Start Speading the News...

My birthday was Sunday. The big 4-3! How can it be that I am 43 years old already? Does life pass this quickly for everyone, or is it just me? I honestly don't feel 43. Maybe because I'm immature and I still need my mom when I'm sick or lonely. I spent the day basking in the warm glow of my four precious blessings from heaven. Tom left early, so Addie, Sam, and I went to church at nine. I felt a little awkward sitting there on a whole row all by myself, but pretty soon Chris Ellis came to join me and it wasn't so bad after that. Once church was over, we picked up Chelcie and Drew and had delicious lunch at Moe's! Cloudy, cold, rainy day! After lunch, we made a run by Kroger for some provisions, then spent the entire day at home in front of a warm fire. The kids and I made red and green M&M cookies and the house smelled oh so yummy! As long we were stayed clear of Buffet, that is! She is still battling a nasty infection on her side. Tom wants to have her put down because she is so old, but other than the infection, she's getting along pretty well. She did struggle with the stairs this morning though...

Monday was a regular, back-to-school day. But Monday night was the West Valley Christmas party at the Sunsphere. We sat with April and Scott, Sherry Storms, and Kevin and Lydia Fowler. I enjoyed laughing with my school family.

Today was the highlight of the week, so far. I had the honor of being a selected guest on Hallerin Hill's WBIR Education Special to be aired December 16th from 7-8pm. I arrived at the studio at the same time John Becker did. He introduced himself to me and then I headed into "makeup" for a little "celebrity" treatment! The lady who did my make up said she was a chef and plans to open a concession trailer on Broadway and Central this summer with gormet tamales. Quite an interesting conversation. She is a 45 year old grandmother of one with another on the way. Her daughter is 21 and son is 9 and attends Mount Olive Elementary School. Then I had some publicity photos made by myself and then some with John and then some more with Hallerin and some with Hallerin and John. The whole experience was surreal to me!

After photos and makeup, it was time to get ready for the interview. YIKES! Talk about intimidation! I was with "professionals" here. Who was I to be in the presence of greatness? Everyone was incredibly nice to me! Hallerin, as always, made me feel right at home, just like I belonged there. John was interested and friendly. The camera guys, sound guys, producers and other folks were all so kind to me. John asked me at least 20 tough questions about school and Reach Them. I tried not to mess up too much and just prayed the whole time that God would speak through me. I didn't cry, which is a first for me, and everyone said I did a great job when it was over. Whether they really meant it or not, it sure did make me feel good. I hope Hallerin was pleased and will be able to find usuable "stuff" to include on the show.

Afterward, I headed home to "Momma" to share the gory details of my morning in "Hollywood." She was very supportive and encouraging as all mommas should be. I need to take note of that! For some reason I felt compelled to open my heart to her today and out came all my "junk." She was glad that I talked to her, and encouraged me not to keep so much inside. Easier said than done! At least for me. Before I knew it, Dad was home and it was time to pick the kids up from school.

After school, we had a special treat- ice cream at Sonic! We picked up Olivia and took her a long with us. Of course, she wanted to come over and play, so we went home for some downtime. Fortunately, "grandmom" called and said she'd made way too much soup and wanted us to come up to eat with her and "Papaw." THAT took some convincing! Olivia came along too and we enjoyed talking together in the dining room over our soup and crackers. Feels so good to have a place to call home. I hope I can provide such a place for my "adult" children.

Back home, Tom was not back from Jasper yet, so we just read books and got school stuff ready for tomorrow. I tied ribbons onto cookies for Mrs. Savage for her Christmas around the world activity. Nice to have some mindless task to focus attention on. Tom got home about 7:30. Just in time to say goodnight to the kids. Drew is quiet and spends his afternoons on the computer, or watching TV. Hearing about a lot of layoffs lately. Thankful to have a job...and tenure!

My postings definitely could use a little organization, but then again, the point is for me to document my life, so if I can understand it, what difference does it make? Anyway, I felt the need to share a potential big event coming up in my life this week. On Tuesday, I will have the honor and privilege of sharing my thoughts about education on a one hour television special hosted by Hallerin Hill. The governor of Tennessee, the president of UT, the principals of Hardin Valley Academy and Oak Ridge High School are among those invited to participate. I feel singularly unworthy of such an honor, but then again, what better opportunity for God's power to work through me? I can't wait, but I am anxious. I'm taking Tuesday off work because my interview is scheduled for 11.

Great Reach Them song: John Legend "If You're Out There"

A Good One

Today was an absolutely wonderful day! I haven't had many of those in the past few weeks, but today was a good one. I had the luxury of sleeping late even though I slept in a twin bed with my precious eight year old daughter, Addie! Nothing like flannel sheets on cool winter mornings. Once I finally dragged myself from beneath those toasty covers, I got cookin' in the kitchen. Pancakes were on the breakfast menu! Sam's favorite. He doused his third helping with so much syrup we had to sent round 3 down the disposal, but he ate his fill. Drew even gobbled a couple of pancakes before he scooted out the door for a cross country meet in Charlotte this weekend. I pray he does well and can't wait to hear all about it when he returns. Sam and I made plans for a playdate with Evan and headed to pick him up for his "sick house" at about noon. It seems the stomach virus has hit the Vaughn household. After dropping the boys at the house with Chelcie, I headed to Webster's for a little surprise birthday lunch with Sherry Storms. Katrina and Nathan were taking their momma to lunch at her favorite restaurant. To reward Chelcie for holding down the fort for me, I brought her back a "Dante" - ummm, quite delicious!

