Thankful

On Tuesday February 6, 2012, I was lucky enough to be nominated as one of the 3 Finalists for TCEA Classroom Teacher of the Year.  What an honor to be even one of the finalists!  For the past 2 years I have gone to the TCEA Convention for the whole time, but some major time constraints (Destination ImagiNation... promise there is a blog coming about that!) I was not able to.  I was, however, able to make the reception Tuesday evening with my AP in tow.  Imagine my shock and complete GRATITUDE that my name was called as TCEA Classroom Teacher of the Year.  I am super thankful for this opportunity, but more than anything I am super HONORED.  I think I work hard.  I work as hard as I can for my students, my school, myself, and my family.  I also realize, however, that there are many people that have made me the me that I am.  I am so grateful for every person that has even spent a few minutes in my life to make me the outgoing, honest, outspoken, strong, and powerful woman that I am today.

I do want to mention a few people.

I am so THANKFUL for my parents.  My parents taught me the importance of hard work, but also the importance of doing your best and trying your hardest.  They instilled in me my drive to be better and to go farther than I ever could.  Thank you Sharon and Joe Don Stevens for your love, patience, understanding, and time that you have given me. 

I am so THANKFUL for my troop leader Nancy.  Girl Scouts was and still is such an important part of my life.  Nancy taught me the importance of volunteering, giving my time to others, and being creative and fun while doing it.  I have been so lucky to meet other important Girl Scouts along the way from anyone from Camp Kiwanis to my amazing friends here in Irving (Skye.. and so many others)

I am so THANKFUL for my husband.  We are two of the most opposite people you will ever meet.  I like folk and quiet music... he likes rock and roll.  I like to be creative with my computer and hands.. and he is an artist with food.  But Chef William has taught me how to be strong.  He has taught me how to love and continue on with things even they are tough.  He has taught me how to speak my mind when it is important.


I am so THANKFUL for my sister.  Although we are 2 VERY DIFFERENT people, she has taught me the importance of being who you are.  I look up to her so much in all that she does and all that she accomplishes.  To tell you the truth, I am often jealous of her too :)  She is an amazing woman.


I am THANKFUL for my Plurk and Twitter PLN. I would not be where I am today if I didn't have the constant support of my immediate social media friends.  If I have a question about something for the classroom, they are there to help.  If  I have an idea about skyping or connecting with other classrooms they are there in an instant to connect! KimberlyW, Mitch, Elaine, Elaine, Kevin... and the list goes on...and on.. and on.. and on (I know I have left off so many.

I am THANKFUL for my Sisterhood of the Traveling Macs.  Who else can you create crazy shirts with, present with, travel with, and call in a time of need! You can with Lori, Kimberly, and Kay.

I am THANKFUL for my BrainPop friends.  You guys have given me SO many opportunities that I can't even name them all.  Kari and Allisyn you guys ROCK!

I am THANKFUL for all of the amazing people that I work with at school.  The ones who keep me in line and keep me going. From my DI parents that are so supportive to my paraprofessionals in my classroom.

I know, I should be able to take a compliment.  I am super honored that I was named Teacher of the Year. I guess what I am trying to say.  Is yes, I think I am a pretty good teacher and person.. but in reality it takes a village to raise and create a woman like myself.  I would not be who I am if I did not have the spirits and love of so many people.

On another note.. today I received an email that I am one of the 20 Educators to Watch by the National School Board Association.  Wow! I am SO thankful. I am so Honored.. and I feel so loved.  It has been one crazy year.  Thank you for all that have contributed your time, energy, and love to helping me be the best that I can be.  I am so thankful!


Disclaimer.. there are 1000000s of people that have crossed my path at some point or another and helped me be the person that I am. Whether it be through financial support, love, compassion, and so many other things.  I apologize if I didn't list you.. my brain is tired.. still at school.. DI Saturday :)