I Just like to Smile- Smiling is my Favorite!

What a STRANGE first semester it was in public school! One of my favorite things to do though.. is celebrating teachers.  This year our district created a Campus Leadership Ambassador team to help spread even more cheer. I was SO excited that I got chosen for it (along with my partner in crime Mary Anne) Now as a CLA we are tasked with doing a little something every month.. but you know I love to plan! So we helped plan out the days before winter break

Background of our school- we are a middle school in Texas.  We have a little over 100 staff and we are currently a hybrid model.  We have students on campus and students virtual with an enrollment of about 850.

Because it has been such a crazy year... we wanted to bring smiles. If you haven't seen Elf you must do it! It has SO many great quotes... and it is just silly fun. Each day starting December 7th was a different Elf quote with fun to go along with it. I did purchase a life size Buddy the Elf from Amazon... and it was AMAZING (and scared a few people too) At the beginning of the month I also asked staff to fill out a form of their favorite holiday songs- and we created a Lamar Spotify Playlist

At the bottom of this blog is the Piktochart (there is an educator discount.. and this is a program that I use all of the time) that I created for teachers and promoting.

One of the main things when thinking through different ideas this year is making things were socially distanced and safety protocols were followed.  I am going to share just a few highlights from the last couple of weeks. We also created a photo opportunity with Buddy

The first day was Desk Pets- which was an idea that I saw on TikTok (Quote: "So- good news...I saw a dog today")

We had a waffle bar that used Eggo waffles (which was the BEST idea ever) Quote-"We elves try to stick to four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup." Admin served: milk and toppings using gloves and it was spaced out.

All the sweets to go along with an Eggo Waffle Bar

One day we hit on all the staff bathrooms and put nicer toilet paper in them (it was hard to find toilet paper by the way) Quote- "Have you seen these toilets? They're ginormous!"

We did virtual gingerbread houses during the three different lunches. I was worried how this one was going to turn out, but was thankful it kind of worked! Staff picked up prepackaged ziploc bags of 6 graham crackers and prepackaged bags of scoops of regular icing.  Staff stopped by the library and were able to pick out extra items to add to their gingerbread houses (these were also served.. so only one person touching the items with gloves)-Quote- "I thought maybe we could make gingerbread houses, and eat cookie dough, and go ice skating, and maybe even hold hands." 

Covid Style Cookie Exchange- usually we have a potluck during the season, but due to safety concerns, we had to postpone this year.  We made sure to have plenty of prepackaged cookies ready for the taking and then if people wanted to participate and bring their own to share.. it too had to be individually wrapped so staff could come through and grab a bag. Quote-"I'm sorry I ruined your lives and crammed 11 cookies in the VCR."

We of course had a coffee bar where admin created the coffee and added all of the toppings.  Quote-"Congratulations! World's best cup of best of coffee! Great job, everybody! It's great to be here."

I worked on a holiday card done with staff Bitmojis.  I began asking for a Bitmojis at the beginning of December (I also made a few of them) Each staff had a Google slide where they uploaded a few festive photos. I then turned those into a holiday card that we printed off and also sent out through email. "You have such a pretty face. You should be on a Christmas card."

One game we played was with the quote- "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." We played music from our Lamar Staff Christmas Spotify play list and the 5th caller would get a prize.

In the work room we also create a new What do you Meme board with various photos from some of our favorite holiday movies and left sticky notes. The memes that teachers created were hilarious!

It was a crazy and ROUGH year.  There was nothing easy about it! But just because it wasn't easy and it was hard doesn't mean that it isn't okay to smile underneath your mask.

Loading...

A Game of Clue

 The city where I live has done and OUTSTANDING job of creating activities that allow for residents to get out, social distance, and have fun (I haven't even gotten started with how amazing the Irving Public Library and all that they are doing.. but that is a blog for over at Bee In the Bookends) One of the things that the Irving Parks and Recreation Department did was a game of Clue along one of the trails outside of the city.  The Clues were spaced out a little over a mile through the trail.  Each one had a different Suspect/Item/Place that was NOT the Suspect/Item/Place.  To figure out who did it you used process of elimination  I of course loved walking the trail with 2 of my Awesome Girl Scout Friends (socially distance of course!)

After walking this trail.. and playing the game, I realized I wanted to do something along the same lines.  Our district is currently virtual so teachers are on campus, but teaching virtually.  I know that as a librarian.. I like the chance to get up and move.  I recreated this awesome idea from the Irving Parks and Recreation to be for school! 

We just started using Canvas, so I thought it would be a perfect Clue Game!

Here is what I did:

-Took pictures of 6 different places

-Used Bitmojis for 6 different people

-Used 6 different tech tool pictures

-Uploaded these items into this Google Presentation

-Created a Google Form for staff to fill out when they used process of elimination to figure out who solved Canvas! 

-Posted all the clues around the school on both floors with directions for staff to stay socially distant, wear the masks, don't touch anything but enjoy finding the Clues! I also reminded staff this one was not a race- everyone that filled out the form by a certain date would be entered into the drawing.

-With the email I also sent out the checklist so they could use that as they walked around (very important.. to print off ALL the clues! I apparently missed one and had people emailing me right away!)

-Encouraged staff to post on Twitter using #lmsgame

You can find the Clue Google Presentation that I created here (it is view only, so feel free to make a copy.. and of course change the names and locations!)

