Cherie's Random Thoughts

Meister Eckhart once said, "Be willing to be a beginner every singe morning." Having the capacity to see the day with renewed eyes is essential to having a productive and meaningful day. Often, we look at each new day with old eyes. These eyes often see the pain and frustration of the past but neglect to see the hope that lies in all of our futures. In order to fully begin each day with a "Beginner's Mind" you must be willing to let go of the past and embrace your future. When we do this we often allow the positive qualities Saadat A. Khan suggests when he discusses the attributes of a Beginner's Mind: The ability to be an ethusiasitc, creative individual who approaches life with great zeal and optismism. When we begin well our opportunities in life are often abundant. Reference: Your Daily Rock-A Daybook of Touchstones for Busy Lives by Patti Digh

Today my feline child, Billy Bob, died suddenly without warning shortly before 12 pm. Till the end Billy was his normal self and appeared ready to spend a lazy Saturday with me. Although our time was short together, about four years, you soul was old. From the first time I adopted Billy Bob from the Kitty Cottage I knew that his spirit was one born from a rough start. Thankful Sally Rosen Barsh saved Billy form a life on the streets and brought him to the Kitty Cottage, where soon after I shortly adopted him. Billy Bob was a black cat who proved that black cats were magical and often very affectionate. There was not a day where I was not greeted by him, whether in the morning or when I got home in the evening. He routinely slept by my side and often woke me up in the am long before my alarm clock. Always photogentic and one to tell you what was on his mind. I will miss Billy tremondously and will cherish the memories that he has left me. Although his heart failed him this morning

In a Mark and Angel Hack Life article entitled, "18 Great Reminders When You're Having a Bad Day"  the authors reminds us what can be born out of our frustration or bad days. As an educator who finds themselves between three worlds, the fall season tends to be a "season of frustration." Unmet expectations, whining, illness, and life stuff can take its toll and make a person wonder what is the point. Then I am reminded by articles like this what matters most to an educator: Improving the lives of their students and making the world a better place in the process. This article makes some great points about what we should reflect on when we have a bad day. They are absolutely right-it begins with our attitude. If your attitude is one of fear and looking over shoulder you will most likely do this through many of your bad days. If your attitude is one where you believe change will occur, you will mostly receive the change you seek. Bad days are back door blessings

Re-envisioning Career and Technical Education | American Federation of Teachers The above article brings light the importance of career and technical education programs. As an early childhood professor, I know all too well how effective these programs can be. CTE programs allow students to come out of high school ready to enter the workforce at entry level. In today's economy, this is extremely important for students. In addition, CTE students often can receive college credit for the some of their coursework done in high school. This can be anywhere from 6-9 credits, which the equivalent of three credit college level courses or half of a full-time semester. I hope the federal and state governments continue to fund these programs as well as help build a bridge between high school, work, and college. I fondly remember the opportunity I had in high school to participate in a CTE inspired program in high school. During my last year of high school, I was able to spend one semeste

Taking a Me-Day | Psychology Today : Over the past two decades, I have learned how important "Me-Days" are to maintaining our overall wellbeing. Religiously I begin and end my day with me day. Each day's ritual may vary but usually includes reading, listening to music, viewing inspirational videos, or simply being still. When I fail to incorporate "Me-Days" into my weekly routine, I find that my normally healthy body begins to exhibit signs of acute or chronic stress. As an educator and woman, it is essential that I master the art of a Me-Day and would encourage all who not only care about their wellbeing, but others to do the same. 'via Blog this'

The ten top habits of those that live a long life are simple and true, yet we tend to resist making them a reality in our lives. As I reviewed this list, I saw that currently I have eight pretty much down and I am hunting down #1 as we speak. What is number one you ask? Avoiding Stress. Yes, avoiding stress when it is possible is key to a longer life. Over the past 20 years of my life, I have learned how stress can affect your life in very negative ways. Many of which can lead to a premature death, such as increased blood pressure and increase in your weight. Since July I have committed myself to find ways to lower my stress, avoid stress when at all possible, and put into place a plan to make me resilient against the effects of stress. At 41, I aspire to live to 100. I have 50/50 percent chance of doing so but it will depend on what I do with the next 20 years of my life.

