Author: jgalvinwhite

Posted in Weekend Top 5

Weekend Top 5

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Book club / Dinner Out on Friday

Friday night I met up with some friends for book club. We were to have read Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of 69, but only a few of us had read it. I was recently added to this group, and the waitlist at the library was long for the book…since I was reading a couple of other books, I never got around to Summer of 69…and I wasn’t the only one in the group who hadn’t read it 🙂 Instead, we all chatted, caught up with one another, and enjoyed hibachi. It was a great way to start the weekend, and I’m determined to actually read our next book choice: Ask Again, Yes which I’ve heard good things about. (Also, a friend is letting me borrow Summer of 69, so I may actually read it too! 😉 )

Finished a book & started a new book

On Friday night, I finished a book I started a bit ago: Sadie. At my school, our librarian is awesome…and gives great book talks to my students. I had added Sadie to my list after hearing her book talk on it. It’s a young adult (YA) book, and I do try to read those every once in awhile, so I can share with my students book ideas as well. Overall, I liked it…especially how it was formatted alternating between a podcast and the point of view of the missing main character Sadie. I hope to write more about it in my September Book Review.

Then, I started reading The Mother-in-Law after being on the library wait list for a bit to get it. I’m about 100 pages in, and so far, so good.

Hayden’s Soccer Game

Hayden finally had his first soccer game of the season. This year he’s on a new team with many friends that he knows from baseball. It’s fun to watch them play a different sport together and while they are young for their age group, they dominated with an 8-1 (I think) victory with Hayden scoring the final goal of the game.

Why does portrait mode make him look 16?!
Hayden headed to the ball on defense

Cross Country

While Saturday was hectic with a soccer game and cross country meet immediately following the game, at least the soccer game and CC meet were at the same park!

Travis had hoped to start a cross country team at the kids’ school last year, but it logistically didn’t work out at the time. This year, with the help of a teacher at their school,he and Travis started the program.

The first meet EVER for their school was on Saturday with schools from Lexington but also surrounding areas as well. Running is definitely something that’s in our kids’ blood #buttheydontgetitfromme, and they did great. It was fun to see the sense of community with parents helping out, parent volunteers getting kids where they needed to be, kids cheering for one another and an outstanding showing for the sixty or so runners with the girls (3rd-5th grade) placing 4th overall and the boys (3rd-5th grade) placing 6th. It was a great effort by all: the runners, the parents, and the coaches. We can’t wait for the next meet!

Pre race and I was already proud of my crew!
During and post race pics…and fun with friends!
Ready to run!
Uncle Chet always gets the best pics: Hadley & her friend mid-race
Hayden gave it his all. Hashtag: exhausted
Photo cred: Uncle Chet

Homer & the KC Chiefs

(Ma)Homer #mahomie

It’s been awhile since Kansas City has had a strong football team to cheer on…last year’s season was amazing and much like the wait and anticipation of the 2015 KC Royals season (#WorldSeriesChamps), KC is ready to once again cheer on Mahomes and the Chiefs. At times, we call Homer “Homie” which sometimes also turns into “Mahomie.” Once again, thanks to Etsy and the Golden Doodle Dog Co, Homer is stylish and cheered his team to a victory today.

Besides the top 5, we also tailgated for a bit with friends before UK’s home football game. Hadley and I headed home while the boys stayed at the game.

Sunday is always a day to regroup for the upcoming week and we did that with church, laundry, grocery shopping, keeping an eye on the Chiefs score, and an afternoon nap for 🙋‍♀️.

I hope you have had a great weekend!

Take care,

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#1}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

I’m so excited to link up with A Little Bit of Everything, Grace and Love, and Momfessionals for my first ever Friday Favorites.

A little bit of everything
Grace and love
Momfessionals

Four Day Work Week

My first favorite of the week is the fact that coming off of a three day weekend meant having a four day week of school. While my school year is off to a great start, I will take breaks as they come! It’s still nice to ease into this first month of school.

One Bars

We live near a Trader Joe’s and one of my favorite things to buy there are the ONE bars. I’m sure you can get them many places, but I just grab a few on my every other week trip to TJ. I also like the chocolate chip and glazed donut flavors. Surprisingly, I have the will power to usually just eat half of these bars. I think because they are rich in flavor, I just eat half one day, leave it in my lunch bag and eat half on the other day. It’s the perfect sweet to eat half of …even on my low carb days.

Packing Cubes

I’ve been using these packing cubes for at least two years, and they are certainly a favorite of mine. I was talking about them with friends the other day, so I thought I’d share them. While they are intended to help you fit more into your suitcase and I do believe that’s true, I just love them from an organizational standpoint. I’m a chronic over-packer, so these don’t help me pack less (haha!), but at least what I pack is organized. I’ve used them where each family member has a certain color for their clothes…or I’ve used them where everyone’s swim stuff goes in one, everyone’s dress clothes go in another, etc.

