Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life

Day #365/365- THE END.

2011-03-06T18:15:00.007-05:00

I did it! I did it! I did it! One positive post each day for an entire year = 365 positive posts = goal accomplished! Woooohoooo!

And of all days for this to happen, look what my friends and I found on the way home from a friend's baby shower this afternoon -------->
What are the odds? Sunnyside Street! {Of course we had to pull over and capture the moment!}

The last Sunnyside I would like to leave with you to Soak Up is a quote. It's not just any quote- it's my favorite quote.

"While you never know what gifts life will bring, you can trust that every sunrise offers possibilities. Every day holds beautiful moments and new dreams waiting for you to come and find them." {Duvall}

And with that, I have two words left to say...

Day #364/365- "And Now The End Is Here..."

2011-03-05T20:22:00.001-05:00

As the great Sinatra once sang, "And now the end is here." Can you believe it my friends? My year long journey of writing something positive for 365 days straight will be over tomorrow!?! I've decided to use today as a reflection of my year of blogging because tomorrow, I would just like to end things simply, as I Soak Up the final day of a wonderful journey.

I am so proud of my little blog- my happy little land of writing. This little space I have taken up in the Blogosphere world has taught me so much over the past year. I have learned that writing is my outlet- it's how I express myself and it's how I express myself best. My happy writing land also taught me that you CAN find the good in every. single. day. It's just up to you to look around and find it. Not all days are going to be chocolate cake and sunflowers. Some days are going to be more like liverwurst and a clump of weeds. And you know what? That's okay. As long as you sit down at the end of the day, look around and thank the good lord for what you have, you will get through the liverwurst and clump of weeds kind of day. I promise. The only validity I have in promising you such a thing is because of this blog. You have to know that as I wrote each day, it was not always a chocolate cake and bouquet of sunflowers kind of day. What I do know, however, is that at the end of each day, I put things into perspective and always found myself Soaking Up something- anything.

This blog not only provided me with a chance to write, it also gave me the gift of readers. Not just followers-readers. There is such a difference between the two. You don't know how much it has meant to me over the year to have read your wonderfully kind comments or heard your encouraging words in person about my blog and how much you have enjoyed reading it. Thank you. Thank you if you have stopped in from time to time to have a look around and thank you if you have been a daily visitor like my Mom and Dad, who call it their "book" and read a "chapter" each day. You are all such a blessing.

Many of you are probably wondering, "What's next?" Well, to be quite honest- I have no idea. What I do know is that after I hit the "Publish Post" button tomorrow, I'm going to pack my suitcase and take a blogging vacation. While on vacation, I am going to work on having my blog printed into a book so that I will have a hard copy of this wonderful year to look back upon and read page by page. What a treasure that will be!

Another thing I know for sure is that when I really start to miss writing and capturing memories through words, I will unpack my suitcase and be back from my vacation. I'm not sure when that will be, but when it does happen, don't worry- it will be the same old me and I will still be Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life.

Day #363/365- Do You Remember The Feeling???

2011-03-04T19:36:00.003-05:00

Something really awesome happens when you decide to become a teacher. You get to relive the feeling you had in college when it was the Friday leading into Spring Break, your last class was over and you were officially going to be free of schoolwork and stress for one entire week. Do you remember the feeling? I sure do- like it was yesterday! Well, when you become a teacher, you totally flashback to college because the exact same feeling of excitement washes through you as you say goodbye to your students, lock your classroom door and walk off campus knowing you are free. Free to write yourself a lesson plan that states the objective as: The teacher will be able to have as much fun as humanly possible with her friends and family for seven consecutive days. Yep! That's my objective all right- FUN, and I plan to Soak Up the Sunnyside of each and every one of them. Happy weekend dear friends. And Spring Break- I just have three words to say: I Love You!

Day #362/365- The Fun Is Coming!

2011-03-03T20:26:00.002-05:00

I think today was a demonstration of how my students are as ready for Spring Break as I am! They were letting all of the little things bother them, they were bugging each other the way brothers and sisters fight and we were all on FCAT (our state test) preparation overload. Preparing for a tremendously important state test is stressful and often times, not the most exciting thing in the world, but it is necessary and something we cannot avoid. So today, as the kids were letting the little stuff become big stuff and they were fighting like brothers and sisters and I was killing myself trying to get them to understand how to create equivalent fractions, I thought about one thing and only one thing...

And then I secretly smiled inside as I Soaked Up the thoughts of all the fun that is coming!

M-I-C (See you real soon) K-E-Y (Why? Because I love you). M-O-U-S-E.

Day #361/365- "Real Clothes Day"

2011-03-02T19:49:00.001-05:00

If you went to a school where wearing a uniform was mandatory each and every day, would you get excited if you were granted one day out of the entire school year to wear "real clothes?" The answer to that question is YES! Today was spring picture day at school. This is the one day the principal grants the kids the option of not wearing the uniform. And let me just tell you- I love it! Seeing my students in red and blue polo shirts with khaki and navy bottoms every day can get a little monotonous. Watching them walk in this morning in such things as bright pink dresses with heels, adorable shirts with bows, polka dots, stripes, sweater vests, plaid shorts and lots and lots of color was so incredibly refreshing! They all walked into the classroom with big smiles and a little extra pep in their step as they Soaked Up looking at each other in colors other than red, blue and khaki. I made a point to tell every single student how beautiful, handsome or dapper they looked because you know that they probably had been planning this outfit for the past week in preparation for "Real Clothes Day."

And as I stood there watching my students step up to the camera to strike their pose and capture the memory of this fun day, I kept thinking to myself, "I hope they will each look back at this picture one day and smile as they remember how much they loved their third grade year." That was my favorite grade and favorite teacher-ever. I sure hope I'm making that kind of memory for these kids, too.

Day #360/365- THE NEWSLETTER!!!

2011-03-01T20:02:00.005-05:00

I live in a pretty large subdivision where many of the houses are filled with cute, little retired and elderly folks. The reason this is important is because of two words: The Newsletter. These retired and elderly folks no longer work and have made it their "job" to write a newsletter about our cute, little neighborhood community. Apparently this has been a tradition that started back in the 80's, when our community was built and developed. They love reporting the neighborhood gossip, complaints, celebrations, parties, warnings and important dates. And you know what? I LOVE reading it!

You can imagine my excitement today as I pulled into the driveway and saw the green, rolled up newsletter sitting in the tube under my mailbox (yes- the newsletter takes such precedence here that we have plastic tubes attached to our mailboxes so that the little old ladies have somewhere to slide them in as they deliver them each month.) Back to my excitement. I quickly got out of the car, got my mail, got my newsletter and ran inside. I'm telling you- the newsletter is pure fun. It's a must read once a month and I couldn't wait a second longer to read it!

One of the things that bothers a writer of the newsletter at a tremendously high level is when pet owners allow their unleashed pets to "do their business" and leave it. Heck, it bothers me too because I don't have a pet and end up walking into my yard to the lovely smell of "pet business." Well, I thought I would give you a taste of why I love the newsletter. Here is what Muriel had to say about this such topic...

DOGS & CATS (That was the headline)
"Animals are never permitted outside without a leash. If you love your cat, don't let it go outside. There are plenty of diseased feral cats running around that can infect your cat." (Clearly something awful must have happened to someone's cat). "If you have a dog, you must walk it on a leash. That way, you are there when it poops, you see it, and you can pick it up immediately. (I love how Muriel used the word poop! LOL) There is too much dog poop in our neighborhood. Let's get it cleaned up. It is terribly inconsiderate to allow your dog to mess up someone's property." (Amen Muriel! I couldn't have said it better myself.)

Seriously- I can't make this stuff up! Don't you love it? I love how vulgar and blunt the articles are. Along with the Dogs & Cats article, we also found out from Muriel that the quilting group will be displaying their quilts with an exhibit at the clubhouse, the pool renovations will be over on March 11 (thank goodness- I have been very patient and am so desperately looking forward to laying out on our new deck and going for a swim), cars will be towed from midnight to six in the morning if left on the road, Yoga for 60's is canceled on March 3rd, a couple passed their citizenship test (I'll leave out their names for privacy purposes) and are so proud to now be Americans and a beautiful Lenox crystal bowl was purchased for Dorothy and filled with flowers as a thank you gift for being in charge of the Social Club. It was presented at the Spaghetti Dinner, which, by the way, was a huge success!

I LOVE MY NEIGHBORHOOD! Cutest place ever! Cutest people ever. Best newsletter on the west coast of Florida! I always joke that if I still live in this house, in this neighborhood when I am sixty-five, I will be happier than a little lark going to Yoga for 60's, quilting on Tuesday mornings, playing Poker on Tuesday nights (whoa- Tuesdays will be busy), Bingo on Wednesdays, Supper Club on Thursdays and coffee hour Saturday mornings. Heck- maybe by then, I could take on the writing of the newsletter. Now that could be FUN!!!

So much to look forward to...

Day #359/365- It's Getting Closer...

2011-02-28T19:20:00.001-05:00

Today was the easiest Monday ever. Do you want to know why? It's the Monday leading into Spring Break!!! That's right! Four more days of work and then my teacher friends and I get a well deserved week off to relax, refresh, renew and revive. I have lots of fun things planned for my Spring Break and need it to get here FAST because I'm dying to get to my first destination!

So tonight, I'm going to keep it short and sweet and simply say that I'm Soaking Up the fact that a lot of fabulous fun is getting

closer...

and closer...

and closer to happening

because it's almost...

Day #358/365- Reminder: You Live Here!

2011-02-27T19:59:00.002-05:00

Snapshots of Sunday:

Even the birds stopped to soak up the sun!

It's funny. I was sitting at the beach, soaking up some free Vitamin D (with the hopes that it would cure my cold) when I stopped and had a look around in a bit of disbelief. Here I was on an eighty-degree day in February, sitting with my toes in the sand with a front row seat to the Gulf of Mexico watching the tide roll in. I seriously had to stop, pinch myself and say, "YOU LIVE HERE." And as I soaked up that beautiful phrase, I thought back to how it all began.

Dear Kirsten,

You live here because eight years ago you graduated from college and had a choice to make. (1) Get a job teaching in Pennsylvania and be stuck there for the rest of your life. (2) Move to a place you have always dreamed of living.

You live here because you made a really smart decision and went with option #2. The thought of actually carrying out option #2 scared you to death because you didn't know where you would live, didn't have a job waiting for you and didn't know a single soul. You didn't let the unknown stop you or scare you. You packed up your whole life, towed your car on a trailer and with your Dad by your side, you headed south to start a whole new life.

You live here because you had guts. It took guts to say goodbye to the friends and family you loved most- not knowing when you would see some of them again. It took guts to face the fear of the unknown and it took guts to do what you really wanted to do instead of doing what you knew was safe.

You live here because deep down in your heart, you were meant to be a Florida girl. You were meant to live in a warm climate where the sun shines almost every day of the year. You were meant to put your toes in the sand instead of in winter boots. You were not meant to retire here. You were meant to work here- in a place where people vacation, as a reminder of how good each and every day could be if you soaked it up and made it count.

You live here because this place makes you happy. The weather, the fact that your family is close-by eight months out of the year, the friends you have made who are like family, your wonderful job where you make a difference to so many kids with challenging lives, the house you have made your home and the overwhelming feeling of joy you get each morning when you wake up knowing you are where you were meant to be.

This place makes you happy. And that is why you don't need to keep reminding yourself that you live here. You are here because eight years ago, you made a choice. A choice that handed you this beautiful paradise as a place you could call home.

Don't ever forget this picture. It was taken on the day you arrived in Florida- not as a visitor, but for good.

Love,

Your reminder of how it all began

Day #357/365-"Just A Spoonful Of Sugar..."

2011-02-26T19:05:00.000-05:00

Day two of fighting the cold and allergies continues. I thought I would wake up refreshed, ready to go and cured from taking my magic concoction last night (see yesterday's post). Instead, I woke up, rolled over and burrowed back into bed. I pretty much made like a bear and hibernated all day- sleeping.

I made one trip out to get some medicine and figured I needed something sweet to wash it down so I drove through McDonald's. Good lord, I must be sick! I haven't been through the McDonald's drive-thru in months. Don't worry, I didn't order a Big Mac or any french fries- just a chocolate milkshake. By the way-when did McDonald's start serving their milkshakes in cute cups with whipped cream and a cherry? I was shocked by this upgrade and had to ask if it was really a chocolate milkshake just in case they were trying to give me one of those fancy coffee drinks (caffeine in the evening is the last thing I need!). At any rate, I returned home, took the monstrous pill and sang, "Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down" as I chased it with icy, chocolate goodness.

The Sunnyside of today? I rested. I slept. I needed that.

Tomorrow is a brand new day. The sun will be shining and I will hopefully be outside Soaking it Up!

Day #356/365- This Means War!

2011-02-25T19:01:00.000-05:00

I seriously pride myself in being an obsessive compulsive hand washer and germ avoiding ninja. But, from time to time, even the most skilled ninjas are defeated. Yes, I have officially lost my title of "Germ Fighting Ninja" and am now more deserving of a title like "Worn Down Sloth." I'm moving a bit slower, have golf balls in my neck, a pain deep in my throat and my voice has dropped a few decibels to the point I have "man voice" at times. Whoa! This UGH hit me overnight and invaded quickly! The Sunnyside? THIS MEANS WAR! I may be down, but I have yet to be defeated!!! The weekend has arrived so I can't take the easy way out by going to the doctor and getting my happy Z-Pac. I'm going to have to beat this thing on my terms and fast because the weekend fun awaits!

