Notes From Lisa

"A Wideness in God's Mercy"

2009-09-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

The following hymn is written by Frederick W. Faber. The choir at my church is singing a variation of this hymn by Rusty Fleming . It speaks volumes to my soul of who God really is! Couldn't resist sharing!

There's a wideness in God's mercy,
Like the wideness of the sea;
There's a kindness in His justice,
Which is more than liberty.

2. There is no place where earth's sorrows
Are more felt than up in Heaven;
There is no place where earth's failings
Have such kindly judgment given.

3. There is welcome for the sinner,
And more graces for the good;
There is mercy with the Savior;
There is healing in His blood.

4. There is grace enough for thousands
Of new worlds as great as this;
There is room for fresh creations
In that upper home of bliss.

5. For the love of God is broader
Than the measure of our mind;
And the heart of the Eternal
Is most wonderfully kind.

6. There is plentiful redemption
In the blood that has been shed;
There is joy for all the members
In the sorrows of the Head.

7. 'Tis not all we owe to Jesus;
It is something more than all;
Greater good because of evil,
Larger mercy through the fall.

8. If our love were but more simple,
We should take Him at His word;
And our lives would be all sunshine
In the sweetness of our Lord.

9. Souls of men! why will ye scatter
Like a crowd of frightened sheep?
Foolish hearts! why will ye wander
From a love so true and deep?

10. It is God: His love looks mighty,
But is mightier than it seems;
'Tis our Father: and His fondness
Goes far out beyond our dreams.

11. But we make His love too narrow
By false limits of our own;
And we magnify His strictness
With a zeal He will not own.

12. Was there ever kinder shepherd
Half so gentle, half so sweet,
As the Savior who would have us
Come and gather at His feet?

Jesus: My Tree of Life

2009-05-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Make my life a sacrifice
Planted in your tree of love
Prune the sin from within
And let your first fruits flow

For what is a branch in me
Without the root in You?
It can't have eternal life,
But only comes and goes.

Help me burn my spoiled fruit,
A cheap output of mine.
As I decrease, may you increase
A harvest to be sewed.

Lord, receive my ripe offspring
And feed it to the soil
Such grace I have in You
To help another seed grow.

(Inspired by John Chapter 15)

What I Consider Major Accomplishments :)

2009-05-13T12:38:00.001-07:00

Read all the Harry Potter books and seen all the movies that have been made.

Read all the way through "Lord of the Rings"

Read the whole series of "Chronicles of Narnia"

I have read the Bible all the way through!

I have visited all of the these Southern states: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas

I have been to every state on the East Coast: Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Indiana, Ohio Excluding: Michigan

I have seen Niagara Falls

I have been to the top of the Empire State Building, Sears Tower, and the CN Tower.

I have been whitewater rafting and tubing.

I have flew on a plane between states but not internationally.

I have crossed into the Canadian border.

I've had a few speeding tickets in my time as well as automobile accidents and lived to tell the tale.

I have rode a spirited a horse and broke my arm in the process. There's a scar to prove it.

I have graduated from a small private college and a large public university.

I have been to a UGA football game.

I have stood on the field with a lost mouthpiece for my clarinet in the pouring rain during halftime at a local rivalry game.

I have been hiking around a lake in the pitch dark.

I have been camping on numerous occasions as well as camped out in a cave.

I have bobbed for apples during fall festivals and have been on many hayrides.

I have substitute taught for In School Suspension and Construction/Shop class and thought it to be a unique experience.

I have been a part of choir, orchestra, and concert band.

I can play the piano fairly well.

I learned to drive by letting my Dad pile hay on the back of the pick-up truck.

I can play a pretty mean game of UNO.

I have been asked to pass a drunk driving test while at a Visitor's Center.

I have rode backwards down a one-way highway in New York City.

(I'm sure they'll be more experiences to share)

Ending Domestic Violence

2009-03-19T14:22:00.000-07:00

With the latest news about Chris Brown allegedly hitting Rihanna, there have been some important discussions come up on the news. Oprah has had a special on this issue for two weeks. I applaud her efforts greatly!

Oprah had a show on 3/12/09, that talked about the women being abused. This show was mostly directed toward teenagers. However, no woman or anyone should tolerate hitting, pushing, grabbing, threatening, or name calling. Oprah has said time and again, "If a man hits once, he will hit again." If a man does this in a relationship it is important for a woman to walk away for a time, until he receives treatment and recovery.

I am glad that Oprah, not only focused on the appropriate steps women should take, but she talked to the abusive men as well on 3/19/09. This is the core issue at hand. Sure, women can keep walking away, but it does not stop the cycle of abuse. The only way to stop the cycle is for the men to start dealing with the issues that led them to be abusive. I like the way Kevin Powell puts it on Oprah's show. ALL MEN need to step up to the plate, and educate their sons, friends, co-workers, how to be a real compassionate and peaceful man. You see, real men are not tough, but have the guts to back off and turn the other cheek, just as Christ did.

Here is Kevin Powell's seven steps ending violence against women:

1. Own up
to the mistakes. Take responsibility for your actions without blaming others for your own faults.
2. Seek Help
Go to therapy or counseling. Come to terms with the issues that caused you to be violent to begin with.
3. Listen with your eyes and your ears. Listen to the stories of women around you. Accept them as equal to men. Men are not made to dominate women despite what our culture may say to you.
4. Be the change
Give up the power and the addiction of thinking this is a male dominated society. In Kevin Powell's words, "And we men and boys need to come to a realization that sexism—the belief that women and girls are inferior to men and boys, that this really is a man's world, and the female is just here to serve our needs regardless of how we treat them—is as destructive to ourselves as it is to women and girls. As I've said in many speeches through the years, even if you are not the kind of man who would ever yell at a woman, curse at a woman, touch a woman in a public or private space without her permission, hit or beat a woman, much less kill a woman—you are just as guilty if you see other men and boys doing these things and you say or do nothing to stop them."
5. Become an Ally
Stand up to men who abuse their other women in relationships. Be a friend to a lady that is experiencing abuse. Lead her to do the right thing, in walking away from the confrontations.
6. Challenge Others
Challenge other males about their physical, emotional, and verbal abuse towards women. Have those difficult conversations, to prevent it from happening again.
7. Create a New Kind of Man
Your character will be defined by what you watch, you listen to, what you admire. Stand to be who you are, something that does not demean or put women down to be inferior.

It takes all of us working together to end this horrible nightmare. For further information on ending domestic violence go to.

Oprah.com
and
Menstoppingviolence.org

I See God

2009-02-27T17:24:00.000-08:00

I see God in the face of a storm.
His bright eyes of lightning,
His wide mouth of thunder,
Speaks wisdom to my rainy life.