                                                       

Love this Tweet from our Dean of Students @CoachBRich 

A huge shout out to Irving, Texas for doing so many awesome things! I even got a special delivery for winning at their game!

Do you play games with your staff? I have this one running for 2 weeks, and can't wait to start the next game! Teaching is tough right now, so anything that I can do to Bring the Sunshine.. I want to do! Speaking of Bringing the Sunshine- be watching.. I am going to start a Podcast soon!!

Virtually Speaking- Taking the Girl Scout Meeting Online

When I left school on March 12th.. I knew that my world was about to change.. but I didn't realize how much! I am super involved in so many different activities both in school and out of school. One of the things that I absolutely love the most is my Girl Scout Troop!  We meet every other Monday.. and when the pandemic started I knew that I was going to need to continue troop meetings.  I am sure the girls needed it..but I personally needed the consistency myself. 

A few things first:

-I know we all say that we have the best troop ever.. but really guys.. I have the best troop ever!!  I have girls and parents that are invested!

-I have Brownies, Juniors and Cadettes (28 all together)

-I work in a school.. and am online a ton- so I understood moving online

-I use Google FOR EVERYTHING!

-We usually don't meet during the summer on a normal basis, but because of these times.. the girls/parents and myself enjoyed having the consistency of weekly meetings

-I met with the parents via Zoom at the first of April to make a game plan.  They all agreed that they wanted girls to keep meeting so they could earn those awards they had been working on and to be consistent. 

-We use Zoom for our meetings

-When I first started Zoom meetings I would meet with Brownies and Juniors at one time and then Cadettes at another time.. I ended up changing that so we could work on more specific goals

    Monday Meetings (in a normal time it would be meetings 5:30pm-6:30pm)

    -Brownies 5:15pm-6:00pm

    -Overlap time 5:45pm-6:00pm

    -Juniors 5:45pm-6:30pm

    -Cadettes- 6:45pm-7:30pm

-Not every girl is going to make a virtual meeting.. just like a regular meeting

Before I dive into what and how I did things.. I wanted to share this AMAZING resource that GSNETX has put out!  You must check out the Virtual Meetings Playbook.  They broke down everything.. and gave me even more ideas!!  Bookmark the site.. go now.. do it!

Preparing for a Meeting

-I created a Google Slide for each meeting.  This would have my agenda, links, videos, and other information that we would use for the meeting.  

-By creating Google Slides- I could also share these very easily through our Zoom and put into the Google Classrooms I created for each level.

-By creating in Google Slides- I can also have the girls work on collaborative projects (such as for our Junior Journey we are working on right now)

-I reminded myself that EVERYTHING was going to run a little slower.. and these meetings weren't just about me, badges, and Girl Scouts- it was a space where the girls could be themselves.

-Click on this link to make a copy of one of my meeting presentations- Now guys.. these are not super in depth.. it is more to keep us on track!

Did I mention that the Virtual Meeting Playbook that GSNETX put out is amazing with tons of resources how to get it going?

During a Meeting

-Have an agenda

-Set some expectations.. my big one.. I don't mind our girls not being on mute- I want them to talk and interact.  I do have the expectation that if their surrounding is too loud to mute themselves.. and have their video on (which hasn't been too bad) I also remind them that what they put in the chat (even when they think chats are private) that I can see everything

-Enjoy! Just because you aren't in your regular meeting space.. doesn't mean that you can't have fun!

Things that worked

-Scavenger Hunts- One of the first meetings we did a Scavenger Hunt.  Instead of having girls find a certain thing- they had to find items that started with a letter.  They also had to remember each letter to spell out a word that they would share at the end! 

-Reading a book! I LOVED Sharing Be You by Peter Reynolds (okay.. okay.. I am a librarian.. but still.. it was a great book and reminder!)

-Guest Speaker!  For one part of the Journey, they had to ask questions to a woman that was in a role that you would not normally expect.  We spent one meeting thinking of questions and talking about etiquette... and then the next meeting we had a guest speaker. This was also one of those silver lining things.  If we had been meeting in person.. it would have been harder to do this.. but since we were virtual.. it opened up who we could chat with.  We were able to have Kat Echazarreta who is a NASA Electrical Engineer who lives in California!  (also- this is a time where social media has its perks because the connections you can make!)

-Drawing-the Irving Public Library Youtube page has some super fun drawings that our girls have loved doing!

-Just listening.. everyone is going through such a tough time right now in so many ways.  Sometimes the girls just needed a place to ask questions and "see" their friends.  Sometimes they just want to hang out and be silly.  Isn't that how our real meetings are?

Things I am going to try next year

-Being more consistent on what I post in Google Classroom (speaking of Google Classroom.. you don't have to be a teacher to have one! BUT.. if you want your girls to be in the Google Classroom.. they will need an email address other than their school one- it doesn't cross over)

-I LOVED Richel's idea that I got yesterday about a caddy that has all the GS stuff in it! I am having a drive thru pick up soon.. and I am going to add that goody to it!

-I loved the ideas that Donna gave us about unplugged activities- I am going to dive into some more of those ideas.

-More cooking activities

However you hold meetings..give yourself grace.. I know that my meetings are not perfect.. in person or online.. but think about your why! I know my why is for these girls to have space.. but also for me! Don't see virtual as a terrible thing.. but as a way that you are still growing those girls to be the best they can be. Want to find me on social media- I spend a ton of time over at @akbusbee on Twitter and Instgram!  Good luck this year!!

