Been busy over the past few months with life, so I really haven't had a chance to update. So, here goes a very quick update of the past few months.
Neil: has been busy with work as usual. His business has started to pickup again since summer has ended. He went antelope hunting and got one, so we have some fresh antelope meat for a while. He has a, sort of, new job training security officers. But, we are still waiting to see if it works out or not. He's also been busy with Hunter's Ed and helping with scouts. He was called as Sunday school teacher in our ward, also.
Melanie: Been busy being a mom and with work. Nick and I are off track for the next 3 weeks so it'll be really nice to be home and just get things done around the house. I'm still Webelos den mother and that keeps me busy also.
Felicia: Started 9th grade and turned 15! She'll get her learners permit sometime this month, so stay off the roads. Actually to be safe just stay in your homes and lock your doors and windows! She's in the French club presidency, on the Journalism staff (which means she'll help put together the yearbook and school paper). She's also taking a bunch of honors classes which keeps her busy. Plus she still babysits and is busy with Young Womens.
Andrew: Started 7th grade this year!! He joined MESA and is taking all the gifted and talented classes that he can possibly take. He's also taking Mandrian Chinese! He earned his Tenderfoot in scouts, he just hasn't recieved it yet. And, he's busy with being in Young Mens. He also helps out his Grandpa (Neil's dad) a lot.
Nick: He started 4th grade this year! He just earned his Bear in Cub Scouts, so he's pretty busy with that. He really likes school and says that he's going to marry his teacher, Miss Hales. She's a really cute teacher and I have the privilage of working with her too. He enjoys primary and loves to read and draw. He really keeps me on my toes at times.
So, this is our life for the past few months. Nothing to exciting...yet?
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
The 4th annual school is starting tribute
And, once again school is starting up for those of you on year round school. So, in honor of Mom here is the Hallelujah Chorus to celebrate the kids returning to school and, most importantly, our freedom! I have a feeling that this year not only is my mom laughing at me doing this (like she always does), but Mikey is joining in with her.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
July 19, 2011
Today the Heavens gained another angel. My wonderful brother, Mikey, joined my Mom up there. He never gained fame, fortune, or did anything worth note for the history books. But, he did change my life and the lives of everyone that ever had the privlege to meet him. I will miss him dearly, but at the same time I will rejoice for him. Because I know that he is now able to walk, talk, run, and do everything that he wasn't able to do here. I'm not the best at putting my feelings into words sometimes, so I chose a song for my blog that was my Mom's favorite because it expresses exactly how she felt, and how I feel, about Mikey. It's called "Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler
I love you so much Mikey, I miss you. But, I know that you are with Mom and that you are so much better off now.
I love you so much Mikey, I miss you. But, I know that you are with Mom and that you are so much better off now.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
The scout trip
Andy was able to go on his very first scout camping trip this week to the Scofield Resevoir. Unfortunatly it didn't turn out to be a very happy trip. Yesterday a freak thunderstorm moved over the resevoir. Before anyone could even move and take shelter lightening hit the camp. It struck one of the boys in Andys troop and killed him. This boys best friend was with him and was also indirectly hit. He suffered some minor burns and was taken to the hospital. Andy was there when it happened. He didn't see the actual lightening strike, but he did feel it. He was one of the kids to run and get help for these two young men. And he did see the counslers and other people performing CPR on the young man who passed away. Andy is doing ok, only time can heal a wound like this. My heart and prayers goes out to the young mans (who died) family. And, also to the young man who was injured. I do know there names, but I will not put that on here out of respect for them and their familes.
The thing that gets me the most is that Andy was video taping them and took pictures of them a day or so before this happened. So, I have video and pictures of these boys goofing off and being typical 12 year olds and then this lightening stike happened and everything changed.
Our troop had us meet up at the stake center to discuss what happened and to answer any questions that the parents might have. And, during all this everyone was still doing their duty. I don't know how to explain it, but it was just amazing for me to see our stake leaders and the troop leaders handling this just beautifully. It was just a testimony to me of how true the gospel is and how grateful I am that I am a member of this wonderful religion that teaches us that families are eternal.
The thing that gets me the most is that Andy was video taping them and took pictures of them a day or so before this happened. So, I have video and pictures of these boys goofing off and being typical 12 year olds and then this lightening stike happened and everything changed.