I see God in the bright day
His Son shines upon us
With calm soothing rays.
Pure creation divinely grows.

I see God in a prayer,
A desire of the heart,
Becomes reality for man
That rejoices in His existence.

I see God in a smile
Warming my presence,
Gazing with the eyes of a child,
Believing in me to draw closer.

I see God in a hopeless world
His tears fall on the crying,
Pleading us to come near,
To show the peace he surrounds.

Wanted: A Few Good Men and Women

2009-02-15T10:03:00.001-08:00

Our society today probably has more failed marriages than successful ones. I suppose it is not like it used to be, where one truly did believe in sticking with his or her spouse forever and honor it as a covenant and not just a contract. I do realize women and men are both at fault. Fireproof has proven to be a big hit among many Christians with spouses. Is it possible to fireproof every marriage? What about those that have struggled with abuse and affairs, can they survive? I believe only with God and prayer they can. It takes work on both sides. Here are some things I think are important needs for both the man and woman to have met. Perhaps, the lack of these needs have given reason to failed marriages.

A woman needs for her partner to:

listen to her problems willingly without trying to fix them.

say I love you and suprise her on a day other than a holiday.

share the TV remote with her.

help her with the share of household cleaning.

always keep it cool when there is an argument or a conflict, and don't overreact. Be an adult, and keep control of your actions. Ask for some space if needed.

spend time with her once a week, even when you would rather be doing something for yourself.

take her out on a date every now and then.

cook her dinner or make her breakfast in bed on a rare occasion.

spend time reading scripture with her, and share God's word together.

let her go out with friends, while you babysit for a change.

encourage her and tell her how beautiful she is.

spends time with her family as she has spent time with yours.

ask her to dance, even though you may not know how.

give her a little money to spend on herself.

spend time going to Church with her.

give her affection without expecting anything in return.

A man needs for his partner to:

tell him how great he is at something.

give him space to cool off when there is a conflict or heated argument.

resist in nagging him constantly.

cheer him on throughout life.

encourage him to go for his dreams.

submit to him and seduce him on occasion.

let him spend " a little bit" on himself, aside from his family's needs

always treat him respectfully with words and actions.

befriend him during a game or a favorite hobby.

let him be the hero and gentleman sometimes.

pray for him daily.

talk about him kindly in his absence.

make him his favorite food once in a while.

not only tell him you love him, but show him with actions.

This article is based on what I've learned from relationship books and personal experience from friends and myself. This article is not an attempt to refer or condemn anyone specifically. It is written for a hope that men and women both will humble themselves and focus on the other person's needs. That is what the new film, Fireproof, and loving someone unconditionally is all about.

For those spouses that have come to love unconditionally and treat your spouse as so, many singles are watching and have hope because of you. Keep prayer in your marriage so you won't fall. Please feel free to add any tips of your own from your successful marriage or unsuccessful one.

Where is Cinderella Now?

2009-01-06T18:47:00.000-08:00

The popular song "Cinderella" by Steven Curtis Chapman has been a big hit with young and older girls and their fathers. His song and new album is about living in the moment. It has me thinking about a lot of things.

I believe the world has lost her Cinderella. Every woman wants to be that, but somehow they get caught in the trap of our busy world. Will a father let her be Cinderella, will her husband? I believe sometimes they do, but that is a very rare thing in our day and age.

Too many princesses have been wounded. They have traded their dream of a prince for a life slaving after work. The laundry has piled up. The dishes need to be washed. The children need to be taken care of. There are so many things to do for others, she has little to do for herself. Even after selfishly doing things for others, she has failed to be appreciated. Some princesses have been abused by their father or husband. Some have been neglected by her family. Some wives have traded their marriage for an affair, just to visit the ball again.

Most importantly, every princess wants to feel loved. Is she appreciated beyond her work and her duties? Have you spent time with her getting to know her soul? Have you danced with her? Have you taken her to the ball? Have you put her above your selfish needs to show her that you love her? Will you compromise your needs even a little? Will you take the time to tell her and show her how beautiful she is, and how much she is adored.

I believe Cinderella can find her love and appreciation from God foremost. But beyond that she needs a father to show her that love; a father or mother that believes in her so she can believe in herself. In her marriage, she needs her husband to show her that love as well. I challenge every man that reads this to take his princess to the ball again. Meaning, spend time with Cinderella, not necessarily go to a dance or ball. Indulge in the things she enjoys. Let her relax and just enjoy being in the moment with you. Treat her with all respect and much better than you would treat yourself. Send her an unexpected card, or roses and not just on an anniversary or holiday. Suprise her! Randomly, ask her to dance. Make her a nice candlelight dinner just because. Take her out to a nice dinner. No this is not an attempt get something for yourself, but to show her your love and appreciation.

You know I don't think Cinderella minds doing the work. She wants to do things for the family she loves. But let us not forget, that Cinderella does want to go to the ball again. It could be once a week, a month, at least 2 or 3 times a year. For all the husbands, if you can take her, I am positive she will take the time to seduce you. Isn't that what you want? Get to know her spiritually and emotionally and she will want to be with you sexually.

For all the fathers and husbands, or boyfriends that will not take her to the ball, Cinderella will find another way to get there. It may not be the safest way for her. She may seek an affair. It may lead her down a road with alcoholic, or drug abuse, or even toward unhealthy sexual relationships.

Cinderella needs to know that her Prince will come for her. She wants intimacy! She wants you to know her spiritually and emotionally. She wants to know that you'll never let her down, and that she can trust you with all of her being. Stand firm and be the man or Prince that she needs. Ask God for your strength to give it to her.

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ohh-oh ohh-oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song,
Cuz all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She will be gone.

Thanks, Steven Curtis Chapman for a great song! Many prayers to you and your family due to the loss of your daughter. May this song always be a memorial for her. Let us not forget to take Cinderella to the ball before she is gone.

Negative Ads

2008-10-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

As election approaches,all the commercials on TV appear to be political ads. There appears to be more negative ads against the opponent instead of positive ones for the candidate. I am not saying they don't influence me or my vote, but some people have already made up their mind, who they are pulling for.

Why can't the candidate focus on positive things they stand for, instead of putting down the other person. It does make yourself look bad, when you keep poking at the other candidate. I remember one candidate making the promise to stay away from negative ads before the primary. No, this promise was not kept.

I do want to see some change in this country. But it will take whoever wins, to actually stand behind their beliefs and promises made to the people. If you are going to make a promise, you must stand by it.

As the election approaches, I will do my best to make an educated vote. I will look into the issues that the candidates stands for that have meaning to me. I can only pray that afterward, the candidate who wins will have a good run. We all need to pray for America. And perhaps not put all of our hope in this election, but to see what kind of good changes we can make for our country to make it a better place.

