Bethany is doing well. She came home on Wednesday evening after 3 days of testing and 30 hours of sleep deprivation. She had to endure many others tests as well, but she is recovering nicely.
She is now off her epilepsy medication and we're really praying that she never has to go back on it again. Her EEG is still abnormal, but isn't indicating seizures at this time. There is more going on with the left side of her brain than the right, but again, no seizures are evident.
The doctor was unable to determine the cause of the "episodes" she'd been having as nothing happened while we were in the hospital. Isn't that how it always works? We will keep a close eye on Bethany until we're convinced nothing is going to happen (which for me may take months).
At this time, we are cautiously optimistic about her future - without epilepsy. We have been this route before with her going off her meds and doing well for years, but I'm trying to be hopeful that it's really going to "stick" this time. :)
Thank you for your prayers. God is truly taking care of us.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Thursday, June 7, 2007
My Student Experiences
This is a portion of a discussion for a class I am taking at Texas A&M University at Commerce. The course is Educational Psychology.
Tell about a favorite teacher and how his/her teaching methods made a difference in your life:
I wish I had a teacher that really stuck out in my mind, but unfortunately, I do not. None of my teachers in elementary school, junior high school or high school made much of an impact on me. In fact, I can't remember hardly any of their names.
I remember my fourth grade teacher used alcohol on her hands to clean them from the germs in our class, but she told me to never do it myself.
My sixth grade teacher had the girls in her class file her nails and brush her hair for her.
I had one teacher in junior high mark one of my answers on a test wrong even though I could prove that it was right - but it wasn't the answer she was looking for.
The only thing I really remember about high school was a creative writing course I took and the teacher said my writing was very good. I don't remember a single teacher's name from high school.
I went to at least 9 schools from K - 12. I wasn't a bad kid and we only moved one time. Desegregation, building a new school, going to a private school for awhile, and so on meant I didn't end up with a lot of continuity.
In spite of all of that, I was a straight-A student.
In college, I did have three teachers stand out. One because she helped me to see that a written work I created could be critically evaluated without it becoming a criticism of me personally. Another teacher stood out because he had principles and was very demanding of his students. The third stood out because he truly believed my writing was good and gave me opportunities to share it within the university setting and outside of it as well.
I know I added more to this discussion than necessary, but I also think it's important to note all the teachers who failed to make an impression on me as well.
~Carla
Tell about a favorite teacher and how his/her teaching methods made a difference in your life:
I wish I had a teacher that really stuck out in my mind, but unfortunately, I do not. None of my teachers in elementary school, junior high school or high school made much of an impact on me. In fact, I can't remember hardly any of their names.
I remember my fourth grade teacher used alcohol on her hands to clean them from the germs in our class, but she told me to never do it myself.
My sixth grade teacher had the girls in her class file her nails and brush her hair for her.
I had one teacher in junior high mark one of my answers on a test wrong even though I could prove that it was right - but it wasn't the answer she was looking for.
The only thing I really remember about high school was a creative writing course I took and the teacher said my writing was very good. I don't remember a single teacher's name from high school.
I went to at least 9 schools from K - 12. I wasn't a bad kid and we only moved one time. Desegregation, building a new school, going to a private school for awhile, and so on meant I didn't end up with a lot of continuity.
In spite of all of that, I was a straight-A student.
In college, I did have three teachers stand out. One because she helped me to see that a written work I created could be critically evaluated without it becoming a criticism of me personally. Another teacher stood out because he had principles and was very demanding of his students. The third stood out because he truly believed my writing was good and gave me opportunities to share it within the university setting and outside of it as well.
I know I added more to this discussion than necessary, but I also think it's important to note all the teachers who failed to make an impression on me as well.
~Carla
Friday, June 1, 2007
Student Teaching
Earlier this week, I was told where I would be placed for student teaching and I wrapped my mind around the fact that it wasn't my first choice. It was my second choice, but it's the farthest possible school from my home. The good part is that it's likely the best school in the district located in one of the most amazing parts of town. The teacher that I would be working with is a "teacher trainer" for the district. They are on the cutting edge of all new education concepts.
My first choice, however, is the school where my youngest daughter attends and is walking distance from our house. It is demographically diverse and has a principal that I adore. In fact, this principal caught me yesterday and said that apparently my placement drama isn't over as he received an email asking if I could be placed in his school afterall - even though I'd already been told it was not an option. Ugghhhh. I keep praying about it, but I'm not sure what would be best for me. Do I step in? Which school is best? It's so frustrating.
I am not fond of these kinds of roller coasters. This has been going on for 3 weeks. Back and forth.... I mention this as it was actually a goal this week to get it all nailed down finally.