Our troop had us meet up at the stake center to discuss what happened and to answer any questions that the parents might have. And, during all this everyone was still doing their duty. I don't know how to explain it, but it was just amazing for me to see our stake leaders and the troop leaders handling this just beautifully. It was just a testimony to me of how true the gospel is and how grateful I am that I am a member of this wonderful religion that teaches us that families are eternal.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Southern Carribean 2011
The cruise was so great. Saw San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and St. Maarten. If I had to pick a favorite island it would be St. Maarten because it's Dutch. All the streets, stores, everything was in Dutch.
Some of the funny things that happened on the cruise was...I thought the driveways in St. Thomas would be hard to shovel in the winter because of how steep they are. And, I gave Neil a black eye!
The coolest thing that happened was..Deep sea fishing in St. Maarten. I actually caught a 250 lb. Marlin! Neil wasn't left out of catching fish, he caught a Dolphin Fish (Mahi Mahi).
The food was out of this world and I gained 10 lbs.!
Our cabin was small, but comfortable. And, every night after dinner we had an animal on our bed to great us.
I'll post pictures of our cruise later.
Some of the funny things that happened on the cruise was...I thought the driveways in St. Thomas would be hard to shovel in the winter because of how steep they are. And, I gave Neil a black eye!
The coolest thing that happened was..Deep sea fishing in St. Maarten. I actually caught a 250 lb. Marlin! Neil wasn't left out of catching fish, he caught a Dolphin Fish (Mahi Mahi).
The food was out of this world and I gained 10 lbs.!
Our cabin was small, but comfortable. And, every night after dinner we had an animal on our bed to great us.
I'll post pictures of our cruise later.
Friday, June 10, 2011
My summer just keeps getting better
So, today I decided to find out what happens when you try to mate a truck with a concrete pillar.
Interesting results don't you think?
Mikey
Mikey decided it would be fun to start off the summer by giving himself 2nd degree burns on both his legs. He was brought to the U of U burn clinic where he spent the night for observation. He was there the 7th and the 8th. He was brought back to the McKay-Dee ER yesterday for dehydration and because he would not eat. Come to find out that he is allergic to one of the pain meds that he was on. So, he's back home today and seems to be doing better.
Here are some picures of his legs (the parts that weren't burned to bad). He was burnt from the bottom of his feet all the way up to his waist.
Here are some picures of his legs (the parts that weren't burned to bad). He was burnt from the bottom of his feet all the way up to his waist.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
scoutisms
I'm the new Webelos den mother of a combined ward scouting program. I only have one Webelo right now, but I do really enjoy it.
I had to share what we talked about today. We were doing the Faith part to get his Webelos badge and here is what he said..
"Faith is like a mouse with a big hunk of cheese. He can't eat it all at once because he'll barf, so he can only take little pieces at a time. Eventually, over time, all the cheese will be gone."
I just thought that was the cutest way to explain Faith. Because we really don't get it all at once. We develop it over time through our own personal experiences. Just like a mouse with a big hunk of cheese.
I had to share what we talked about today. We were doing the Faith part to get his Webelos badge and here is what he said..
"Faith is like a mouse with a big hunk of cheese. He can't eat it all at once because he'll barf, so he can only take little pieces at a time. Eventually, over time, all the cheese will be gone."
I just thought that was the cutest way to explain Faith. Because we really don't get it all at once. We develop it over time through our own personal experiences. Just like a mouse with a big hunk of cheese.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Felicia's Principal
I just had to post this article in the Salt Lake Tribune about Felicia's Principal at Evergreen Jr. High. He is an awesome Principle and I know that Felicia really likes him.
Top Utah educators are singled out
With her head down, the girl rushed through the doors of Evergreen Junior High on Friday, 20 minutes late for class.
Principal Mark Grant, who stands at the front of the school greeting students each morning, could have scolded her. Instead, he softly asked if she was all right.
She briefly raised her head, revealing tear-filled eyes, and silently nodded as she hurried to class.
“I don’t ever yell at them because I think they’ve already had a bad day,” Grant said of late students. His own eyes grew glossy as he explained.
Since Grant arrived at Evergreen five years ago, he has worked toward one main goal: to make sure students know that he and their teachers truly care about them. It’s an attitude that helped Grant win a Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education this year. Typically, 10 Utah teachers, administrators and school volunteers win the $10,000 awards each year.
Those who nominated the principal for the award said he has turned Evergreen around. Before he took over, the school had a bad reputation and lower test scores. Hundreds of its students chose to go to other district schools. Now, five years later, students have returned and test scores have improved significantly.
Grant has made academic changes — implementing classes for at-risk students, expanding gifted and talented offerings, starting character education classes, and adding technology — but he said above all else, caring and positivity have led to the school’s improvement.