My ammunition: Zicam, a cup of hot tea, a shot of NyQuil before bed and a positive attitude. I have enlisted the best army I know and by sunrise, this madness will be gone and I will be back to my old ninja self. {That's the plan, anyway.} Here's hoping for a Sunnyside ending to my war on the UGH. May the best team win.

Day #355/365- TEN More Days Of Blogging!!

2011-02-24T20:49:00.004-05:00

I cannot believe I am even writing this right now- I HAVE TEN DAYS LEFT of my 365 day project!!!! In honor of making it to my last ten days, without ever missing a day, I have chosen 10 of my most favorite posts from the year. The ten I have chosen are a little mix of everything I have written about over the year- family, friends, work, changes, humor, challenges and nature's beauty. So, if you have been a part of my Sunnyside Land since Day #1, you will most likely remember many of these posts based upon their titles alone. And in case the titles don't jog your memory, go ahead and take a trip back down memory lane and have a read. I Soaked Up revisiting these posts and cannot wait to have this blog published into book form- just for me, as a reminder of my year-long blogging adventure. It sure will make for a fun read on a rainy day!

Ten of my most favorite posts:

Day #1- Take Me Out To The Ballgame!

Day #26- An Airboatin', Alligator Holdin' Kind of Day!

Day #72- MY Yard

Day #84- She Will Remember This Forever!

Day #96- When Did I Grow Up And How Can I Make It Stop???

Day #107- I Have Baggage.

Day #135- Be Afraid. Be Very Afraid.

Day #142- Stage 4= Acceptance

Day #147- I'm Fine. Just Fine. Perfectly Fine.

Day #148- This Is What August 1st Looks Like...

Day #354/365- Work and Play...

2011-02-23T20:09:00.000-05:00

Today was one of those twelve hour days away from home. We've all had them- some more often than others. Thankfully, this is not a normal occurrence for me. I am a homebody and love snuggling into my cozy, little bungalow! I also love that my twelve hour day was a combination of a work and play so really, it wasn't that bad!

My day started a touch earlier than normal because I had a parent conference this morning at 7:45. The Sunnyside to this is that the parents actually showed up (and on time, might I add) at that ghastly hour! They were so open and willing to take any and all suggestions offered to help their child and our "plan" is definitely going to help! This is my most favorite type of conference because it is one where the teachers and parents are working together for the betterment of the student and only good things can come from it. Love that!

The other Sunnyside of the day was spending the afternoon at the salon. I tell ya- sitting there being pampered sure made me feel as if I had never even worked today. A new cut and a fresh, rich color and I am as good as new! I love it! Thank you Heidi for being awesome at what you do- I give you a 100% A+ (sorry- that's the teacher in me!) for always bringing my hair back from the dead! I promise I will come in sooner next time! LOL

Here's hoping you had a wonderful Wednesday, too. We are halfway there my friends! It's all downhill from here! I don't know about you, but the fact that the weekend is now two days away is something I am definitely Soaking Up right now!

Day #353/365- Dear Sonicare and Floss...

2011-02-22T19:41:00.002-05:00

Dear Sonicare Toothbrush and Floss,
I just returned from the dentist where I received an A+ for brushing and flossing. They also said, "Your gums are looking great!" Did you hear that guys? WE did it and I am Soaking Up our victory! I was in and out in thirty minutes, which really means things were great because the poor people who don't use you sit in the chair for an hour or so AND have to come back to have work done. Ugh. Glad we don't have to go through that. I waved goodbye to them and said, "See you in September!" Yes! Now, I have to warn you both about something. Someone new is being added to our "team" and I don't want you to be jealous or think you weren't good enough. You have been good enough, but now, we are going to be even better! Unstoppable! At the advice of my dentist, Waterpik is joining us and I want you to be nice to him (keep in mind that both of you were recommended by my dentist, too, so we are all on an equal playing field). Sonicare- he is going to be sitting right next to you on the counter so try and be nice. Don't knock him over in the middle of the night or do any funny business. And floss- please behave. Don't try and tie him up-I will know it's you. The message my friends= let's work together. Okay? Great! Thanks again for being your awesome selves and helping a girl out! You have made today a most happy day!

Love, Kirsten

{Yes- I wrote a letter to my toothbrush and floss. Good lord. If you only knew my dental history, this post would make a lot more sense. Let's just put it this way- ever since I started using that magic toothbrush a year and a half ago with regular flossing, I haven't had to have a single bit of dental work done. The Sonicare is a bit expensive to purchase, but I'm telling you- the money it will save you in the long run is SO worth it! Trust me.}

Day #352/365- The News From Back Home...

2011-02-21T20:06:00.000-05:00

The news from back home in PA today= ten inches of snow.

I hate to admit this, but as I heard this news, I secretly said to myself, "Thank the lord I moved." Yes- I miss lots of things about living up north, but I sure do not miss the snow. I don't miss shoveling it, brushing off my car until my hands turn blue, driving in it or ~~walking~~ slipping and sliding in it. I don't even miss watching it fall from the sky, which is something I used to love. Hearing that my poor family and friends back home were dealing with ten fresh inches of the fluffy white stuff made me feel kind of guilty. But then I got over the guilt and reminded myself that they choose to live there and endure it year after year after dreadful, dreary, cold year whereas I decided to escape the moment I could. Why wait until you retire to live in paradise? Heck- the way things are going, us teachers may have to work until we are seventy so we might as well live and work in paradise. My parents still tell me this (making the move to FL while I was young) was the smartest thing I could have done. And you know what? I agree with them 100%.

A day like today is exactly why I made the move here. I am sitting here on a Monday evening in February with the windows open, letting the fresh air fill the house, listening to the crickets and eight thousand other bugs out there fill the night with their songs and smiling. No snow. No cold. Just a pleasant, seventy degree evening that I am totally Soaking Up.

Day #351/365- Beach Baby!

2011-02-20T21:34:00.001-05:00

Today's forecast: Sunny and 82 degrees with a cool breeze.

We took full advantage of this gorgeous day and Soaked it Up! It started with breakfast at one of our favorite spots overlooking the canal. After filling up on some wonderful goodness, we headed to the beach. Sunshine, sand, a cool breeze and front row seats overlooking the water made for a most beautiful day. I am so thankful that my glaring white skin has been sunkissed and I've had my fill of Vitamin D. My skin is glowing, my heart is happy and my soul is refreshed. It's amazing what a great weekend, a change of scenery and time with family can do for you.

Day #350/365- A Sun-Shiny Day!

2011-02-19T21:51:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful, sun-shiny day it was today! I had lunch with someone I only get to see about once or twice a year these days. She is someone I have known since I was a baby! I don't have a lot of friends that I have known since I was born, so that makes our friendship extra special. I loved catching up with her and seeing her darling baby girl. Hopefully our summer trips back to PA will cross so I can see her again. Fun times for sure!

I also Soaked Up a little shopping this afternoon and a trip to the theater to see The King's Speech. Have you seen it yet? You still have time before Oscar Sunday if you haven't! I don't know why, but each year, I like to see as many of the movies that are nominated for Oscars as I can. Knowing something about the movies nominated for awards makes watching the Oscars so much more fun than just seeing what the stars are wearing, saying etc. The King's Speech is a delightful true story that leaves you smiling in the end. That's my favorite kind.

Speaking of favorites- I love weekends. I love being with my family. I love seeing friends and their insanely cute and fun babies. I love shopping. I love movies. I love sun-shiny days.

Simply put, I LOVE Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life!

Day #349/365- The View From...

2011-02-18T21:47:00.000-05:00

The view from the hot tub this evening.

I'm Soaking it Up!

Enough said.

Day #348/365- Do You Know What That Means?

2011-02-17T20:02:00.001-05:00

Florida has been chilly these past few months. That is, chilly for our standards. No- it hasn't been below freezing or -10 like some of you have experienced, but it has been COLD! I am pleased to report that the sunshine state has been gradually warming up each and every day this week. And guess what? We are going to be back in the 80's by the weekend! Yippppeee! Do you know what that means? Five things:
1. I can take my feet out of jail (close-toed shoes) and wear my sandals and flippity flops again!
2. I can quit wearing long pants to work and break out my capris, dresses and skirts again.
3. I can roll down the windows and let the wind blow through my hair as I am driving instead of running the heater. I can also open up the windows to the house and let in some fresh air without worrying about the house getting so cold that I have to turn the heater on in there, too! The ultimate goal= heater OFF in everything (house, car, classroom at school etc.)
4. My painfully white skin will be forced to face the sun and tan up because the long pants and long sleeves will be back in the dresser drawer (where they belong). Seriously- I am "I live up north and haven't seen the sun in three months- white." No offense northern friends- I'm allowing myself to make that comment only because I put in twenty-three years up there and experienced tanning beds as an escape from the "winter white" look.
5. I have the option of sitting in the hot tub under the stars this weekend without it feeling like an ice bath!

Number five is definitely my favorite one on the list and something I plan to do! I cannot wait to Soak Up a change of scenery, spend time with family and friends from back home and just plain RELAX! It's gonna be a good, good time!

Day #347/365- Dinner Tomorrow=Done!

2011-02-16T19:35:00.003-05:00

Taxes are done :), enjoyed dinner out with my family and the leftovers are now in the fridge. The Sunnyside? Dinner tomorrow has already been made and I am already looking forward to it! Yes! Oh, just so you know- I could eat Olive Garden's salad forever and ever and ever and ever... Too bad salad doesn't make a great leftover or I would have brought it home, too! In the meantime, my seafood portofino will be just fine on its own!

Day #346/365- I'm Under Twenty!

2011-02-15T19:21:00.001-05:00

Wow! With V-Day yesterday, I totally missed that I was down to twenty days left of blogging. And today as I write, I am now down to nineteen!!! Don't take my enthusiasm the wrong way- I LOVE blogging! I still can't believe I have opened my computer for the past 346 days and written something positive!

The Sunnyside of today is that I am on the home stretch and that is something I am Soaking Up! The light is shining brightly at the end of tunnel and I couldn't be happier. In nineteen days, I can start to work on having this all printed into a book-I have checked out a site that makes it look pretty simple (if any of you have done the "blog to book" and have a site to recommend, I would love to hear about it).

A book of writing that represents each day of my life for an entire year in a positive manner will be such a treasure to look back, reflect upon and read! This book will be so much better than a journal because all of the pictures I have taken and posted will be included and I can print some of the wonderful comments you all have left me over the year {insert smile}.

I remember starting this project of positivity, writing my first blog and taking a long deep breath while saying, "Three hundred sixty-four days to go," as I hit the Publish Post button. And here I am tonight saying, "Nineteen days left." Nineteen!?! It's scary how fast a year can go! Scary.

Day #345/365- Happy V-Day!

2011-02-14T18:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Here's hoping you had a chocolate chip cookie dough, pink frosting, chocolate syrup, heart-filled, ribbons and bows kind of day! I know I did. It sure was SWEET! Don't forget to say the most important three words to the most important people in your life today!

Gotta scoot- my hot tea is ready and my piece of cookie cake is waiting very, very patiently to be devoured.

Day #344/365-Smiling on Sunday!

2011-02-13T19:05:00.001-05:00

There are three reasons why I am smiling this Sunday evening:

1. Valentine's Day with a bunch of third graders is so much fun! They really aren't too into the "he likes you," "she likes you," phase yet. They aren't into having boyfriends and girlfriends. And they still say, "Ewwwww," when I read them anything from a story where people kiss. It's just a great age for a Valentine's party at school because it's more like a Friendship party. So today, I made the big shopping trip to gear up for our festivities tomorrow. I bought them each a heart covered pencil that will be laying on their desk as they walk into the classroom tomorrow. I bought fruit punch and pink heart-shaped marshmallows for our mid-morning snack (they will be so surprised because I never provide a snack- they have to bring their own!) My class loves Blow Pops so I found the Valentine version to hand out with my Valentine cards and of course, I will let them chew the gum (another special treat for a special day). It's going to be a normal day of learning with a few added Valentine bonuses mixed in throughout the day to make it extra special and I can't wait!

2. I am also smiling because today, I made it to two miles (in record time) on the machine I have been working on at the gym. It's one of those machines that is like a treadmill and a stair stepper all in one. I love it because it is a great cardio workout for my old ticker and it is also great because it's making my legs stronger, which helps the old back in so many ways. I know I've said it before, but I feel myself getting stronger and stronger each time I leave the gym. It makes me smile when I conquer something new there. My next goal is to be able to hold my five planks for thirty seconds each instead of the twenty I've been doing. I'm baby-stepping my way there...

3. The final reason I am smiling this Sunday evening is because I just got home from having a wonderful seafood dinner with two of my best friends. Plan A didn't quite work out because our favorite spot closed at 3:00!?! But Plan B ended up to be perfect. We were still on the water, eating seafood and enjoying the day. The added bonus of Plan B was that there was live music! See- it all works out in the end, even though it's not what you planned in the beginning. Funny how that happens!