Happy Voting! Make it an educated one! Stand by your beliefs regardless of influences by coworkers, friends, family, and negative ads.

In Honor of my Great Aunt, Lillie Mae Timms

2008-10-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

My aunt Lillie Mae, was like a grandmother to me. She didn't have any children of her own, but all of her neices and nephews she treated as her own children.

She was born on January 10, 1918 and passed April 12, 2008. Her brother was Robert Dennis McBrayer, who was a grandfather, that I never met. She worked with my Grandma at O.J. Mills, making rugs and bedspreads. She had introduced my grandfather and grandmother, Lois Millsap. Yes, it is another WWII love story. My grandmother and grandfather communicated through letters during the war. I would love to be able to read those letters today.

My aunt Lille Mae married Robert Rankin Timms. I'm not sure why they never had kids. They would have made great parents. Lillie Mae was very independant. She never wanted anyone to go out of their way for her. She always fixed my favorite foods, when I came over to her house, like purple hull peas and fried potatoes. Ask anyone, she had the best lemonade and chocolate pie around. She was a very beautiful lady inside and out.

Lillie Mae, I know your probably stirring up trouble in heaven, and having a grand ole time. Please know that you will be missed!

Update on Teacher Loan Forgiveness

2008-07-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Out of frustration and in response to several other complaints, I promised not to stand aside, and do nothing. I have sent out 4 letters as well as emails of complaints to our representatives: one to Senator Lindsey Graham, two for North Carolina Senators Richard Burr and Elizabeth Dole, and one to North Carolina Governor Michael Easley.

Here are my own words.

Dear (Representative),
I applied for the Teacher Forgiveness Loan earlier this year. My request was denied because I had an “outstanding balance,” before October of 1998. Out of the 15,000 I borrowed, only $1000 was distributed on September 16, 1998. Because some of my loans were allocated before October 1998, I was declared ineligible, although I met all of the other requirements. I was a student when my first loan was disbursed. Obviously, I was unable to pay for my studies at that time. Since working as a teacher, I have not missed one payment, but I have struggled to make ends meet financially.
The above situation applies to many teachers throughout our nation. There is an online thread of teachers that have complained for being disqualified for this forgiveness program. I also wrote about this on my blog and received many complaints. The teacher loan program should not single out a particular date. Most teachers are in the field because we love children and we desire to make a change for the future. Yet, the rewards are few.
I believe you are in a position to help change the law to include loans that were received before October 1998. This would be a step towards rewarding many well deserved teachers. I hope that you will be one of the few senators that start standing up for this nation’s teachers. I am sending a copy of this letter to North Carolina state senators.
Hopefully, you, (Representative), can lead and convince others in changing this inequitable law.
Sincerely,
Lisa Knight

Perhaps we should all write letters of complaints. Perhaps, someone will hear us or maybe not. It is certainly worth a shot.

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian review

2008-05-18T11:18:00.000-07:00

Overall, I will say I liked the movie, but I did find it a little too long. Speaking from someone who was already tired from staying up to watch Lost the night before. And then again, it was too long.

Why is it that all these filmmakers have the idea they have to impress their audience with excessive battles and blood? I recall only one battle in the book. The film, in my opinion, lacks the simplicity of the book. Thus, I feel that the movie could have been a lot better that it was.

Unlike the Harry Potter books, I was able to read most of Prince Caspian before the production was released. There are a few things that were added to capture the audience. Those extras did not capture my better opinion of the film. High King Peter and Prince Caspian never have any conflicts. They are both in agreement who shall reign over Narnia. Peter says "I have not come to take your place,you know, but to put you into it." There is no relationship between Susan and the prince, but there did exist a question of who should keep the horn. There was no White Witch, although Nikabrik, the werewolf, and the hag try to summon her by drawing a circle. They die in the process. Lucy, Susan, Peter, and Edmund also have to change their clothes before walking through the door out of Narnia. After all, they would look like "fools" (according to Susan) at the train station, with their royal wardrobe.

The movie definitely has a different sequence than the book. Lucy and the others were able to meet with Aslan before the battle had started (I guess that sense of keeping the faith, when all hope is lost, is added in the movie, which is a nice touch). Prince Caspian, and the kings and queens meet at Aslan's How when the Nikabrik is summoning the witch. Peter sends Edmund along with the giant and the centaur, to request a one-on-one battle with King Miraz. The battle starts when Glozelle stabs his own king. Prince Caspian does not have a shot at Miraz, but Peter is very "gentlemanly" as Edmund puts it not to finish him off!

The movie should have played on the old Narnian characters a bit more. Who is Trumpkin? Why do some of the animals no longer speak? I want to see more of Reepicheep!!! What about Prince Caspian's nurse? She is never mentioned in the movie, but she is healed by Aslan at the end of the book. Instead, we see more evil in the movie than good. Therefore, for me I feel that the movie misses some of the simplicity from the stories Narnia, that any true fan would appreciate.

Teacher Loan Forgiveness... or Unfairness?

2008-04-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

It sounds like a great program, right? With all the dedicated underpaid teachers who work many more hours over what our salary is worth, teachers deserve a break right? And it's not to say that we hate our job, or that other professions are not important. We truly love and care about our students. Teachers are missionaries, as someone once told me.

When I heard about the teacher loan forgiveness program, I was truly excited. You can receive forgiveness of $5000 off student loans for teaching 5 years in a Title 1 School. For teaching science math, or special education can receive forgiveness up to $17,500. "Why didn't I teach Math?", I said. But certainly with a lifetime of $12,000 of loans, minus $5000, the benefit of that math was no question.

So I waited until the right time to turn my application in. I met all the eligibility requirements, or so I thought. One requirement is that you must be highly qualified, meaning being certified in your state or pass the licensing examination. Another requirement, is that you must have taught 5 consecutive years in a Title 1 School and started teaching before 2004.

I received my notification letter a few days ago. It said I did not qualify because I had loans before October 1, 1998. My first loan was received in September 1998. What does that October date have to do with anything. Why did you have to wait til after October 1998 to begin your studies as a teacher. Are the younger teachers more worthy of the loan than the older? The majority of my loan was spent on earning a master's degree. Only 1/8 of the balance was spent on my bachelor's before 1998.

So frustrated, as I was I decided to do some research on this. I checked the original application. under eligibility requirements. "To qualify for up to $500 loan forgiveness... you must not have had an outstanding balance on a FFEL or Direct Loan as of October 1, 1998. "Outstanding balance," well what the heck does that mean? I have never missed a loan payment, even though I was a student before 1998, and not required to pay on my loan then before graduation. I also checked the history of my student loans to see what was paid to me and when. I also checked for the documentation for the enactment. I also checked to see if anyone else's application had been turned down. I was relieved to know, that I was not the only one feeling the frustration. I found this thread at Teachers.net.