“When kids know someone cares about them the academics and other stuff falls right into place,” Grant said. “If kids feel good about themselves, they do better.”
To get his message across, Grant and the PTA choose a school theme each year meant to uplift students. This year’s theme, “Take a Stand,” is emblazoned in neon green across black T-shirts and on rubber wristbands given to all students, paid for mostly with character education grants. If students lose or break the wristbands, they must do two hours of community service to get new ones. Once a month, students who remember to wear the T-shirts or wristbands are recognized at school assemblies for standing up for what’s right.
Seventh-grader Kevin Hyde said he has seen the motto in action. When a student was bullied earlier in the year, a group of kids wearing the shirts stepped in to stop it, he said.
“It’s so cool to be around people taking a stand,” said Hyde, who called Grant “the best principal ever.”
Grant said junior high can be a tough time for kids, and not everyone can be a cheerleader or star basketball player. But everyone can wear a wristband and be recognized for taking a stand, he said.
“Mr. Grant has made such a difference at Evergreen Junior High,” said parent Nan Ellsworth, who has had five children attend the school over the years and is a former chairwoman of the school community council. “He’s caring and has made the whole atmosphere at the school change into one where they really are motivated to be all they can be and make a difference for others.”
English and journalism teacher Nancy Crockett, who nominated Grant for the award, said he has built morale among students and teachers. She said her best experiences as an educator have been under Grant.
Grant attributes the school’s success to his staff. He said the school’s teachers were already great before he got there, and they, like the students, just needed to know they were valued.
“It’s all about teachers,” Grant said. “I wanted them to know I knew teaching was a hard job, so when they’d go out of their way to be nice to kids and do extracurriculars, I always made sure they knew I appreciated it.”
Ultimately, Grant said he’ll gauge the school’s success by the types of individuals it produces.
“When [people] ask us what kind of junior high Evergreen is, we all get a smile on our face and say, ‘I’ll tell you in 10 or 20 years,’” Grant said.
Top Utah educators are singled out
With her head down, the girl rushed through the doors of Evergreen Junior High on Friday, 20 minutes late for class.
Principal Mark Grant, who stands at the front of the school greeting students each morning, could have scolded her. Instead, he softly asked if she was all right.
She briefly raised her head, revealing tear-filled eyes, and silently nodded as she hurried to class.
“I don’t ever yell at them because I think they’ve already had a bad day,” Grant said of late students. His own eyes grew glossy as he explained.
Since Grant arrived at Evergreen five years ago, he has worked toward one main goal: to make sure students know that he and their teachers truly care about them. It’s an attitude that helped Grant win a Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education this year. Typically, 10 Utah teachers, administrators and school volunteers win the $10,000 awards each year.
Those who nominated the principal for the award said he has turned Evergreen around. Before he took over, the school had a bad reputation and lower test scores. Hundreds of its students chose to go to other district schools. Now, five years later, students have returned and test scores have improved significantly.
Grant has made academic changes — implementing classes for at-risk students, expanding gifted and talented offerings, starting character education classes, and adding technology — but he said above all else, caring and positivity have led to the school’s improvement.
“When kids know someone cares about them the academics and other stuff falls right into place,” Grant said. “If kids feel good about themselves, they do better.”
To get his message across, Grant and the PTA choose a school theme each year meant to uplift students. This year’s theme, “Take a Stand,” is emblazoned in neon green across black T-shirts and on rubber wristbands given to all students, paid for mostly with character education grants. If students lose or break the wristbands, they must do two hours of community service to get new ones. Once a month, students who remember to wear the T-shirts or wristbands are recognized at school assemblies for standing up for what’s right.
Seventh-grader Kevin Hyde said he has seen the motto in action. When a student was bullied earlier in the year, a group of kids wearing the shirts stepped in to stop it, he said.
“It’s so cool to be around people taking a stand,” said Hyde, who called Grant “the best principal ever.”
Grant said junior high can be a tough time for kids, and not everyone can be a cheerleader or star basketball player. But everyone can wear a wristband and be recognized for taking a stand, he said.
“Mr. Grant has made such a difference at Evergreen Junior High,” said parent Nan Ellsworth, who has had five children attend the school over the years and is a former chairwoman of the school community council. “He’s caring and has made the whole atmosphere at the school change into one where they really are motivated to be all they can be and make a difference for others.”
English and journalism teacher Nancy Crockett, who nominated Grant for the award, said he has built morale among students and teachers. She said her best experiences as an educator have been under Grant.
