Hard day

I got a call on Monday from one of my good friends and former classroom aide. She informed me that one of my former students AC had passed away. Today is his funeral so I thought it appropriate to reflect since I cannot attend. AC was such a wonderful student to have. He taught me so much more than I taught him. I have been anticipating his death for a while now as he was only expected to live to 5 (he made it to 11), but it doesn't really make it easier. I am so sad for this his family and those you love him. I am sure this is an incredible loss. I have been thinking a lot about his mom and how difficult this must be for her to lose a child. I can't even imagine what she is feeling. AC was one of the most cheerful people I have ever met with a smile that constantly engulfed his face. I have so many memories of silly and crazy things he did. Some days he wore me out, others he gave me energy. Yesterday I taught a class about special health procedures and I was able to talk about AC and how we arranged education for a child who is dying. I hope the lesson stuck for the students. I will miss him, but it will be a wonderful reunion when I see him again. Hopefully he is having a great time with BM - another student I lost a few years back. http://azdailysun.com/news/local/obituaries/article_6ea620e3-3cf1-5cb6-bae2-e1b418fdd831.html?mode=story

Long road

I thought when it came to the actual research part of this experience that things would be more straight forward. Maybe it is the the project I am working on, maybe it is research with the population I want to work with, or maybe it is just research in general, but I am realizing that there is so much more to consider. Seriously I just want to train someone and see what happens, but you need to have signed paperwork from everyone and their dog, then make sure not to include anyone who didn't sign paperwork in the video (like you can control 2-5 year olds who want to be movie stars). Plus all the paperwork with the university before you are even allowed to start. I also have to plan the training itself. I have to say the easiest part so far is finding a place to do my research. They were perfectly willing to let me come in and work with them. Just lots to do. The good news is that I am not working on a regular school schedule since I am doing the research at a private agency, so I don't have to be done by June if things don't work out perfectly. Funny thing is that the research data collection is only part of what I have to do and maybe it will turn out to be the easiest part. I just have to say it would have been SOOOOOOOO much easier to just have stayed in the classroom, but then again I have never been one to take the easy path.

Goodnight song

C frequently requests songs when I tuck her in. Last night she told me to sing the "goodnight" song. I started singing "Goodnight sweetheart, well it's time to go..." She quickly interrupted me and told me "no, the one that goes "tonight's gonna be a good night...whoo hooo" Yep for those of you who listen to the radio, you know she requested the Black Eyed Peas song "I gotta feeling". Too funny. That girl cracks me up all the time. I must say I did a rendition that would make American Idol proud.

For my siblings

Thought you all might get a kick out of this one...

This morning I woke up to find that Ralph the night hairdresser had paid me a visit. My hair closely resembled this crazy bird! Usually my hair is flat and perfectly straight, but this morning it was completely wild! Unfortunately the neighbors were able to witness this wretched hairdo because I forgot to put a hat on before taking H to the bus. Wonder if Ralph has been paying any visits to your homes...

A bit behind

I am a bit behind in my postings, and should really be doing work instead of posting...but I never got to detail my birthday. I had my first birthday month and it was super! J surprised me by flying my mom out for the weekend just before my birthday. I was very shocked to see her in my house, but we had a great time! I didn't get any school work done that weekend, but I did get to spend a lot of time with my mom and the kids. We went thrift shopping (and found some great shoe deals), went to an awesome never ending antique store (see photos of cool items to the right), went to Meyer Dairy - can't visit here and not eat the best ice cream around! We also went out to eat at a local inn, and Nana watched the kids so we could go on a date. It was a great weekend and super way to start off my birthday festivities. For my actually birthday I had some friends over. We had a nice time - thanks to all who brought food and yummy cake (Lauren) to share. I feel very lucky to have great friends! I have also had numerous cards sent my way - I feel so blessed to have so many fans :) So far 30 has been treating me well (see the post about sleeping in). It is nice to be in this stage of life!

GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!

Just thought you soccer fans would want to know H made his first goal of the season this past weekend. A team mate had a corner kick and he half volleyed the ball into the goal - J says this sounds stupid, but I don't know how else to say it. Should have seen his face as he threw his arms up in the air in joy! So cool...wish I would have had a camera handy to catch the moment. I am coaching the team the next two weekends while J is out of town. That should be interesting - don't think there will be any big wins.

Oh yeah!

A beautiful thing happened this morning. I slept until 10! Yeah, I know...I feel like a teenager. Maybe the YW are rubbing off on me :)
Also I woke up to 14 inches of snow! Made a great day outside for J and H!