Here's hoping you Soaked Up this beautiful day and find yourself smiling about it, too.

Day #343/365- Surprise!

2011-02-12T22:28:00.001-05:00

I love parties. I especially love surprise parties! I love hearing the story of how they are going to get the person to the party. I love how everyone waits around in anticipation at the party for the honored guest to arrive. I love yelling surprise. And I especially love to see the honored guest's face as "Surprise" is being yelled. I love surprise parties.

Tonight we celebrated a friend's birthday without him even knowing we were going to do so. The plan was that he was going to go to dinner but they forgot the gift certificate back at the house and were going to have to go back. When they pulled in the driveway, we would all be standing in the garage as the door went up and yell, "Surprise!!!!" That was the plan and I must say, it played out perfectly! He sat in the car in complete shock and kept shaking his head in disbelief! It was so fun and was a reminder of why I think the surprise party is the best kind of party! I definitely Soaked it Up and so did he! Oh happy day!

Day #342/365- Friday!

2011-02-11T19:45:00.006-05:00

I want this sweatshirt! It makes me smile!

Finally
Relaxing
In my comfy pajamas
Drinking a cold beverage
And saying...
Yippee!

This is just the kind of night I needed-low key and relaxing! Happy Weekend my friends! I hope you had a fabulous week! Now it's time to Soak Up the weekend ahead of us! Enjoy it!

Day #341/365-Indoor Recess

2011-02-10T19:48:00.001-05:00

I am not a fan of indoor recess at all. I like the kids to be able to run around in the fresh air and stretch their legs under the sun. I also like the fact that I get fifteen minutes of down time as I watch them play. The entire time we were eating lunch today, I kept looking out the window at the dark sky and clouds saying, "Please don't rain, please don't rain, please don't rain!" I finished lunch, got the kids lined up and we headed outside. Their was a slight drizzle, but it wasn't going to stop us from playing. Five minutes into my "down time," the drizzle turned to a sprinkle and then the sprinkle turned into a heavy rain. My whistle blew and the kids lined up. It was inevitable- I was going to have to orchestrate indoor recess. Goodbye fifteen minutes of down time.

As we were walking into the classroom, I had to think on my toes. Should I get out the board games and let them play those? No. By the time we get them all out, our time will be up and they will never have had a chance to even play. Should I give them paper and let them draw or color? Maybe. But that's kind of boring. Hmm... what to do.

I don't know where it came from, but all of a sudden, a very vivid memory of me in elementary school having indoor recess popped into my mind. I immediately was smiling because the memory was of my class playing a game. My favorite indoor recess game. 7-Up! Do you know it? It's the game where seven kids get to go to the front of the room and the rest sit at their desks with their heads down, eyes hidden and their thumbs up. The seven "up" go around the room and each pick someone by putting their thumb down. The teacher then says, "Heads up, seven up!" The kids get to pick who they think chose them and if they pick correctly, they get to trade places and be it. It's a very simple game that requires no planning or materials and the kids absolutely love it!

So, I bet you can guess how we spent indoor recess today! We played 7-Up and I couldn't have been happier. There I was creating a memory for these kids just like my elementary teacher created for me and I was Soaking it Up! Heck, at one point, I almost sat down at one of the empty desks and put my head down and my thumb up just to relive the memory of being a kid, stuck inside on a rainy day at their recess time and still having fun. Maybe next time, I will!

Day #340/365- Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T19:57:00.000-05:00

"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them and try to follow them." {Louisa May Alcott}

Day #339/365- Third Graders and Glasses...

2011-02-08T19:40:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure what it is about third grade, but it seems to be the year that kids discover they need glasses. Heck! I remember getting mine in third grade, or maybe it was second. I will have to verify this with Mom. At any rate, I definitely have a few wearing the old spectacles in my class this year. I've had students who wear glasses in my classes before but I don't remember it ever being an issue until this year. We (my spectacle wearing students) lose the glasses, forget to bring the glasses to school, break the glasses, leave the glasses on the playground for fifth graders to stomp all over and then wonder why they don't fit anymore. We take the glasses on and off and on and off and on and off all...day...long to the point I don't even know if they ever had them on to begin with!?! And then there are the kids who desperately need glasses. These are the kids who would actually wear their glasses and never take them off or lose them because they are blind as a bat and wouldn't want to be without them!

Here begins the miracle story of glasses for today. All year long I have been fighting to get one of my students (let's just call him T) glasses. He is what I referred to earlier as a "blind as a bat" kind of student. I have him sitting as close to the board as he can possibly be without him actually being the board itself and he still can't read a thing on it. He struggles with so many things and I feel that a lot of it is due to the fact that the poor dear can't see anything. How can you possibly learn new things when you can't see the examples being shown or the words being read? It has been so frustrating explaining to the family how much glasses would help T and having nothing happen in return. He apparently used to have a pair but they broke and the family never had them fixed. Glasses aren't cheap and for many families, having food on the table and your bills paid will take precedence over getting your child glasses. It is what it is and I sure am learning that lesson this year.

When I found out that he had glasses before, my "teacher heart" took over and I went into high gear as an advocate for my student. My "teacher heart" comes out really strong when I know something can be done if it is taken to a new level. Many teachers would have just said, "Oh well. We tried." My teacher heart said, "Go to the administration and fight for this student to get his glasses fixed." And you know what? After two months of fighting, a pair of glasses showed up at school for T today. Woooohooo!!!

I handed them to T and told him that he was to wear them all day and give them back to me at the end of the day. Administration and I both agreed that these glasses of his are never to go home for fear they will be broken, lost or never returned. These glasses are like gold and that is how we will be treating them. I even asked his teammates at his table group to remind him each afternoon as we pack up to take them off and hand them to me. You can never have enough reminders, right?

So, tonight I am smiling as I finish writing this post because I just made a difference in a child's life. I voiced my opinion strongly about something, put my heart into it and got the right people involved who knew how to fix the problem and make a positive, happy, ending. I may not have kids, but I treat these students of mine as if they were my own. I want them to know that while they are with me for the year, they will be taken care of. I think I proved that point to T today. Watching him put those glasses on this morning and seeing the sparkle in his eye as he saw his surroundings clearly for the first time this year was something I totally Soaked Up! I cannot wait to see that sparkle shine in his eyes each morning when I hand him his treasure chest (glasses case) and give him his gold (glasses).

Day #338/365- What I Know For Sure...

2011-02-07T19:27:00.000-05:00

You know how Oprah always says when she "knows something for sure?" Well, since joining the YMCA this past month, I can now say that I know something for sure. If you come home and crash on the couch and take a nap after a long day, you will not be motivated to get up and go to the gym. What I know for sure is that if you suck it up, show up and tell yourself, "You'll see...," you will get your butt to the gym. So that's just what I've been doing. I've been sucking it up and reminding myself that I will see the benefits each and every time I show up. That's all I have to do- show up. And that's what I "know for sure."

You know what I'm seeing since adopting my new suck it up, show up, you'll see philosophy? A stronger me. I don't want to jinx anything, but I must say, the back is responding well to it too (don't worry-I just knocked on wood). Maybe it's helping that I am continuing pretty much the same regimen of exercises I did when I went to the PT clinic. I haven't added too many new things for fear of what will or could happen- I have stuck with what I know to be safe. Like I've said before, I'm baby-stepping my way back and right now, "safe" is what's necessary so I can keep on keeping on with this gym routine that I am really starting to enjoy.

So tonight, I am Soaking Up the twinge of soreness I feel in my arms and legs and feeling happy for it. Soreness means I sucked it up and showed up. Soreness means things are changing and getting stronger. Strength means a healthier self. And a healthier self is a happier soul. That's what I know for sure.

Day #337/365- Smiling on Super Bowl Sunday!

2011-02-06T14:27:00.001-05:00

Lots to Soak Up and smile about today!

This sweet girl turned one today and we had a birthday party to celebrate! Great party Rob and Mar!

And...

It's Super Bowl Sunday! I've got my shirt on and my terrible towel is ready to go! Here's hoping I'm still smiling after the game tonight! HERE WE GO STEELERS! HERE WE GO!

A one year old's birthday party this morning and a Super Bowl party this evening. The key word today is...PARTY and I sure am Soaking Up all of the great food, friends and laughter. Party #1 is done. Party #2- here I come!

Day #336/365- Disney Has Done It Again!

2011-02-05T19:24:00.003-05:00

Rainy, foggy, dreary Saturday= the perfect kind of day to go to the gym and return home to snuggle on the couch and watch a movie. One of my favorite movies of all time is Miracle, which was the genius of Disney- a true story based upon the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team. Well, I must say, Disney has done it yet again! This afternoon, while the rain was beating down and the fog filled the sky like pea soup, I watched Secretariat. Have you seen it? This delightful little story stole my heart and proved that Disney does not only make wonderful movies for children, but are truly mastering the art of recreating inspiring true stories for adults, too. There really is something wonderful about watching a movie on a rainy day that is so relaxing! I definitely Soaked it Up!

"You never know how far you can go unless you run."

Day #335/365- A "SouperBowl" Luncheon!

2011-02-04T19:45:00.002-05:00

One thing I really love about our new principal are the "social" things she does to show how much she appreciates the teachers and staff at our school. In my opinion, she goes above and beyond in this category and today is a prime example of it. We had received an invite at the beginning of the week that there would be a "SouperBowl Luncheon" provided on Friday during our normal lunch time. The invite said that soups and salads would be served and that we should all wear our favorite jersey or sports team shirt to school that day. Sounded fun to me! I was so excited to not have to pack a lunch for Friday and I was especially excited that she "invited" us to sort of dress down for the day.

So this morning, I get to work and lots of the staff are wearing their team's colors, jerseys, cheeseheads, terrible towels etc. The atmosphere was just plain FUN for a Friday and was really started to get me excited for Sunday! At lunch, I expected to walk into our usual teacher's lounge and enjoy a bowl of soup and eat some salad that was provided by our principal. When I opened the door, I was blown away! The furniture had all been taken out, new tables with yellow and green tablecloths had been set up, there were tons of football balloons everywhere- even Steelers and Packers balloons! The soup had been catered by Jason's Deli (one of my favorite spots to eat for lunch), salads came in from Publix (delicious too) and there were black and gold cupcakes as well as green and yellow cupcakes with SuperBowl rings placed on the top. It was so great I couldn't stop smiling my entire lunch break! It was definitely a Sunnyside of the day and something I totally Soaked Up and appreciated.

Here's hoping the game on Sunday will be just as "Souper" as today! Here's hoping...

P.S. To my dear blog friends- I promise I will quit writing about the Steelers and football very soon (two days to be exact)! If you're a Packers fan, I appreciate that you are still a follower! LOL

Day #334/365- Thankful Thursday

2011-02-03T20:20:00.001-05:00

This week I'm feeling thankful for...

{The Car Wash} This morning I woke up, headed out the front door for work and stopped dead in my tracks. My car looked hideous! The poor thing had been the victim of birds in need of relieving themselves! Yuck! We're talking an entire flock of birds let loose on my poor car. Sorry- I know this is gross. The Sunnyside? The good old car wash that made my vehicle look shiny and new!

{Football} I am so thankful that the last official football game of the season has my team playing in it! I have my terrible towel and all my gear ready. I cannot wait for Sunday! HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!!!

{One Less Worry} I wrote a few days ago about our parent night at school and how it had been weighing on my mind and nerves. Well...it all turned out perfectly and for that, I am thankful. I am also thankful to have one less thing to worry about. It allows me to put 100% into my teaching, which I am finding truly refreshing!

{A New Recipe} I don't know what I would do without my subscription to Taste of Home magazine! Seriously, if you like to cook, you have to subscribe and get this little piece of heaven in the mail each month! Once again, I tried a new recipe featured in the magazine and it was deeeeeeelicious! I am thankful that I've added a new "favorite" to my recipe book.

{Flats} I am thankful I took a back-up pair of shoes to work today. Not sure what tempted me to wear heels to school, but I did. The weather was warm and it seemed like the perfect day to break out of the closed-toed flats I've been wearing all winter. Let's just say that my feet did not agree with this theory. By noon, I threw the heels in my book bag and grabbed my flats. Ahhhhh...my feet were instantly happy again.

{Books} I don't know what's gotten into me, but I have decided to start reading. I know, I know. You're thinking- "You're a teacher! How can you not like to read?" Maybe it's my short attention span or the fact that it makes my eyes start to close. Maybe it's the fact that I read so much throughout the day to the kids that by the time I get home, I feel I have read enough so I don't do it. At any rate, I have been making it a habit to read a little bit each night. A book for me. A book for my enjoyment. Not a book for school or anything work related. And I must say, I am enjoying it and am thankful for this time. So if you have read any great books lately, let me know!

A car wash, football, one less worry, a great new recipe, flat shoes and books. Gosh- I'm such a simple gal! And you know what? I am thankful for that! Here's hoping you find yourself feeling thankful for the positives in your week, too. Go on now- think about all of the greatness around you and Soak it Up!

Day #333/365- Wordless Wednesday!