So I ask you, what to do next. I will not stand aside, without my voice and others being heard. America's gas prices are too high! Our jobs are being lost. Our teachers are overworked and unappreciated!

A Weekend With The Banjo

2007-10-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

I just spent an amazing weekend at the North Carolina Center for Advancement of Teaching. If you haven't been there and you are an educator, I would recommend going there. You have to possess three years of teaching experience in North Carolina before taking this wonderful journey, and wait three years before returning. They pay for your substitutes, reimburse travel, as well as feed you wonderful meals.

I took a seminar: "From Africa to Appalachia: Celebrating the History of the Banjo". My fellow teachers, (from all over the state) and I learned how to make a "canjo" banjo out of a tin can. We learned the process of putting together a banjo from the older tradition and the new. We learned about the African roots of the banjo and talked about some of the surving African-American banjo players. This is definitely something I'll be able to share with the kids at school. Hopefully, I'll be able to do a jazz or string unit with the banjo included.

I met some wonderful people and musicians. I met teachers across the state, from the mountains to the ocean. I met the author of African Banjo Echoes in Appalachia: A Study of Folk Traditions, Cecilia Conway. I was introduced to a whole new world of bluegrass I never knew. I heard some outstanding bluegrass from famous musicians: Mary Jane Queen's family-who passed away in June, Frogtown Four, Sam Bush, Balsam Range, and the Carolina Chocolate Drops. I brought home lots of goodies including two signed CD's from the Chocolate Drops and Balsam Range, and a signed copy of the book from Dr. Conway.

I was really impressed with the two groups, Carolina Chocolate Drops, and Balsam Range. If you get the chance go to their site and read about them. If you get the chance to hear them, don't pass up the opportunity.

The Chocolate Drops (pictured above) are trying to keep the old traditional style of African-American pickin alive. They think highly of their mentor Joe Thompson, who is said to be the last traditional black fiddle player.

Balsam Range (above) was also a great group, with Tim Surret from the Kingsmen and Marc Truett, a Grammy Award-winning banjo picker. Buddy Melton is the lead singer in the group. He has a excellent voice for this style. Balsam Range's new CD, Marching Home, includes lots of bluegrass picking and singing, as well as some Gospel tunes.

I really enjoyed my time in the moutains of western North Carolina. The people have such wonderful hospitality there, and the mountains always remind me of God's serenity. From the Sam Bush concert, to sitting on the couch, to the Mountain Heritage Festival at Western Carolina University, the music was something to remember. In my own words, "Ya'll must go listen to some Carolina banjo pickin'."

Me as a Simpsons character

2007-08-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

The other week Chris went to this website Simpsonizeme.com and turned himself into a Simpsons character. This is what he looked like. He wouldn't leave me alone until he saw what I would look like as one too! You upload a real photo of yourself and the website takes care of the rest. Here is what I turned out looking like if I lived in Springfield:

The Learning Process: A Self-Evaluation

2007-07-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

About, a month ago I took about 3 weeks worth of workshops. The first two weeks were spent learning all about Carl Orff's model of learning music. I am officially Orff Certified in Level 1. The third week I spent at Teacher Academy at Elon University learning about Mindful Instruction. Let's just say, I know more about the brain now than I ever cared to know.

My Orff Level Certification totally pulled me out of my comfort zone. However, this training was better than anything I ever received as part of my Bachelor's or Master's requirements. I came back home with fresh and new ideas that I can't wait to experiment with on the children when school starts. I have a lot more resources (games, etc.) and totally different take on where to get ideas from. I think it really dawned on me after taking this class, how much I have failed to think for myself. What I've taken with me most from this experience is that is no better resource than yourself. I have often struggled to find materials for my classroom that relates to what I'm teaching. I have finally come "out of the box" to realize I can create new songs, materials, and games of my own. It really disturbs me that I have limited my teaching in so many ways, but better late than never.

My course on "Mindful Instruction, Using Brain Research to Redesign Classroom Instruction," was more open to different types of Educators. I learned about the different parts of the brain, and their functions, the different emotional states one might experience, and explicit and implicit memory. My fellow teachers and I were presented with different strategies of dealing with our students' types of learning and their emotional states. We learned a bit about motivation and changing the environment to help students proccess information. All and all, this week plus the two weeks prior was a lot of information for me to process. (Besides, about 99% of all information entering through the senses is immediately dropped from the brain. For ADHD or ADD, it is about 75%. The brain is more like a strainer than a sponge.)

It is only until today, I can draw it all together for some kind of conclusion from my workshops, a sort of self-evaluation of my learning process throughout life. You see, I was reading from my email list this morning regarding a discussion on auditory vs. visual learning, and playing by ear or sight-reading music. I have come to understand some of my personal learning struggles and strengths. Here are some of my observations:

I am a very visual learner. I helps me when learning a new word to see it spelled out along with hearing it. I do fairly well in sight-reading music, but not perfect. I used to be very good at math all throughout school. I occasionally helped classmates with their Algebra problems. I am a very organized person, and like things to be in their place. It is very hard for me to read, study, or concentrate when I have noise.

As for my struggles: I have a very short-term memory. I loose things a second after I let go of them. I struggle with vocabulary and new terminology. I struggled with playing by ear in Orff class. I can't do it in a short amount of time, but can eventually accomplish it. I struggle with thinking outside the box.

Which is my more dominant side of the brain? the left or the right?

As a teacher, it has come to my attention that we do pass down to much information by just handing it down. We do not allow or trust children to explore in a school environment, in which they need it the most. I struggle with playing by ear because I was never persuaded to do so, and have not put that into a lot of practice. Students fail to be creative and expressive because they are not given the opportunity.

I am glad that I chose a profession in which I can use both parts of the brain. I rely on the visuals and symbols, yet I can improvise and be creative. I can use my prior knowledge to memorize a piece and play it perfectly, yet I can sight read a difficult piece and fight my way through the new challenges.

What are your learning obstacles, strengths, and weaknesses?

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix: An Educator's Point of View

2007-07-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

After viewing the 5th movie in the Harry Potter series, I really enjoyed the film. I'm glad I didn't go in there knowing everything that happened in the book. I believe it gives me a fresh take on the film and a greater appreciation for it. I do think that the movie has persuaded me to go back and reread the books. I might have to go back and reread the 6th book to catch up with the seventh. The mind has a way of losing track of important events.