My first choice, however, is the school where my youngest daughter attends and is walking distance from our house. It is demographically diverse and has a principal that I adore. In fact, this principal caught me yesterday and said that apparently my placement drama isn't over as he received an email asking if I could be placed in his school afterall - even though I'd already been told it was not an option. Ugghhhh. I keep praying about it, but I'm not sure what would be best for me. Do I step in? Which school is best? It's so frustrating.
I am not fond of these kinds of roller coasters. This has been going on for 3 weeks. Back and forth.... I mention this as it was actually a goal this week to get it all nailed down finally.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
You Are The Expert
You Are The Expert
By Sarah Bolme
I recently spoke with a gentleman who had written and published a book on terrorism's threat to our water supply. As we discussed avenues for marketing his book, this gentleman remarked that mostly academicians had purchased the book, which he found scary. Here was an individual who had the knowledge and the foresight to write a book on an important subject of concern to our country, and yet he did not recognize the position this placed him in. The first thing this gentleman needs to do in marketing his book is to accept the fact that, since he wrote the book, he is now the expert on the subject of how terrorism could affect our water supply.
The same is true for you. When you author a book on a particular subject, you become an expert on that subject. In marketing your books, you must accept this and proceed as an expert.
1. Think like an expert.
Experts don’t wonder who might want to read their books. Rather, they think, "Who needs this information?" "Who would benefit most from this information?” and "Who can help me access my book's intended audience?" Thinking like an expert opens doors of opportunities for you. Experts seek out other experts in their field. They find others who are writing or speaking on the same subjects and network with them. Experts also think, "The world would be a better place if more people knew about this," thus they take and make the most of every opportunity to educate and inform others about their subject of expertise.
2. Act like an expert.
Our actions flow from our thoughts. What you think influences what you do. If you are thinking like an expert, then you will begin to act like an expert. Experts approach others with confidence. Confidence engenders respect and trust. Experts make the most of every opportunity to alert others to new information without being overbearing. There is no need for arrogance or dominance when you know you possess knowledge, only a determination to help others learn the information also.
3. Talk like an expert.
Experts speak with authority. They don't lead conversations with "I believe," or "I feel that." Instead, experts speak with conviction. They invite people to see and believe what they are presenting through clear reasoning. Experts say things like "Five reasons you need to know this information," "Studies show or research indicates," or "History reveals." Speaking with conviction to an audience invites and encourages people to learn more on your subject.
You are an expert on your subject. Whether you are approaching a radio station to book a guest interview, speaking at a local bookstore on your book, or writing an article for a magazine, when you think, act, and talk like an expert, people will sit up and take notice. When you conduct yourself as an expert, doors of opportunity open for you to promote your book's subject and increase your book's sales.
Sarah Bolme, is the author of Your Guide to Marketing Books in the Christian Marketplace
www.marketingchristianbooks.com
and the director of Christian Small Publishers Association
www.christianpublishers.net ©2007
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Bolme
http://EzineArticles.com/?You-Are-The-Expert&id=531284
By Sarah Bolme
I recently spoke with a gentleman who had written and published a book on terrorism's threat to our water supply. As we discussed avenues for marketing his book, this gentleman remarked that mostly academicians had purchased the book, which he found scary. Here was an individual who had the knowledge and the foresight to write a book on an important subject of concern to our country, and yet he did not recognize the position this placed him in. The first thing this gentleman needs to do in marketing his book is to accept the fact that, since he wrote the book, he is now the expert on the subject of how terrorism could affect our water supply.
The same is true for you. When you author a book on a particular subject, you become an expert on that subject. In marketing your books, you must accept this and proceed as an expert.
1. Think like an expert.
Experts don’t wonder who might want to read their books. Rather, they think, "Who needs this information?" "Who would benefit most from this information?” and "Who can help me access my book's intended audience?" Thinking like an expert opens doors of opportunities for you. Experts seek out other experts in their field. They find others who are writing or speaking on the same subjects and network with them. Experts also think, "The world would be a better place if more people knew about this," thus they take and make the most of every opportunity to educate and inform others about their subject of expertise.
2. Act like an expert.
Our actions flow from our thoughts. What you think influences what you do. If you are thinking like an expert, then you will begin to act like an expert. Experts approach others with confidence. Confidence engenders respect and trust. Experts make the most of every opportunity to alert others to new information without being overbearing. There is no need for arrogance or dominance when you know you possess knowledge, only a determination to help others learn the information also.
3. Talk like an expert.
Experts speak with authority. They don't lead conversations with "I believe," or "I feel that." Instead, experts speak with conviction. They invite people to see and believe what they are presenting through clear reasoning. Experts say things like "Five reasons you need to know this information," "Studies show or research indicates," or "History reveals." Speaking with conviction to an audience invites and encourages people to learn more on your subject.