2011-02-02T18:00:00.001-05:00

Day #332/365- Success!

2011-02-01T20:53:00.000-05:00

Tonight I am Soaking Up the Sunnyside of a super successful parent night at school! Many of you probably tuned in yesterday for my stressed out mess of a post about how much I wanted tonight to be perfect. Well...it was! We had sixty families show up for the dinner and presentation!

Dinner was provided by a local church and it was amazing! I am still overwhelmed by their generosity and willingness to give. I am also amazed by a certain teacher friend I work with who graciously accepts the role of "presenter" each year. She has a gift for public speaking and is so knowledgeable about our state test, which is what the presentation is all about. If you're reading this- thank you dear friend! I am so grateful for your help.

I am also Soaking Up the fact that my new principal complimented me on how smoothly things went and how I was so "detail oriented" (there's that Type A in me! LOL) She even made a point to thank me, which I totally appreciated! So often we do things for others and they come to "expect it" without ever showing their gratitude. It was so wonderful to hear her say those words to me. I felt like the time and work I put into organizing the event was acknowledged and I sure felt appreciated by her!

I am going to sleep like a baby tonight. The worry days of planning an event are OVER and it feels great to be able to check something else off of the list! I am sure Soaking Up the end to a very successful day! Oh happy day!

Day #331/365- Type A

2011-01-31T19:46:00.001-05:00

I have a problem and I will be the first to admit it. I am insanely Type A when it comes to personalities. Are any of you guilty of this, too? The reason I say "guilty" is because there are times when I secretly wish I could be a little more Type B. Type A= a controlling, time-conscious, high- achieving, multitasking, tightly-wound, workaholic. Type B= a patient, relaxed, easy-going, and at times, lacking a sense of urgency, type of personality. Who are you?

Well, I know I am an "A." And today, I am okay with being an "A." Let me tell you why. When you are planning a very important parent night for a large number of people at school, you need a little "A" in you. You need to be a high-achieving, multitasking planner who over thinks every possible scenario so that by the time the event rolls around, the "A" has already thought it through and has a plan. To me, an event planned by an "A" means that things should hopefully go rather smoothly and stress-free because the "A" has been stressing about it for a month. An event planned by a "B" means that we are going to play it by ear, do everything last minute and be really relaxed while things are in complete, unorganized chaos. Yep! It's official! I'm an "A!" Just writing that last scenario shot my blood pressure through the roof ::insert the dose of blood pressure medication that I have to take daily probably because I'm an "A!" LOL ::

I know this might not seem like the most "positive post." Don't worry- I am getting around to the Sunnyside so stay with me! The point of this rant I just needed to write in order to make myself feel better about being a control freak is that I feel ready for the big event tomorrow evening. I feel I have organized things to the best of my ability, have thought things through, checked and rechecked with everyone about everything in regard to food, technology, seating, flow and materials and have dotted all i's and crossed every t. And the Sunnyside to this is that I will be able to sleep tonight knowing we are ready. At this point, whatever happens, happens. I have "controlled" what I can and am going to try and be a Type B as I Soak Up the rest of this evening in a calm and relaxed, no sense of urgency, kind of way. It will all be just fine. I will keep calm and carry on.

Day #330/365- A Perfect Ride

2011-01-30T19:16:00.000-05:00

Whoa! As I was writing Day #330, it just hit me that I only have 35 more days of my 365 day blog project! Time is flying!!! Speaking of flying- do the weekend days of the week put on wings? I can't believe it's already over! I ended this glorious weekend by taking a bike ride at sunset this evening. I think all of our loved ones "up there" were taking a painting class or something tonight because the colors of the sky were magnificent (oranges, pinks, purples). Put some palm trees and a peaceful golf course with ponds for it to reflect off of in the mix and we're talking about a perfect ride. What made the evening even more perfect was coming home to a few leftover bites of chocolate ice cream with peanut cups mixed in. A girl's gotta cool down after exercising right? Right! Hope your weekend was wonderful! Gotta scoot- gonna dig back into the book I've been reading with the hopes of finishing it tonight.

Day #329/365- "One Man's Trash..."

2011-01-29T17:06:00.003-05:00

Each year, my subdivision hosts a "Neighborhood Garage Sale" Day. We all put out our most treasured items with the hopes of not having to bring any of them back inside! We got up early, had our tables set up by 8:00AM and Soaked Up the Florida sun and beautiful, 60 degree, blue-sky day. So glad my parents could stay for the sale today. Dad truly has a gift for selling things so Mom and I let him hold down the fort while we go look around. Don't worry- we give him a chance to look around, too.

Speaking of looking around- this sale is crazy. People get dropped off by the van fulls, the streets all become lined with cars, neighbors make BBQ pulled pork, chili and hot dogs and it's a great chance to socialize and catch up with neighbors. The Sunnyside of today's sale is that I got rid of my "big" stuff that was taking over my garage. I have freed up some space, made some money and had a great time looking around at other people's "stuff." I love it when people sell $20 cookbooks for $1 and they don't look as if they were ever opened. I take full advantage of a sale like that and can't wait to try some new recipes! As the idiom states, "What's one man's trash is another man's treasure." So true.

Day #328/365- Owl Trot

2011-01-28T20:19:00.001-05:00

Today was our school's jogathon- The Owl Trot! And let me just tell you- we had the most perfect day for the kids to be running around a field for an hour. It was sunny and in the 60's. Not too hot. Not too cold. Just right! The best part about this event was having my two volunteers- my parents! They are both retired school teachers who choose to "go back to school" each year and help me count the kids' laps. I loved having their help and extra time to chit-chat and my students absolutely loved meeting their teacher's parents. Such a fun day!

Gotta keep it short tonight- the big neighborhood garage sale is tomorrow and we have to price our "gems."

Day #327/365- Thankful Thursday

2011-01-27T18:47:00.000-05:00

I am simply going to reflect on one thing that I am thankful for this week- The Gym. I am SO thankful that I joined the YMCA last week. I went twice this week and plan to go once over the weekend, too. Aren't you proud? It feels so good to get back into a routine of strength, stamina and wellness. You know the saying, "You don't miss it until it's gone?" Well, I sure missed being a normal gym attendee (it has a whole different feel than being a patient at the back rehab clinic.) It's happier, less depressing and NORMAL. I like normal. And for that, I am thankful. I'm baby stepping my way back and it feels so wonderful!

You see- there is always something to be thankful for!

Here's hoping you have something on your "thankful list." And of course, here's hoping you found yourself Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life today, too!

Day #326/365- Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T19:04:00.000-05:00

Almost time to snuggle in and call it a day...

Day #325/365- My House Had A Bath!

2011-01-25T19:06:00.000-05:00

My house had a bath today! A pressure washer bath. And let me just tell you- it looks brand new! It's amazing and such a positive difference. My subdivision has a stipulation that you have to keep your house, grounds, bushes, trees etc "in compliance" or you can receive a fine. I usually keep an immaculate place, but was waiting until I had the "funds" to do the pressure washing. I kept worrying that I was going to get a nastygram (a letter they send you telling you to fix your place up or else) before I had a chance to fix my green grime problem. Now that it's done, I don't have a worry in the world and will not receive a nastygram in the mail. Phew!

It's funny how being a homeowner changes you a bit. If you had told me ten years ago that I would be excited about getting a house pressure washed, I would have told you that you were CRAZY! Now, I'm Soaking it UP and couldn't be happier that the home I work really hard for, looks brand new!

Day #324/365- Comfort Food

2011-01-24T19:27:00.001-05:00

As the great Julia Child once said,

"Find something you're passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it."

When all else fails- COOK! Yep- that's pretty much my motto for helping a "not so good" day turn into a great day! It's something I am passionate about and something I find tremendously interesting! I came home from work feeling exhausted, pulled in all directions and mentally drained. As a teacher, you will have the kind of day where eight different people are asking eight different things from you, the kids have a case of the Mondays and aren't so motivated to learn, your entire planning time is used to take care of personal matters that need attention before the 4:00 hour, you feel behind because you didn't use your planning time for school work and to top it off, you have to go to an hour long meeting after school on a day where you wish you could just dig a hole, crawl in and hibernate for the rest of the day. Yep! That was my day today. And it's only Monday. I remember talking to my Mom after work because I needed a major venting session (she's the best listener I know) and saying, "What on God's green earth am I going to write about tonight?"

Thanks to my pots, pans, cutting board, favorite chopping knife and a new recipe- I have something to say that is positive today. I don't know what it is about cooking, but it relaxes me and takes away the stress of the day. Tonight I enjoyed homemade potato salad (Mom's recipe) and made BBQ beef (a new recipe I clipped from my Taste of Home magazine). It's kind of like a take-off of sloppy joes, but so much better. It was so great that it earned it's way into my cookbook of most favorite recipes! The woes of the day immediately went away as I Soaked Up the aroma of the beef getting happy in the delicious BBQ sauce I had concocted from the recipe. This comfort food was so simple. So delicious. So needed. My love of cooking saved the day, yet again!

Day #323/365- HERE WE GO STEELERS!

2011-01-23T18:05:00.000-05:00

Okay- it's officially forty minutes until game time. I have decided to blog now because I will be watching the game the rest of the evening and don't want any distractions. I also want to blog now because if, god forbid, we don't pull out the W on this game, I might not be so positive, later. So, I have my terrible towel ready, my game day shirt is on and I have rested my voice all day so I will be ready to scream at the TV (I secretly think they can hear me and it motivates them to do better).

In about five hours from now, I will know if we're going to the SuperBowl!!!! What fun that would be. The last time that happened, I surrounded myself with my Pennsylvania people, family and friends and we celebrated with a party!

My friend Stef and I at my SuperBowl party! Fun times!

Dad and I on the big day!

Here's hoping we can do it again this year!

HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!

Day #322/365- Worth It!

2011-01-22T18:52:00.000-05:00

Report back to school at 8:30 on a Saturday morning? Yep! I forced myself to go to sleep early on Friday evening, set my alarm and up I rose this morning-bright and early! Why, you ask? Administration has offered a three part workshop for teachers about differentiated instruction. In this day and age of teaching, you cannot teach every child in the same manner. You have to be almost like a doctor and "prescribe" what will work best for each individual learner. This is something I felt I could absolutely benefit from because I have a wide range of needs in my classroom each and every year.

I must say, waking up early on a Saturday was definitely, positively, absolutely worth it! I am so happy I joined many of my colleagues for some interesting, thought provoking and honest discussions. I am also happy that I learned lots of new things! It's crazy to think I haven't even been out of college for ten years yet and I have already learned so many NEW things in this year alone. It just goes to show that education is constantly changing and as a teacher, I have to continue to take these workshops and classes so I can keep up with the latest and greatest. We're always learning!

So tonight, I am Soaking Up the fact that I can start a new binder and fill it with all of the wonderful strategies, assessment ideas and thoughts from today's workshop. The best part is that I can't wait for the next one. I never thought I would say this, but I am seriously looking forward to going back to school, next month, on a Saturday! And I especially can't wait to try out some new things with my students this coming week! {Once again, today reinforced the notion that I have chosen the right profession-teaching young children. And for that, I am happy.}

Day #321/365- "Productivity Is Never An Accident..."

2011-01-21T19:54:00.003-05:00

"Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort."
{Paul J. Meyer}

I felt really great leaving work today. I have had a list going on my desk that has gone unchecked for the past three days. Little by little, things would be crossed off, but the really "big stuff" was taking forever to leave my sight. You see, I am not just a teacher, I am what's called a Curriculum Leader for our third grade team. Each grade level has one and it just means that you are in charge of keeping the teachers on your team informed and up-to-date, you go to lots of meetings, set up parent evenings and field trips etc. I have nine teachers on my team so I am going to just use one word to describe the job- WORK.

I have been the Curriculum Leader for the past five years and feel that the job gets easier and easier the more you do it. What doesn't get easier is the stress, work and worry that comes along with organizing everything and setting things up. What I am Soaking Up today is the fact that I was able to finalize things for a parent night and was finally able to begin setting up a field trip. I have been waiting for the application to post online for a week now and it came up today! Yes! This trip is first come, first serve and we are only able to give one date as an option to attend (because of our lovely state test) so I really wanted to get on it! I was finally able to ~~cross things off the list~~ and it felt great! I will be able to sleep tonight without these two things on my mind.

The real Sunnyside of all of this, though, is that I am going to "retire" as Curriculum Leader after this year. {Insert me smiling really wide}. Five years is plenty-it's time for someone else to step up, take the reigns and have a little extra stress in their life. I'm smiling just thinking about how differently my "to do" list will look next year and how less stressed I will be. I'm smiling knowing I won't be in charge of going to weekly meetings and running weekly meetings. I'm smiling knowing I won't be expected to do much of anything. I will just be able to teach. And that makes me smile the most!

Day #320/365- I Joined!

2011-01-20T19:35:00.000-05:00

Big day friends! I just joined the YMCA! I haven't been inside a gym for the past two years while I have been putting my back back together (haha- that sounds funny!) The last time I joined a gym, I herniated a disc within two months of being there and spent the rest of the year paying for a membership I couldn't use. So this time, I am going about things in a bit of a smarter manner. I only joined for one month and will see how it goes. I scoped out the machines and equipment while I was "touring" and the plan is to basically do everything I was doing at Physical Therapy, just on my own. I CAN DO IT! Plus, this will save me a boat load of money. I used to pay in a week for PT what I just paid for a month at the Y. It's worth it already! I'm Soaking Up the fact that I'm going to start tomorrow! I can't wait to start baby stepping it back to a normal life.

