Understanding and Moving Forward

"Not only do we need to punish that man for his crime, but we need to acknowledge that there's a hole in his heart, one that government programs alone may not be able to repair." -Barack Obama, The Audacity of Hope

Worth a Shot

I ran across this and I am impressed. Please take a good look, and let me know what you think. Better yet, let THEM know what you think.

I know I am naïve. I know this is probably a big marketing gimmick to make us think we're getting through and having our voice be heard. But I want to see the best in people - not the worst. I have to believe that we all want to move forward in a positive manner, and not take advantage of our fellow humans. And I have to believe that we all truly want to connect with and learn from one another. Just like watching one-year-olds stare and smile at each other, just like understanding the importance of friendships between three- and four-year-olds; affiliation and empathy come naturally but need encouragement. We all want to be loved, be respected, and belong. We all have something to contribute.

Transparency and dialogue in our government seem like a step in the right direction. I encourage you to voice your opinions to our new administration. Please don't assume that no one is listening.

Yes. We. Can.

I've never aligned myself with Democrats, but Barack Obama floats above party lines for me. Belief. Hope. Enthusiasm. I cannot believe what's happening. I am crying and laughing and so dedicated to making sure that those things that I do not agree with the president-elect about, I speak up and I act upon. Can you feel it? This is amazing.

But I have to go to sleep so I can be a good, patient teacher to my students tomorrow.

Goodnight, everyone! God Bless America!

Predicting the Future

I'm off to vote.

I already know who will win in all the elections. It will be the person who was meant to hold the position, good or bad. Personally, this whole election cycle has already been a success. I've become more aware and more educated about the process and about our government. I've found out what you can do after voting to have your voice be heard. I've seen people debate the candidates and the issues respectfully and I've seen them debate disrespectfully. I know what side I want to be on.

I choose to be on the side of support, action, and respect. So it doesn't matter who wins, because I choose to make the best out of any outcome and work toward positive change no matter what form it takes in office. In this, I have determined the winner.

UPDATE: I've never had to wait a half-hour to vote. Especially not at 6:10 in the morning. One guy said it, pumping his fists in the air: "Vote! It makes you feel tough!" Unfortunately, we didn't get an "I voted" sticker, so I guess no Ben and Jerry's, Krispy Kreme, or Starbucks for me. :)

Happy Birthday, Xavier!

From xavier's 1st birthday

We had a fun time at Xavier's first birthday party. He was quite the gentleman, and so well-behaved. Smiles, laughs, toddling, and even sharing his new toys with cousins and his friend, Van.

I was excited about my present to Xavier - a painting of his favorite dog, Arthur.

From xavier's 1st birthday

I've discovered that pet portraits are so much easier than people portraits.

From xavier's 1st birthday

Happy Birthday, Xavier! What fun we had with you.