The Pressure of a Blog

I must admit, I don't currently have Internet access in my home. Thus, it is a task to find a time that I can update my blog. I feel there is a certain amount of pressure, despite the fact that I don't actually have any readers, to keep my readers happy.
I think this is also an appropriate time to say, I don't really have very many interesting things to say. As tragic as it is, I admit, I am a know-nothing, know-it all. Just be aware, that I will not let this Blog be my downfall.

Flaky Friends

I hate flaky friends.  We've all got them.  The friends that bail every time you plan something.  Or don't call when they are supposed to.  It's more than irritating to deal with those who can't seem to hold up their end of the bargain...and yet there are some people who we are flaky friends to.  That's right, I am a flake...there are times that I don't call certain people, or I'm totally in for a good time until the day of the event and then suddenly, I'm no where to be found.  Lame.  That's all I have to say.

British Accents

Isn't it odd that a British accent can make even the ugliest man good looking?  You can't deny that you swoon, even if only slightly, for a man with an accent.  It's like kryptonite for women...we are powerless against them!  

Festivas Miracle

On a daily basis I experience the phenomenon of Festivas Miracles! Today was no exception. As I thought I had an appointment, I left work early. Learning that the person my appointment was with needed to cancel I debated turning around and going back to work...I opted not to do this. As I approached my apartment complex I thought I would benefit from using the computer and picking up a package I knew was awaiting my arrival. As I walked in both computers were occupied. So, I asked for my package. As it turns out I had three packages! And my roommate was the user of one of the computers, thus I got one of those too! It truly was a Festivas Miracle!

Clutch vs. Purse

I consider myself to be somewhat of a purse expert! I own 82 purses or clutches and revel in choosing a different hand-bag accessory for each outfit I wear! But, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Which is better, a purse or a clutch?

There are two factors to consider: where are you going? Are you the transportation? A clutch will always look more trendy and cuter! That is the simple fact, but you have to be willing to carry a purse if you are going somewhere that you will need to take extra stuff with you. A purse is always better for a movie...sneaking in soda and candy is difficult with a tiny little clutch. Ball games also require purses, not so much for the fact of sneaking in treats as it is easier to keep track of a larger bag when you are cheering like a maniac!

Are you the transportation? I have only a handful of clutches that my keys fit into after I have put all of my necessary items in. If you are with someone else and can leave your keys in the car...clutch it up!

All in all, clutch is number one. But, don't discount the beauty of a hand or shoulder bag. Not to be confused with shoulder pads which are never a good idea!

Soap Box Chronicles-Standardized Testing

Alright folks, here it is, my opinion on standardized testing. As an educator in Texas all I do is test. This is actually the first year since I began my career, three years ago, that I have felt like a teacher and not a test proctor. That is the result of the state passing a law that states the maximum number of days students may be tested per school year.

What a sad commentary on our education system that the state has to pass a law against too much testing. Yes, standardized testing has a place in education and should not be discounted. It shows wonderful information such as student growth, and where a student is compared to other students in their demographic and age group. However, it should not be the only means of evaluating a students progress and most certainly should not be a means of teaching!

Not what you expected from a blonde!

Why I Work With Children

I would just like to clarify one thing: why I work with children. Though I do consider myself a good person, and a compassionate person, these are not the reason I spend seven hours a day baby-sitting children ages 8 to 11. No, I have many other ways I would rather spend my time. However, the other ways do not include the love and devotion that children show you! My third grade students are always writing me sweet little notes that say how wonderful, beautiful, and perfect I am! Why would I give that up?

One compliment in particular I would like to share with you is what a sweet student of another student said about me. This young lady struggles greatly with her confidence due to being almost as tall as me (6'1") in the third grade, also quite over weight. But, as I was walking to the front of the cafeteria the other day she told another teacher, who later told me, that Phyllis thinks I look like a model. It made me smile.