When I got home, I had an overwhelming desire to make my house more homey, so I fired up the oven and made some homemade chocolate chip cookies AND some chocolate chip banana muffins, AND a little chicken tortilla casserole for dinner! Between recipes, I singlehandedly built the most beautiful fire! As Christmas music played festively in the background, I took great pride in my accomplishments and felt that this day was one of the most relaxing I have had at home in quite a while.

Chelcie went ice skating on Market Square and returned in time for dinner with two injured ankles from her skates rubbing on raw skin. She was impressed and happy with the homemade goodies filling the counters in the kitchen. The comfortable smells and flavors helped her relax and enjoy being with her little siblings and mom.

Now that the young ones are snuggled safely in bed, Chelcie is out on the town with her high school friends, and I am trying to catch up on my blog therapy, I realize that no matter what happens I have the unconditional love of my family and a few close friends. Most importantly though, I have the sacrificial love of my God and Savior Jesus Christ. I must use every day of my life to His glory.

I'm grateful for a peace-filled evening overflowing with love for my children, my home and my God. Sleeping well tonight!

Thanksgiving Day, 2008

As I pause this morning to think about being thankful, I can't help but immediately think of my children. Chelcie, our firstborn daughter, has grown into a beautiful young woman. She lights up the room with her smile. Her heart is warm and welcoming, especially to those who need a hug. Drew, my high school senior, a quiet, gentle spirit. Drew helped me all day yesterday! He moved three rooms full of furniture and didn't complain a single time! I think he took as much pride in his accomplishment as I did! Addie is a little workhorse! She likes order to her things. She will work on a task 'til it's done! She is mature and thoughtful. Sam, the baby of the family, greeting me this morning with a happy Thanksgiving picture complete with a cornucopia and a hand-traced turkey! He's affectionate and spirited! Four blessings sent from heaven! More to come later...

Lost My Camera

Lost my digital camera the day we had to take 11 ambulances full of 8th graders to the hospital, so my blogging is suffering greatly! I just had to post this really quickly before I forgot it. Today, Sam came home from school and informed me that his friend had "Shrek throat!" I thought it was hilarious hence the documentation here in my virtual world.

Working on Reach Them follow-up. It's very hard to get everything tied up while I'm working at school. The thought of leaving the classroom is a little scary. God is working. I wanna listen to him and not hang on to my security blanket.

I'm trying to get something started with Chelcie and friends to help the Burudian refugees and their children. Getting off to a good start. We'll see what happens.

Monthly Update

A month? A month with no updates? I assure you, I have not been slacking this time! This is been one of the busiest months of my life! There is no way to include all the details that I'd like to document here for posterity, but I'll hit the highlights.

Last Tuesday night was the highlight of the month-hands down! Our third annual "Reach Them to Teach Them-The Power of One!" was held at the Tennessee Theatre. Our entire team showed up in force and everything worked beautifully! With the addition of Summer Tucker and Theresa Nixon, our administrative team increased its efficiency many times over! Our corporate sponsors, Jack and Sue Wickstrom from American Print Solutions, have also really brought it to the table! They have been incredible! Their support and generosity have far surpassed my expectations! Our team is amazing! It's hard to believe that we're an all-volunteer organization! I know that our team is working for the Lord. They inspire me! Let's see if I can recap...

The week before was fall break, so I spent most of the break tying up loose ends and sorting tickets. Theresa and Sherry came by to help on Friday then we distributed tickets to our team for distribution on Monday. They got tickets delivered to over 80 schools in ONE DAY! Also, Emmette Thompson used his influence to bring a group of teachers from Scott County by way of Gentry's Bus Lines. Monday morning, Dean and I fly to Akron, Ohio to pick up an anxious Dr. Bartlette. I was anxious too because I had a bit of difficulty dealing with Dr. Malcolm Smith re: the honorarium. Fortunately, everything worked out and once Dr. Bartlette got a taste of east Tennessee hospitality, he knew we could take good care of him.

Monday evening, we had dinner at Seasons. Jack and Sue, Summer, Chuck and Lori, Mom and Dad, Ed, Tom, Jo, Mardee, and Dr. Bartlette were treated to a shrimp and filet dinner. It was incredible! It was a busy day, so we headed home early to rest up for the big day!

Tuesday, I got off to a slow start by meeting Jo, Mardee, Miles, Ed, Dr. Bartlette and Travis at Chick-fil-A for breakfast. We had a great time of bonding together. I managed to get to the theatre about 12. Everything was under control. I wish we had large posters to display in the lobby and out on the street. Also, we needed an autograph table for HHH and Bartlette. Also, we didn't stress the post-it note feedback wall from the stage and we needed to to get good feedback.