The movie may not have included every meticulous detail, (I wouldn't know, not rereading the books) but I do think that it captured it's tone. The portrayal of Dolores Umbridge is great. In a way I compare her to some of my grammer school teachers: strict, old-fashioned, and out of touch with reality. There are some scenes, I absolutely loved. The Weasley fireworks spectacular being one of my favorites. This is one of the few happier moments at Hogwarts for the students when everything else is discouraging.

I think the overall tone of the book is that some rules are meant to be broken. This is coming from a teacher that just made up a long code of rules and ethics for the upcoming year. I do think some rules should be specific and that's my reasoning for my code of ethics. For instance, if I don't allow gum in my classroom, that needs to be stated somewhere. However, if it comes down to the safety of students or "muggles", by all means would I allow my students to break the rules. I think the movie and the book is a lesson for educators. Teachers should not be carried away with rules . And for the No Child Left Behind supporters, not all knowledge is based on facts that come from a book, but learned in real life situations. To paraphrase Harry, passing exams are simple and you can always try again, but fighting Voldemort is a very real thing, it's the test of your life.

My review of Spider-Man 3

2007-05-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

We can learn a lot from Spider-Man 3. I absolutely loved the movie. It taught me a few lessons, and hopefully it did to all the Americans that spent their money to watch it.

I won’t say that the movie had the best scenes, or the best acting, but I think it did have the best storyline, one that America has needed for a long time. I think the producers tried to hard to make it a summer blockbuster. Perhaps, they feel it would be a let down to people, if it had anything less. After all, isn’t that what we have come to expect. Would anything less be boring to us? Yes there are some scenes that need a lot of work to be believable. Some of the scenes, I thought they had turned the channel to another film. They were a bit cheesy. Why didn’t the producers run with the storyline? That is what sold the movie for me.

I have become somewhat of a fan of not Spider-Man, but Peter Parker. I think he is my favorite comic book hero. I don’t follow the comics, so I’m not really sure how much the movies portray them. Peter Parker is a very humble guy, one that I have come to love. I think it shows that a lot of ladies go for that. When Peter steps into the dark suit, his aggression becomes a turn off to everyone around him. Peter becomes so consumed with power, revenge, and arrogance he loses his true self. Aunt May tells Peter that that’s not what the fans want a hero to be.

Even Spider-Man is human, and has to live with his mistakes and pay for them, as every human being should. That is where I think Spider-Man 3 could have used more of Sandman. Who is this guy? I would like to hear more of his life story. I think this would really help the portrayal of humanity in the movie.

As an educator, I’m hoping that a lot of children and adults watch this movie. We teach our children everyday that life is about choices. If you make the wrong choice you are responsible for your actions. Not everyone is caught with a hand in the cookie jar. Those who are caught must do what is right and face the consequences, but it takes a real man to come out of hiding and do that. It doesn’t matter if you are a student, teacher, superhero, villain, or a political leader. Everyone should hold himself accountable for his or her own actions. If a leader cannot do that, he is not serving his people. That is why I often admit to my students that sometimes I am wrong. I want them to know that I’m human and make mistakes too, but I’m striving to be better. On another note, it’s very hard for us to see corruption without punishment. We only have to trust that in the end justice will be served and the good choices will have been the best ones.

This movie provided what America has need for a long time, a lesson in humility and forgiveness. Revenge, power, and arrogance can and will destroy. Spider-Man cannot serve the people if he is self-absorbed; neither can the leader of a country. America has become so materialistic and self absorbed, that we have failed to be a great people anymore. We have become so selfish, that we have lost focus of the rising struggles within and around us. We must learn to put our neighbors before ourselves, before we can find happiness and success. Even Spider-Man had to learn this the hard way. He had to forgive himself and his enemies to be a free and happy man.

And all you disappointed geeks can throw all the tomatoes you want, but the movie needed less of Venom.

The movie was a very hard one to watch, but well worth it. It has a sweet but sad ending. Yes, Spider-Man will pay for his mistakes and he can forgive and find forgiveness, but that will take some time and healing. Spider-Man can rest in the fact that he is not perfect, but forgiven. That is what every superhero and leader should do: learn from his mistakes, suffer the consequences, and strive to be a better man. No the movie isn’t perfect or doesn’t have that perfect ending. But for me personally, the movie has taught me a few life lessons and shown me where I can grow. It is a movie that should inspire humanity to be all it can be.

So go on, give Spider-Man 3 a chance.

Free Credit Report

2007-03-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

Don't believe the word "free." It's a rip off.

I noticed there was an unusual charge on my online banking account this month that I did not authorize. So, I did a little research to find out where it was coming from. It turns out the charge is from Freecreditreport.com I visited there a month ago, because I was curious and I thought it was the one you get free every year.

I went to their website, and read the fine print "Freecreditreport.com are not affiliated with the annual free credit report program. Under a new Federal law, you have the right to receive a free copy of your credit report once every 12 months from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies. To request your free annual report under that law, you must go to www.annualcreditreport.com"

I also didn't read:
When you order your free report here, you will begin your free trial membership in Triple Advantage^SM Credit Monitoring. If you don't cancel your membership within the 30-day trial period, you will be billed $12.95 for each month that you continue your membership."
Thus, I forgot to cancel and was billed $12.95

Let this be a warning to you. Not everything advertised is free. I have read tons of complaints regarding this company on several websites. Just type the words "Cic Triple Advantage" into Google. A lot people are having problems with cancellation as well. I called to tell them I don't want the service anymore. I told them to send me an email with a cancellation no. We will see what happens. I'm also going to the bank for a new card number.

My Psalm: The Love Sonnet

2007-02-19T14:52:00.000-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day or the month of February, I've decided to post some poetry of mine. Enjoy!

Oh God, How I long to know you.
Thou art the most righteous and fair.
Thy wisdom can't attain the earth alone.
How small I am among your people,
But your faith is found in me.
You alone can make me whole.
You alone can bring eternal joy.
Your patience is above all others.
Your will is made grand,
But revealed in the simplest ways.
Your beauty shines in all living creatures.
Your love is beyond measure.
Your mercy cannot be compared.
Your presence endureth forever.
Amen.

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Edna Fowler Manning

2007-01-29T15:29:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I last posted. It is with great regret and with yet rejoicing that I post at this time.

I lost my grandmother whom I called "Granny" on Wednesday evening, Jan, 25. My brother called about 8:30 or so with the news. So I made the arrangements to fly to GA on Thursday afternoon and back again on Sunday evening. My Granny was a great inspiration to me and everyone she met. She was most definitely a Christian. She had entered the nursing home in 2000, not long after Chris and I met. From there she suffered Alzheimer's. Sometimes she knew me and others she didn't. I have no regrets. I always made it a point to visit her when I was in town and told her I loved her many times. She had pneumonia off and on within this past year. Wednesday evening she entered the hospital because she was having trouble with her breathing. Thankfully, she did not suffer when she died, but passed peacefully into the hands of our Lord.