Grant attributes the school’s success to his staff. He said the school’s teachers were already great before he got there, and they, like the students, just needed to know they were valued.
“It’s all about teachers,” Grant said. “I wanted them to know I knew teaching was a hard job, so when they’d go out of their way to be nice to kids and do extracurriculars, I always made sure they knew I appreciated it.”
Ultimately, Grant said he’ll gauge the school’s success by the types of individuals it produces.
“When [people] ask us what kind of junior high Evergreen is, we all get a smile on our face and say, ‘I’ll tell you in 10 or 20 years,’” Grant said.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
misc pictures
These are pictures of my yard this morning and of the preparedness fair that was at Home Depot today. Neil was able to be apart because he's on St. Mark's Hazmat team.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
another year...more kids
Today was the last day (most likely) of small reading groups at Woodrow. I have totally loved working with these kids this year. Even though I had my challenges, if only one of these kids reads better then it was all worth it. So let me introduce you to my most AWESOME kiddos of the 2010-2011 school year...
Mrs. Whipples class..Maurice, Mohammed, Sarh, Maria, and Danika
Mrs.Wilson's class..Kaleb, Freddy, Andre, and Valasi
Miss Mumford's class..Jose, Ian, Cesar, Edwin, Mari, and Adriana
The class that is missing is Ms. Chappell's class..Trinity, Frank, Gage, Jessica, Kobe, and Tania.
Mrs. Whipples class..Maurice, Mohammed, Sarh, Maria, and Danika
Mrs.Wilson's class..Kaleb, Freddy, Andre, and Valasi
Miss Mumford's class..Jose, Ian, Cesar, Edwin, Mari, and Adriana
The class that is missing is Ms. Chappell's class..Trinity, Frank, Gage, Jessica, Kobe, and Tania.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Andy turns 12!!!
Andy turned 12 last week. I can't believe that he's out of primary and in Young Mens now. He was so excited on Sunday to be going to his first Young Mens meeting. I loved how the older boys in our ward really took Andy under their wing and showed him around and really took care of him.
Andy was also ordained a Decon yesterday. That was one of the most beautiful things I think I've ever seen. My Dad was able to ordain him and it was just wonderful. I can't even begin to explain how strong the spirit was. I, being mom of course, was an emotional wreck. I was crying through the whole thing.
So, in tribute to him turning 12 please enjoy these photos of my Andy through the years.
about 2 weeks old
1 year old
2 years old
3 years old
4 years old
5 years old
6 years old
7 years old
8 years old
9 years old
10 years old
11 years old
Andy was also ordained a Decon yesterday. That was one of the most beautiful things I think I've ever seen. My Dad was able to ordain him and it was just wonderful. I can't even begin to explain how strong the spirit was. I, being mom of course, was an emotional wreck. I was crying through the whole thing.
So, in tribute to him turning 12 please enjoy these photos of my Andy through the years.
about 2 weeks old
1 year old
2 years old
3 years old
4 years old
5 years old
6 years old
7 years old
8 years old
9 years old
10 years old
11 years old
Friday, March 25, 2011
Me...the clutz
I just had to put my most brilliant move on here today. I've been cleaning my house for Andy's birthday party tomorrow and I decided that my kitchen floor needed a good scrubbing. Don't ask me how I did it, but as I'm scrubbing my floor I somehow break my finger. Am I the worlds biggest clutz or what?
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Only Nicholas
Nick won a contest for making the best rabbit in his class a few days ago. He came home from school and showed me his prize, but he was very sad. He said that the 2nd grade teachers who judged the rabbits laughed at his because it had "bumps". I asked him "What do you mean bumps?" He pointed right at my chest and said "You know, like your bumps."
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
what a day
Normally I don't post stuff like this, but I just had to share my crazy day today. I blame all this on Felicia since she's the one it started with. Felicia decided to start the day off by leaving her US history book at home. So, I have to run it up to her before I go to work which is no big deal. And, while I'm at the Jr. High I am able to get the registration packet for Andy. Everything is going ok until, on the way to work, my truck breaks down. It starts making really bad noises and I can smell something burning which is never a good thing. So I pull over and call Neil. Thank goodness I'm not to far away from home, so he tells me to just turn around and go home. He calls his brother who is nice enough to come pick up me and the boys and bring us to school. I get to work and it wasn't bad, but I was worrying about how Neil was going to make it to his class in Farr West because it decided to start snowing like crazy (and according to the weather we had a 20% chance of "light" snow showers..HA!). So, I was just not in the best of moods at work. Neil calls around 2:00 pm and tells me that the truck is fixed. It wasn't the part that he thought it was, so it was much easier to fix. Everything is going ok until Neil gets up to Farr West. As he pulls into the driveway of where his class is at the truck breaks down again! The new part we just bought was totally shredded and messed up! Neil's brother to the rescue again. He went and bought another part and drove up there to fix our truck.