Want to create your own Bitmoji Group photo- check out my youtube video over it

 What are you doing to continue to offer your girls ways to connect? Have you checked out the Virtual Meetings Playbook? Have you been meeting virtually.. and if so.. what has been your girls favorite thing?

And to Live By The Girl Scout Law

Back in 1985 (or there very close to it) I joined Girl Scouts.  I joined as a Daisy- and our troop was the FIRST troop of Daisy's in my area.  Every meeting we began with the Girl Scout Promise and Law.  Both of these things have changed over the years, but the sentiment has not.

Me as a Brownie

Girl Scout Law

Girl Scout Promise

The world is NOT an easy place to live in for anyone right now.  Each household is going through something different, having to make difficult choices or not so difficult choices, and figure out how to live and survive right now. Even those people that seem to have life all figured out right now and together are suffering/stressing too, but in a different way.


Do I handle everything correctly, of course I don't! When I am having a tough time.. or don't know what type of decisions to make.. I go back and think about Girl Scouts. I think about how Girl Scouts  taught me to get through tough situations. I think about what Girl Scouts has taught me to be a better person.  I think about what Girl Scouts has taught me about treating other people. I think that the most important thing that Girl Scouts has taught me is to realize that every person is traveling their own road and their own journey-and I can ALWAYS be Considerate and Caring. 

Let's Break it Down:
Girl Scout Promise
On My Honor- hey, that's me!
I will try- I LOVE the word try here.. and each day is a new day!
To Serve God and my Country- Of course.. and I might not always agree with what is happening in my country, but that doesn't mean that I can't do the best I can to make it how I would like to see it.
To help people at all times- THIS ONE IS HUGE! Helping is also encouraging! We also have to remember that helping looks different in different situations.  It might just be listening, offering a smile, or just being there for someone
And to live by the Girl Scout Law- always doing my best and starting a day fresh and new!

Girl Scout Law
I will do my best- That is all that anyone can ask for! Our best might not look that great some days.. we are HUMAN.. but that doesn't mean that we just give up!
To be honest and fair- We are all human and should be fair and honest to those around us.
Friendly and Helpful- I don't always want to be friendly-but I remind myself that everyone has different shoes they are walking in.
Considerate and Caring- This is one that I work on daily.  Even though I don't agree with everyone, I remind myself to be considerate and caring- because people deserve that.  Many people do not get this in their own life- I know that I can do that for them.
Courageous and Strong- It is not easy to always be courageous and strong- there are lots of times that I fail at this.  But I also see courageous and strong as standing up for what you believe in, but being strong enough to realize that not everyone has the same opinions as you.
Responsible for what I say and do- I am responsible for what I say and do in both social media and inside my house.  I might say wrong things, but that doesn't make me any less responsible for them.
and to
Respect myself and others- I work constantly for respecting others, but sometimes I forget how to respect myself.  This year I am doing that by taking a step back and realizing that it is okay to take time for myself.  It is okay to take time for yourself to make yourself a better person! I have started to receive counseling, and I so thankful for this service.
Respect authority- I might not agree with everything that is happening, but I respect that there are people that have to make really tough decisions.  If I don't like the decisions they are making, I can use my right to vote. 
Use resources wisely- This one right now packs a punch! Resources wisely can go from what we are using in our own household to what we might need in school.
Make the World a Better Place, and- The world is NOT an easy place- but by only seeing the bad and no silver linings- we are not doing a very good job at making the world a better place. 
to be a Sister to Every Girl Scout- Give everyone grace.  Everyone deserves that.

I know that I am not a parent.  I know that I can only make a difference in the immediate circle of people that I am able to connect with right now.  But I have a troop that I love DEARLY that I can hopefully instill some of these same values. 

Parents, I know that you are having to handle a whole lot right now.  Even if you are not a Girl Scout... I hope that you take a moment to see how you are handling life in general and what types of values that you are instilling in your own children.  If you don't have children.. what kind of values are you instilling in others? So much of social media right now is reminding people how wrong they are, how to do things better, how life can be better.  COVID-19 has proved that no one is right.. and that nothing is how we want it right now. 

I am a middle school librarian and I worry about my own safety along with that of my family.  I have been following all of the rules as best I can. Our family has also gone down to one income for the most part- so I understand that stress as well.  Life is not easy right now for anyone! I have been following the Girl Scout Promise and Law to remind those around me that they are valued.  I am also VERY involved in my community.  I too am grieving that things are not how I want them to be (I mean.. during school.. I run a Girl Scout troop, Destination ImagiNation teams, clubs and various other activities) I have shed tears over the things that I have lost.. and the things that I will not be able to do.  I hate that educators and school systems are being bashed in almost every way.  I feel for the administrators and Superintendents having to make decisions for SO many people. I hate that there are so many families having to choose a job or a family to make this work.  Remember- people are watching what we do and how we handle ourselves.  Those people also include the younger generation, your children, our students. 

I know that I don't always handle things correctly.. but as the Promise and Law state- I will do my BEST and I will TRY.  Through all the darkness in the world right now, I hope to continue to instill the Promise and Law and the importance of showing Grace to ourselves and Grace to those around us.

Only part of my troop.

What work are you doing today to make our history better?  How are you handling stress?  What are you doing to change the world.

I will continue to do my Best and to Live by the Girl Scout Law.