For My "Granny," who will never be forgotten.

Mrs. Edna Fowler Manning
March 10, 1926-Jan 24, 2007

-Loving wife, Mother of Three Children, Grandmother of 9, Great Grandmother of 6, Friend to all.

-You were a joy to be around! I loved to pick on you and you pick back.

-You were always trying to get me married off, when I told you I was patiently waiting for the right one.

-You were always trying to set your daughter up with another guy.

-You were a flirt, and called every man you met your boyfriend.

-You could argue with a rock.

-You loved to talk on the telephone.

- You were a great cook or so I am told. Nephews, neices and others would stick around just to taste your food.

-You didn't need make-up for you had a lot of natural beauty.

-You looked beautiful in your favorite color, red.

-You loved Southern gospel and country and bluegrass music. You could watch the country music station for hours.

-You played the guitar by ear and passed down your love of music to your children and grandchildren.

-You never met a person, who didn't love you.

-You always forgave no matter what anyone did.

-You had very little money, but were rich in life.

- Granny, I'm sure you're entertaining the angels in heaven. You'll always be remembered and missed.

Perfect Harmony

2006-10-28T12:12:00.000-07:00

This lovely Saturday morning, I enjoyed a wonderful movie, "Perfect Harmony," It is a Disney Production. As a music educator, it is one that I would love to be able to show my students but unfortunately no Disney movies can be played over our television system.

It is one that crosses racial boundaries. Young prep students attend a prominent school where music is an integral part of their upbringing. However, set in the 1950,s, there are racial boundaries in South Carolina that are not socially acceptable to cross.

Two young boys attempt to cross these boundaries. The lead choirboy (Taylor) becomes friends with a young African-American worker (Landy) at his school. They both learn to appreciate each other's style of music. Through sharing each others music(particularly the blues and the classical works of Handel), they become very good friends.

I wish to show this to my students this movie because of the demographics at my school. Seventy-one percent of our students are white, 16% African-American, and 13% of other ethnicity. I feel they will learn to appreciate different backgrounds and different styles of music.

I also feel it would maybe let these young guys hear how boys are supposed to sound at their age (9-12). Everyday I face the difficulty of at least one young man saying, "I'm not going to sing like a girl." Then, I try to explain to them about how their voice hasn't or will not change until they reach a certain age. I try to avoid using the word, puberty, but it doesn't always come out that way. Just as I made a comment, Chris posted it: "Too bad I can't teach them about castrati," puberty is really nothing compared to that.

Another issue I face at least once every year is, you need to talk about African-American music at a certain time, or there has to be some specific music for Black History month during events. I love some of the spirituals and love teaching them, and not just during Black History month. However, I think some African-Americans go to far in pushing their demands for Black History month. Hispanics have their own style of music but don't have a specified month for it's appreciation, neither do Caucasions for that matter. African-Americans brought about a lot of our popular styles today, but whites were also very instrumental in making music a written language.

If the movie taught me anything, it is that music is a universal language that can cross certain boundaries. It is to be heard by all. It is a way of expressing emotion that will stir our hearts to move beyond our racial, religous, stereotypical backgrounds. Let it move us, so we will realize God put us all here together for a reason.

Fried Cheesecake

2006-09-22T14:07:00.000-07:00

Sweet Indulgence- Fried Cheesecake

If you're feeling in a bad mood-here's the perfect solution, but not if you're a health nut.

Cheesecake is my favorite desert. I love the Applebees Chimi Cheesecake which is not offered at my local Applebees. So I found a copycat recipe online and modified it to my liking. I think I came pretty close.

Ingredients:
3 8 ounces packs of cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup of sugar
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour
3 eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1 cup of vanilla wafer
1/2 stick of butter
8 large flour tortillas
caramel ice cream (optional)

Pie crust- crush vanilla wafers into tiny pieces . Stir with melted butter. Flatten in the bottom of a pie pan.
Filling- Beat sugar and cream cheese until smooth. Add flour, beat, Beat in eggs. Stir in vanilla. Pour over pie crust
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let it cool. Run knife around cake to loosen.
Store overnight in refrigerator.

Divide cake into 8 portions. (You may have some left for regular cheesecake) Place in each tortilla. Fold sides of tortilla then roll together. Wrap in plastic wrap. Place in freezer.

When ready to serve, place in deep fryer for 5-7 minutes until brown.

Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve with caramel ice cream.

Slowly let yourself indulge the taste!

Pet Peeves

2006-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

There is something wrong with Americans today. Many have lost respect for others, being a few decent human beings left.

Being a teacher, I thought I should use my skill educate Americans on social etiquette. This is also for all the times I was too nice and kept my mouth shut, when maybe I should've spoken my mind.

Listen up America, here's how you improve for me :)

1. Turn your headlights on when it's raining!
2. Don't honk at me when I'm turning off a dangerous intersection, you're asking for an early death.
3. Have courtesy for those drivers trying to find a parking spot, they are courteous to you, the pedestrian.
4. Follow the marked arrows on the parking lot, they are there for a reason.
5. Truckers look out for your car driving friends that have a blind spot because of you.
6. Make those red lights to stay green for at least 5 seconds, but not over 5 minutes.
7. For all you DJ's, even good songs can become worn out. (Currently Daniel Powter’s “ Bad Day” No, every day isn’t bad.)
8. For the man behind the controls at the TV station, (Chris, I hope you're listening), don't play the same commercial every 5 minutes.
9. For the sweet little kiddies, Please be f*??s#^ QUIET in the theatre. Ooops!
10. Dear Parents, I was hired to educate your children, not you.
11. For the little kiddies and the big ones too, wait your turn to speak in a conversation.
12. Co-workers, You do your job and let me do mine.
13. College students, turn the stereo down so your old neigbors can get up and go to work in the morning.
14. Teenagers, don't throw your gum on the pavement, it's bad karma.
15. For all the waitstaff, good service means a good tip, bad service means none.
16. Smokers, some people didn't choose cigarettes, don't mess up their health too!
17. Parents, your child will model everything you do.
18. Telemarketers and salesmen: No means no, not maybe, so quit pushing the issue.
19. This one's from Mom, "If you're gonna make a mess, you can clean it up."
20. For everyone, lighten up a little, have a little more patience and a little less anger (Guess this tip's for me).

What's your pet peeve?