The best part of my Y tour was getting to the pool and having an immediate flashback. The minute we got to the indoor pool area and I saw that the "Pollywog" class was in session, I about got tears in my eyes! There they were- a bunch of little ones hanging on to the edge of the pool and kicking their little legs making as much of a splash as they could, while their parents watched from the viewing room. I too, had been a "Pollywog" and learned to swim at the Y. I hope those kids grow up to be great swimmers, lifeguards, swim teachers and record breakers, too. I have such great memories of my swimming days and seeing that swim lesson going on made me miss teaching it so much! I took a deep breath, smelled the chlorine and smiled. Good memories. Good memories.

Day #319/365- James Blunt

2011-01-19T19:30:00.004-05:00

"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." {Auerbach}

In case you haven't heard...

James Blunt released a new CD yesterday. I got it today and love it! I don't know what it is about his music that I love, but I do know that this CD is a bit "happier" than his last, so that's a plus! I am Soaking Up having something new to listen to on my way to work! Good stuff!

Day #318/365- Dishes

2011-01-18T18:46:00.001-05:00

Over the summer, my Great Aunt Coletta asked me if I was in need of any dishes. Not everyday dishes, but the fancy, china cabinet, only get them out for special occasions, kind of dishes. I originally shrugged and said, "Sure." I had the everyday kind of dishes, but nothing on the "formal" side, so I thought it could be fun. She told me that she would have them dug out of the boxes in the basement and send them with my parents when they traveled down to Florida to pass onto me.

Well, let me just tell you how cute these dishes are and how they are seriously meant for me and my house! I am a girlie girl through and through and these dishes can only be explained using one word- darling. I was so excited when my parents finally delivered them this fall. I filled my hutch and took a picture so I could send it to Aunt Coletta. I didn't send the picture right away, however, because I wanted to wait until a day where I was actually having a fancy dinner where I would be using them. I thought it would be so fun for her to actually see them out on the table- in use! So...

I thought the lobster dinner I hosted on New Year's Eve would be the perfect occasion to use my ~~really old~~ new dishes and show them off to Aunt Coletta. I took this picture and sent it to her with the picture of the dishes in the hutch. After I sent my letter, I kept smiling thinking about Aunt Coletta receiving it with the pictures. I knew she would be so happy knowing she gave them to the right person. I knew it would make her day.

So what a refreshing treat to receive a hand written letter back in the mail today! With the age of technology we are in, I truly can't think of the last time I received a letter, written with an ink pen! This letter was from Aunt Coletta and I was so excited as I read it. She wrote, "I was so happy to get the pictures. They look just beautiful in your hutch. I am so pleased that you have them and appreciate them. I'm sure my dear Mother is also pleased. I can remember how she saved her money to buy them..."

I smiled at her words just as she smiled at mine. I am totally Soaking Up the fact that I have these beautiful treasures that have history. They weren't put on a registry and bought from Macy's and they aren't modern (I am not a fan of modern at all). They go back to the early 1900's and I think that is so intriguing and wonderful. Just think of all of the family dinners that were eaten on them and the stories that were told around the dinner table! So thank you Aunt Colet! I love the dishes and I especially love that you are pleased to have passed them to me. And I promise- I will take very good care of the dishes that your mother worked so hard to buy. They are so special and I feel special just for having them.

Day #317/365- A Very Rainy Day Off!

2011-01-17T17:35:00.000-05:00

I am SO happy I didn't have to work today! The biggest reason why I am happy we had MLK day off today is that we had torrential downpours for most of the morning and a tornado watch. I teach in a portable and everywhere you have to go (office, cafeteria, copy machine, specials classes etc.) involves walking outside. We would have been absolutely DRENCHED today- even with umbrellas.

So I am Soaking Up the fact that I got to stay inside and remain dry instead having to take eighteen third graders running, screaming and splashing through the rain. Plus, today would have been a no recess day because the playground would have been underwater. I hate indoor recess. So that's a Sunnyside, too.

I just know our "happy weather" will be back tomorrow, where the only umbrella required will be a beach umbrella. Here's hoping...

Day #316/365- Deep Fried Pickle Heaven!

2011-01-16T21:17:00.003-05:00

If you have ever moved away from your home town for any period of time, then you know that you instantly miss things. You miss family and friends, of course, but you also miss small, not so important things. Things like pickles! Yes, my friends, when I moved away from my small town in PA, I would crave the deep fried pickles from one of my favorite restaurants- Freeport. Each summer when I make my visit back north, I always request that we eat at Freeport at least twice so I can get my pickle "fix." Heck, I have even asked for family to dry ice the pickles to me in Florida because they are that good!

Well, you will be happy to know that tonight, I have found a place that serves deep fried pickles exactly the way Freeport does (not as spears, but as "chips")! And now, I don't have to take a four hour flight or make a two day drive to get my fix! I can drive twenty minutes down the road, meet the girls for dinner and indulge. And that is just what we did. I am officially happy and in deep fried pickle heaven tonight! Liz and Jess- maybe next time we should each get our own basket and just order soup! LOL

Day #315/365-Back In The Game!

2011-01-15T18:46:00.003-05:00

NFL Playoff Game.

Steelers vs. Ravens

21-14 (Ravens leading)

3rd Quarter

I have decided to blog now because the Steelers just made a HUGE comeback in the game and I am Soaking it Up along with the crowd at Heinz Field! They were down at halftime, 21-7, but not anymore my friends! The crowd has just been injected by caffeine (or alcohol), are all revved up and waving their terrible towels like CRAZY because we just scored a touchdown and are back in the game!

Here's what I know for sure:

Benny boy will continue to throw touchdown passes and get first downs. And if he can't, he will attempt to run them in himself.

Hines Ward (my favorite) will do something amazing. And we will all wave our terrible towels and smile as he is doing now. Maybe he will do something amazing like catch the game winning touchdown.

Because no matter what- we are WINNING this game!

WINNING.

That's what I know for sure.

{Here's hoping everything I wrote in this blog post comes true.}

Day #314/365- The Magnet? On A Friday Night?!?

2011-01-14T21:31:00.000-05:00

My day at work was going beautifully. The kids were behaving to the nines, they were motivated to learn, two of my loudest, most exuberant students were absent and it was the Friday leading into a three day weekend. Absolutely perfect.

Perfect until I checked my cell phone at my planning time later in the afternoon and had a voice mail from the Spine Center. "Dr. ___ wants you to get an MRI of your thoracic spine. We set it up for you this evening at 7:00. Give us a call back so we can schedule your follow-up appointment with Dr. ___. Thanks!"

What?!? Since when did people think it was okay to set up an MRI for a patient on a Friday night??? I immediately called back while I was without the kids with the intent of getting that changed. Heck! I already had dinner plans with a friend and surely wasn't going to lay in the magnet on a Friday night!

Well...I did sit in the magnet. And I did it on a Friday night. The more I talked it through in my head the more I thought about how I didn't want it on my mind over my nice, long weekend. Plus, they were able to do my follow-up appointment on Monday when I don't have school (one less sub plan to write is fine with me). The more I thought about that aspect, the more willing I was to lay in the magnet on a Friday night. I hate waiting for results of any kind. So the fact that I only had to wait until Monday was a bonus! See- I'm finding the positive! LOL

And of course because this is the sunshine and happiness blog I have created and forced myself to stick with for an entire year, I have some positives of this experience.

1. As I walked in, there were three very hot men sitting in the waiting room. As I "listened in" on their conversation, while reading a magazine, I learned two of them were football players and one was their agent. Not quite sure why they were in our little town or at the imaging center, but it was at least something fun to look at and listen to while I waited.

2. Because I didn't have to go from work to get this done, I was able to plan my outfit perfectly so as to not have to change into the god forsaken hospital gown and booties. A+ for me tonight! I was "metal free" and got to stay in my own clothes and shoes!

3. I didn't require an entire pillow case over my head this time to go into the MRI machine. I only used a little wash cloth and did just fine. This is progress my friends! Trust me!

So you see, you CAN find the positives in just about anything that happens. You just have to change your thinking until the good stuff slowly comes around. I hope you all went to happy hour or dinner or something FUN on your Friday night! I plan to make up for this lame night tomorrow and Sunday. The Steelers game, dinner and a movie with friends, etc. I still have my entire weekend and I plan to Soak it Up!

Day #313/365- Thankful Thursday

2011-01-13T19:33:00.001-05:00

This week I am feeling thankful for so many things.

{Positive Feedback}- Today, I received a great deal of positive feedback from my new principal about my teaching, respect for students, classroom organization and leadership qualities. I left her office on cloud nine because of her kind words and the relief of knowing I am doing things right. Gosh that felt great!

{Three Day Weekends}- Going into work tomorrow will be an absolute breeze. Not only is it a Friday. It is the Friday that leads us into a three day weekend. It will be so great to have Monday off!

{Lists}- I am so thankful for my willingness to make lists. So often I think, "I need to do..." and I don't write it down. Then I find myself forgetting something and wishing I had written it down. Well...I have become much more diligent about writing it ALL down and am pleased to report that the "I forgot" moments are dwindling. Plus, it's so fun when you get to ~~cross things off!~~

{Thank You's}- I am so thankful when people say two simple words- Thank You.

{Martin Luther King, Jr.}- Because of him, I look out at an extremely diverse classroom of students-all sitting TOGETHER in the SAME place. If you also have the day off on Monday, please take a moment that day and remind yourself why.

You see- there is always something to be thankful for!

Here's hoping you have a few things on your "thankful list," too. And of course, here's hoping you found yourself Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life!

Day #312/365- So What Wednesday

2011-01-12T20:11:00.004-05:00

I was put onto the idea of {So What Wednesday} last week and I vowed that when the next Wednesday rolled around, I would put aside my "Wordlessness" and try something new. So here goes. I'm going to Soak Up the Sunnyside of saying SO WHAT!?!

So what if...one of my third grade students didn't know how to spell the word "of" today. The "f" really does sound like a "v." Right?

So what if...I was called a Yankee at work. I guess some people still aren't over the war. (In all honesty, I think this person was just jealous that I had a real "northern" winter coat and hat to wear on this very cold day. They just don't sell great wool coats down here!)

So what if...it is going to be freezing cold in Florida tomorrow! I am secretly excited because I found one of my old, favorite, 100% wool sweaters from JCREW in the back of my closet that I haven't worn since the college days of walking to class in the snow. I'm going to wear it tomorrow and probably be called a Yank all over again. Oh well. It will be worth it.

So what if...my house is getting cold and I am feeling too cheap to turn on the heat. Instead, I purposefully made something for dinner in the oven and then left the oven door open. The house instantly heated up two degrees. Perfect!

So what if...I have eaten most of the leftover Christmas cookies and not shared. Mom only bakes for me in bulk once a year- I have to take advantage!

So what if...my back hurts to breathe and I can't stand to sit longer than thirty minutes. It's my own fault for picking up a one year old the other day. When I set her down and heard a "pop," I knew it wasn't because I was eating a bowl of Rice Krispies. This might be God's way of telling me that I am probably not the best candidate for children.

So what if...I keep deoderant in my car. It sure came in handy today as I was sitting at a red light, on my way to work and remembered that I forgot to put it on.

So what if...college football is over. I still get to watch my Steelers play on Saturday. And hopefully I will get to see them play again after that! Here's hoping...

What are YOU saying {So What} to today?

Day #311/365- The Slow Descent Has Begun!

2011-01-11T19:22:00.003-05:00

At work today, we received an email that we could begin entering report card grades for second quarter tomorrow. Do you know what that means??? We are officially halfway through the school year! Wow! I seriously cannot believe we will start third quarter next week and begin our slow descent toward the end of the school year. I am Soaking Up the Sunnyside of this halfway point and loving it! You might as well put wings on this school year because it is flying!

Thinking about the light at the end of the tunnel is causing me to reflect upon the very beginning of this year as well. I remember beginning this year with a bit of nervousness. Our school would be under the leadership of a new principal and I wasn't sure what to expect. I must say, I think we have all settled into the "newness" and the nervousness felt around campus the first few months has slowly dissipated. I am learning every single day what our new principal expects and am becoming more and more comfortable each time she walks into my classroom to observe. She has made some changes that have been necessary and appreciated by staff and hasn't done anything too scary in the change department- yet. Heck- she is even starting to crack some jokes and show us her humor. Love that!

Had you asked me at the beginning of the school year how I thought the year would be, I would not have had an answer for you because at that point, I had no idea. But now that we are at the halfway point, I think it's fair to say that we are doing just fine and adapting well. Change is never easy. It forces you out of your comfort zone and causes you to put your guard up until one day, you realize that it's okay to put it down. I think that day has finally come for me and it only took two quarters (eighteen weeks) for me to get there! YES!

Day #310/365- This is it!

