Tricking and treating

It's a good thing Halloween only comes once a year. The rehearsal itself was a daunting task for Sofia. For about two weeks before the big day, Sofia would practice being a lion. It wouldn't matter if we were at Albertson's, Wal-Mart, or church. Whenever the inspiration struck her, she would start growling and crawling on 'all fours'. When the big day finally came, she got bored after a few houses. I guess growling at people is a lot more fun than walking around begging for candy.

The boys were a different story all together. They didn't really care what their Halloween costume was, along as they got to paint their face and have a sword. One day during dinner, I thought Joey was going to have an aneurysm. Jake indicated that he wanted to be a cowboy, then he quickly added that he wanted to be the bad guy so he could were a mask and carry a gun. After a few seconds, he added the suggestion that the "bad cowboy" should wear a mask, carry a gun and sword, and wear a cape. After watching Joey's face turn red with every new idea Jake had concerning his ideal costume, I was not prepared for Joey's reaction. He looked at Jake and said, "Son, there are very few cowboys that wore a cape, had a gun and a sword, and wore a mask... but you could be Zorro." I was very impressed with Joey that day. I would have been more impressed if Jake was Zorro for Halloween. But instead, the boys ended up being these freakish clowns (that even scared me). Sofia wouldn't go near them when their face was painted. But, the good news is that Jake compromised on the gun, sword, and cape. He was happy with a hula hoop, bed sheet, and face paint.

Confessions of a disappointed teacher

Ghandi once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Recently there was a blood drive at our school. This quote from Ghandi was all over the school stamped on tee-shirts. I think it's ironic how the basic concept of change or self improvement is not encouraged by most students in high school. Most of the students I get to know are amazing, interesting, smart, and funny. They have unique personalities that have unseen potential; however, most of them settle for mediocricy. There are a few exceptions. Those students who do their best regardless of what is expected. It is those quiet students who will end up becoming successful because they got in the habit of working hard early. I understand that the education system in general needs improvement, but what bothers me most is the fact that most people aren't willing to motivate themselves. I get it... your parents don't motivate you, your teacher doesn't motivate you, your friends don't motivate you... but what excuse can you possibly have for not motivating yourself?! Why is it so much to expect a 16 year old to demonstrate responsibility by completing a task on time? They call me crazy or mean because I expect the task to be detailed and accurate. Well, I must not let those mediocre opinions influence my motivation for doing my best. I'm far from perfect, but I would be very disappointed in myself if I didn't try to reach my potiential as a teacher, mom, wife, daughter, sister, and student. To try my best is to expect the best from those around me. So, to all those students who consistently work hard, hang in there. Your success will come. Until then, know that you make a positive difference in my life.