What's funny is usually on a day like this I keep thinking what else can go wrong, but not today. Today all I could see was the Lord's hand in everything. In Roy, Neil's brother, being home sick instead of at work which meant he could run me and the boys to school. The truck breaking down exactly at the best places (down the road from my house and right at Neil's class). And, Roy being able to drive up to Farr West to fix our truck again since it isn't that hard of a part to fix on your own. I'm so very grateful for all the little tender mercies Heavenly Father gave us today. Even though it was a challenging day, I could totally see how he was blessing us all the way through it.
What's funny is usually on a day like this I keep thinking what else can go wrong, but not today. Today all I could see was the Lord's hand in everything. In Roy, Neil's brother, being home sick instead of at work which meant he could run me and the boys to school. The truck breaking down exactly at the best places (down the road from my house and right at Neil's class). And, Roy being able to drive up to Farr West to fix our truck again since it isn't that hard of a part to fix on your own. I'm so very grateful for all the little tender mercies Heavenly Father gave us today. Even though it was a challenging day, I could totally see how he was blessing us all the way through it.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
article on KSL
The Elementary school I work for and that my kids go to made the news once again. This time it's about their awesome pre-school program. The teacher in the picture was Nicks teacher for pre-school and she is really cool.
Preschool closing achievement gap
January 23rd, 2011 @ 9:00am
By Candice Madsen
SALT LAKE CITY -- One of the best predictors of success in life is whether a child can read at grade level by 3rd grade. But many kids start school so far behind, they never catch up.
A preschool program in the Granite District is attracting national attention for closing the achievement gap.
"The children are getting exposed to a lot of pre-academic social sciences, language development, pre-literacy, pre-math," explained Brenda Van Gorder, director of the Granite School District preschool program.
"I think our Legislature needs to see the advantage of having children start school at age 3 and 4. I think it just needs to become a permanent part of education system that we have preschool available to the students." -Lynda HartThe early education is especially important at Title One schools where many students speak English as a second language. At Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, students speak 28 different languages.
"The kids who have had the preschool experience really know the language before they get to kindergarten, which is a big plus," said principal Lynda Hart.
Test scores reflect the dramatic difference preschool can make. Before entering preschool, ESL students tested at about the same level as children with disabilities.
After two years in preschool, their test scores are almost on par with English-speaking students.
"Some kids are not speaking a word when they come and by the end you can't keep them quiet. Other kids' confidence level and social skills are really low at the beginning of the year and by the end of the year they are ready for kindergarten," said Alison Ovard, a Woodrow Wilson preschool teacher.
The Granite School District uses money from the federal program Head Start and community sponsors to fund the preschools but the money doesn't stretch far enough. Right now there are 39 preschools but 500 kids are waiting for each spot.
"I think our Legislature needs to see the advantage of having children start school at age 3 and 4. I think it just needs to become a permanent part of education system that we have preschool available to the students," said Hart.
The Granite School District says its preschool program is cost effective. National studies estimate that for every dollar spent on preschool education, as many as $16 is saved down the road because children do not require extra attention in the classroom.
Sunday Edition will take a closer look at the effectiveness of the preschool program beginning at 9:30 a.m. on KSL 5.
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=14092448
Preschool closing achievement gap
January 23rd, 2011 @ 9:00am
By Candice Madsen
SALT LAKE CITY -- One of the best predictors of success in life is whether a child can read at grade level by 3rd grade. But many kids start school so far behind, they never catch up.
A preschool program in the Granite District is attracting national attention for closing the achievement gap.
"The children are getting exposed to a lot of pre-academic social sciences, language development, pre-literacy, pre-math," explained Brenda Van Gorder, director of the Granite School District preschool program.
"I think our Legislature needs to see the advantage of having children start school at age 3 and 4. I think it just needs to become a permanent part of education system that we have preschool available to the students." -Lynda HartThe early education is especially important at Title One schools where many students speak English as a second language. At Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, students speak 28 different languages.
"The kids who have had the preschool experience really know the language before they get to kindergarten, which is a big plus," said principal Lynda Hart.
Test scores reflect the dramatic difference preschool can make. Before entering preschool, ESL students tested at about the same level as children with disabilities.