"The Lake-Huh"

2006-06-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I was looking forward to this movie, much like the anticipation I had before going to see The Notebook. Unfortunately, I had to pay a little more than I wanted to for a matinee. Yet, it was Friday, and I needed a good cure for my boredom over the summer.
The previews looked really good. I saw Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves on some of the talk shows before the movie came out. I was getting excited. I thought it would be more like The Love Letter, which I loved watching on the Hallmark Channel. I think that was a much better movie. Turns out, I was in for a let down.
The movie made me feel really lonely, as with the characters in the story seem really lonely. The time thing is a real issue here. It is definitely a movie where you have to keep track of the dates, (I'm lucky if I remember today's date). In the end, I'm still not sure what year it is and how things ended the way they did. I'm still rethinking this puzzle in my mind. Guess this means another rewatch!

"Teacher's Favorite Things": My first song parody!

2006-06-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

Toward the end of the school year I began writing a parody of "My Favorite Things", called "Teacher's Favorite Things". If you're a teacher, I'm sure you can identify with the song, especially if you teach the young ones. This is the first time I've ever attempted a song parody, and Chris thinks that it came out really good! So here it is:

Teacher's Favorite Things
(new words by Lisa Knight)

Pencils and papers and drink spills awaiting
Cleaning my desktop and markers for grading
Testing and homework and taking up things
These are a few of my favorite things

Office referrals with bullies and schemers
Actors and class clowns and cheerleading screamers
Thinking and wondering what each day will bring
These are a few of my favorite things

Tough boys and jockeys and girls with their glamour
Fibbers, and tattlers, and correcting grammar
Simply awaiting the school bell to ring
These are a few of my favorite things

When the kids leave
When the day ends
When I’m feeling stressed
I simply remember my favorite things
Hoping I did my best

Spelling and writing and English and grammar
Science, mathematics and teaching them manners
Recess and playfights and pushing their swings
These are a few of my favorite things

Numbers and letters and history’s datings
Lectures and workshops and artists creating
Reading and gym class, and students that sing
These are a few of my favorite things

Breakfast and bathrooms all need supervision
Icebags and band-aids will treat the incisions
Planning and coping and tying shoestrings
These are a few of my favorite things

When I fall back
When I break down
When I’m feeling sad
I simply remember impressions I made
And then I don’t feel so bad!

A wedding, live alligators, and Charleston

2006-05-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

There's been a lot of talk about alligators in the news. A couple of weeks ago, Chris and I visited Charleston, at Cypress Gardens. We were about 5 feet away from them at Cypress Gardens for a wedding and there were so many alligators running around the place. Chris kept harassing one of them. We saw another off the sidewalk with around 5 or 6 babies. The little cuties were tempting us to take them home as a pet.

This trip to Charleston was to see a wedding. Chris' old college roomate, Ed Wooody, tied the knot at the gardens. It was a beautiful wedding. Seeing a bride arrive by boat was a very original. She's lucky the alligators didn't get her.

Charleston was a blast. I would love to go back sometime. Paige, an old friend from Piedmont College, was our tour guide. It was also great to catch up with her too!

Overall, it was a great trip! Still want to visit Myrtle Beach sometime!

April Fools

2006-04-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

So I guess the last post I made isn't true, according to this entry at Snopes. O well, I still like the lyrics!!!

Julie Andrews does it again!

2006-03-31T14:28:00.000-08:00

Found this entry in my email listing! Apparently this really
happened. Enjoy!

To commemorate Her 69th birthday on October 1, actress/vocalist Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of the AARP. One of the musical numbers she performed was "My Favorite Things" from the legendary movie "Sound Of Music". However, the lyrics of the song were deliberately changed for the entertainment of her "blue hair" audience. Here are the lyrics she recited:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings, Bundles
of magazines tied up in string, These are a few of my
favorite things.

Cadillacs, cataracts, hearing aids and glasses,
Polident, Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings, These
are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak, When the bones creak, When the
knees go bad,  I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.

Hot tea and crumpets, and corn pads for bunions, No
spicy hot food or food cooked with onions, Bathrobes
and heat pads and hot meals they bring, These are a
few of my favorite things.

Back pains, confused brains, and no fear of sinnin,'
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames, When
we remember our favorite things.

When the joints ache, when the hips break, When the
eyes grow dim, Then I remember the great life I've
had, And then I don't feel so bad.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Ms. Andrews received a standing ovation from the crowd that lasted over four minutes and repeated encores.

North Carolina Lottery

2006-03-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

Now, it's official. The ticket stub actually says it supports NC Education. As an educator, I hope and pray that it will put money into my pocket instead of taking it out :O So Mike Easley, does this mean a raise in teacher salary? After all, we are the lowest paid teachers in the Southeast. Time to catch up!!!

Mexican Dip

2006-02-09T15:43:00.000-08:00

I have never been a big fan of Mexcian food. However, I have found a recipe I really like. This makes a great appetizer for any Superbowl or any Sports party. I've always liked Hormel Chilli and Cream Cheese. (Cheesecake is my favorite desert.) I had never thought to put them together.

I received this recipe from the library assistant at school. We had snack day and she brought this dip. From what I've seen online you can either add or take away from this recipe.

Layer all the ingredients

First layer: softened cream cheese
Second layer: Hormel chilli
Third layer: salsa (if preferred)
4th Layer: Velveeta or Shredded Cheese
5th Layer: Add your favorite topping (green chilis, red peppers, etc.)

For my recipe I used only the cream cheese, chilli, and cheese. What can I say, I'm a plain Jane.
Warm if needed and enjoy.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Movie and the Book

2006-01-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed the movie The Chronicles of Narnia. For the most part, it follows the book very well. But I wonder: "Where is the emotional/musical impact?" When Aslan is revived, that moment should be phenomenal. I remember Gandalf's moment in The Two Towers much better than this one. Gandalf arrives in Helm's Deep, charging down the hill in pure glory after he was killed by the Balrog. Where is there any sense of feeling like that in Narnia?

The characters in the movie were very close to the ones I had in my head from reading the book. I didn't expect Peter and Susan to act so grown-up though. Lucy and Edmond were right on target. Lucy is definitely my favorite character in this story. She has so much faith and appreciation for the world around her. I'd like to say I identify with her somewhat. Susan is very wise, and only uses her head. Peter becomes very brave. Edmond, of course, I think is the Apostle Paul in the story. He is the forgiven one, and uses that to change his ways. Liam Neeson was a great pick for Aslan, with his strong innocent voice. The witch seemed just as I thought, very beautiful, but cold. Mr. Tumnus is delightful. Oh and who can forget those Beavers: two peas in a pod.

Overall, Narnia was a great movie. I can't wait for my favorite books of the series to go on film, The Horse and His Boy, and The Last Battle. I hope the music will be better equipped for these films.

