one small step...

for mothers returning to school everywhere... Sunday May 23, 2009 ranks right up there with marriage and a baby. I graduated with my Masters of Arts in Teaching. It has been a long hard 12 months- emotionally, physically and mentally. I remember melt downs, break downs, 2 hours sleep, doodling instead of writing and hours upon hours of surfin the web.

Ryan, Gunner, Me, Mom, Pinkie

We had a small celebration of fierce loved ones after at our house. Thanks to those who attended. Your love makes this achievement sweeter.

Chelsie, Abby, Tara and Me

So now, we search for jobs in a jobless economy. I have great faith because as my seester says, "God got me to it, God will get me through it."

Just say no...

Did I mention that I am a beginner vegetarian?

I am, really am... 3 whole days!!!

I've been pondering this decision for at least one year. It was just easier to not be a vegetarian. But, the time has come. And I'm doing ok. I don't have any issues with meat (except they really are treated poorly). I just needed to do this--- for me.

And by the way...

Update on US...

Life has been consumed with me- my teaching, my school work, my graduation, my obsessive house cleaning needs... but, on May 23rd (Tovey's Birthday, too!) I will graduate with my Master of Arts in Teaching. Just for the extra dig to my seester, I have a 4.0GPA and she doesn't. Pinkie and I really needed a vacation. The daily grind of drop off at 7:10am, pick up at 4:30pm, dinner, bath and bed was getting to our love and adoration of each other. So, when a free ticket was presented, we jumped. Friday afternoon we flew to San Diego to visit my seester and her handsome man. We flew back Sunday, essentially spending less than 36 hours in their wonderful, fashion filled world.

This trip immediately called for a trip to the beach. It is San Diego after all. FYI: the Zoo was too big of a commitment when you have so little time. It was overcast on and off, but that doesn't keep San Diego-ers away. This is Shanna's cute man's sister, Ami. Ami is my new idol- she shops fabulously, she talks blatantly and cooks vegetarian.

Most notably, is that Ami is the impressive mother of 4 boys. Here, lucky Preston (P. Everett to some) cooks with Aaron (the handsome, handy man). These men make aprons look good, I think. Hamburgers, hot dogs and veggie burgers on the back patio- verrrry San Diego.

Me and Miss. P really missed Daddy. I am reminded of how grateful I am that there is two of us, totally committed to this child. She's a handful as we approach her 2nd birthday. So, back to teaching 4th grade, a long series of busy weekends and graduation next weekend.

We've DONE IT!

WE ARE POTTY TRAINED!

I intentionally add 'we' because parents are also trained to come running at the 'potty' scream or dance. But, we've had one week of no accidents. I must admit she wears diapers for bed. BUT, she is ONLY 22 months. It was so hard and frusterating. Who knew a Dora potty could be scary one moment and a throne the next? Call me for tips- I am now an expert.