Saturday, September 12, 2009

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

This May Be Interesting: My Reality Show Update

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20303396,00.html


Ellen!!!! Ellen is replacing Paula on America Idol. Since I am the only woman in America who doesn't watch the show, this may actually push me toward an episode or two. Love her!!!!! She is going to be the people's vote, and that might be a nice contrast between Simon, Randy, and whatever her name is.

I am more into Dancing with the Stars, and I am already to tango across my living room while booing Carrie Ann. That girl can just be cruel. I expect it from Len. I respect it from Len, but Carrie Ann just gushes over whatever man she is feeling for the season. Join me on Monday nights. Bring your favorite pj's and chocolate. Good times, good times.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Much Ado About...Nothing

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32723625/ns/politics-white_house/

I cannot understand the big deal about Obama's speech to the students of America. It has turned reasonable parents into foaming dogs of war. Students are being kept home today so they will not be exposed to the socialist propaganda of the President. What? The speech isn't brainwashing children in the evil ways of liberalism. It is a pep talk, and one that every student needs. It is about taking responsibility. It is urging students to stay in school. It is urging students to become the best they can be. Even Republican Newt said it was an excellent speech, and on the Today show he urged parents to allow their students to hear it. So what all the hub bub, Bub?

Also, what are we teaching our children when we don't allow them to witness events? That tolerance is only allowed within our own belief system? That if we disagree politically we cannot find common ground? Oh, I know, it is okay to prejudge. Children will parrot our beliefs, and I often stop and wonder how I want my children to present me to the world. I hope and pray they show that I believe in having all the facts. I believe we need to listen and debate instead of spouting off preconceived doctrines. I don't agree with Obama on everything, but I will separate the man and mission. I did the same for George Bush. I disagreed on much of his policies, but I disagreed with respect. That is what I hope they parrot to the world.

This entire mess reminds me that silly purple kangaroo on "Horton Hears a Hoo"; however, we can't always hide our children to the world so they are not exposed to diffrent viewpoints. I think the speech is an amazing way to introduce a positive academic dialogue at home. Watch it as well and discuss it respectfully with your students. Voice your concerns and ask your students their opinions. It is okay to disagree, but model how to disagree with respect. Education begins at home.

Now, can somebody help me off this soapbox?

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Sunday, Sunday

I personally have a love/hate relationship with Sunday. It seems an odd day when we seem to embrace the idea of rest, but the ghost of Monday Present is standing just in the corner of our eyes, reminding us that this is only a brief respite from the work day stress and worry. Today is also the 30th anniversary of CBS Sunday Morning, a show that I watch every week and enjoy with my chai tea, but I despised it as a kid because of my dad's obsession with the news. I now notice how my own kids scatter when I turn it on. It is my weekend news, satire, and entertainment. It is part of my Sunday comfort and part of my Sunday religion. I cannot leave or get ready for church until the show is over. I refuse to be rushed on Sunday mornings; I may be late but not rushed.

In honor of this achievement, I want to post my favorite Sunday songs. They all seem to explore the fine line between Saturday night and Sunday morning:







And I think we are all looking for a Sunday kind of Love

Saturday, September 5, 2009

A New Six Word Saturday!

Make sure you check out Cate and her site:



Excited about the weekend. Let's play!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Rants and Raves: This Week in Review

Rants

I may be wrong, but I think the press is going way too far in the case of Jaycee Dugard. The majority of news shows seem to be looking at dollar signs instead of what is best for this family. The morning shows begin each day with questions about her survival, and they almost seem disappointed when specialist say they are doing well, or they will do well, or even with the hard road ahead, they may have productive lives. They keep turning and twisting answers until they have the negative outcome that sells. Another news show reported the family is having to move often due to the constant threat of reporters. Paparazzi are stalking for pictures, and I think there will be a special level of Hell for them. Where is the humanity? Do we really need to see what they look like? There is a morbid fascination, and I am sure it will be huge when they are outed, but we should not allow curiosity to further damage the victims. Yes, it will take years, and yes, it is beyond horrible, now back off and give them a moment to come to grips with what is happening.

Raves

Jason Bateman is back!!! To be honest, I never knew he left. I love him in everything with his name on it, from The Hogan Family, The Sweetest Thing, Juno, and certainly, Arrested Development. He is one of the actors I want to find on my deserted island, and I hope he kicks Bradley Cooper's butt at the box office.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32663585/ns/entertainment-movies/

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Da, Da, Da

I wore my spring/fall suit today. It is tan with chocolate brown accents, and the jacket belts. I wore my ruffled collar blouse underneath with eggplant heels, and I felt organized and productive. Clinton Kelly isn't lying when he says that clothes affect your self-esteem. Students in every class had comments to say because they do not miss a thing. They even notice when I change earrings. I want to share two that made me smile:

"Hey, Ms. ____________, you look like a lawyer!"


"Wow, you look nice today. You look like a dectective."


Okay, I now have my future figured out. If this teaching thing doesn't work, I think I will audition for Law and Order.

Perfect Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Today was a very busy but lovely beginning to our Halloween Festivities.  My husband and I went to a Farmers' Market that was featuring ...