Weekly Rewind

This week was unsual but refreshing. In preparation for the upcoming TAKS test (sigh) our principal offered teachers in the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades the opportunity to have primary teachers work with their students. I have 6 years of TAKS experience so I offered to do this. At first it seemed that I was only going to work for about an hour with 4th grade writing on Tuesday, while Jen worked with my second graders. Then it turned out that while Jen was out having an hour and a half for lunch (kidding...she was at a training) I would cover her classes and her sub would be in my class for the day. This would be on Wednesday and Thursday. As it turns out I ended up being out all day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. I got to work with many of my former students. I wanted to share a few of the tings that I heard them say. I never realized how much they remember about what you said to them or what happened in class. They are so cute and too funny.

Tuesday AM: Work with 3rd graders on TAKS reading: I worked with C, T, and H. C was in my class last year. He always was my favorite. Everytime I did something he would say: "Miss Garcia doesn't like that, Miss Garcia likes it when..., Stop, pay attention because Miss Garcia is going to teach us..., or I remember you taught us to...." He cutely remembered that I LOVE the San Antonio Spurs. When we played a fact and opinion game and his statement said: Basketball is a sport, he thought I gave him that one on purpose. It made me realize that even when you think they aren't paying attention they are.

Tuesday PM: Work with 5th graders on TAKS reading: I worked with C, I, A, and a few others. C and I were former students in 3rd grade. (C is the former student that brought me cupcakes for my class on my birthday). This is a conversation between the two.
C: Yes, the best teacher I've ever had.
Me: Shhhh! (because his current teacher was about 3 ft away.)
I: I know. It's a shame you didn't win teacher of the year.
Me: Shhhh!!! Giggle, giggle, giggle.
I did manage to get their attention long enough to do the fact and opinion and main idea activities.

Wednesday and Thursday was fun because I got to work with teachers I usually have little or no interaction with. And I got to see more students that I had before. It was a tiring schedule because it's constantly walking. I also realized that now that I teach a primary grade I really am getting my little ones ready for the upper grades.

In the end it was a rewarding experience. I will say that I was SO HAPPY to be back in my own class with my own kids on Friday. D, the same girl that write about so often, would come up to me whenever I came into my room to get something. She would take a big whiff of me. (I don't know why she likes to smell me.) And then she would ask...Who hugged you? I would tell her no one and she would be relieved. She would say: Good! Only we can hug you. So cute how possessive kids get of their teachers.

M.I.A.

So sorry to all my new readers. I have been so busy and tired lately that I haven't gotten around to writing a new post. I have managed to visit other blogs so that's been nice. I did want to write a post about my experiences this week but my brain is mush. So till tomorrow. I have some great and funny stories to share.

Thanks again for the award

Thanks to Celine for yet another award. You are so sweet. Everyone head on over to her blog: My life, my hopes, my future.

Now I need to pass it along to 10 blogging friends. The award goes to...

Amy at Keeping up with the Schultz Family

Bonnie at Seriously

Heidi at Stuck in the Seatbelt

Patti at Lady bugs in the garden

Marie at Cpaphil Vintage Postcards

Christine at Life...the way I see it

Tina at Yes, That's My Child Screaming!

Congratulations everyone and share the honor!!!

Introducing My Friend...Purse

My great friend Jen, posted this purse meme on her blog. She tagged me but hadn't had the chance to do it. So here goes.

Everyone knows I love the San Antonio Spurs. This is the purse I carry around.

So kidding! I wish. This is actually what I'm currently carrying. I actually got the Spurs reusable bag from one of my students for my birthday. Awesome gift right?

I am not into name brand purses at all. Anyone who knows me knows that I get bored very easily so I can't bear the thought of spending $200 dollars on a purse I'll change in 3 weeks. In fact this purse cost more than any purse I've ever bought. A whopping $55 at a little boutique called Francesca's in Austin. I think they have them in a lot of places but sadly not where I live. I have to say that the purse has sentimental value because like I said I bought it in Austin the same weekend I met my boyfriend for the first time.

Background Info:
We met online so we met in December for the first time. We actually began talking in October. I'm so happy he's in my life.

I actually bought two purses that day but since the rules say the purse you're carrying right now I guess I can only show you this one right now. On other blogs I've seen that people are posting the contents of their purse, which I am game for. It's a funny thing what some gals carry in their purse.