2011-01-10T19:10:00.003-05:00

If you have been a faithful follower, you should know by now that I don't just like football, I LOVE it! Love, love, love it! I especially love college football. Tonight is a bitter sweet evening. Tonight is the last night for college football because this evening is the BCS game. It's like the Superbowl for college football! When the game ends tonight, college football will be over for this season and either Oregon or Auburn will go home knowing they were the best this year. I feel like I wait all Spring and all Summer for the season to start and I feel like it just did start. I can't believe it's already over! Really? It's over??? Oh well, at least my Steelers have one more game to play this weekend and hopefully another after that.

So tonight, I will Soak Up watching my absolute favorite sport- college football, one last time. I don't care either way who wins, I just know that it will be a great game because the two best teams are going to battle it out and that always makes for a great night of sports.

While I wait, I will make these

and count the days until it all starts again.

{Photos courtesy of Google Images}

Day #309/365- Football and Chili

2011-01-09T18:58:00.001-05:00

I broke out the Crock Pot this afternoon and decided to make some homemade chili while I was watching the Ravens play the Chiefs. I was flipping through my magazines the other day and came across this recipe in Taste of Home and thought it sounded like a good one. I am feeling too lazy tonight to type it all out so I took a picture of it in case you would like to give it a try.

I have made a few chili recipes in my day, and I must say that this one had great flavor and was even a bit on the spicy side because of the ground red pepper. I cut the recipe in half and it still made plenty- even enough to freeze for a day I don't feel like cooking.

So tonight, I am Soaking Up the Sunnyside of trying a new recipe and liking it. I love it when that happens and I also love the aroma that fills my home when I use my Crock Pot! Heaven! Plus, I'm Soaking Up the fact that I now know who will be playing my Steelers next weekend for our big Playoff game. The Ravens! Good lord. This is gonna be a good game and should be a fight to the bitter end. I can't wait!

Day #308/365- Scary. Unexpected.

2011-01-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

Life is short. Life is scary. Life throws things at us that we never expect. The past two days, I have received word of a family member starting treatment for Leukemia and a great friend from high school being admitted to the hospital because they found a malignant mass between his lungs and heart. Both of these people are in their thirties, just like me. Scary. Unexpected. Devastating.

So after some prayers and positive thoughts sent their way, I have decided that more than ever, we must live for today because you just never know what tomorrow will bring. Natalie Grant is a Christian artist who sings a most wonderful song that says, "I'm gonna live for today. I'm gonna follow in your way. I'm gonna let my little light shine like there's no tomorrow. I won't worry about the past. I know my future is intact. So I'll choose to live my life one way. I'm gonna live it for today."

So today, I did live for today {as I usually try to do}. I Soaked Up the beautiful weather, smiled at the sun, rolled down the windows and took an extra deep breath as the fresh air filled the car. At the grocery store, I took my time instead of rushing like I usually do. I got the elderly woman walking behind me a cart and smiled at a random person as I perused the produce section. I did a little "fun" shopping where I walked out of the store empty-handed and was okay with that. I made my famous chicken wing dip for a party and smiled knowing the bowl would practically be licked clean in just a few hours. I smiled knowing I was making something that makes my friends and their stomachs happy.

I am looking forward to the fact that tonight I will be with these friends of mine. My best friends- eating unhealthy and delicious food, playing games and laughing a whole lot. Living for today. Forgetting for a few hours how scary and unpredictable life really is and simply Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life.

I hope you "Let your little light shine likes there's no tomorrow," too.

Day #307/365- Time Flies!

2011-01-07T18:35:00.001-05:00

"It's Friday already? Really???" {Insert me smiling} That was pretty much the conversation I had with myself when I woke up this morning. With being on Winter Break for two weeks, I really thought it was going to be hard to go back to school this week. I thought it would drag on and on as I readjusted to the working life. To my surprise, it was the complete opposite of a week that would drag because it never hit the ground-it FLEW! You might as well have put wings on this week because it's already over. Finished. Done. Kaput. So this evening, I am Soaking Up the Sunnyside of completing my first week back to work and am remembering why working makes the weekends even that much more exciting and special. Happy Friday my friends! Hope your week flew by, too!

Day #306/365- Sometimes You Just Have To Look UP!

2011-01-06T19:25:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you just have to stop, look up and marvel at the things happening all around you.

Tonight's sunset.

Day #305/365- Resolutions-Third Grade Style!

2011-01-05T20:05:00.003-05:00

As promised yesterday, I have the New Year's Resolutions from my eight and nine-year-old students. I only chose a few as to not bore you to pieces. The thought organizer they filled out had five different questions about resolution hopes for home, school and self. I found each answer to be so refreshing, so honest and so CUTE because of who the "authors" are. Enjoy!

Don't you just love them?!?

Here's hoping YOU...

Day #304/365- The BEST!

2011-01-04T19:25:00.002-05:00

This afternoon, I had a conversation with my students about resolutions. Many of them didn't understand what that word meant until I related it to "a goal." We then talked about how you don't want your goal to be too lofty. You want it to be something you have the ability to reach and attain. Having a conversation like this with eight and nine-year-olds always makes my heart smile inside. They come up with the cutest, most innocent, attainable goals. I think I will post a few on my blog tomorrow and title it "Words of Wednesday," instead of my usual, "Wordless Wednesday." I really think you will enjoy them, too. So stay tuned okay?

The thought organizer I gave them also had a question that asked, "What was the best thing that happened to you last year?" Some wrote about going to Busch Gardens or Disney World. Another wrote about how it was the year he made the most friends. And another thought getting a Nintendo dsi was the best thing that happened. All of a sudden, I called on another student to share and she asked me, "What was the best thing that happened to you?" Hmm...I was speechless and totally caught off guard. How foolish of me to be asking the kids to think of their "bests" when I hadn't even thought of mine yet. I quickly racked my brain and answered, "Getting all of you in my class." They all went, "Awwwwww." It was PRICELESS!

As I drove home from work, though, I kept thinking about that question. Yes, getting a delightful, wonderful, refreshing class is a "best." Being with family and friends was a "best." Going places, taking vacations and seeing new things were "bests." But you want to know what I have decided the best of the best to be?

This blog. I began 304 days ago in March when my life was very stressful as we prepared to take a test where the state would decide whether my students could move on to fourth grade or not and at the same time, my health was throwing me for a loop. It was a scary time when my head was filling with negative thoughts and I was always thinking about worst case scenarios. It was a time where I wanted to get the thoughts out of my head and onto paper, but I didn't want to write about the negative stuff. I wanted to show myself that I could quit focusing on the negative, uncontrollable things and instead, relish in the positive, happy moments happening all around me. That day in March changed my life. I know that sounds corny and completely absurd. But really. It did. It changed my entire thought process and outlook on life. And for that, my blog gets the BEST of the BEST ranking for 2010. I absolutely cannot wait to get my 365 days printed in book form so that I can hold it in my hand and read about the joy and happiness that happened in my life over the span of one year. That will truly be the BEST! So as you Soak Up the Sunnyside of Life today, be thinking...What is the BEST thing that happened to you last year?

Day #303/365- "We're Going Home Already?"

2011-01-03T19:40:00.003-05:00

"We're going home already?"

That question was asked by a few students of mine as we packed up this afternoon and it was music to my ears. It meant that the first day back to school after a two week winter break went by quickly. It meant that the kids were engaged and not bored. It meant that I did my job well today. As crazy as it sounds, I was really excited to get back to work today. I was born to work. I can only sit around for so long before I go crazy and want to start climbing the walls so two weeks off was a perfect amount of time to rejuvenate and refresh.

So this morning when the kids came bounding up the stairs with smiles and hugs, I was instantly reminded why I work. It is fulfilling, it brings me great joy and I love that I make an impact on young lives to the point that they excitedly run up the stairs to our classroom and say "I missed you" when we've been away from each other.

Yes, I miss sleeping in. Yes, I miss leisurely lunches out with friends. Yes, I miss the unscheduled lifestyle of being on vacation. But the one thing I really missed (that a vacation does not offer) was seeing eighteen faces light up when taught something brand new. I taught my students how to divide today and they "got it." They understood the relationship between division and multiplication and made a connection. They were so excited. I was so excited. WE were so excited to be back together and learning new things as we Soaked Up the Sunnyside of Life.

"I'm going home already?"

(As asked by the teacher who drove home from work not believing the day was already over!)

Yes- time flies when you are doing what the good lord intended you to do. "Now is the only time there is. Make your now wow, your minutes miracles and your days pay. Your life will have been magnificently lived and invested and when you die you will have made a difference. {Mark Victor Hansen}

Day #302/365- Smiling on Sunday...

2011-01-02T19:36:00.000-05:00

Just as I was beginning to feel depressed about my two week Winter Break ending and having to return to work tomorrow, I was reminded of this great quote:

Yes! I have so many reasons to smile.

I am smiling because I was able to stay with my family for a week and get a much needed change of scenery. I am smiling because I didn't have to set an alarm and could sleep in! Getting to meet friends for lunch, going to movies, seeing an "Off-Broadway" show and lots of shopping sure made me smile. I'm smiling because I loved being in the kitchen with Mom and Dad making Christmas dinner and our New Year's seafood feast. Seeing family and friends smile as they opened their gifts made me feel happy to give. Drinking hot tea and eating chocolate fudge and homemade cookies made my stomach smile. Stepping on the scale and realizing I only gained a pound after all of the excessive eating made me smile! Having time to organize every drawer in my house and clean out made me grin because everything now has a place and a purpose. Going to the Outback Bowl and watching my favorite team play didn't just make me smile, it made me giggle with absolute delight the entire time!

So, no- I am not going to cry because it's over. I am going to drive to work tomorrow morning remembering the past two weeks and all of the many things that put a smile on my face as I Soaked Up the Sunnyside of Life. And as I drive, I will remember how much I have missed seeing the sunrise and will be happy to be up, witnessing the start of a brand new day.

Day #301/365- The Outback Bowl!

2011-01-01T20:15:00.001-05:00

I had the BEST time today at the Outback Bowl! Penn State made the big trip south to Tampa to play the Florida Gators. They may not have won, but I had an absolute blast watching the game and Soaking Up the excitement of a Bowl Game. Here are a few snapshots from the FUN of today!

Found JoePa while tailgating!

We were quite a sight sporting our three different teams! Thanks Adam and Jess for going to the game!

The Blue Band playing before the game.

Here they come!!!

We sat way up there! I said hello to God when I sat down.

JoePa leaving at halftime.

JoePa in the huddle.

The team truck was parked outside of our gate!

As you can see, it was a beautiful, sun-shiny day today. The kind of day where tailgating with two of my best friends and watching my favorite team play a football game was exactly what Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life is all about! WE ARE PENN STATE!

Happy New Year everyone! Mine is off to a great start!

Day #300/365- 300!!!

2010-12-31T21:24:00.000-05:00

It's a big day. Not just because it's New Year's Eve...

Today is my 300th post!

I have officially blogged for 300 days consecutively! I am 65 days away from reaching my goal of 365 positive posts! Woohooo!!!

So I'm taking a break after eating a delicious lobster dinner to tell you all the great news!

Here's hoping you are celebrating and Soaking Up the end of 2010 with family, friends and good food, too. It's time to welcome a new year-optimism, hope and the unknown. So many good things are coming our way. We just don't know what they are yet! That's the beauty of starting anew.

Happy New Year!

Day #299/365- Thankful Thursday

2010-12-30T20:44:00.001-05:00

Today I found myself feeling very thankful for...

BEST friends! We are so coordinated in this picture! And no- we didn't plan it! LOL

Candice, Liz and I got together today at Urban Flats for our annual Christmas exchange. Yes, it's a bit past Christmas, but it's better late than never! We started this tradition a few years ago when we splurged and bought each other Pandora bracelets. Each year after the "bracelet year," we have purchased each other charms to build our bracelets. It's so much fun to make a wish list and allow your best friends to surprise you! I love our tradition and I especially love that we found a new favorite spot to meet for lunch or dinner. We had baked potato dip with red bliss potatoes, wedge salads with the most perfect ranch dressing and flatbreads. Yummo! We ended up gabbing away and eating for two hours! I am SO THANKFUL for the time we had to do that!

So this evening, I am finding myself thankful for the best gift of all- friends.

The great Robert Louis Stevenson said it best when he wrote, "A friend is a gift you give yourself."

Love that.

You see- there is always something to be thankful for! Here's hoping you have a few things on your "thankful list," too. And of course, here's hoping you found yourself Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life!

Day #298/365- Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-29T20:58:00.003-05:00

All is merry and ~~bright~~!

Christmas has to end at some point right?

I think the top of the tree is trying to tell me something...

It's OVER!

Day #297/365- No Water. No Problem.

2010-12-28T19:41:00.000-05:00

A notice was put on the front door of my parent's house letting them know that they would not be able to use any water today from 8:00AM until 7:00PM because they were fixing a sewer line. That meant no sinks, toilets, showers etc. and we could not let any water run down drains. Geesh! I never realized how dependent I was on running water until today. So... after a little planning last night, we managed to get by this morning without too many catastrophes. I put the water in the coffee pot last night, we filled some bowls with water so we could wash our faces and brush our teeth and I rinsed my contacts over a cereal bowl before putting them in. So weird but you gotta do what you gotta do, right? Right. Then, we got ourselves out of the waterless house for the entire day!

