Sweet 16

Yesterday T and I celebrated our 16th anniversary. Sweet 16.  We have had many sweet and some challenging moments in our life together. Isn't that what makes it all the sweeter?  Adds a little tang to the tango, a little spice to the life, a little zang to the zing. You get it. We haven't celebrated yet, since we were busy driving everyone everywhere. But we will and that's a PROMISE!

16 Things I love about T:

1) He's sweet. 

2) He's easy going. 

3) He makes me laugh.

4) He's wise.

5) He listens.

6) He loves me for me.

7) He's an AMAZING father.

8) He fixes my email, Iphone, computer, anything TECH. 

9) He gets me treats.

10) He lets me decorate how I want.

11) He's a good provider.

12) He loves God.

13) He honors the priesthood he holds.

14) He puts stuff together for me.

15) He doesn't let me go too crazy.

16) He gives me hugs. 

I'd add He loves chocolate to that list, but that would make it 17.  

So I'll keep it for next year's anniversary. 

(This was his b-day cake from a few weeks ago. He shared. No, I didn't make it.)

A+ School

I should be writing my talk for church on Sunday, but the brain is drawing blank.  So I'll write about my kiddos' schools.  I really, really like our elementary school.  The teachers are so dedicated, professional, and kind.  They emphasize the joy of learning, rather than the drudgery of worksheets and dread of state tests! My boys come home excited each day with what they are learning. Even my X-man, who has been less than enthusiastic about school in the past, is excited!  He is applying to be principal for a day during Career week. He'll even get an "interview" with the principal. There are laptops and IPods for classroom movie making and learning activities in each classroom. Every two grade levels have access to a computer lab. There is a MUSIC teacher with a music class and instruments for the WHOLE year. There is an ART teacher for the WHOLE year.  They have a morning program every Friday where the whole school cheers for students' accomplishments. The principal is outside directing traffic AND smiling!  She visits classrooms. She's visible and working for the students!  She's personable and approachable.

Students eat in a cafe with round tables rather than the regimented rows of tables in a cafeteria. Teachers expect good manners and quiet conversation.

Volunteering is easy! Last year I was begging and pleading and emailing and then bugging to be able to help. This year I've been able to work in the workroom laminating, help the librarian with shelving, and assist the school nurse with vision testing just by signing up! There is a mentor program. It's awesome. Anyway, I'm gushing, but I'm very glad for this school. You probably have a school that does this, but we didn't and oh! how I appreciate our new school. Of course, the middle school and high school are nice, but my heart is the heart of an elementary teacher.

O.k. guess I'd better go write a talk.