Building Blocks

 After over two months off from work, I returned to school this week.

I had been preparing myself for the day since last week.

Since spending several weeks on summer vacation with more time for myself...no time constraints, no deadlines, and no rushing around, it is hard to get back in "work mode."

In fact, I started writing this post on Tuesday, and I'm just now finding the time to finish it!

My free time is over.

Sunday Randoms

How's your weekend going?

Have you done anything fun?

We spent our weekend catching up with friends and family.

This morning after church and over poached eggs and "moon dusted" potatoes, I discovered some cool artwork that's for sale at Flying Biscuit in Norcross.

"Yes" Girl

Recently while getting a pedicure at the nail salon, I came across an article on actress Mila Kunis in the July issue of Marie Claire magazine.

In the article, Mila shared a tradition she started with a friend of hers on New Year's Eve.

Instead of making resolutions, that only get broken anyway, Mila and her friend decided to pick a single word that wold inform all the choices and decisions they would have to make for the next 12 months.

They decided on the word YES. 

Jamaica on My Mind

If you're a teacher and you live in the South, then you'll soon be heading back to school.

That's three days to be exact!

And if you live in the North, well then you have like another month or so of summer to go.

Such a disparity!

I'd much rather do it like they do up North.

So...as I count down my remaining days of freedom and gear up for yet another crazy and hectic school year, I can't help but think of our summer vacay in Jamaica.

A Compromising Meal

Don't ever make a promise to a four year old.

Especially one you don't intend to keep.

And not specifically to an extraordinary little someone we call Buddy Roller.

On The Boardwalk

Our Northeast summer escapade continues to the Jersey Shore at Point Pleasant Beach and Boardwalk in New Jersey.

It was a perfect day to take in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of this popular tourist destination.

Got Pictures?

I LOVE taking pictures, but a certain someone I know takes that to a whole notha level.

Her iPhone is always in reach.

In fact now that I think about it, her phone is always in her hands!

She is always poised and ready to take a selfie...or 20.

And pictures....the camera doesn't stop clicking.

Really.

Seriously.

I'm not kidding.

What's Up Windsor!!! Windsor, CT That Is

It's been a fun summer traveling and seeing family and dear friends.

Once we got back from Jamaica, we decided to take a trip up North for more fun and adventures.

First stop, good ole Windsor, Connecticut.

Make Someone's Day - 7

She is my mommy!

And I have missed her so.

I'm SURE I made her day today.

And the next several for that matter.

Because I just flew to Windsor, Connecticut to spend some quality time with her.

Added bonus...The Hubs and her "adorable grandson," Buddy Roller are also here.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend, what's left of it anyway.

Happy Sunday!

Make Someone's Day - 6

His Excellency, Sir Howard Felix Hanlan Cooke 1915 - 2014

In light of some recent events, today's post is not about me trying to make someone's day.

But rather, it's dedicated to a man who spent all his adult life serving others...thus making someone's day countless times.

He died yesterday at arguably the wisest of all ages. 

He was 98.

A beloved uncle of The Hubs and the entire family, really, and the true patriarch of the Cooke family, Sir Howard Cooke lived a life full of purpose, leaving behind a legacy for his family to follow.  

Make Someone's Day - 5

If you feed them, they will come.

As a teacher, I don't know what it is about the work day that gives me some serious munchies.

I love to eat, and I know my colleagues do as well.

During the school year, we have been lucky enough to be fed by many local organizations and churches for special occasions like teacher appreciation week, for example.

But nothing is as special as getting some sweet treats when least expected.

Usually an email is sent to all staff and faculty that a treat is in the teacher's lounge.

There will be a mad dash to get you some and if you're too slow to get there, well...there will be none left.

Make Someone's Day - 4

Who comes to mind when you think of people who don't get nearly enough recognition and "thank you's" as they should?

For me, I think of moms and dads (especially the single ones), members of our armed forces, and of course...teachers.

That's why on day four of my challenge, I decided to recognize this special lady.

Make Someone's Day - 3

We were both born in January.

On the 21st to be exact.

Precisely two years apart. 

Together is how we grew up celebrating our birthdays.

But we didn't always get along.

Like most siblings, we often fought.

But these days, we are closer than we've ever been.

That's why today, I decided to do something to make my sister's day.

Make Someone's Day - 2

You know what I noticed today?

Senior citizens have a lot to talk about!

It must be because they are lonely and have no one to talk to at home. 

I was reminded of this today during day two of my challenge. 

Make Someone's Day - 1

When you live your life with intention, with the goal of making someone's day, you tend to be very aware of your surroundings and those around you.

You really take notice of people, look them in the eye, and greet strangers with a smile INSTEAD of being on your cell phone talking, or texting, trying to disregard the human race.

That was me today.

I was trying to figure out the "how" and the "who" for day one of this challenge.

I did hold the door open for an elderly gentleman but that certainly did not constitute "making his day."

But little did I know, it would be a "two for one" day.

Make Someone's Day

I was issued a challenge today.

Well not me, personally.

The congregation of Victory World Church.

That's the church I attend, by the way.

In a thoughtful and humorous sermon, the Young Adult Fusion Pastor, David Stephens, challenged everyone to do something to make someone's day.

Every day.

For seven days.

And you know what?

This girl is up for a challenge.

Especially when it involves making others happy.

Reunited

It's been over 20 years since I last saw my father...