Friday, May 31, 2013

Friday Photos 21: 10 Years Already?

Logically I know that it's been 10 years since I graduated college, but it honestly doesn't feel like that at all. 

I can vividly remember events from senior year (also known as 2003) and I could swear they happened more like last year. But, the space on my calendar that says my 10 year reunion is tomorrow would beg to differ.













Good times with great people...that I'm pretty sure happened less than 10 years ago--like a lot less. 

I wish.  






Wednesday, May 29, 2013

A True Partner Teacher

I'd say it's pretty rare to not only like your coworkers, but to also be able to call them your friends. And in this economy, I'd say it's even more rare to have the same coworkers for more than a few years. Which is why I feel so blessed that for the past 7 years, I've had the privilege to work alongside the best partner teacher anyone could hope for.



I'll never forget meeting you for the first time: I walked in your classroom to find you standing on a ladder, in your skirt & monogrammed flip flops; me in my Umbro shorts from 7th grade and a paint-stained t-shirt. All I could think was, "I'm really gonna have to step up my game in the fashion department." The inspiration didn't stop there.




You are such an amazing teacher, and one of the most giving people I've ever met. It is hard to imagine you not being next door come August, but I sense that we both have exciting things on the horizon: me with Ruthie, and you as a mom. I am so happy for you to have the extra time at home with Hallie & Henry next year, and I know you will do wonderful things in your new part-time role at school! 




To say that I will miss seeing your smiling face everyday is quite an understatement. I found this card from you last week when I was cleaning my classroom:

I don't think I could say it any better than you did. Thank you for being a true partner teacher and a true friend. This isn't goodbye, but simply a look back at our highlights from the past 7 years, and a welcome to the new adventures that the next year will bring! 


XOXO


Thursday, May 23, 2013

Friday Photos 20: Why I Do What I Do

This week, my sister Jill came to talk to my third graders about her career & college experience. She works for Metro United Way in the marketing department. 




She did a great job explaining the company's vision: We envision a community whose people achieve their fullest potential through education, financial stability and healthy lives.

As part of her visit, Jill asked my students why education is important to them. She then took the following pictures of their responses:





This is why I do what I do.

Thanks again, Jill! You rock.

Friday, May 17, 2013

Friday Photos 19: So Close to Summer

With just 6 days of school left, Summer is so close I can feel it.


Here's a look at what's on the horizon:


My 10-year college reunion (10 years already?)

Lake time with the fam

Reliving the 80s & 90s in concert, AKA the Package Tour!
Boyz II Men + 98 Degres + NKOTB

                                                   
Hanging with G-ma

A trip to Chicago...

    ...to see JT & Jay-Z!

                                                                                            

Ridin' roller coasters

Cheering on the Cardinals in STL

Swimming, swimming, and more swimming

And the best part: time with my sweet niece

Can't. Wait.

What's on your summer agenda?







Friday, May 10, 2013

Friday Photos 18: Mother's Day

This edition of Friday Photos is dedicated to all the marvelous mamas out there! 

Some of my favorite brave, strong, and special moms:













Here's hoping that you feel truly appreciated this Sunday, and everyday.



Friday, May 3, 2013

Friday Photos 17: Lilies for the Fillies

Happy Oaks Day, y'all! This week's Friday Photos edition is dedicated to the day of races before Derby. My favorite thing about the Kentucky Oaks is the pink-out in support of cancer survivors... 




 ...and the delicious Lilies (I'm not talking about the flowers)...

 ...and the fashion...


...and running into celebrities...

 ...& Derby-winning trainers...

...and the pretty ponies!


Enjoy this day made for the fillies and savor the last day before Derby 139. Go baby go!