On our recent trip home from Florida, we were over by five pounds (this shocks no one who travels with me as I always fret if my luggage will be over in weight)…40 pounds adds up quickly. Anyway, just as Travis was about to pay the $50 (WTF?!) baggage fee, I whipped open the suitcase, pulled out one of the cubes, stuffed it in my carry on, and we made the second weight check. I looked at my family waiting for them to applaud me and confirm I’m a genius for making us use these when we travel…but let’s just say I’m still waiting for those accolades.

Packing Cubes

Fabulous Friends

Another favorite is a night out with these ladies. To say I’ve hit the jackpot of friends would be an understatement. Most of these ladies I’ve met through Hadley’s Girl Scout troop, but we all have kids that go to my kids’ school. They are certainly a blessing in my life…and going out to dinner on a Thursday night (we were missing a few ladies!) to celebrate Cassie and Estee’s birthdays was definitely something I needed.

The Flay List

One of my favorite shows to watch lately has been The Flay List on The Food Network. Bobby Flay has always been a fave of mine…and while he seems to have a tough exterior, it’s fun to see a softer side while he interacts with his daughter Sophie. The first few episodes had them sharing their favorite taco, fried chicken, and burger places in NYC. They seem to have a sweet relationship, and it’s fun to see her get him to relax and laugh a bit.

Side note: Flay is in the horse business as well, and we’ve seen him at the horse sales through the years…Hayden (who loves the show Beat Bobby Flay), spotted him when we were visiting Travis at a sale last fall and watched his every move. Hayden was star struck!

Friday Nights at the Pool

Friday nights at the pool have been a favorite. Sometimes we just go for a couple of hours, grab dinner and a drink while the kids swim, and cling to the carefree summer nights. (Real talk: the kids had to wake me from my Friday afternoon nap to convince me to go last Friday night…but so glad we did…it’s fun seeing friends, chatting, and letting the kids burn some energy)

Cross Country

Another fave is seeing the kids’ cross country team swag come in. They were so excited to see the shirts for their team, and the first race is tomorrow! We’re all excited to get the season rolling (or running?!) 😉

Homer’s Scarf

Homer, of course , is still a fave…although, I would love it if he’d quit knocking over small children with his enthusiasm. I definitely treat him like the third child I never had …complete with a new autumn scarf. September 1st = fall (y’all) in our house. I’ve ordered a few scarves from Golden Doodle Co on Instagram (thanks to a recommendation from my friend Natalie). The scarves are so cute and great quality…plus, he’s just too cute while wearing his pumpkin scarf!

Kindle Paperwhite

My Kindle Paperwhite is definitely a favorite of mine…so much so that I’m wondering what I did before I had one (besides read hardback books) 😉 Fun fact: I buy myself an end of the school year gift…basically because I survived that year…haha. So, I purchased mine from Amazon in May. I usually just check out books from the library (for free!), but have purchased a few on Amazon. Don’t get it twisted…I still prefer the feel of holding an actual book, but the Kindle is so convenient. It’s always in my purse, so I can read it while waiting on Hadley to finish dance class or if I have a few minutes before school starts, etc. I actually tend to read two books at once: one on my Kindle and one hardback book that usually just stays on my nightstand to read at bedtime. I never thought I’d do that, but it’s been a part of my reading routine for quite some time…and I tend to have two different kinds of books I’m reading to not confuse plot, characters, etc.

Kindle Paperwhite

When I bought mine in May, it was on sale for $90 and definitely an awesome deal, and I bought the cover to ensure it would be safe when I kept it in my purse.

Kindle cover

Hadley

Occasionally I find (52) Hadley selfies on my phone. They are always unexpected to find and always crack me up. She gives me a run for my money (on the daily), but I love her caring, outgoing, and silly spirit.

Another favorite has been seeing Hadley transition from only taking a hip hop class to also taking the combo tap/jazz/ballet class. I feel like this is next level 😂as she’s at dance for TWO hours on Wednesday nights. She comes home with the biggest smile on her face while plié-ing, prancing, arabesque-ing all over the house. I’m not saying she’s headed to Juilliard, but her grace, strength, and the five seconds she stands still to hold a pose amaze me. ❤️

Also- not to leave Hayden out but he’s been busting it on the soccer field…but Travis wins best dad award taking him to his practices while I take Hadley to dance…He’s on a team with lots of his baseball buddies, and the first game is tomorrow (followed immediately by the cross country race). #sweatyBoostatus 😂

Blogging

Blogging has become an absolute favorite of mine. I sooo appreciate all that take the time to read my posts. It’s been easy to think of content so far as I guess I’ve read many blogs for awhile…and I know what posts are of interest to me while also coming up with a few of my own ideas. I love sharing about my family, what we are eating, what I’m reading and other topics as well. It’s true that you find time to do things that are important to you, and blogging, so far, has become a part of my routine…and not stressful at all. Again, that’s so much for following along, and I hope there’s a little something for everyone!

Friday Meme

Lastly, this meme is a favorite that made me laugh out loud. Even though it’s been a great week, always TGIF!

I hope you have a great weekend, and thanks for reading my first ever Friday Favorites. Feel free to check out the other bloggers who linked up as well.