Contents

Large zebra purse: personal necessities, lens wipes, asprin, gum
Small zebra purse: lip gloss, Burt's Bees lip balm, lipstick, flavored lip balm, lotion
Pink purse: LOL! My grading and writing markers
Red textured wallet: credit cards, member cards, money
Small red wallet: insurance card, a couple of gift cards
Cupcake coin purse: all my change
Luden's throat drops: they taste like candy
Hello Kitty mirror
Old Christmas gift cards: They play music and make me happy when I play them
checkbook
Cocktails for Dummies: because you never know when you'll be out and need it

Closer look at smaller items
cell phone/headphones: since Jen and I carpool and now we have Kidd Kraddick I listen to the radio in the mornings on my cell phone without bothering Jen
classroom keys
tissues
flashdrive
license
purse hook
tiny scissors
gauze and wrapping tape: I'd been nursing an infected finger

So now I'm supposed to tag other bloggers so they can share what they are carrying in their purses. I tag...

Celine over at My life, my hopes, my future

Tina over at Yes, That's My Child Screaming!

A First For Patty

As I mentioned in my previous post I'm taking a few "simple" steps to make my life and soul healthier. Simple because it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know what you need to do, but not so simple because sometimes the most simple things are the hardest to do. Does that make sense?

Today I took my first step in my entertainment component. I went to see The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. The movie itself was great. I will say it was heartbreaking but the love story is one of the best I've seen in a while. The best part was the experience. I LOVED going to the movies alone. As mentioned many times, I am a tomboy and I hate to show any real emotion about anything...especially sad and touching moments that result in tears. I have been known to do it but I don't like it. Watching the movie alone gave me the opportunity to feel as I wanted without feeling self conscious about it. The only downfall was that when I had to pee (the movie is almost 3 hours) I had to take my stuff with me. There are some movies that I think are funner to watch with a friend. So I won't be watching all movies alone.

So here's to continuing on my adventure.

Random

Heath Ledger just won the Supporting Actor Oscar!!! I'm so sad it happened when he was gone but he deserved it. I actually think he deserved it in 2005 for Brokeback Mountain but that's just my opinion. His family gave a touching speech. Brought tears to my eyes. Good thing I was alone.

The New Patty

I'm sure I've kept everyone in suspense (kidding) with the latest "New Patty" stuff. I have to say that I'm pretty excited about it all. I feel highly motivated and inspired. So here are the components that I've come up with for the New Patty. After a few staff developments, conversations, reflections, and I suppose divine intervention I'm living life to the fullest and without regrets.

• Health: I have chosen not to follow any particular weight loss program. Instead I am doing my research and just being healthier. I am including my return to Curves, my evening walking dates with my dad, my better eating habits, getting the right amount of sleep, and the necessary visits to doctors, dentists, and dermatologists to ensure I'm on the right path. The difference this time around is that I have no set goal, only to be healthier. My issue with goals, in my experience, is that when I don't reach it I get discouraged. So I don't have a target weight in mind. And let's be real here, at this point any weight loss would be a success. I'm just going to enjoy the work outs and walks and the wiser eating choices. Below is one of the most recent pictures of me. It was taken at my birthday party in January. See what I mean by any weight loss would be a success?
  

• Entertainment: I will admit that I have become rather lazy. I am typically on my laptop, watching TV (Go Spurs Go), movies, or something of the sorts. Something new my cousin and I want to do is go out to eat at local places, and not the chain restaurants. At the same time, even though it will be so hard, I want to learn to eat healthy while I'm out. Secondly, there are also so many opportunities to see different shows and bands. Lastly, I want to go to movies alone. I've always wanted to and hey...I'm independent and confident so I am going to do it.

• Recreation: I want to get out in the city and do things that I know are out there. And the thing I'm feeling great about is that I may have to do them alone and I don't mind. I also want to get to know my city so when my friends from San Antonio or my boyfriend come into town I can show them the best places to go. I'll be sure to post some great finds in my city. The other recreational thing I want to do is consistently work on my scrapbooking, card making, and jewelry making. When I get to do my arts and crafts I find it very therapeutic. But once I start I can't stop and then that takes the fun out of it. So I figured if I limit myself to one a weekend then I can concentrate on what I'm making and it'll be enjoyable.
  