The event kicked off with a chick-fil-A dinner for everyone. Oh yeah, prior to the doors opening at 5, people were lined up down the sidewalk and around the corner! We ran a powerpoint of quotes and general information from 5:00-6:00. Then at 6:00, we started with an introductory video message featuring kids and a message from me. Scott did an awesome job as our emcee! He looked a little uncomfortable in a suit. Hallerin asked me if I minded if he changed into something more comfortable. Of course, I didn't mind a bit! He did a great interview with Live at Five at Four at about 4:30. Cavanaugh was nervous before the event, but HHH eased his nerves and made him relax! Anyway, after the video, Mayor Ragsdale shared a message of support via DVD and Mayor Haslam welcomed everyone Live and In Person! HHH did his thang! His message played off the word BELIEVE. He said we need to Be. Then LEAVE. He was better than I've ever heard him! Then Cavanaugh wowed the crowd with an incredible performance. Theresa's idea of having the words behind him on the screen was a great idea and added a lot to his message. Next Dr. Bartlette shared his story, Macaroni and Midnight, and the audience was on their feet. Our closing was a little too long, but Scott then challenged the audience to accept the challenge to be different because of what they experienced tonight. As a visible sign of their commitment, they accepted a bracelet declaring, "Reach Them-It's Worth It!" Finally, I shared a videotaped message and then said thank you in person. Scott dismissed the audience, and all was completed by 7:56! EARLY!

I heard many, many positive comments and shook many hands. Everything was packed up and out by 9:15! Mardee, Jo, Ed, Dr. Bartlette, another teacher from Willow Brook, and I went to Chick-fil-A for a quick bite to eat. Ed bought me a milkshake. I was home in bed by 11, but keyed up, so I wrote a quick thank you email to our team before allowing myself to sleep.

Wednesday morning, I met Ed and Dr. Bartlette at TAC Air, and as luck would have it, ran into Mayor Haslam at the airport. I was surprised he knew my name! I thanked him for the role he played at the event, and he expressed his gratitude for being invited to play a part.

The trip to Ohio was pleasant and we enjoyed our last few moments in each other's company. Dean was a wonderful pilot and as always, pledged his continued support of our efforts to "Reach Them."

Thursday morning back at school was surreal. Many folks were supportive and gave me positive feedback. I was surprised by an email from Dr. Bartlette offering to return to Knoxville next year for free! All he asks is that Dean provide air transporation and Mardee and Jo provide hospitality services. I told him we'd discuss the possibility around our de-briefing table.

Friday was crazy at school. Two unplanned fire drills and the fall frenzy dance party. Just more chaos in the middle school world!

"Sow" Many Seeds, So Little Time!

The weekend was spent at the soccer field. Sam scored a goal and his team won! Addie only played 2 quarters of her game. She played well, but did not get to score this time.

Sunday, Tom was out of town, so Addie and Sam and I went to church without him. We were amazed to see a hot air balloon in the parking lot. Kinda took us off guard because that's not something you see every day! Sunday afternoon, Dad, Ed, Dean and I flew to Nashville, courtesy of Dean to hear Susie Vanderlip's performance for Legacy of Hope. We ate dinner at Cracker Barrel and Dad treated all of us. The performance was entertaining, but did not inspire me to action. I was not emotionally touched, but was impressed with her athleticism and youthful appearance! We got home about midnight.

Monday was a "dream come true" day as Hallerin Hill and Bill Williams visited my classroom to film a commercial promoting "Reach Them to Teach Them" for Comcast. I can't wait to see the finished product! Nolan Smith is working on putting it together for us. Dave Gorden did the voice overs. Tom dropped Sam off because he was headed back to Athens with Steve Mathis to finished up a project. Ed and Olivia came to make sure we got what we needed for the website and spent most of the time playing baseball in the hallway!

Tuesday, I blew off my Dept. Chair meeting and chose to cheer Addie on at her Cross Country meet. She did great! I think she was in the top 25 girls to finish. She's going to be amazing by the time she hits 5th grade, especially if she keeps it up! I was so proud of her. Sam and Tom had soccer practice, so Tom dropped Addie and me off at the BreadBox. I drove thru Tropical Smoothie Cafe for a chicken salad and Addie slurped down some cereal before heading to bed.

Wednesday was the slowest paced day of the week, so far. I met with Mickey Lee, my protege, at school for about an hour. I stopped by my mom's to get the kids because Tom had to do something in Maryville and they didn't want to go with him. Sam was having fun drawing pictures, so I let him stay a little longer while Addie and I went to the grocery store for chili fixin's for Lisa's birthday tomorrow. I sent Drew to get him so he would get to see his grandparents and his grandparents would get to see him!

The evening was spent working on Addie's seed project, practicing Sam's weekly words, and checking out the test data website. YUCK! I STILL have a gigantic stack of papers to grade and no intention of tackling them tonight!