Life is so good

I just finished reading the book "Life is so good," an autobiography written by George Dawson. This was one of the best books I have ever read. I couldn't put it down, so I read it in just a few hours.

George is a black man who learns to read and write at the age of 98. He is the grandson on a slave and started working at the age of 4 and never attended school as a child. He is the hardest working, most humble man I have ever heard of. It's hard not to fall in love with him.
This is an incredible story about the life of a black boy/man in the early 1900's.

I am so glad that I came across this book, and I HIGHLY recommend you pick it up as well.

The Bulldogs

Zack just started playing basketball. His team is the Bulldogs and they had their first game today. They lost, but played great. We'll get 'em next time!

He's a great player and probably the fastest on the team. I think the little guys have an advantage in basketball due to the fact they can squirm in underneath and steal the ball! He's just like his dad-great in all sports!

A friend filled day

I had the best day yesterday.
Mike had some work down in Sandy and lucky for me, the kids and I were out of school so we got to go too. I had Mike drop Zack and me off at the elementary school so we could visit our friends. They had school, but get Tuesday off, so it worked out great.
We were greeted at the front doors by our former Principal and friend, Ms. Hoolihan. She was happy to see us and had a big hug for each of us. Our first stop was the main office. It was so great to see Kerri and Lori and the many teachers that were in there as well. My mom is working in the kitchen now, so Zack couldn't wait to get down to say hi to her.
We are really excited to get back there. I am really hoping that I can find a position back in the school. I miss the students, teacher and staff so much. It just felt so natural to be there-I almost answered the phone a couple of times just out of habit!
Everywhere we went yesterday we ran into old friends. It was great. I forgot just how small a large city can be! And while West Haven really is a great place to live, there's no place like home!

It's cool to be cold

Apparently is not "cool" to wear a coat these days.
Every morning I fight with Alixx to wear her jacket. It's an ongoing battle with her.
We have finally compromised with a heavier lined Volcom sweater. It's better than nothing I guess.

The other morning, as it was snowing hard and FREEZING cold, I drove her to the bus stop. Along the way I noticed that out of all 15 or so of the kids walking, she was the only one actually wearing a jacket! Mean mom that I am.

I personally HATE to be cold. My classroom is the coldest in the school and I complain daily. I don't get these kids these days. Do they not know how stupid they look standing in a snow storm with shorts and a tee, shivering? Apparently not. For some reason it's cool to be cold!

In memory

Harvey, the greatest dog ever!
Passed away Friday, January 9, 2009

Harvey, I love you so much and miss you terribly. Life at the kener home will never be the same.

Thank you for the many, many wonderful memories.
Run free Harvey Houdini!!!

I LOVE YOU PUPPY!!!

HOME

This morning on an episode of Sponge Bob Square Pants, Sandy Cheeks the squirrel was homesick for Texas. I feel for her! No really. Later in the show, she realizes that "home" is where people know you and love you. This really made me homesick!

As we were sitting in church today I decided to look around and notice all the people that I care about and have gotten to know. There are a lot! A way lot more than I thought. I guess that when I get something in my mind, that's the way it is-and nobody can tell me different. Sometimes I have to see things for myself before I believe it's true. I guess I had in my head that I haven't really made many friends here and my "friends" are back home. That is NOT the case. I'm glad that I realize this now.

I still want to go home, and I will in just a few short months. But at least I will leave here a better person who has made many new friends, and learned MANY hard lessons about life. I might even miss it here-just a little! My home temporarily away from HOME.

Happy New Year

Wishing us all a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year!
2009