This article,  Gallup Poll Finds 70 Percent of Americans Favor More Federal Funding for Pre-K , signifies the importance of having more funding for Pre-K. 70% percent want it according to the poll, yet we continue to struggle to obtain funding that will make quality pre-k a reality for all children in the U.S. The 70 percent should ask the following questions of those that make the decisions about funding: 1) Why hasn't full funding become a reality? 2) Are we in the business of building a society that is destined to be incarcerated either in prison, a hospital, or poverty or would we much rather invest making sure the young children of today become productive citizens of the future?

Corporate eLearning Strategies and Development: 21st Century Learning - Let's Leave 20th Century E... : I'd like to restate something I've learned over the years living through and participating in the latest significant historical,... Great blog on the importance of letting go and learning from the past. As we are past the mid-point of 14th year into the 21st Century, I am amazed at the resistance of some educators to hold on to old ways of thinking. True education occurs through our ability to embrace change and create new opportunities. It is difficult to place a square peg (20th century) into a circle (21st Century). Resist the urge to hold on and purge.

Are Healthier School Lunches Winning Over Students? - Education Week The above article shows that students will eat healthier lunches. It just takes time. I remember when the debate began regarding purging student lunches of unhealthy foods, many believed that it could not be done. They believe that students would never eat the lunches. We must remember building healthy eating habits takes time and does not happen overnight. We can no longer afford giving students foods that will potentially lead to health issues that will shorten their life.

Nearly 75 Percent of Faculty Incorporated Technology into their Teaching | Faculty Focus The above article on faculty's use of technology in the classroom is promising and hopeful. As a GenXer I never really understood the resistance of using technology and really found that the real issue is how to we find a balance between using technology and not using it. As an educator, I feel strongly that this balance must be achieved at all levels of education. It important for educators help facilitate the development of efficient and effective use of technology. It is all about helping students learn not only when it is appropriate to use technology but also learn how to survive in times when technology fails you. We always remember technology is only one tool we use to acquire knowledge. Fortunately for myself I learned both ways and have learned to manage the amount of technology in my life as well.

A Caring Professor May Be Key in How a Graduate Thrives - Administration - The Chronicle of Higher Education The above article is a reminder of the impact one educator can have on the life of a learner, whether child or adult, the impact is tremendous. In the current social climate many adult learners as well children lack role models that will help them thrive not only as a student but in their professional life. I have seen the power of great educator and the power of less desired one. Great educators have keen sense of seeing potential in their students and seeing beyond their rough exterior. They model what they want in their students and because of that the often get back what they give (outside the outliers). Teaching comes with heavy burden. Although it is up to the learner to be willing to try and give their best and educator must never let their heart get harden by the changes in student behavior.

Fighting your inner demons, dealing with frustrations of outside influences and your fear of being a catalyst of change is exhausting on the body. It often causes your body to rebel and cause great pain. This cycle of pain often comes when changes occur in your life. As an educator I am torn by inner desire to give those that I come across 100% percent, yet find that my bucket is not always full when I needed. Waiting for bucket filler is not productive and must remember what is most important for me: making sure that people are seen as human being first and problems second. Whether you are working with a child or an adult it makes no difference. The cycle of change must be fueled with three things: compassion and what Eric Thomas calls...."Rise and Grind." When we "rise and grind" we know that change requires you to first look at yourself to find out how what you can change in yourself to improve the situation you seek to improve. It is about taking own

Within the dedicated teacher's heart lies, what Jon Bon Jovi says is the t hree P's: Passion + Persistence=Possibilities .  A dedicated teacher understands that must teach beyond STEM and help our students develop an understanding of the importance of incorporating the three P's into everything they do.  Jon Bon Jovi goes on further to say that, "Nothing is more important than passion.  No matter what you want to do with your life, be passionate.  The world doesn't need any more gray.”  This statement is right on target.  Every day on many social media channels, you hear many people professing their love for the gray and ignoring the beauty in life.  Over the past 40 years of my life, I have met countless people who have proven that the gray can be pushed out of your life even in the direst of circumstances.  Teachers have the power in conjunction with great parenting to build up a child's resilience in a child so that they become an adult who sees