After two years in preschool, their test scores are almost on par with English-speaking students.
"Some kids are not speaking a word when they come and by the end you can't keep them quiet. Other kids' confidence level and social skills are really low at the beginning of the year and by the end of the year they are ready for kindergarten," said Alison Ovard, a Woodrow Wilson preschool teacher.
The Granite School District uses money from the federal program Head Start and community sponsors to fund the preschools but the money doesn't stretch far enough. Right now there are 39 preschools but 500 kids are waiting for each spot.
"I think our Legislature needs to see the advantage of having children start school at age 3 and 4. I think it just needs to become a permanent part of education system that we have preschool available to the students," said Hart.
The Granite School District says its preschool program is cost effective. National studies estimate that for every dollar spent on preschool education, as many as $16 is saved down the road because children do not require extra attention in the classroom.
Sunday Edition will take a closer look at the effectiveness of the preschool program beginning at 9:30 a.m. on KSL 5.
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=14092448
Monday, January 3, 2011
article in the Salt Lake Tribune
Nicks class was in an article in the Salt Lake Tribune. Enjoy...
Holiday gifts bring smiles, delight
BY NATALIE DICOU
The Salt Lake Tribune
Published Dec 29, 2010 01:21PM
Updated Dec 29, 2010 10:53AM
It was all a big surprise for Woodrow Wilson Elementary students — a big, wonderful surprise.
Sitting in the school gym watching “Polar Express” the day before school let out for winter break, students had no clue Santa was ambling up the empty hall, toting a bag of candy canes to hand out when the movie ended. They also didn’t know that, waiting in their classrooms, sat backpacks brimming with toys, snacks and school supplies.
Each of the school’s 750 children received a backpack full of goodies, thanks to the elementary school’s partnership with Farmers Insurance. The company provided backpacks and gifts for students. The South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, Granite School District, Wilson Elementary PTA and others chipped in.
“This is really amazing,” said Principal Lynda Hart. “When you see how many people work to help us, it’s so inspiring.”
Wilson Elementary, 2567 S. Main St. in South Salt Lake, is a Title I school. It serves a large refugee population, and 65 percent of students are learning English as their second language.
“Our families are all pretty much in poverty,” Hart said. “It’s too hard for us to single out families who need help so we just do it for all of the kids. For the last three years, we’ve made sure every student goes home with something for the holidays.”
Sensitive to students’ cultures — many don’t celebrate Christmas — Wilson Elementary’s winter gift bag giveaway gains more contributors from outside the school each year.
Counselor Marsha Webster has worked for community support, and received it.
After the movie, students in Helen Bingham’s third-grade class returned to their classroom and discovered the new backpacks, blue for boys, pink for girls. Boys received toy cars and Legos. Girls took home Barbies.
Bingham announced to her students it was time to unzip their bags, and they giggled and shrieked in delight as they sifted through their treasures.
The event often helps other siblings. “I’m sure our older kids will give the toys and coloring books to younger siblings and family members,” Hart said. “It’s really meaningful to our kids. They are worrying about how to take care of their families.”
In addition to toys, students received gloves, scarves, toothbrushes and food items, such as macaroni and cheese, Ramen noodles and granola bars.
“We really worry about our kids not having enough to eat,” Hart said.
After watching the joyous frenzy, Bingham was choked up.
“When you see the expression on these kids’ faces, that’s what it’s all about,” she said. “Christmas is Christmas, but when it’s needed and appreciated, it’s powerful.”
If you want to read the actual article with the pictures of Nicks class here is the link:
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/neighborhoodcity/50936919-135/students-elementary-kids-hart.html.csp
Holiday gifts bring smiles, delight
BY NATALIE DICOU
The Salt Lake Tribune
Published Dec 29, 2010 01:21PM
Updated Dec 29, 2010 10:53AM
It was all a big surprise for Woodrow Wilson Elementary students — a big, wonderful surprise.
Sitting in the school gym watching “Polar Express” the day before school let out for winter break, students had no clue Santa was ambling up the empty hall, toting a bag of candy canes to hand out when the movie ended. They also didn’t know that, waiting in their classrooms, sat backpacks brimming with toys, snacks and school supplies.
Each of the school’s 750 children received a backpack full of goodies, thanks to the elementary school’s partnership with Farmers Insurance. The company provided backpacks and gifts for students. The South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, Granite School District, Wilson Elementary PTA and others chipped in.
“This is really amazing,” said Principal Lynda Hart. “When you see how many people work to help us, it’s so inspiring.”