The Sunnyside of this water fiasco is that Mom and I were given a great reason to spend the entire day together doing what we do best. We went out to lunch at one of our favorite spots, saw a movie and did some shopping! I love our time together and especially love that my Winter Break has given me lots of it! How will I ever go back to work with all of this fun I am having???

Hope your day was happy. And here's hoping you Soaked Up the Sunnyside of Life today, too.

Day #296/365- The Perfect Sweatshirt!

2010-12-27T20:09:00.003-05:00

With the temperatures to be in the low 30's tonight, I am really happy I had a certain present under the tree this year! Let me explain. Have I told you all how I'm going to the Outback Bowl this weekend? I think I might have mentioned it a few weeks ago when we purchased our tickets. I am going with two of my dearest friends to see Penn State play Florida. My family is a big Penn State family. My grandfather, uncle, cousins and brother have attended the University and I have cheered for them every Saturday during football season for as long as I can remember. I would have gone there if it hadn't been four hours away from home. I needed to be a bit closer for my homesickness problem. LOL

When we purchased our tickets, it was cold out- just as it has been this week. At the time, I joked around that I didn't have a Penn State sweatshirt to wear to the game and wasn't sure what I would wear if it was cold because I only have PSU shirts and t-shirts. Well...my aunt and uncle got wind of my needing a PSU sweatshirt and totally surprised me! When I got to my parents house for Christmas, there was a gift for me under the tree in a bag marked "Special Delivery." I opened it and inside was the most perfect, wonderful, fabulous sweatshirt ever! I screamed. Literally screamed out loud in delight! A white hoodie with Penn State embroidered on it with the nittany lion emblem. I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT! I still can't believe they ordered it online and had it shipped down to Florida from PA just in time for the game. So thoughtful, so nice and so appreciated!

So now, no matter what the weather, I will be the best dressed fan at the game! And in the meantime, I am Soaking Up the fact that it is keeping me warm on these cold, chilly evenings we've been having down here. Snuggle up and stay warm my friends!

Day #295/365- Game Night!

2010-12-26T19:01:00.000-05:00

Christmas with the family means extra time for games! Checkers (the Christmas version of the board), cards and whatever else our hearts desire. Too bad it's not like when I was young and they would let me win! Oh well. I will Soak Up the wins and the losses. Hopefully the losses will be few (I'm competitive!) Hope your day has been happy!

Day #294/365- Christmas Is...

2010-12-25T20:13:00.002-05:00

Christmas is...

Being with your family and friends

Enjoying a delicious Christmas feast

Opening gifts

Celebrating the good lord for all

he has blessed us with

HOPE

PEACE

JOY

LOVE

Christmas is also...

Dad screaming at the turkey to cool because it's too hot to carve!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.

Day #293/365- Merry Christmas Eve!

2010-12-24T18:11:00.002-05:00

Wishing my dear blog friends a Merry Christmas Eve! I love this night! The candlelight service at church with my family. Drinking hot tea while eating Christmas cookies. Stuffing the stockings and laying presents under the tree. Staring at the presents wondering what's inside. Counting every. single. blessing the good Lord has blessed me and my family with. Merry Christmas Eve!

And I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight...

Day #292/365- Thankful Thursday

2010-12-23T20:24:00.000-05:00

I am SO THANKFUL to be with my family this week! Christmas means so much more when you are with your friends and family and the people you care about most.

We have had so much fun today! We found the cutest little shops and art galleries out on the island and had to have ourselves a look around.

After shopping, we hit the early bird at Red's! One of our most favorite seafood spots to dine! It's the kind of place where I would like to try everything on the menu because it is all that good!

Ice cream at the local shop and a drive around town to look at the Christmas lights rounded out the evening. We definitely saw some neat displays! There may not be snow down here, but we are still in the Christmas spirit!

Here's hoping you are with your family and friends this holiday season doing things that fill your heart with joy and thanks, too. It's such a magical time of the year isn't it? To me, it's truly "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!" So much to Soak Up and be thankful for!

Day #291/365- Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-22T21:48:00.000-05:00

Dinner and a hysterical show at a quaint little theatre were the definite Sunnysides of today!

Day #290/365- I Could Get Used To This!

2010-12-21T18:35:00.002-05:00

I could get used to this. Leisurely waking up, making cinnamon rolls while the Christmas music plays in the background, sipping coffee and staying in my pj's until 10:30 on a Tuesday. Ahhhhhh...the life of being on vacation. I am definitely Soaking it Up!

Day #289/365- I Needed That!

2010-12-20T18:55:00.004-05:00

On my first day of Winter Break, I Soaked Up the Sunnyside of having lunch with my bestie! We went to one of our favorite spots and enjoyed the fact that we didn't have to inhale our lunches in the school cafeteria in thirty minutes. We were OUT and could take all the time we needed. I am so thankful for that because I needed a good venting session, which required some time. Candice gets me. We are both very similar and it is so wonderful to have a friend that is like you who just understands. Thank you my dear friend for listening to me go on and on and on today! I needed that.

Tonight, I am going to Soak Up waking up at 1:30 AM to see the solstice lunar eclipse. It should be something to see and I'm going to set an alarm so I don't miss it! Apparently, this hasn't happened since 1638 so you might want to set an alarm so you can Soak it Up too!

Day #288/365- Smile Sunday

2010-12-19T18:03:00.003-05:00

Today, I am going to join Mama Hen for Smile Sunday!

Things making me "Smile on Sunday:"

1. I made baked ziti for dinner and it was delicious!

2. I was able to leave the oven door open after it baked to heat the house. Yes- I have a heater, but why run it when you can use the oven? It's my way of rebelling because you shouldn't have to turn on your heater when you live in Florida!!! LOL

3. The Steelers are on TV! They rarely put them on down here so watching them play while the snow is falling in the background is quite a treat! They're all tied up right now so let's hope we WIN!!!

4. For the first time in a long time, I don't have to go to bed early on a Sunday. Now that I'm on Winter Break, I can stay up as late as I'd like! (Can you see me smiling through your computer screen???)

5. The number six. Why six you ask? That's how many days we have left until Christmas! No matter how old I get, I still smile about waking up, seeing my stocking stuffed and looking at the presents under the tree. I think I will always be a kid at heart on this holiday!

Here's hoping you are "Smiling on Sunday," too. As you can tell from my list, it's the little things in life that make me happy. So, no matter what, find something okay? And of course, don't forget to Soak Up the Sunnyside of Life!

Day #287/365- Little Does She Know...

2010-12-18T19:13:00.006-05:00

Today was a rainy, dreary day. The kind of day to stay in and get things done around the house. Laundry, bills and wrapping Christmas presents. I'm actually kind of happy that it was such an icky day because it allowed me to get some much needed work done!

I decided to set up wrapping headquarters in the middle of my living room floor. I literally put all of the presents in a pile in the middle of the floor, sat down and went to work. At one point I thought, "If only I had a little elf helper, this would go so much faster!" And then I was reminded of helping my Mom when I was a little girl. I'm not sure where it came from but I think the memory was sparked from the idea of an elf helper. I used to love to sit on the floor with my Mom and watch her wrap presents. She was so speedy at it and every package always turned out beautifully as if she had put zero effort into it. Every now and then she would say, "Put your finger right here" and I would hold down the ribbon as she reached for the tape or made a beautiful bow. I loved helping her. I was always in awe of her creativity and how she could make beautiful ribbon bows that looked like they were purchased from a store. I especially loved it when I was a little older and she taught me how to curl the ribbon.

Everything I know is because of my Mom.  

Little does she know that as I sat on the carpet this afternoon, wrapping and curling ribbon, that I was thinking of the wonderful memories I have of wrapping Christmas presents with her. Memories are such a "gift." They last forever. And I Soak them Up each and every time I look back and remember.

Day #286/365- Crossing "Work" Off The To-Do List

2010-12-17T19:58:00.002-05:00

That's right! Starting today and for the next two weeks, I get to cross WORK off of my daily to-do list! This is definitely one of the perks of working in the field of education and I'll take it! I had a wonderful last day of work for the year with my fabulous class. Yes- they are fabulous! A true "gift!" We made ornaments with lots of glitter, read and watched "The Grinch," and had a cookie tasting party to figure out what type of cookie would be best to leave out for Santa! Not a whole lot of "work" today, but a whole lot of holiday CHEER! And we needed a day like that.

Here's hoping your day was also filled with joy and cheer. And of course, here's hoping you remembered to Soak Up the Sunnyside of what life offered you today, too. Happy Friday!

Day #285/365- Thankful Thursday

2010-12-16T19:19:00.001-05:00

I am feeling so thankful for so many things this week!

{This Time of Year} There is something so magical about the month of December. Shopping for others, trimming the tree, Christmas music, lights, decorations and a general "happy" feeling in the air. I LOVE this time of year so very much and am thankful for the joy it brings.

{"Believers"} As a teacher of children ages 8-10, I have learned over the years that there is usually someone in the bunch that will try to ruin the idea of Santa for the other children. I internally call those children "Santa Spoilers" and get one just about every year. I'm happy to report that this year, I have not had a single "Santa Spoiler" and I'm SO thankful! There really are kids in the third grade who genuinely still believe in the big guy and I LOVE that! You can see their eyes light up when they think of Christmas Eve and all of the fun to come. It's so much fun to read books and talk about him with a group of believers!

{One More Day} Yes! I have one working day left in the year! Woohoooo! I'm so excited for tomorrow! We are going to have a Cookie Tasting Party and watch a movie in the afternoon. Can't wait to be done working for the year!

{Down Comforter} If you hadn't heard, Florida was FREEZING this past week! We're talking lows of 30's and highs of 50's. ~~The Northerners are cursing me right now.~~ I was never happier to throw on a few layers, jump into bed and snuggle up under my down comforter! Such cozy sleeping weather!

You see- there is always something to be thankful for! Here's hoping you have a few things on your "thankful list," too. And of course, here's hoping you found yourself Soaking Up the Sunnyside of Life!

Day #284/365- The "At Home" Plan

2010-12-15T20:09:00.000-05:00

It has officially been one month since I have set foot in the Physical Therapy Clinic! Woooohooo! Yes dear friends, this is cause for celebration and is a definite Sunnyside! I've been on the "Try it on your own at home and see how it goes," plan. And you know what? It's not going fabulously, but I'm keeping at it. The only thing that has seemed to help relieve the pain was taking a two week steroid dose pack (and no- I didn't grow a beard or big muscles! LOL). Maybe that's why the first two weeks of the "Try things at home plan" went so smoothly! It clearly proved that something CAN help and that was wonderful- until it wore off. I am back to it hurting to sit up straight, I'm uncomfortable sitting each and every time and the horrible pain on the right side is back when I breathe (from not having the luxury of being worked on three days per week.) Yes- there were definite advantages to going to PT three days per week. I'm seeing that now.

For now, I'm going to just keep on keeping on with all that I have learned and bask in the fact that I have made it one month on my own. No machines, no weights- just a few rubber balls and a spine stabilizer. Who needs a gym right? I will continue to strengthen my core and legs and "be smart" with my movements. See- I have all of this fun stuff to aid me in my "at home" adventure. Aren't you jealous??? LOL NOT!

I will not quit. I will not give up. I will get through this.

"Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength." {Schwarzenegger}

Dear Santa...if you have a spare, healthy back laying around, I would like it for Christmas please! Thanks!

Day #283/365- I Am Just Fine Watching It On TV...

2010-12-14T20:23:00.000-05:00

Seeing the region of Pennsylvania where I grew up on the news almost each day this past week for crazy amounts of snowfall really has me remembering the good old winters up north!

I am reminded of how pretty the house looked covered with snow.

And I'm reminded of how I loved having my friends over for sled riding parties each winter. We would ride down the hill in the backyard on a toboggan and Dad would drag us back up the hill with the snowmobile. Such. Great. Memories.

As great as the memories are, I have absolutely no desire to EVER go back! My blood has thinned and I am a true southern gal now. Heck, the weather was in the 40's here today and I wanted to find a cave to hibernate in! I am Soaking Up the fact that I can now watch the weather reporters walk in knee deep snow with the wind whipping at their faces in minus ten degree weather from the comfort of my happy, warm, sunny home in Florida. There is something about watching the weather up north on TV and knowing that it doesn't await me when I open my front door that makes me smile every. single. time.

Day #282/365- Phew!

2010-12-13T19:34:00.002-05:00

Have you heard of The Elf on the Shelf? It is a really cute story about an elf who flies into homes each day for the month of December and flies back to Santa each night to report to him whether you have been naughty or nice. The catch is that he hides each time he flies back to your home and you have to find him. It's the cutest little holiday tradition ever! Since I do not have kids of my own, I use it each year with my third graders. And instead of the elf flying back to our "home," he flies back to our "school." It's so much fun!