"The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called the "truth.”  -Dan Rather  As we approach the month dedicated to teachers, I am reminded of the power of a teacher.  A great teacher is one that you never forget in spirit.  You may forget their name, but you will never forget the energy they gave you to give best.  All too often, you hear of teachers who do the opposite, those that burn rather than build.  The great ones are simply magical.  They meet you in your dreams and whisper to you, "Keep going!"  When defeat or failure is at your door, you hear thunderous roar-"Try again."  Although I cannot remember all of my teachers names, except one (Dr. Susan Miller), I do remember what they gave me.  They taught me to be compassionate with my students with a dose of truth.  They taught me that it is better to build up, than to tea

April 1, 2014  For this day, I am grateful for my sweetie for the following reasons: His voice  His eyes and legs.  His ability to make me feel like the only person in the room! Always!  His intelligence  His support of my professional and academic endeavors.  His support during my mother's death.  His skills ......... (For our eyes only!)  His playful side.  The enormous amount of memories we have collected over our 10 year long distance relationship. The South Dakota trips was legendary one and our tour of the volcanic mountains of the Pacific Northwest was priceless. And who knew Omaha, Nebraska ROCKS!!!  My sweetie is definitely my soulmate who was sealed with approval with by mother in the beginning of our relationship and shortly before her death. I am truly blessed.  What did I learn over the past 21 days? We really need as human beings need to take time to tell those we love that we are grateful for their presence. All too often we take time for granted. I

March 31, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this group of people the following reasons: They are the mojo behind my unbridled amount of energy. The more I interact with them the more energy I get. Because of them I get to experience joy EVERY DAY!  Their abilities to share their joys, pains, and fears with me. As human being who needs to really know those I interact with I am thankful that they freely share with me.  When I challenge them, even though they may want to push back, they always step up to plate. Often surprising me.  For all of them who take responsibility for their PD outside of where they traditionally would find it. Just makes me scream "YES! YES! YES!" One of trademarks of a great human being is one who takes responsiblity for their own knowledge. 

March 30, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this person the following reasons: Here committment to excellence. She was always honing her craft as a educator. A rarity during my career and I am grateful I know her. Always put her STUDENTS first!!!  Her friendship. One of the first people to accept me into my new job in 2007.   For all my hand me downs. I hate to shop but I love hand me downs! A good portion of my closet has been donated by her!  Her ability to spread joy. Here spirit is an infectious one and smile alway brings people together. 

March 29, 2014  On this day I would have sent the following letter to my mother, who now graciously has wore a pair of angel wings for the past 6 and 1/2 years. Dear Mom,  Although you are physically not her I wanted to let you know how grateful I am for having you in my life. You are my number one source of strength in the world. Your life taught me what truly matters in life. Because of you I live a life of joy and try diligently to fight the "Hawks of Negativity". Although this is challenging is it worth it since you taught me that time is truly precious. Often people choose to focus on very trivial things that in long run will have short affect on our lives. Your life was not that. Your struggles with bi-polar disorder and the numerous physical ailments taught me that strength resides in our faith in God and our ability to know that anything we face is temporary.  Your generosity in spirit was infectious and because you and my father and because your influence I pa

March 28, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this person the following reasons: One of the strongest women I know. One who stood by their man his darkest hour and made sure her kids were o.k. during this time.  For her ability to make sure one of my close friends gets out of the HOUSE! 

March 27, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this person the following reasons: Their impact on the development of a healthy self image as a woman.  The constant laughter I experienced while in there presence.  The fact they were always there true self in my presence. 

March 26, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this person the following reasons: For 27 years of friendship.  For housing me during my rebellion years when I move from being a child to acting like an adult.  For taking care of her love one, when they needed it most. 

March 25, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this group of people the following reasons: The personal stories they share with me. Always gives me a glimpse into their souls.  The care they give the students they work with on a given day.  My many mothers. Need them especially since I am just shy of 7 years since my mother past.  The ability to discuss pedogogy, technology, and the future with them.  My office mate who I appreciate greatly for their dedication to what is right for students and his ability to talk freely about anything with me. 

March 24, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this friend for the following reasons: The beautiful quilts she made me that have proudly graced my apartment for almost two decades.  For her friendship over the years.  For her artistry. Great influence on the development of my creativity.  For allowing me to be apart of her special day. 

