Bully

This is one of my rants but it's an important one so please try to think and act upon this issue. On most weekday mornings I drive Ethan (age 11) and Rhett (age 6) to school. We have discussions from time to time about whats going on in their lives but most mornings they entertain themselves with their iPads. As they ignore me I listen to news radio. The other morning I was literally brought to tears when the discussion of bullying came on the radio. All this comes up with soon to be released movie "Bully"..which is also a movement. I can't help but feel for kids today and all they have to endure on a day to day basis. I also know that in the past I have been guilty of bullying someone. This is cruel and unacceptable behavior and ultimately I'm disappointed in myself that I or someone else would torture someone for the sake of having "fun" or just to be cruel. Ethan and Rhett chimed in when they heard what was being talked about on the radio.  They see bullying everyday at school and I know for a fact one of the boy's has been bullied in the past. I don't even think the word for all of this is "bullying" its more like torture, assault or harassment and children in schools are truly suffering. If an adult was bullying another adult there would be criminal charges filed. I just can't even fathom what children in schools are going thru today. I look at my sweet little pre-k kids and I love how they are so sweet and innocent but I'm sad for them that one day soon they will have to face this issue themselves. This is not an issue of kids being kids and this is a part of what school is all about. This is a serious issue! its time to STOP BULLYING. SPEAK UP! As someone who works with kids on a day to day basis I have to say its important that parents, kids and educators get involved and let our children know that this behavior is not acceptable and to think about they way we treat one another and what we can do as a community to respond to this issue because what is going on right now is truly painful for children. Ok there is my rant on "bullying" this entry is written out sadness, anger, and frustration..please know this is an important issue that needs awareness! Please take a moment check out the Bully Project website and get to know the issue and see what you can do to contribute. Thanks..Peace Out

http://www.thebullyproject.com/indexflash.html

I Can See The Light at the End of the Tunnel!!

Yesterday, I attended GradFest where I got my cap and gown, announcements, and signed my intent to walk across the stage. Not until this moment did I think this day would ever come!!! Now graduation is 5 weeks away!!! I can't believe this day is finally here!!! I have waited for this moment for so long. As many of you know this has been a very long road..it's been so long many you may have thought I was in Medical or Law school!! I have attended several colleges, taken breaks from college, and have had many degree changes throughout my college career but now its finally here!!! On May 12, 2012 I will graduate with an Education degree from St. Edward's University!!! I know all this would not be possible without the love and support of my family and friends. I’m thankful for all those who supported me and constantly nudged me through this process! I’m also thankful to the Butlers (John and Nancy) for all their constant love and financial support throughout this time. I’m especially thankful for my lover aka my boyfriend aka Jamie aka John Michael Butler for all his love and support. I’m so happy to have had him here with me especially on the days when I would come home crying due to stress and being entirely too overwhelmed with work, school and life in general. So, thank you John Michael I love you, Lux!!! And last but not certainly least I thank my mom! She is the one that helped made all of this possible for me. She encouraged me at times I needed it the most, offered much love and support, and most importantly funded this college career!! So as I see the light at the end of tunnel I'm thankful to have the opportunity and support to attend college when there are so many kids who do not. I have a lot of work ahead me in the next 5 weeks but now I know it is all going to be worth it!!! I hope to see all of you at Cedar Street on Saturday May 12, 2012!!!

Preview of my Graduation Announcement