I have been "flying" Snowy (that's what the kids have named him) back and forth to Santa each evening and hiding him in a new spot as he returns from reporting to the big man each morning for the past thirteen days. Well, I don't know what was going through my mind this morning, but I totally forgot about him and the arrival bell was about to ring. My heart started racing and my stomach sank the moment I knew I had forgotten to relocate our dear old elf. I had to hurry up and do something quick! The problem was that there were already kids standing outside of my doorway waiting for the bell to ring. The other problem was that my door had a window. AAAGGGHHH!!! Think. Think. Think. There was no way I wasn't going to have him in a new spot as they walked in because the magic of "Snowy" would be gone. And trust me- I really have them believing in this to the fullest extent! So... I carefully side stepped over to him, turned myself around, acted like I was grabbing a ruler, grabbed Snowy from his old hiding spot amongst the rulers, carefully jammed him down my side pant pocket and covered him up with my sweater. I ran over to the other side of the room where the kids couldn't see me from the door and literally threw him on the shelf as the bell was ringing so he would be in a new place. He wasn't creatively placed or hanging in a fun way, but he was in a new spot and that was all. that. mattered.

Phew! The door opened, the kids walked in and as anticipated, the first thing they said was, "Where's Snowy? Did he come back to us?" "Snowy? I said. Hmm... I haven't seen him yet today."

And that my friends is the Sunnyside of keeping the magic of Christmas alive with the help of one little "Elf on the Shelf."

Day #281/365- "I Would Never Play For An Audience Again!"

2010-12-12T19:43:00.004-05:00

I went to play some Christmas songs on the piano this evening and came across this book of music:

You should notice that it's a bit worn and torn and is over twenty years old! I have kept this book all of these years for a very special reason! The reason this book is significant is that I played a song out of it for my entire elementary school when I was in the 3rd grade. The music teacher was putting on a holiday assembly for the school and she knew of a few students who had "musical talents." Mine of course, was piano. I agreed to play, The Night Before Christmas Song, from my Level 3 Easy Piano Book that year. I remember being so stressed out that I wished my fingers would become frostbitten and fall off so I wouldn't be able to play. My mom would get so stressed out listening to me make mistakes as I practiced the song. She was a teacher at the school I went to so I think it was as stressful for her as it was for me! Seeing her stressed out made me even more stressed out! Why did I ever agree to do this??? Long story short, on the day of the assembly, I sat down at the piano, in front of the entire school and played my song beautifully. My fingers shook like crazy and I was a nervous wreck, but I got through The Night Before Christmas Song and everyone clapped and cheered when I finished. It was at that moment, at that very young age of eight, that I vowed I would NEVER PLAY FOR AN AUDIENCE AGAIN! And I never have.

The Sunnyside of this is that tonight, I opened the book to pages 14 and 15 and just for the fun of it, in the safety of my own, audience-free home, I played The Night Before Christmas Song. And you know what? I played it perfectly! I better have- it's a Level 3 book that I played from when I was eight! LOL

Day #280/365-Beach Wedding Bliss!

2010-12-11T22:33:00.001-05:00

We got all dressed up

and headed to the beach

to see our best friend Stef marry the love of her life.

As we watched the sunset, we realized she is no longer a single gal...

but a happily married, beautiful bride!

Congratulations Stef and Scott! Your wedding was beautiful and we couldn't be happier for you! We definitely Soaked Up your special day! Can't wait to see you when you get back from your honeymoon!

Day #279/365- Friday Finds...

2010-12-10T22:49:00.001-05:00

I found myself Soaking Up some seafood with great friends at one of my favorite spots tonight. This is one place that no matter how many times I go, I find myself looking like a tourist snapping photo after photo every single time. Here are my "Friday Finds" from Starfish this evening...


We found ourselves dining with the "locals."

I always find this little fishing hut so intriguing.


We found the sun setting upon the fishing village and the birds had a front row seat.

Happy weekend my friends!

Day #278/365- A Lesson in Persuasion

2010-12-09T19:35:00.001-05:00

This week, our focus for reading has been identifying the author's purpose for writing. I have been doing lessons that demonstrate the three reasons authors write: to persuade, inform and entertain. My students seem to understand, right away, when something is filled with facts and written to inform. They also understand that when we read about characters and a plot is involved that the piece of text is written to entertain. For some reason, my students were having the hardest time identifying persuasion. To me, it seemed simple, but what's simple to some is not simple to all. Lesson learned- this was going to be something we needed a lot of practice with! After a lengthy lesson on persuasion this morning, I got the proof I needed that they "got it" and I totally Soaked it Up! Let me explain.

After our reading block, we always take a ten minute break to use the restrooms, have a snack and I read aloud from our chapter book. As I was putting things away from working with my guided reading group and the kids were getting their snacks out, I overheard one of my students say to her table group, "You have to go get a drink from our water fountain right now. The water is ice cold. It's the best! (Keep in mind, Florida has been freezing and I teach in a portable that is basically like a cabin that does not have a hot water heater so if my room was 52 degrees when I walked in this morning, you can bet the usually lukewarm drinking fountain water was FREEZING!) Back to the story. Get ready- the best part is coming... As her three teammates were walking back to the drinking fountain, one looked at the other and said, "She just PERSUADED us to come and try the water." YES! HALLELUJAH! PRAISE THE LORD! I had just overheard a conversation about persuasion, my students applied it to the real world AND it made sense! As a teacher, this is what you hope will happen. And today, it did. :)

Day #277/365- Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

When my third graders ask, "Do you believe in Santa Claus?"

I respond in an astonished voice, "Believe? Of course I believe! Are you kidding?"

Day #276/365- Happy Heart

2010-12-07T20:11:00.002-05:00

I've been taking medicine the past few weeks because my blood pressure was getting really high. Scary high! Like 158/100 high! No wonder I felt like it was always racing! What is my deal this year?? Between this and my back, I feel like I am breaking! LOL I am going to blame it on entering the 30's. Things are all going to hell with my old age! Just kidding. Anyway, today was my two week follow-up to see if I have responded to the happy heart pills and sure enough...my heart is back to a happy and healthy state. I clocked in at 110/70, which is a vast improvement to a few weeks ago. Progress. Phew!

No- I'm not thrilled to have to remember to take this pill each day. And no, I still can't believe I have high blood pressure at this age, but at least it is not due to diet, weight or lack of exercise. I was never happier to hear that today. I simply have "the genes" for it and it was bound to happen at some point. Plus, you always have to remember that things could be SO much worse. This is nothing!

So tonight, I am Soaking Up the Sunnyside of medicine. Once again, I am in awe of its powers and all it can do to keep you "safe" and healthy. It really is crazy to think that a little, white pill has changed the way my heart is functioning. Amazing! Moral of the story- go to the doctor when things don't seem "right." Listen to your body. And above all, take care of yourself and Soak Up all of the positives around you each and every day. Promise?

{Life is way too short. I am reminded of that tonight seeing the news of Elizabeth Edwards' passing.}

Day #275/365- I'm Going to the Outback Bowl!

2010-12-06T19:03:00.000-05:00

Seriously-I could not be MORE EXCITED for this game! Penn State is my absolute favorite college football team and when I moved to Florida, I decided I needed to "adopt" a Florida team as well since it was my new home state. You guessed it- the Gators became my "adopted" southern team! How cool is it that my two favorite teams are playing each other in this Bowl Game? There was no question when I got my tickets today, though, whose sideline I would be sitting on. YES! I got tickets to the game with two of my best football loving friends! We will be sitting on the Big Ten side of the game (of course), yelling and screaming and having a grand old time and I couldn't be happier! I am truly Soaking Up the fact that I get to see Penn State play down here in my neck of the woods. What a perfect way to start off the New Year! LIFE IS GOOD! So good.

Day #274/365- Rainy Sunday Morning Permissions...

2010-12-05T16:27:00.001-05:00

When the sun isn't shining and it's raining on a Sunday morning, you get permission to stay in your pajamas, plug in your Christmas tree, cozy up on the couch with a fluffy blanket, drink coffee and do absolutely nothing!

And that's just what I did.

Day #273/365- Shopping=Finished!

2010-12-04T19:37:00.001-05:00

I made my list.

I checked it twice.

I decided not to buy for the naughty

And just the NICE!

Yes my friends, I am DONE with my shopping! I started around Thanksgiving this year with the goal of being done by mid December and am proud to say I did it! I cannot stand the huge crowds at the stores and all of the long lines. As the month moves on, they will only get worse with all of the last minute shoppers. So now I can relax and enjoy this magical month knowing that I have fulfilled the wishes of my family and friends. Now if I could just get the motivation to start wrapping and do the shipping! Here's hoping your shopping is coming along and that you get to Soak Up the Sunnyside of being finished really soon, too. It sure feels great!

Day #272/365- Flashback Friday

2010-12-03T18:20:00.000-05:00

The stocking is still my favorite part!

Day #271/365- "Mom, these guys are revealing a little too much."

2010-12-02T21:05:00.000-05:00

I have learned over the years to never tell a child you are going to do something unless you are going to do it. No- I'm not a parent, but you kind of learn some "parenting things" when you are a teacher. So this evening ended up being Holiday Night at The Ringling Museum here in town. I wasn't sure if I would originally be able to make it so imagine my students' surprise when I showed up! As I have mentioned a few times before, I work at a school of National Distinction in Arts Education. We have a group of kids called the Song and Dance Kids who excel in singing and dancing and perform throughout the community and for our school each spring in a musical. Each year, they are invited to perform at the very fancy, very distinguished courtyard of the Ringling Museum. Here's a picture of it during the daytime. You can imagine it at night with all of the Christmas lights and decorations- breathtaking! What an honor for our students to have this awesome experience!

This evening, I sat around with a few other teachers from my school, administrators and the parents of the students I teach who are in Song and Dance and simply smiled. We are such a "school family" and I love that! I was SO proud! They sang their hearts out, grinned from ear to ear and represented our school brilliantly!

The funniest thing about taking this photo was the gigantic statue behind the kids. Let's just say I had to edit something out. Those are man's legs you see. Imagine scrolling up a little bit to the north and you would see the "man parts" staring you in the face. There is something kind of weird to me about having a concert for children in front of The Statue of David, but nonetheless, the kids were troopers. One of my students said, "Mom, these guys are revealing a little too much!" Loved that! It made me laugh out loud and was so true!

Tonight I Soaked Up the fact that I work for a wonderful school with great families and awesome colleagues. We truly are a "school family" in every sense of the word. I am especially Soaking Up how the kids must feel when they lay their heads on their pillows tonight and think back upon their special evening. What fun. What excitement. What a true honor to perform in such a place.

Day #270/365- Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T18:43:00.000-05:00

This pretty much sums up Christmas when you live in Florida! We Soak it Up!

Day #269/365- Brussel Sprouts!

2010-11-30T19:54:00.001-05:00

Yes, my friends- I LOVE brussel sprouts! I don't know why, but last evening, I began craving this delightful green vegetable. And you know when a craving takes over you just have to satisfy it. Right? Right. So I found this great, easy recipe on Martha Stewart's website, stopped at the store and bought some sprouts and headed home to the kitchen. Well let me tell you- the outcome was deeeelicious! I paired them with one of my favorite dishes- Crab Mac and Cheese and had myself a wonderful little dinner! So if you are a brussel sprout lover, you will have to head over to this link and try them out for yourself. I promise you won't be disappointed. If you aren't a brussel sprout lover, you need to be. You don't know what you're missing!!! And yes, I just devoted an entire post to the stinky green vegetable and I couldn't be any prouder! In fact, I'm Soaking it Up! LOL

Brussel Sprouts with Vinegar-Glazed Red Onion

Day #268/365- Peanut Butter And Chocolate Go Really Well Together!

2010-11-29T19:57:00.000-05:00

I had just finished a delicious dinner and came to the shocking conclusion that I didn't have anything for dessert. Zero. Zip. Nada. Panic took over for a brief second. The role of dessert is to end the meal- to give it closure. As I went on a rampage through the cupboard, I spotted a box of fun in my cupboard. Jackpot! Sure enough, I had all of the ingredients needed so I threw on my apron and went to town. If you don't have dessert- make it! Crisis averted. Closure was on its way!

Here's what I learned tonight:

Chocolate and peanut butter...

Go really well TOGETHER!

Day #267/365- It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!

2010-11-28T20:17:00.002-05:00

The best part about putting up your Christmas tree and decorations before you leave to go out of town for Thanksgiving is...

the smile it puts on your face when you walk in the door after a long drive...

and remember it's ALL DONE!

Happy decorating my friends! And if you have already finished, here's hoping you are Soaking Up the magic that the lights and decorations bring.

As Sugarland likes to sing on their Christmas CD, "Everything looks better in gold and green. Everything looks better."

Day #266/365- The Rockettes!

2010-11-27T19:54:00.001-05:00

I Soaked Up the Sunnyside of seeing one of my favorite holiday shows today- The Radio City Rockette's Christmas Spectacular! They danced, sang, kicked, tapped and we all had a jolly good time! This is my third time seeing them and it never gets old. Maybe it's the fact that I dreamed of being one as a child. Maybe it's watching them do the Twelve Days of Christmas tap number and thinking, "I could do that." Maybe it's the true magic of their precision and perfection that draws me in. Whatever the case, I enjoy the show each time I see it and only dream that one day I will get to see the "real" show in New York City at Radio City Music Hall. A girl can dream right? Right- it's Christmas time. A time of wishes, magic and dreams.