• Personal Growth: I love to read. I love to read children's books, magazines, and a few adult books. I also want to volunteer at different places. I already donate money to many causes so now I should look into donating my time. A couple of places I've considered are the local Breast Cancer branch and the local USO and work with the military. Honestly, I've been too lazy to do it. But since I'm embarking on a new adventure and I guess this is the best time to do it. I've thought for a while that I need to spend a little less time on my computer too. Filling up that time with reading and volunteering will help my soul become healthier.
  

• Professional Growth: I need to continue to read books or attend staff development that will help me be a better teacher and future administrator. How ironic that some of these same staff developments are what inspired me to become the New Patty. So in the end it's not just about becoming a better teacher or administrator but a better me.
  

• Financial Fitness: What can I say? I need to save, save, save for a rainy day. I guess my entertainment and recreational components better be cheap...yeah right!

Question. Do y'all think I should write a weekly post journaling my weekly progress? Maybe it would help me to reflect on what I did and what I can do better. Let me know what y'all think.

These are my components for a healthier and happier Patty. I challenge all of you to check up on me and keep me accountable for any of them. As I like to think of it...even if I am physically alone on this adventure I am not alone because I have the support of my friends. So thanks for caring.

Let the adventure begin!!!

What's This? I Must Have It...

I.Must.Have.This!!! My very own Edward

Y'all won't believe all the crazy Twilight stuff they have for sale on Amazon.com. So great!

Oh The Horror

Bad news everyone. Manu Ginobili is hurt once again. I am so sad about this. Actually, I am devastated. He won't be back for 2-3 weeks.

Thank You, Thank You

My new blogging friend Celine awarded me with the Honest Scrap Award. I'm supposed to tell you 10 honest things about myself. Then I pass it on to a few other bloggers.

Here goes...

1. I absolutely, positively hate scary or horror movies. This includes those torture movies. Yuck! Don't even ask me to watch them.
2. Every night I sleep with a stuffed animal that is a dog I named Emanuel after Manu Ginobili. I use him more as a pillow than actually sleep with him, but occasionally I do wake up hugging him.
3. I have been guilty of lying and not going out because I wanted to stay home and watch a San Antonio Spurs game. (Sorry peeps!)
   
4. I met my boyfriend online. Totally and completely by accident. Not on one of those dating sites. Not that there is anything wrong with that at all.
5. I love anything Little Miss Sunshine, cupcakes, Spurs, Harry Potter, and Horacio (my baby nephew).
6. My two favorite roles are teacher and aunt.
7. I don't believe I ever want to get married or have children. I didn't say never because you just never know.
8. I am a total daddy's girl. Actually, I'm spoiled pretty much by my brother and mom too.
9. When I am sick I am a total baby.
10. This is a biggie: sometimes I pick my nose. Yes, that's right. Sometimes there just isn't any other way to get them out.

So now it's time for me to award other bloggers. I look forward to learning some of your honest moments.

Heidi over at Stuck in the Seatbelt: I would love to get to know more about you.

Anne over at Happy Funpants: I think your answers will crack me up.

New Patty Update

I just wanted to share with everyone that I'm currently working on my "New Patty" post. It's a lengthy one and I'm putting a lot of thought into. Be patient and it'll be up soon.

Thanks for the support. I'm very excited about it all.

Kidd Kraddick Is Finally Here

I am thrilled to say that the syndicated radio show Kidd Kraddick in the Morning is finally on a radio station in my city. I listened to them for a few years in San Antonio before I moved home. And now after 2 1/2 years it's here. I highly recommend them to everyone. You can even listen online. If you enjoy silly humor then it's definitely for you. For those of you that know me they are just like me.

Happy Listening

Random Randomness 2

There are many things I've had bouncing in my mind. All are random but I must share with everyone.

• I really dislike Shaq but the man can move. (I'm watching the 2009 NBA All Star Game) Go West!!! Even though most are the enemy.
  

• I watched "He's Just Not That Into You" yesterday and although the movie was good (for a girly film) I couldn't stop thinking how great Jennifer Connelly's hair looked.

• Why are the Girl Scout Cookie packages so small now?

• I really would like to get a tattoo or two. One of Mr. Cupcake on my blog and one of a cute sun or Little Miss Sunshine. I'm thinking on my my back right below my shoulders.
  