Wilson Elementary, 2567 S. Main St. in South Salt Lake, is a Title I school. It serves a large refugee population, and 65 percent of students are learning English as their second language.
“Our families are all pretty much in poverty,” Hart said. “It’s too hard for us to single out families who need help so we just do it for all of the kids. For the last three years, we’ve made sure every student goes home with something for the holidays.”
Sensitive to students’ cultures — many don’t celebrate Christmas — Wilson Elementary’s winter gift bag giveaway gains more contributors from outside the school each year.
Counselor Marsha Webster has worked for community support, and received it.
After the movie, students in Helen Bingham’s third-grade class returned to their classroom and discovered the new backpacks, blue for boys, pink for girls. Boys received toy cars and Legos. Girls took home Barbies.
Bingham announced to her students it was time to unzip their bags, and they giggled and shrieked in delight as they sifted through their treasures.
The event often helps other siblings. “I’m sure our older kids will give the toys and coloring books to younger siblings and family members,” Hart said. “It’s really meaningful to our kids. They are worrying about how to take care of their families.”
In addition to toys, students received gloves, scarves, toothbrushes and food items, such as macaroni and cheese, Ramen noodles and granola bars.
“We really worry about our kids not having enough to eat,” Hart said.
After watching the joyous frenzy, Bingham was choked up.
“When you see the expression on these kids’ faces, that’s what it’s all about,” she said. “Christmas is Christmas, but when it’s needed and appreciated, it’s powerful.”
If you want to read the actual article with the pictures of Nicks class here is the link:
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/neighborhoodcity/50936919-135/students-elementary-kids-hart.html.csp
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2010..a year in review
I can't believe that 2010 is over! It went by so fast! We had a lot of things happen in our family so I thought that I'd post some of the highlights. So, here I go..
My family lost an amazing person in January. My Aunt Maureen passed away after a long battle with cancer. Felicia and I were able to fly back east to attend her funeral. And, since we were there Felicia was able to see some of the sites like Washington D.C. and Gettysburg. She really enjoyed that part of our trip.
We also lost my Grandma's brother Uncle Joe right before Christmas. He was an amazing man and I learned alot about his life (and some of my Grandma's) at his funeral.
Neil turned 36th on the 4th of January. It's really hard to get him presents because his birthday is so close to Christmas that it makes it hard to shop for him. But, the kids and I still tried to make it fun. He still works at St. Marks hospital. And, he's still teaching the concealed carry and hunters education courses. So, he's plenty busy with that. He also hunts a lot so that helps to keep him out of trouble.
I turned 34 on the 24th of February. I really don't like to celebrate my birthday, it just reminds me that I'm another year older. But, the kids and Neil really do try to make it a fun day for me. I still work with the 3rd and 4th graders at Woodrow Wilson. I really love my job, even though it gets to me every once in a while. Some of those kiddos life stories just break your heart and it's hard not to bring it home with you. I am in cubscouts again, I only have 4 boys and I'll lose one this month because he turns 12. I truely hope I can be a good leader and help this group of boys, although small, earn their awards (especially their Arrow of Light).
Felicia is 14 yrs old. She loves the 8th grade and she's made honor roll every term so far! She babysits for a lady in our ward most of the week afterschool. She really likes it, especially the money. She loves Young Womens and is really involved in it. Her Young Womens group is small, so they pretty much combine the whole stake together. But, she likes that because most of her friends from school are in our stake.
Andrew has had a banner year. He is 11 (almost 12). He earned his Arrow of Light and really worked his behind off to get it. He has improved his grades in school, going from incompletes and C- to A's and B's. I'm so proud of him for that accomplishment! He is truely all boy and he keeps me busy. He can't wait to turn 12 and be in boyscouts and start on his path in the priesthood. I can't believe that in 3 months he'll be one of the boys passing the sacarament. I'll be one very proud mommy on that day! He is learning to play the trombone and he really enjoys it. He is also part of the "cybercore" at Woodrow. He helps the teachers setup their Wiki pages. He also takes photographs for the school and posts them on the schools Wiki site. He really enjoys that, and tech stuff like that is right up his alley. He also was able to go on a motorcycle trip with Neil. They made it to Arkansas before they had to turn back because of tire issues. Which worked out really well, because about a week after they came home, Andy was able to go on a cruise to Alaska with his grandparents! He really had a great summer!