Grow

Being a teacher- my years run June-June.  I know that is crazy, but that is just how my brain works. I say this, because many people in January choose goals, resolutions, or a word of the year.  My word of the year goes with my school calendar.  It is also so interesting how my word of the year just starts showing itself in my every activity that I do.  You can find my other blogs about my various words here.

My word this year is Grow.  There is so much going on right now.. that I realized for me to be in a better mindset I was going to need to grow mentally and physically.  As I said before, my word just starts popping up in different places. 

In the picture below (that is now my phone background) the flowerpot head is me! It was colored by one of my Girl Scout troop members.  Her mom sent me a text message one night "Miss Andrea, if you were a flower pot, what colors would all of your pretty flowers be?" I answered purple and yellow (because purple is my favorite color!) but I got back this beauty and message.  "I asked your favorite colors for the flowers in your pot, but I thought you're not just purple and yellow.. you are the whole rainbow!"

Current lock screen on my phone

I had not told anyone of my word.. it just sort of shows up. 
On July 4th we went to an absolutely BEAUTIFUL sunflower field about an hour away from our house and I grabbed a few shots.  This one is now my background for my computer.

As I said.. this year.. I want to grow. Growing is not easy.. and is not all fluff. 

What I am doing right now to start this growth:

Physically
-I went to my well woman visit at the end of June- everything is fine.. but she did point out that my triglycerides are a little high as with my cholesterol. So, I joined Weight Watchers again, posted my goals on my @healthyakbusybee account and sharing my journey there, and I am moving more! I am also doing Camp Gladiator (virtually and also in person... when I am in person- I make sure to keep LOTS of distance between others) I will also be blogging over at Healthy Akbusybee

Mentally
-I think we can all say that we have some major anxiety going on because all that is happening in the world right now.  After working with middle schoolers and living with an amazing husband who is also bi-polar, I have realized how important mental health is. I am always going, going, going..and I enjoy everything that I do.. but I am not very good at taking time for myself. I learned of the Family Advocacy Center in Irving.  Because I am an Irving resident.. I qualify for free counseling.  I have now been seeing a counselor for almost a month (it would have started earlier.. but thanks Covid)

These are only a few ways I hope to GROW this year. I know we are facing some major hardships.. but I hope to grow within myself to take on anything that is thrown my way.  Do you have a word a year?

Oh The Love...

As soon as this new way of normal began back in March, I  was blogging daily about all the things going on during this crazy time.  Then "school" started back... and I have been trying to find my way! Usually during April I also blog about National Infertility Week.. and usually I also blog about what I learned from Texas Library Association.  I did just share what we did during Lamar Teacher Appreciation Week

I am SO lucky to be a librarian! Librarians are even more important during this time where there is SO much information that is being pushed out, but also important with all the resources that we have!

April is also Library Month- and my staff was AMAZING and surprised me with a parade for School Librarian Day!

I love being me.  I love being quirky. I love overextending myself to do activities. I love coming home tired, but knowing that I have accomplished things. I love reminding others that they are important. I love showing others that they are important. I love yelling at people.. "Love you Sunshine!" I love being around other people (even when I need a break.. I need people!) I love helping students find books. I love giving students a place to try new things.  I love giving people the place to get out of their comfort zone!

All of the things above require actual physical humans.  I am lucky to live in a world where I have technology so I can see faces or hear voices.. but that doesn't take the place of actual physical interaction with people.

April is usually hard because I share my own story about infertility awareness.  You can find past blogs here, here and here.  Mother's Day weekend is usually a little tough too.. because I am human.  It is hard to know that I will probably never here "I Love You Mom"

Usually the sunny weather also makes everyone happier too, but this is such an odd time. I am also that weird person that is a people pleaser and needs words of encouragement.  I am one that takes initiative and gets things done, but I also like to make sure that I am doing things correctly.  Do any of us know if we are doing things correctly? I have felt so out of sorts.. and have felt that I am not doing enough.. or being enough. So I have been questioning myself a ton lately (which I can almost guarantee that many others are doing the same!) I also know that each of us is mourning and grieving different things right now for so many things from graduations, proms, weddings, get togethers.. and life in general.  I also am always hoping that I am showing enough love to others.

Guys.. the love that I have felt this week has filled my heart.  Irving ATPE allowed for us to have have a free grande coffee drink.. 2 times!  Although it is hard, I was able to visit my library for the first time since March 12th (I also discovered the reason that students were making TikToks in one of the corners- it is a perfect spot!) I have been able to continue to have my Girl Scout meetings (man do the look different!) I was adopted and had an AWESOME family that I have known for years deliver goodies to me.  I had one of the moms of one of my awesome Girl Scouts send me a text message with porch and when I looked outside I had had a basket full of goodies. I have a great new sign thanks to Mary Anne to hang in the library when we do go back to school. I was able to physically distance and see some of my favorite work friends for teacher appreciation. Friday  We also had the Irving Muslim community provide us with lunch.  Friday evening my husband walked out to get something from his car, and came back in asking why there were so many flamingos in our front yard.  My Girl Scout Troop 6458 had Flocked my yard, not only did the is make me laugh so hard I cried.. I loved my personalized sign

Sometimes, you just have to share the super happy things and the ones that make your heart feel full of love when you are going through a tough time.  I am thankful for those that I have in my life that continually show me love, give me words of encouragement, put up with my antics.  I know that another National Infertility Awareness Week has passed and another Mother's Day where I will not hear "I Love You Mom" is coming up.  More importantly though.. this is a reminder to myself that even though I might have tough times and I might not ever hear certain words.. my heart and life is full of love in so many different ways.