You are an expert on your subject. Whether you are approaching a radio station to book a guest interview, speaking at a local bookstore on your book, or writing an article for a magazine, when you think, act, and talk like an expert, people will sit up and take notice. When you conduct yourself as an expert, doors of opportunity open for you to promote your book's subject and increase your book's sales.
Sarah Bolme, is the author of Your Guide to Marketing Books in the Christian Marketplace
www.marketingchristianbooks.com
and the director of Christian Small Publishers Association
www.christianpublishers.net ©2007
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Bolme
http://EzineArticles.com/?You-Are-The-Expert&id=531284
Friday, May 25, 2007
Scary School Crisis
My oldest daughter attends the local High School. A couple of weeks ago, someone wrote in indelible black "ink" - "It's Coming May 25th" in a couple of the boys' bathrooms. I learned about it via another mom before a band performance last week. Yesterday, we received a letter from the school saying the matter had been thoroughly investigated and no immediate threat was found, but the school would have extra security on hand as well as parent volunteers to keep an eye on things. They also said they respected the right of parents to keep their children out of school that day.
Now, in truth, "It's coming May 25th" could mean anything. Pirates is out, there is a new video game out (teen flavor) or anything really. You know, Half Price Books is having a sale today. BUT, in light of VA Tech, it could also mean something much more scary. Unless the school knows what is in the mind of the person who wrote that message, there is no way to be sure what it means.
I asked my daughter what her feelings were and she said she had to much to do to miss school. Yes, she's an amazing kid. If I were given a chance to skip school with my parent's permission, I'd be all over that.
SO, I drove my daughter to school early this morning as she has band practice. Her and a group of other students will leave at 3:00pm to go to the state solo and ensemble competition.
I'm a nervous wreck. I don't think there's enough Paxil in the world to handle the anxiety I'm feeling right now.
To make matters worse, I drop off youngster #2 at school and her teacher tells me about a boy in driver's ed (who goes to the same high school) who said he'd make Va Tech look like a walk in the park. He said over a month ago and the police looked into it, but who can say if he's the one who wrote the message?
I call my husband and he says I'm over-reacting. Is this a mom-gland thing and guys just don't get it? I was in tears when I told him that story. It just scares me out of my wits. Ok, so I'm a bit overprotective. My kids are alive and no stranger has abducted them, no one has abused them and at least one of them still believes in Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy.
I'm going to keep praying. That's all I know to do. God is bigger than the whole issue and he's certainly bigger than Paxil. He'll see me through this.
Pray, too, ok?
~Carla
Now, in truth, "It's coming May 25th" could mean anything. Pirates is out, there is a new video game out (teen flavor) or anything really. You know, Half Price Books is having a sale today. BUT, in light of VA Tech, it could also mean something much more scary. Unless the school knows what is in the mind of the person who wrote that message, there is no way to be sure what it means.
I asked my daughter what her feelings were and she said she had to much to do to miss school. Yes, she's an amazing kid. If I were given a chance to skip school with my parent's permission, I'd be all over that.
SO, I drove my daughter to school early this morning as she has band practice. Her and a group of other students will leave at 3:00pm to go to the state solo and ensemble competition.
I'm a nervous wreck. I don't think there's enough Paxil in the world to handle the anxiety I'm feeling right now.
To make matters worse, I drop off youngster #2 at school and her teacher tells me about a boy in driver's ed (who goes to the same high school) who said he'd make Va Tech look like a walk in the park. He said over a month ago and the police looked into it, but who can say if he's the one who wrote the message?
I call my husband and he says I'm over-reacting. Is this a mom-gland thing and guys just don't get it? I was in tears when I told him that story. It just scares me out of my wits. Ok, so I'm a bit overprotective. My kids are alive and no stranger has abducted them, no one has abused them and at least one of them still believes in Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy.
I'm going to keep praying. That's all I know to do. God is bigger than the whole issue and he's certainly bigger than Paxil. He'll see me through this.
Pray, too, ok?
~Carla
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The Highlights
There are a few things about this past weekend that stood out. First, Jack Canfield is still using the same material he used 20 years ago. He did add a bit from the Secret and that was valuable, but for me, the highlight was just getting to hear him speak. You see, my dad gave me a set of audio tapes titled "Self-Esteem and Peak Performance" when I was just out of college (I hope I'm not repeating myself) and they have made a huge difference in how I approach my life. I have listened to those tapes dozens of times over the last 20 years. The message is no less powerful than it was the first time I listened to it.
Another thing from this past weekend stood out. Donald Trump is really a very unpleasant person. It really goes well beyond that, but I don't want to even bring myself down talking about him. Suffice it to say he is the most negative, hateful, mean person I have ever heard speak in my entire life. He is the complete antithesis of what I value in my own life.