Nick turned 8 and was baptized. Neil and I wanted my dad to baptize Nick for us because Nick's middle name is the same as my dad's. And, my dad graciously accepted. It was a very small, but a very nice baptism. Nick was the only one that day, so it was up to my family to come up with the program. That made it very interesting for me. Nick was so excited he couldn't stop talking about for weeks. He loves 3rd grade, especially his teacher. He is getting very good grades and really enjoys reading the harder books. He started scouts and is very close to earning his wolf badge. He only has a few more things to pass off. He is my little monster. That kid has no fear and does the stupidest that most people would probably end up in the hospital over, but not him. And, the things I find in his pockets..oh my gosh!
I am so grateful that my family, pretty much, made it through the year safe and healthy. I am also so grateful for the gospel in our lives. It is so neat to be able to see my children grow and gain testmonies of their own. And, I love listening to their prayers at night, they are so sweet and innocent (and sometimes funny). I love being a mom, and the blessings that I've received from my children is unbelievable.
I hope that this year will be just as great as last year was, even though we had a few sad events, last year wasn't bad at all.
My family lost an amazing person in January. My Aunt Maureen passed away after a long battle with cancer. Felicia and I were able to fly back east to attend her funeral. And, since we were there Felicia was able to see some of the sites like Washington D.C. and Gettysburg. She really enjoyed that part of our trip.
We also lost my Grandma's brother Uncle Joe right before Christmas. He was an amazing man and I learned alot about his life (and some of my Grandma's) at his funeral.
Neil turned 36th on the 4th of January. It's really hard to get him presents because his birthday is so close to Christmas that it makes it hard to shop for him. But, the kids and I still tried to make it fun. He still works at St. Marks hospital. And, he's still teaching the concealed carry and hunters education courses. So, he's plenty busy with that. He also hunts a lot so that helps to keep him out of trouble.
I turned 34 on the 24th of February. I really don't like to celebrate my birthday, it just reminds me that I'm another year older. But, the kids and Neil really do try to make it a fun day for me. I still work with the 3rd and 4th graders at Woodrow Wilson. I really love my job, even though it gets to me every once in a while. Some of those kiddos life stories just break your heart and it's hard not to bring it home with you. I am in cubscouts again, I only have 4 boys and I'll lose one this month because he turns 12. I truely hope I can be a good leader and help this group of boys, although small, earn their awards (especially their Arrow of Light).
Felicia is 14 yrs old. She loves the 8th grade and she's made honor roll every term so far! She babysits for a lady in our ward most of the week afterschool. She really likes it, especially the money. She loves Young Womens and is really involved in it. Her Young Womens group is small, so they pretty much combine the whole stake together. But, she likes that because most of her friends from school are in our stake.
Andrew has had a banner year. He is 11 (almost 12). He earned his Arrow of Light and really worked his behind off to get it. He has improved his grades in school, going from incompletes and C- to A's and B's. I'm so proud of him for that accomplishment! He is truely all boy and he keeps me busy. He can't wait to turn 12 and be in boyscouts and start on his path in the priesthood. I can't believe that in 3 months he'll be one of the boys passing the sacarament. I'll be one very proud mommy on that day! He is learning to play the trombone and he really enjoys it. He is also part of the "cybercore" at Woodrow. He helps the teachers setup their Wiki pages. He also takes photographs for the school and posts them on the schools Wiki site. He really enjoys that, and tech stuff like that is right up his alley. He also was able to go on a motorcycle trip with Neil. They made it to Arkansas before they had to turn back because of tire issues. Which worked out really well, because about a week after they came home, Andy was able to go on a cruise to Alaska with his grandparents! He really had a great summer!
Nick turned 8 and was baptized. Neil and I wanted my dad to baptize Nick for us because Nick's middle name is the same as my dad's. And, my dad graciously accepted. It was a very small, but a very nice baptism. Nick was the only one that day, so it was up to my family to come up with the program. That made it very interesting for me. Nick was so excited he couldn't stop talking about for weeks. He loves 3rd grade, especially his teacher. He is getting very good grades and really enjoys reading the harder books. He started scouts and is very close to earning his wolf badge. He only has a few more things to pass off. He is my little monster. That kid has no fear and does the stupidest that most people would probably end up in the hospital over, but not him. And, the things I find in his pockets..oh my gosh!
I am so grateful that my family, pretty much, made it through the year safe and healthy. I am also so grateful for the gospel in our lives. It is so neat to be able to see my children grow and gain testmonies of their own. And, I love listening to their prayers at night, they are so sweet and innocent (and sometimes funny). I love being a mom, and the blessings that I've received from my children is unbelievable.
I hope that this year will be just as great as last year was, even though we had a few sad events, last year wasn't bad at all.
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