• I have numerous magazines I have to go through. I'm thinking one a day and I should be caught up in about two months.

• I'm looking to buy a DVR of some kind. I must have one soon.

• Pretty soon I will tell everyone about the new Patty. Within the last few weeks I've been inspired to be a better me. Details coming soon.
  

• Don't you hate it when you need something but you can't find it?

• I'm grateful Lent is coming up because it means it's a time to do something to get closer to God.

• I often wonder if I'll ever be more girly.
  

• Officially I am ADDICTED to cupcakes, cupcaked related items, and cupcake blogs.
  

My Life as a Cupcake

What kind of cupcake are you? My Result: Fun Cupcake Patty Quiz School Take this quiz & get your result

What kind of cupcake are you? » Create A Quiz

I'm In Also

Lately I've had a bit of the blogging blues. I've been feeling discouraged and uninspired. Don't get me wrong. I love to blog and I love that I've made a few blogging friends but lately I've just been in a funk. And although I can be funny I've felt that the quality of my posts was a little on the weak side.
I shared my doubts of continuing my blog with Jen. She suggested I become a part of the SITS (The Secret is in the Sauce) Community. I'm not one to join something without first looking into it so I clicked on the link from Jen's blog. I have to say that I had the same reservations when Jen suggested I do the NaBloPoMo thing. Yet I had a great time doing that so I figured I'd love this too. And in clicking on some of the Featured Bloggers I realized that I would love to read other people's blogs. So thanks Jen, I'm in and looking forward to reading some great blogs.

Hugs and Kisses

Wishing everyone many hugs and kisses everyday but especially today.

Favorite Commercial

There are a lot of cute and sweet commercials. But this one is my favorite. There's something so cute about how mismatched the couple is.

Happy Day of Love

Lately I felt a little discouraged and uninspired so I haven't written much lately. I did want to wish everyone the very best this weekend. Don't forget to share your love with everyone you care about.

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Help!!! Girl Scouts Cookies

I just can't help it. I always buy too many Girl Scouts Cookies. They are so delicious and I eat too many of them when I have some. This post isn't about anything important. I just want to share my love of Girl Scouts Cookies with y'all. What kind is your favorite?

My Story

Although Jen didn't suggest I do this personally, it did look like fun. And I always welcome the opportunity to talk about myself...LOL! Here goes

My story

Hi, my name is:
Patty

Never in my life have I been to:
Mardi Gras, Alaska, New York City, or Vegas...and many other places

I hate it when:
When people don't drive at least the speed limit...especially on the freeway.

If your gonna talk smack about me:
I couldn't care less.

The one person who can drive me nuts is:
My niece, Vanessa. Can't live with her or without her.

When I'm nervous:
I ask too many questions.

The last song I listened to was:
I Swear by All-4-One. Heeeyy, I was watching Just Friends on Comedy Central.

If you were to get married today ur maid of honor would be:
Well since I'm never getting married I don't have to worry about it but if it happens I'd have two: Vanessa my niece and Edie my friend from San Antonio.

My hair is:
Really curly and growing out.

When I was 5:
I had a big crush on Elvis Presley.

Last Christmas:
I had a blast with my family and was getting ready to take a life altering trip to Austin.

I should be:
Going to bed.

When I look down:
I see my baby boy, Horacio, asking me to pick him up.

The happiest recent event was:
Falling in love.

My current annoyance is:
Taking the time to watch all those 3D commercials during the Super Bowl when they sucked. We all looked like idiots, but hey...we'll always remember that.

I have a hard time understanding:
why people drive so slow in this city.

There's this girl that I know:
that has the most sincere and kind heart. She's the kind of person you know is out there but is very rare. She just happens to be my intern. When I grow up I want to be like Marybel.

The thing I want to buy is:
a TiVo

If you visited the place I'm from:
you would fall in love with the mountains

Most recent thing I've bought myself:
Geez! I'm always buying myself stuff. I bought myself a few Little Miss Sunshine things.

Most recent thing someone else bought me was:
A grande caffe latte with vanilla from Starbucks. Thanks Jen!

My middle name is:
Patricia

Last night I was:
I was out shopping with my sister. Like always!

If I was an animal I'd be:
nothing that gets eaten

Tomorrow I am:
going to watch Heroes. I'm so glad it's back.

Tonight I am:
watching The Office after Super Bowl special and talking to my sweetie.