Thank you to those in my circle that give me so much love! If you ever need anything, please know that I am here for you as well! May we all get through this crazy time together.. while apart!

I love you Sunshines!

Friday March 20th, 2020

This is the last Friday of our Spring Break.  We have off Monday as well, but official distant learning will be happening on Tuesday.  I moved SUPER slow today.  I got half of the kitchen done, a little bit of laundry and then watched a whole lot of Tik Tok.  I did set my alarm this morning to send the hubby off to work!

I watch the news.. I know how scary it is outside the house where I can't control things.  However, we are in a situation where my husband needs to work.. not just for a little bit of financial stability (which we DESPERATELY need) but for himself too.  I know how I already feel day 7 of not leaving my house.  Sent him off to work with VERY strict instructions on what to do.. and then what would happen when he came home :)

Before I go any farther- HUGE shout out to ALL of the medical field, first responders, store workers, and restaurant/food places! You guys all deserve a medal!

I do have to admit, this might be my favorite Tik Tok I have made so far

Hubby got home, we followed protocol (thank goodness that in the past I had bought Lysol almost every month) talked about bills.  If you are in a spot where you are saving, already live on one income, manage your money better than we do... awesome!! About 4 years ago I finally started putting money in a 403B. It isn't a ton.. but at least it it is there.  But, that doesn't mean that we don't live paycheck to paycheck. We do pretty good about not living too much beyond our means.. but man, when you go to one income it gets hard and there is struggle.  My husband is a Chef- and these are very uncertain times.  So.. when we talk bills, we talk about what we are going to pay right away (I only get paid once a month) and who we were going to call to get extensions.  But, when he got home, we were able to talk about  bills this with a little room to breath because we knew that we were not going to be single income.

About 3 hours after he left work.. he got the phone call that the building he had just started working in was closing due to COVID-19.  His job that he had just started.. completed his first day today.. was no longer there right now.  The company is taking good care of its employees.. so he has been furloughed.  Silver lining- he has a job ready when this all passes.

As always- I do not write any of these for pity.  I know that we make our own choices for what we spend money on and how we spend money.  Sometimes we are smart.. sometimes even being smart it doesn't always work out. I also write this to remind myself of the hard things we are going through and how much better we are going to come out on the other side (and cleaner too!!) When we went to one income we started loosely following Jordan Page- check her out! She also has some great shelf cooking ideas.  I also know I am VERY lucky with all that I have- I do not take that for granted.

Happy Heart for Today
-Fun Tik Toks
-text messaging
-A roof over my head and a fridge full of food
-Talking about ideas for activities for the Girl Scout virtually
-The reminder that there are SO many awesome things happening right now.
Also- have I mentioned how much I loved Frozen 2?
-Work on a presentation with one of my awesome librarian friends

https://wdasgifs.tumblr.com/post/190983947396/disneyfilms-you-okay-there-olaf

My plans for this weekend
-Finishing cleaning the house and make myself a spot in my office for actual work
-update my Google Keep
-planning a BINGO challenge for school
-working on the latest Installment
-plan those virtual activities for my Girl Scout troop
-Hopefully mow my lawn soon! It looks TERRIBLE.. but at least we have gotten a ton of rain!
-Finish up my YouTube videos for Girl Scouts
-clean out my car (which I haven't touched since last Friday)

I hope that whatever troubles that you might be going through- you find those silver linings.  Although it is super tough right now for many, I can't wait to see what the world looks like on the other side of this COVID-19.  I am sort of ready for it to already be the other side.  I also hope that you give yourself grace.. and remember it is okay to be upset, but it is also okay to talk through it... take a deep breath.. and decide what you can control.  I see you and I can honestly say I understand! These are uncertain times for so many people.. but we got this with love, compassion, understanding and grace.

One last thought.. I consider myself an Introvert/Extrovert. I put on a very extrovert face most of the time.. but spend my lunches and evenings "recharging" my introvert self. I can say.. I am recharged.. and ready to go actually see people. We got this!

Thursday March 19, 2020

I have started only watching the news in the morning and then again in the afternoon.  The COVID-19 is on every news station, every Facebook story, almost every tweet/Instagram/Tik Tok.  However, what I also see a ton of is teachers curating resources, librarians sharing where to find books and read alouds, families reaching out to see how we can help each other (by keeping a 6 food distance), and the reminder to help small businesses that are now facing some major uncertainty.  

Today, without an alarm, I was awake by 7am (remember.. I am still on spring break)  I didn't watch Frozen 2 last night.. so I made myself a cup of coffee and muffin and sat down to watch a movie.

I loved every bit of it Frozen 2- I do believe I will be watching it again. Also, Olaf is my spirit animal.  I could totally be Olaf, I am not as funny.. but I am totally that awkward friend that is always happy even when I am not. I loved it! I also think that much of what is going on in Frozen 2 had good reminders that we can make it through right now.

This was one of my favorites of Olaf (although.. there were SO many more!)

I didn't get any Tik Toks made, but I did get a video created and shared in one of my Girl Scout groups.  I am a Girl Scout leader for a multi-level troop that has Brownies, Juniors and Cadettes (I have 30 girls!) I sort of love it.. and I am really missing my normal routine of leading them. Our next meeting wasn't going to be until March 30th, but we have cancelled that and are unsure when our next meeting will be.  One of the members posed the question if as leaders we were sending information/badges/things to work on home.  I emailed my parents and asked them these three questions:

1- Would you be interested in a virtual meeting?

