No! Not Me!"

I did not think the Les Schwab tire guy was adorable and wish for a minute that he could wisk me off into the sunset in a car that actually works! "No! Not Me!"

I did not order a McDonald's Happy Meal on the way home because even at 42 I still like to play with toys! "No! Not Me!"

I did not lose it when my wireless connection on my computer didn't work forcing me to call my Dad in a panic asking him "What in the &*%# is wrong with it!" "No Not Me!"

I am not addicted to "Celebrity Rehab" and have a major crush on Dr. Drew "No! Not Me!"

I am greatful I made it through the day and ended it with a cheerful conversation from my friend Amanda. She made me laugh and didn't make me feel guilty about taking the magazine from Les Schwab as a matter of fact she wants to "borrow" it! Spread the love around right!? (Don't you love how I justify my crime?) Happy Monday everybody!

A Good Cause -" A Fryday Contest!"

2008-11-23T19:20:00.000-08:00

I am posting for a good cause...If you go to My Charming Kids, you will find the most wonderful and uplifting blog about a family who almost lost their youngest child at birth due to a heart ailment. However, God through His amazing power and through the prayers of many blog readers, like myself, allowed for baby Stellan pulled through and he is a the most adorable living, breathing miracle! His family wants to give back to the community at large and one of the charities that they want to give back to is called "String of Pearls." Click on the link above and be blessed by this beautiful family's story and if you feel it impressed upon your heart to make a donation may God bless you richly but please if anything just read this family's story and be blessed by your very own family during this wonderful Thanksgiving season! I can promise you once you read about this family, you will be hooked and when you see sweet little "Small Fry" you will understand why it is called a "Fryday" Contest!

2008-11-23T19:08:00.001-08:00

Why?

I have been in the process of setting up my first blog entry and became ill this weekend when one of my very best friends named Amanda called me to tell me that she has kidney cancer. She is very young, in her early 30's and this news has shaken me to the core. It is hard to understand why these things happen but she said that as long as she knows that the Lord is with her, she will sustain this and I stand in agreement with her and believe that this will happen. I believe that we have a "Mighty God" and that what man says is impossible, that "with God ALL things are possible" for it even says so in his word. It is ironic however, that this is the week of Thanksgiving but my amazing friend said that she doesn't ask God for a list of wants, which would be so very easy to do, but offers nothing but praises to HIM for all that he has given her. Wow...that pretty much so sums it all to me. I am thankful to have such an amazing friend who in her time of great need speaks to me and motivates me to not only be a better person but a better friend, daughter and the person that God wants me to be for His Kingdom Glory...If anybody reads this blog please offer a small prayer for my dear friend. I would be most thankful and may God bless you!