Did I ask Donald about the band needing support for their trip to Carnegie Hall in NYC? Well, even jerks can do something right I suppose. I couldn't get past the screeners to ask my question, but I did hand over a packet of information which may or may not have made it to Mr. Trump. Who knows? It may have been trashed, but I did the best I could. If I had tried to rush the stage, I'd have been horribly mangled and battered by security, so I ruled that out. I do have an email address that one of the screeners gave me and I will give that my best effort as well.
All in all, it was a very interesting weekend. I learned more about who I really am and in what I believe. I know that I have no desire to be filthy rich. I will be quite pleased to live comfortably, perhaps more comfortably than I live now, but not to any great extreme. I don't ever want to forget that God is my source and my strength.
~Carla
Another thing from this past weekend stood out. Donald Trump is really a very unpleasant person. It really goes well beyond that, but I don't want to even bring myself down talking about him. Suffice it to say he is the most negative, hateful, mean person I have ever heard speak in my entire life. He is the complete antithesis of what I value in my own life.
Did I ask Donald about the band needing support for their trip to Carnegie Hall in NYC? Well, even jerks can do something right I suppose. I couldn't get past the screeners to ask my question, but I did hand over a packet of information which may or may not have made it to Mr. Trump. Who knows? It may have been trashed, but I did the best I could. If I had tried to rush the stage, I'd have been horribly mangled and battered by security, so I ruled that out. I do have an email address that one of the screeners gave me and I will give that my best effort as well.
All in all, it was a very interesting weekend. I learned more about who I really am and in what I believe. I know that I have no desire to be filthy rich. I will be quite pleased to live comfortably, perhaps more comfortably than I live now, but not to any great extreme. I don't ever want to forget that God is my source and my strength.
~Carla
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Daring to Ask
This weekend, I'm attending a conference hosted by The Learning Annex. I have already heard George Foreman speak and loved every minute of it. I skipped Tony Robbins and Erik Estrada (saw him on stage and was not impressed). Tomorrow, I'm getting up very early to see Jack Canfield, rush to church, then back for an afternoon of additional speakers. My main purpose in going back is to see Donald Trump, not because I'm a fan or because I like how he does his hair, but because he's having an hour of Q&A after his speech.
I am going to find a way to ask him a question that has nothing to do with real estate, The Apprentice or motivation. I want to ask him to financially support the Rockwall-Heath High School band's trip to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall next Spring. They are one of only 12 bands in the country who have been asked to perform. You probably guessed this, but my oldest daughter is in the band.
What makes the invitation all the more poinant, is that the school is brand new - so new that there aren't even seniors this year. This is only the second year the school has even had a band. They've already played in Dallas' Neiman Marcus Parade and they have won dozens of contests and competitions - one even in another state. They've been highlighted on the news (which is one thing if you live in a town of 1200 and something entirely different when you live in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area) and are sending a very large slate of students to state competition next week (yes, my daughter is performing a solo and is also in an ensemble).
Next year, the school will have seniors and will, for the first time, have a full slate of students (200 or so). I can't imagine how they will sound as they are so amazing now. Anyway, all those students need to get to NYC and that's not cheap, thus my request for Donald Trump.
I know, I lose nothing by asking, even if he says "no". I know that if I am going to have a chance for him to say "yes", he has to be asked. I know that I have to "no holds barred" go for what I want.
That doesn't mean I won't be shaking in my boots tomorrow evening when I find my way to a microphone.
So, now I am accountable to you. I'll report back with the results as soon as I can.
~Carla
(maybe I can start shaking early and get it over with)
I am going to find a way to ask him a question that has nothing to do with real estate, The Apprentice or motivation. I want to ask him to financially support the Rockwall-Heath High School band's trip to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall next Spring. They are one of only 12 bands in the country who have been asked to perform. You probably guessed this, but my oldest daughter is in the band.
What makes the invitation all the more poinant, is that the school is brand new - so new that there aren't even seniors this year. This is only the second year the school has even had a band. They've already played in Dallas' Neiman Marcus Parade and they have won dozens of contests and competitions - one even in another state. They've been highlighted on the news (which is one thing if you live in a town of 1200 and something entirely different when you live in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area) and are sending a very large slate of students to state competition next week (yes, my daughter is performing a solo and is also in an ensemble).
Next year, the school will have seniors and will, for the first time, have a full slate of students (200 or so). I can't imagine how they will sound as they are so amazing now. Anyway, all those students need to get to NYC and that's not cheap, thus my request for Donald Trump.
I know, I lose nothing by asking, even if he says "no". I know that if I am going to have a chance for him to say "yes", he has to be asked. I know that I have to "no holds barred" go for what I want.
That doesn't mean I won't be shaking in my boots tomorrow evening when I find my way to a microphone.
So, now I am accountable to you. I'll report back with the results as soon as I can.
~Carla
(maybe I can start shaking early and get it over with)
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