2- Would you be interested in some badge work/patch work that you can do at home?

3- Would you be interested in joining a Google Classroom where I can house all of this?

I got a huge YES! Now, I also prefaced the email with I will post stuff and send stuff.. but it is completely optional and you and your family can do as little or as much they like.  This morning I created 3 Google classrooms and then recorded a video to share how I created these to the Girl Scout group.

After I posted the video I got so much feedback about sharing it, I asked if they would be interested in other how I organize my meetings and life through Google (because that is where I live!) So, it looks like I will be creating some more videos.  I used to make videos all the time, so today was nice to get back to that.  

Happy Heart for the Day:

-Creating Google Classrooms for my Girl Scout troop

-Creating a useful video for others to use (that made me feel really good)

-Finishing the guest bedroom- the closet and bedroom look amazing! 

-Watching Frozen 2

-Organizing my closet

Plans for tomorrow:

-send hubby off to work and not stress all day about this

-Tik Tok

-Kitchen is on the agenda for tomorrow!

-Record videos for using Google Drive and Girl Scouts- how I stay organized

I have also seen many teachers reminding students to write down how they are feeling and create journals of what they are seeing. This blog is a place for me to share what is on my mind, news, and reminders of our current situation.  I am also using this as a place to help with my own anxiety. There have been many breaks where I have decided that I am not leaving the house (because I am not good at slowing down)  I do always end up leaving.. but right now with no choice of leaving the house, funds are low, and there is so much uncertainty makes it hard. I am thankful to my friends that I get to chat with through various messaging apps. I hope that if you are reading this, you are doing things to take care of yourself too!

Wednesday March 18th, 2020

I did it! I got one thing done of my To Do List.  I SUPER deep cleaned the guest bathroom.  I mean.. there are NO germs in that place!  As it took me forever because I took breaks I reminded myself that I am still on break.. even though this has got to be the weirdest break ever.

I have a couple of really big unknowns right now.. so that is sort of stressing me out. Not only is it unknown it is things I really can't do anything about right now. So, I spend hours on TikTok

Happy Heart for the Day
-Cleaning the guest bathroom- it looks great
-Texting of the #skurtcrew
-Texting with my Wednesday breakfast bunch- I sure do miss our breakfast!
-Gliding with Viola
-Making 2 TikToks- one of those starring Jax!
-Not crying today :)
-We are about to watch Frozen 2!! (well.. I say that.. and hubby said that is okay.. cross your fingers it happens!)

Reminding myself of the happy hearts of the day remind me that although times are tough.. we still have good things!  I found a TON of funny letter boards to do for Tik Toks- going to start doing them every Wednesday (#Wednesdaywords)  I would do more of the letter boards because I love them- but they take FOREVER!

Plans for tomorrow
-Actually put my laundry away (big goals!)
-Organize my closet
-Tik Tok- don't know which one yet
-Dive into curriculum

If you don't have TikTok.. or you are not my friend on Facebook, here is my fun one from today.

I know that we are all trying to navigate this craziness. It is okay to be sad.. it is okay to be upset.. but it is also SUPER important to find at least one bright spot each day.. and stay in contact with friends.  I know that I am on spring break, but I am also feeling all the uncertainty as we are about to go into school in a different way.  One of my favorite apps lately is Action for Happiness. I love the daily reminders that it sends me. Check it out here

Love you all!

Tuesday March 17th, 2020

I want to start this blog with my ridiculous known as my dancing on TikTok

I am going to know so many dances by the time we go back to school!

Happy Heart of the Day:
-Hubby got the phone call!! I know that we are all in trying times... but please send up prayers that this works.  Yes, we are still practicing social distancing.. and I already have a protocol in place for how he will come home
-I recorded 2 TikToks today
-I got to converse with friends via Glide and text which is always nice

We did venture out for a bit today to pick up a steak to celebrate tonight (it was on SUPER sale.. and the store actually had some) and cheese to go on our pizza we will make later this week.  Not going to lie.. I almost cried in the store because it is just sad. I know those guys are working SO hard right now.. and I think of all the people that are going to go without because they do not have the funds to stock up on supplies.

So, that to do list? I didn't get it all done..
-I did call some bill companies- not fun.. but got it done
-I did wash Ladybug (our 15 year old pound puppy)
-I did actually vacuum the house and do laundry
-talked curriculum and ideas
-recorded TikToks

Having just a little bit of weight lifted off my shoulders with the phone call for my husband is going to make me much more productive tomorrow.  Being stuck in the house because of social distancing.. unsure of so many things..it makes it hard to focus!

List for Tomorrow:
-Plan virtual Girl Scout meeting
-Guest bedroom/guest bathroom
-Dive into curriculum
-TikToks
-Start curating the massive amount of resources that have been shared lately! Think this is going to be a great time to use Wakelet

I LOVE you all!

And I leave you with this TikTok from today.. and a cartoon my mom sent me

You can find the whole comic here

Monday March 16th, 2020

Oh my goodness.. guys.. today I actually got up and got dressed!  I also had a small panic attack as I had to have a conversation with my landlord... sometimes I adult really well.. and sometimes I SUCK at adulting!  We are not super frivolous spenders.. and we have done pretty good at trimming some things down, but when living on one income it gets a little hard.  With all the news that has come out today, please send good thoughts that something comes through financially.. we could really use a small break (as probably most of the economy)

The day started with the news information that STAAR is cancelled for this year- this is a BIG deal.