March 23, 2014  For this day, I am grateful this student for the following reasons: One of the most strongest women I have met next to my mother.  Always leads her life with positivity and smile despite the numerous life challenges.  Has an infectious laugh and smile. 

March 22, 2014 Although my cat Billy Bob cannot read or write, he does deserve acknowledgement for how much he has blessed my life. Here is what I would tell him if he could read: For all of the early morning wake up calls. Sometimes gentle, sometimes not so much. Either way you have made sure that I have a morning routine that happens 7 days a week!  For the constant head butts and surveillance. I know for certain that you care for me deeply and need to have me in your eye constantly.  For your ability deliver a love bite with breaking the skin and/or a slap to the face without leaving a mark. I know I deserve it sometimes!  For greeting me each morning I return from a flight or after a long day at work!  Lastly, for your ability to turn off my Netflix movie when it is time for me to go to bed!! 

March 21, 2014  On this day, I am grateful for my childhood friends in California. Here is a post I originally posted on Facebook regarding how they impacted my life:  Dear Childhood Friends and the state of California,  On March 12th I made a decision to embark on a 21-Day Gratitude Challenge where I would write 21 people who have influenced my life greatly and let them know why.  I am grateful for my childhood friends in California and the state of California presence in my life for the following reasons:  1-For the wonderful childhood. I was blessed to live in California between the years of 1978 to 1985 and it is this period of my life that influence me the most. The overwhelming positive experiences I had during this time off set the trauma of having to watch my mother be hospitalized for bi-polar disorder. At no time in during this period and the times after did I feel different. My California years were filled with lots of sunshine and laughter. The childhoo

March 20, 2014  Here is a letter of gratitude I wrote my father who is currently battling Parkinson's and lives in a nursing home: Dear Dad,  On March 12th I made a decision to embark on a 21-Day Gratitude Challenge where I would write 21 people who have influenced my life greatly and let them know why.  I am grateful for your presence in my life for the following reasons:  1-You have always protected both me and my brother from harm. Throughout our lifetime you have ensured with we had a safe place to live. We never had to live in a violent community and the places you chose for us to live have us the opportunity to be exposed to a diverse community. Because of this I have been able to adapt very well to many situations and it is all because of your decision to keep us safe.  2-You have always been a father that has been involved in my life. Never once did I feel that you were absent. This was a truly a blessing since many people I know have not been fortunate t

March 19, 2014 For this day, I am grateful this friend and colleague for the following reasons: We always find time to meet at PF Chang to discuss ECE issues as well as what is going on in our lives.  She fights for teachers and high quality early childhood education and care.  She has been a great friend and colleague for over 10 years. 

March 18, 2014 For this day, I am grateful for my brother for the following reasons: Although we have fought and played throughout our life, we still love each other.  The fact that he is a protector. On numerous occasions he has been protective of me.  The fact that he is a wonderful husband and father. So many men are not, but he is truly one that is a wonderful one!  The fact that he cares for my Billy Bob when I am gone on short trips!! I appreciate this greatly and so does my Billy! 

March 17, 2014 For this day, I am grateful for this female friend for the following reasons: For still being there for me during my mother's death despite the fact that she was dealing with the same thing at the same time. I am grateful that we both did not have to deal one of the most tramatic things to happen to a woman alone.  All of our excursions to go dancing in your twenties!  The fact that she is an artist and that she was one of many who inspired me to do the same.  A real person at heart. She has always remain true over our 22 year friendship.  The fact that she was part of my 3-Day training group that prepared me for my first 3-day.  The fact that she finally found someone that is treating her the way she should be!! 

March 16, 2014 For this day I am grateful for this male friend for the following reasons: He is a survivor and one that taught me it hurts when a close friend is sick, particularly when you care for them deeply.  He was the first person to play Brian McKnight to me and I have loved his music ever since.  We are still friends, long after ending our romantic relationships and his ability to communicate has gotten better over the years.  He is intelligent, very!  His ice blue eyes are mesmerizing!  My walking buddy for Valley Green.  His voice is very unique, one you can never forget! 