"Sharp Like a Razor, Steady Like a Train"

2005-11-28T15:42:00.000-08:00

These words (spoken by Reese Witherspoon, as June Carter) describe the Johnny Cash's music and the movie , Walk the Line. The movie is longer than most, but keeps you interested as if you were Johnny Cash yourself. Reese Witherspoon and Joaquin Phoenix were wonderful in their roles. I was watching the promotion on Oprah a few weeks before it came out. I remember celebrities admitting they had to learn to sing for the role. Not many actors make good singers, nor singers make good actors, but these two were pretty close to the original voices. I'm hoping for the soundtrack at Christmas.

Both Witherspoon and Phoenix deserve an Oscar for this one. I really liked the portrayal of June Carter in this movie. Yes, she went through a few relationships. Overall though, I think she really held herself together, despite all the spotlight and judgements. You can really see her love for music, comedy, and mankind. Her faith in God is headstrong, and saves Johnny as he struggles with a drug addiction. This had definitely been her best role. Anyhow, that's my two cents. And folks, if you haven't seen the movie: "Let's go, time's a wasting!" I really wish the pair had finished this song in the movie. It made a great duet!

The Perfect Gift for Anyone on Your List!

2005-11-27T13:32:00.000-08:00

This is definitely my favorite time of year. I love all the Holiday decorations, the extra candy, hot chocolate, the Christmas spirit, etc. God has given me a lot to be thankful for this year. What ever happened to the appreciation of all the simple things. For instance, Black Friday has become materialistic madness. Not to mention all the commercialism that's starts right after Halloween. Give us some time to enjoy Thanksgiving, please!

I went shopping once on Black Friday, two years ago. That is definitely my last time out. Yes, there are some great deals, but they are not worth an arm or leg. I have found a solution for myself and others. Since I've started my own business selling Mary Kay, I figured it best to give family and friends some wonderful products that I already have. It saves me some time, money, and trouble.

Here are some products we have for this season: women and men's bodywash, spa collections, hand cream, women's and men's fragrances, after-shave, color collections, shaving cream, brush sets, skincare sets, travel bags, bracelets, cosmetic bags, lipbalm, nail polish, foundation, lipstick, pedicure sets. Check these products out! My Mary Kay Website You can also register for a $1000 prize or a free satin hands gift set until November 30. These make great gifts by the way!

Guys, I am here for you if need some help. I have products for Moms, Sisters, Aunts, Cousins, even Dads, and some wonderful ideas for wives and girlfriends!!! For a wife or girlfriend, a pedicure from her best man says you really love her and want to serve her. I can also help with $100, $200, or $300 packages. Why not get her a gift each day, counting down til the twelve days before Christmas. She would think you were so thoughtful! Believe me, girls like to be pampered. I guess we are just so busy taking care of you guys, we do need some appreciation for it once and a while. Give all the women (ok, men too) in your life some extra pampering and appreciation this season! Shop with me and avoid the Holiday crowds! I'll help you while you take all the credit! Don't wait til the last minute, you hear!

My Mary Kay Website

H. M. S. Pinafore at UNC-Greensboro

2005-11-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, my students, my principal as the bus driver, 2 chaperones, and myself took a trip to UNCG to see a performance of Gillbert and Sullivan's H. M. S. Pinafore. Before the performance, I fully prepped students in hopes they would gain more appreciation opera as an art form. I told of the range of voices in the opera, the different parts (aria and recititive-that is a fun word to say, so I made them say it.) I told them the difference between a play, musical, and an opera. And of course, I gave them a test. They had to tell me what the opera was about after it was over. They could care less. They were just happy to be missing out of their academic duties at school, nevermind they would be responsible for making up their work. They are lucky they got almost a full day. We sang carols and many other songs on the way over and back to Reidsville. When we arrived, they were several things going on that day. There was a show playing next door to the performance we were supposed to see. When I got off the bus, I was told to send my bus driver to the Greensboro Colliseum. Just my luck, they send my principal to some place he can't see the performance. Thankfully, David Holley, the director, was able to save the day and have someone retrieve him.

Everyone from my crew( hehe) enjoyed the performance tremendously. I thought the shipmates greeting us when we came in were wonderful. All the girls especially enjoyed the ladies' costumes. The set was neatly done. I ran into Brian Hodges, an awesome cellist. I showed my students the orchestra pit, which they were amazed by. We had wonderful seats in the orchestra section. I really enjoyed the music. Some tunes were rather catchy! I am also glad they had the words up on the screen above the stage. Some of the words were hard to catch, although the voices were beautiful. When we arrived on the bus, I was really suprised how the children remembered several of the characters names and the main plot of the story. I guess they past the test and gained some appreciation along the way. (Another teaching success story!) As for me, this was the concert/performance I had been longing for since my college days.

Children of Eden

2005-11-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

Last night, I went to see the musical, Children of Eden. I told him that I should write the review since it was the first I seen it. He has been ranting and raving about it since we first started dating (knowing musicals are my favorite genre) The show was put on by Greensboro Day School, just down the street. For anyone who hasn't seen the show, the basic story is Genesis 1-8. It follows the story of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, and Noah's Ark very well. Chris has told me the show never hit broadway, but is very popular by many (especially large and small church groups.) Although I have never seen the musical, The Lion King, I think Children of Eden could be equally as popular professionally done on Broadway.

Considering Greensboro Day School is a private school, I was hoping for a little over the top vocally, but as a whole it was a great show. It was still high school level, however, there were some voices that stood out. The young lady playing Mama Noah, could definitely have a spot on American Idol, with her unique voice. The animal costumes were very eloborate. I especially liked the turtles on skateboards and the stuffed sea animals floating atop the orchestra pit. The lighting was exceptional. Glowing stars, rain, and lightning were well presented. There were some minor problems with sound but overall still good. There was no lack of equipment at this private high school. There was a full theatre with orchestra and balcony seats, a fully equipped sound room, and very nice restrooms. This is any musician's dream. (I'll stick to my computer and MIDI system, considering I just learned the ropes of home recording.) This would make a great Sunday evening show for you and your family.

Anyone heard of disc golf.....

2005-11-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

Today I learned a new sport, it is called Disc Golf. I've been attending Health Nuts, a group after school dedicated to helping children eat right and exercise. It was there, we had another teacher come in and show us the ropes of disc golf. From my understanding, this goes way back (not sure how far) I will check on that. Now considering I have never played real golf before, except for miniature golf, I had no clue how to take score, and so it appears that golf and disc golf are very similar in the rules of the game. From my understanding there are places you can go in Greensboro and play for free or sometimes there is a fee depending on where you go. All the information about disc golf can be found at the Professional Disc Golfers Association website. So happy disc golfing folks....