Here are the happy heart things from today:
-Did I mention that I actually got dressed... and have eaten 3 meals today!  Getting back on a schedule :)
-Made a couple of TikToks- if you are on TikTok- you can find me at @akbusybee (great cardio!)
-Chatted with some friends via Marco Polo, Glide and Messenger
-Took some deep breathes and reminded myself that we are ALL in this together (hmm.. next TikTok dance?)

We just finished watching the news.. and although it stressed me out more, I know that there are SO many people that are in the same situation that we are.  I feel for the places that are now even impacted more with the required closures.







We live in such a time where we are able to get whatever we want whenever we want and this change in what we can do is going to be hard for many.  It is an important mindset change and to take this very seriously. 

My heart and understanding goes out to:
-The businesses that are now facing some very hard decisions
-Parents that are trying to navigate a new norm of online learning and still take care of the house as well
-People that just got married or getting married
-Seniors that are supposed to graduate this year
-ALL people in leadership positions.  NONE of this is easy.  NONE of the decisions are easy.
-Those that are already financially struggling and now have to make even harder choices.

As I have mentioned before.. I am a lister.  I haven't pulled out my planner, because it gives me anxiety thinking about how unsure I am of the future. Listing, however, gives me a chance to put to paper what I really want to get done.

My List for tomorrow:
-Call a couple of our bills (these are NOT fun phone calls.. but with the way things are right now- it is the hardest part of my adulting right now)
-Guest Bedroom/Guest Bathroom/Laundry room
-TikTok- maybe another dance- but I also want to do a Library one
-Clean out my overflowing email boxes
-Marco Polo/Glide my friends
-Virtual CG!
-Think about how to help my Girl Scouts

Although our school is closed until April 6th as of right now, we are still in very uncertain waters.  What this will look like for the rest of the year and what it will look like for next year.

These blogs are a reminder for me of all the craziness that is in our world right now and the uncertainty that we are living through.  We can get through hard things, and I know I will look back on these and know that we made it through this hard time too.

Sunday March 15th, 2020

Day 3 of Spring Break... and I have done NOTHING except for
-nap
-watch Schitt's Creek and Law and Order (I REALLY want to watch Frozen 2)
-read
-reminding myself to eat (you would think I would not have a problem with that
-I have done a GREAT job of staying off social media

I might be a super busy person, but I am a structured scheduled busy person.  I knew that Spring Break would not be structured and I would need to keep myself busy.. but the email came yesterday that we would be on virtual learning starting March 24th (that is the first day back from spring break) and will continue to April 3rd. 

I love that I work on a VILS campus.  VILS is Verizon Innovative Learning Campus.  All of our students have iPads with data.  Our teachers use the devices to increase learning and implement instruction.  The important thing to remember with any devices is that it is not just about using technology, but still using good teaching with technology.  Our district is implementing at home learning plans to prepare for the closures.  Teaching is a hard profession, and I know that there are so many teachers that want their students to succeed.  I know how important it is for schools to be closed right now.  Although I have been staying off social media, I have seen enough news articles and information from doctors in the US and friends with family members in Italy to know how much this can devastate communities.  Changing to all virtual schools is not an easy task... and our administrators and superintendents are making tough decisions to ensure safety for our students and staff.  Think about your teachers that are doing everything possible to ensure that there will still be learning going on at home.. along with some structure

Here are my couple of reminders today:
-Your school library has SO many digital resources (I know ours does!)
-Your local library has SO many great resources too!
-Reading books online (through Youtube or other ways) violates copyright.. I know.. I know.. but Andrea I can't see my kids.  There are a TON of resources out there that have the author reading their books. 
-We are all in this together! Think about your neighbor.. but also give yourself some grace

I want to be proactive as a librarian... because here is that nagging thought in the back of my head.  We are all going into very unknown waters in what learning is about to look like for a mass amount of students.  When we finally travel through these unknown waters- what is it going to look like on the other side? We are currently only adding 2 weeks, but who knows.. it could end up being more.  This will most likely effect our STAAR testing.  Schools get money with students being at school and from testing.  What will life look like beyond this?

Since we are still on spring break- I am not going to be pushing out too much stuff.  If I am overwhelmed, I can only imagine how my students are right now. I am coming up with ideas though and will begin to create things to push out.  Don't worry.. all that I make I will be sharing!

Ideas:
-Some at home ideas for my Girl Scout troop
-Tik Toks library style
-Videos and challenges that have students make things
-A reading challenge
-Mindfulness activities- we are all stressed!

Think About and some virtual love and good thoughts:
-Our healthcare workers
-The people that are working in the grocery stores
-Custodians
-Parents that are now trying to figure out a new norm (from money to food)
-Parents that have wonderful children with special needs
-Families that are living with someone that has mental illness of any type (I know that I have anxiety that has not fully been diagnosed.. but I also live with an amazing husband who is bi-polar.. so I am personally trying to be as positive as possible)
-People that are living with mental illness themselves.  We all joke about living as an introvert.. but for those that suffer with depression and anxiety- this can heighten all of this
-Those that are struggling financially and are already uncertain about how to put food/supplies in their house
-EVERYONE- everyone is trying to figure out these new norms.  Some have already started to take the advice of social distancing and are staying at home.. others are not. We all need to have grace with each other and realize that this is a VERY real deal.