March 15, 2013 For this day I am grateful for this male friend for the following reasons: She's a Virgo, I am Gemini and we are a perfect match for a friendship between sisters.  She introduced me to an ex who had a tremendous influence on my life.  She was one of my ROCKS during all of my mother's hospitalizations and at the end of my mother's life.  She is my female friend who I can always count on for a good debate, laughter, and a snore (literally).  She is and has been apart of my cheer squad for the 3-day! 

March 14, 2013 For this day I am grateful for this male friend for the following reasons: His ability to have lively debates with me on current and past events.  His dedication to his friends in their darkest hours when they were dying.  Our long talks about just anything!  First man who taught me that men and women can be friends after a romatic relationship has ended. 

March 13, 2014 For this day I am writing about an individual that is like the Big Sister I never had. We may not be sisters in blood, but we are by spirit. On Day 2, this person blessed me in the following ways: Her ability to talk with me about anything and often for long periods of time.  Her ability to deliver constructive criticism in a powerful way.  Her ability to be true representation of a successful woman.  Her ability to embrace the natural side of beauty.  What she did for me in one of my darkest hours-the death of my mother.  

In honor of Women's History Month, I felt that Maya's poem, "And Still I Rise" was an appropriate tribute to the spirit of women.  Over a woman's lifetime, she will experience approximately 82 sunrises, some more and some less.  Each sunrise provides a woman with the opportunity to be renewed.  Some are, and some never experience renewal.  The women who do rise in spirit each sunrise live out this poem every day of their lives.  Sassy, smart, and sexy the renewed woman struts during day with her head high regardless of what trials and tribulations that are occurring in their life.  At 85 years old, Maya Angelou is proof positive that as we age the following happens:  We are able to overcome huge mountains with a sassy heart that knows in their heart that a woman's life matters. 

As I am officially at the mid point or slight beyond what is expected for a woman in terms of life expectancy, I have become more conscious of my mortality and the mortality of others. In conjunction with the ever changing life changes that occur for most people 40 and beyond I felt it was important that I take time to be grateful for those individuals that have blessed my life. So over the next 21 days, I will send 21 individuals a letter expressing my gratitude for the blessings that the gave me. Although I will not be sharing their names or the letters I will share each day the attributes that they possess that blessed my life. So here we go: Day 1-This person blessed me in the following ways: With their expressive eyes  With their ability to write well  With their ability to be candid in their speech  The brief moments we had over a two decades but were memorable ones Their kindness towards my mother when she was a dialysis patient Day 2-To Be Continue...... The sister

Within us all there is a struggle between what we fear and our natural inclination to remain in our comfort zone. Living in the comfort zone is safe. It leads us to only follow one train of thought, perhaps what is expected. This is often fueled by fear, another natural emotion responses to the unknown. Moving beyond our comfort zone is critical in process of change. When we step outside our box with open eyes, we may find a sea of possibilities. Possibilities that we never new existed beyond our current situations. The task of moving from what was once done to a new possibility is shedding our fear. When fear increases, we generally do one of two things: Flee or fight. Either can be a option in the right circumstance as well as being the wrong one. The question we should ask ourselves is whether or not we want to continue the Dance of CZF or the struggle we go through when we try to manage our fears and desire to refrain in our comfort zone.

Today I learned that my students and I suspect a few other choose to nominate me for a teaching award that I always wanted to receive. In addition, the did a wonderful presentation of the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award. As a human being who breathes teaching like it is air, it something that is at the core of my being. Ever since a young age I knew that my life would be dedicated to helping others achieve their dreams. Teachers are often dream makers. They are sparkles that light the flame in a student that is destined to greatness. I may never ever rich financial, but I will be rich in spirit. For I have been graced with being able to see little miracles happen every day and what we do as teachers last long after we leave this world. My heart is full tonight and for a good reason. For this I say thank you! 

Lisa Nielsen: The Innovative Educator: Believe The above blog post includes a wonderful poem called, "Believe.”  In the poem, this educator describes what she believes should happen for children.  At the heart of teaching, lies hope and within a teacher's hope for a brighter future for students is the belief that it will HAPPEN.  Anyone who calls themselves an educator whether a teacher, professor, mentor, etc. must believe in what they do matters.  Through devoted belief comes excellent teaching, the desire to improve your teaching craft, the acceptance that professional development is more than a workshop, and the understanding that we must give 110% everyday.