Disclaimer:
I write these blogs for me.  To remind me of my thoughts, to lower my own stress, and to get on "paper" what many of us are probably thinking (right.. I can't be the only one out there with these thoughts!)

Spring Break 2020

I am on day 2 of not leaving my house (I did leave yesterday morning at 6am for groceries and noon for gas.. but will get into that later) I have a migraine that has been brewing, but I think it is because my brain is on overload.  When I get anxious.. I list (and usually clean, but I have a feeling I am about to have a TON of time for that).  I list and overthink things and list some more.  I also scroll endlessly on social media. Instead of listing this time, I am deciding to write.

I have had this blog for almost 9 years.  Some years I post often.. some years not so much.  Some of my blogs are viewed over 15000 times some barely 100.  I have 186 different posts that share my random adventures, thoughts, and activities.  I write my blogs for me to remember what I have done, where I have been, and all the awesome people I have met along the way. 

The week before spring break was filled with a Book Fair and amazing author visit, I went to a FREE community hip hop dance class.. and there was a time change, short week.. and the overhang of the COVID-19.  Oh.. I also became addicted to TikTok. Guys- yes, I might have downloaded it to see what all of these dances are about.. but there are some really smart people on there! I have already made 3 videos (If you are really interested you can find me @akbusybee)

On Thursday we left school with sort of the unknown of when we would be back (I did check out about 10 books).. or what school would look like after spring break.  I now am upset with myself at not getting more books in kids hands. 

Guys- this week.. I stressed. I stressed because I had the AMAZING Sharon Draper come to talk to all of our 7th graders. I stressed because I ran a book fair for 3 and a half days.  I stressed because I all I could think about how COVID-19 is going to affect and effect our economy.  I am not trying to be a dooms day person, I just see the bigger picture.  I am lucky that I am on salary.. but just because I am on salary does not mean that I don't live paycheck to paycheck (if you don't know.. most teachers/librarians only get paid once a month)-and since November- we have been a one income family.. that gets a little more behind each month.  I also work with some awesome people on campus that are not salary.. and when school is not open.. they don't get paid.  Not only that.. when school is not open many of our students don't eat- or have a safe space. I also stressed because reality is- my husband is in the service industry. Is is an extremely talented Executive Chef.  But the service industry changes so much.. and he has been unemployed since November (He did just get a job last week.. but we are unsure of when he is going to start). I don't write any of this for pity- I write this because it is my story- and more than likely there are other people out there with the same story.  

Friday morning- I set my alarm for super early- and I was at the grocery store when it opened at 6am.  It wasn't very busy- of course there was no toilet paper or water bottles. I didn't need toilet paper.. and it looks like I will be drinking tap water soon (which I am totally okay with.. just add extra ice!)  I did take pictures of the empty shelves- not to post.. because I think that is adding to the paranoia.. but as a reminder to myself next year of the craziness that we have survived.  I found some great deals and didn't overbuy. I also made sure to THANK every person that was working- because I know how hard they are working! This is not an easy time.. and when people get anxious people get cranky. Now, granted- I can't really overbuy.. because I am on a budget.. we still have about 13 days until payday.   I think of those families that see others stocking up on items and realize that they can't afford to do that.  I then spent WAY too much time on Facebook with overload of information from both sides.. and that is stressing me out too! I might have cried last night at the stress- and it is only day 1 of Spring Break!! Hubby reminded me I should put the phone down.. so I did and finished my first book of Spring Break.

Today is Saturday- I have watched Season 1 of Schitt's Creek, I am unsure why Netflix asked if I was still watching- what else am I going to be doing??

I am also working on my second book of Spring Break.. and trying to just take one day at a time.  I might be pretty excited about Frozen 2 coming out tomorrow.  We will be practicing social distancing and also hoping that although this is affecting our whole economy that my husband can return to work next week.  This is a VERY real deal.. and guys.. I had a little panic attack last night too.. because about four weeks ago.. I had a terrible cough and low grade fever.. and it wasn't the flu or strep throat.. just some virus.  

Already as I have written this blog my stress has lessened and my migraine is going away because I have gotten thoughts on a page and out of my brain. Breaks are fun and games and everything, but I know that this is not a normal break and I am going to need to stay focused and have my own "schedule"

Here is what I plan to do:

1- Document/write- not necessarily on social media.. but get it on paper.  One of my #50by50 is to write a book.. and right now I sort of feel like I am in a dystopian novel!

2- Keep a schedule

3- Do some major deep cleaning

4- Read

5- Exercise and Eat- I am a CG member.. I don't think I will actually go.. but I will be doing the stay at home items they recommended

6- Try not to stress- and remind myself that we are all in the same boat.. and it is not just my household that is having a tough time making it financially! (this one is going to be hard!)

7- Limit my time on social media

I have also pulled out some board games and plan to create some Girl Scout activities to send out to my troop to offer something more to parents to work on.  I do believe this is a spring break that no one will forget.  When/If I do go out.. I also plan to be SUPER nice to all those that are working.. and wash my hands often!  To all those that are in a limbo as to what your financial situation might be.. I see you and I feel you.  I also am thinking about all the administrators and superintendents that are having to make choices for safety of lots of kiddos.. but with that safety also comes other hardship.  Just be kind to one another and remember that it is happening everywhere.