Have a great weekend,

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Life Lately

Life Lately

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Just a little bit of this and that from the past few weeks…

Hadley was at a sleepover, so Hayden had some quality time with us 🙂 We went out to dinner at a local restaurant we love: The Bear and the Butcher…and then Hayden talked us into ice cream at Graeters.

We wrapped up summer with our church’s back to school picnic. The kids had a great time running around, eating (too many) desserts, playing on bounce houses, and even going on horse rides with friends.

Official big kid status—the kids have been riding their bikes to school once or twice a week. While I’m kind of bummed we aren’t walking together as much, I know they are excited to feel like big kids having a little more independence. My friend who is a teacher at their school (hi, Cari!) sent me this pic at the end of the school day because I was a bit nervous about them making the trek (.5 miles ;)) home. All was good.

GG (my mom) and Gma (my grandma) visited a couple of weekends ago. They always come bearing gifts. Hayden and Hadley were both excited about their new KC Chiefs shirts, but Hayden was extra excited for Mahomes Magic Crunch. He’s still torn on if he should eat it or not. 😉

Lots of Homer snuggles going on at our house. I’m losing the battle of ‘no Homer on the couch.” #TGHC (thank goodness he’s cute!)

Dressed in their Sunday best. I always love seeing what they pick out to wear to church. Hadley’s dress is courtesy of Gma…and super cute.

I attended Curriculum Night at the kids’ school. I always love going to this event at their school (I’m a teacher nerd, ok?!)…and hearing about what’s going on in the classroom. Hayden’s teacher included this handout in the packet…and I loved every word of it. Real talk. Truth.

Most Saturdays at the fall are spent at Kroger Field cheering on the CATS. I’ve said it before…I don’t bleed blue…but I’m not mad about it that my kids and husband do. While Hadley and I don’t always make it into the stadium, we did last weekend. Sometimes, we just let the guys go into the game and cheer for the CATS while we stay outside and socialize 🙂 (or when it’s less than 60 degrees, stay at home and watch the game on the couch!_ It was a super hot Saturday, but we made the most of it and had fun with friends…and the CATS won…so that’s always a good thing!

These girls have my heart. Hadley is so blessed to have such great friends…and even better, Travis and I are friends with their parents. It’s such a blessing. These ladies were super serious about their tailgating football game…but stopped and let me snap their photo…and then…

My friend Amy said we should recreate the same pic! #momlife #friends

Travis and I had an impromptu date night on Saturday. Both kids were invited to a birthday party, so we had a couple of hours free and no sitter to have to pay! 🙌🏻

I honestly wanted to stay home and get takeout (#homebodystatus), but glad Travis insisted on going out to one of our favorite places: OBC kitchen. (Bacon in a glass with peanut butter dipping sauce—best appetizer in town).

OBC Kitchen

That’s a little bit of our life lately. We are in the throes of back to school, sports, routines…but walking the fine line of not wanting summer to end but ready for all things fall.

Life lately, y’all.

Take care,

Jen

Instagram: @showmesweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Meals and Recipes

Monday Meals: Crustless Taco Pie

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

I try to eat low carb at least two days a week which means if I’m cooking dinner, my family is eating low carb too! haha. This recipe is a family favorite. When I made this last week, Hadley said, “Mom, it DOES taste like tacos.” Well, I’m not sure about that, but definitely that flavor profile and a way to get a low carb meal in. This recipe is courtesy of Simply So Healthy.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
3 green onions thinly sliced
1/4 c salsa
1 c Mexican blend cheese (although often times I use shredded mild cheddar and/or Monterey jack)
4 large eggs (I always buy medium eggs and use about 6 eggs)
2/3 c heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Ready to cook
Time to bake!
Dinner is served with our favorite green beans

Link to full recipe below:

Crustless TAco PIE

I hope you enjoy this meal as much as we do! What are some low carb recipes you love?

I hope you are enjoying your three day weekend!

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Funny, Homer

Funny Friday

Posted on by jgalvinwhite
Born to be a rebel!

So, having Homer in the house is basically like living with a toddler. (Newsflash Homer: I raised two toddlers at once!) He’s always on the move, begs for treats, & is constantly doing things he shouldn’t be doing like licking the dishes in the dishwasher, putting his paws on the counter (as evidenced above), chewing on my coffee table, and, well, even bringing a dead bird into the house!

One morning last week, Hayden called me into the living room saying Homer had something in his mouth. As soon as he dropped it, I knew what it was. A bird…even though it looked like a chewed up hash brown. Travis was already at work, I was near tears, and Hadley, for once in her life, was speechless. Hayden bravely got the dust pan and retrieved the bird. As soon as he got a good look at it, he continued to yell, “It has a beak. IT HAS A BEAK!” while running with the dust pan outside to the garbage can. I hugged him (after he washed his hands) and told him he that he was my hero! 😂

Later, after I texted my dad, brother and Travis, all said something to the effect of, “Well, I guess he is part retriever!” While that’s a cute response, I’m not sure they were completely understanding the trauma I had experienced that morning. 😂

Later that evening, I was telling Hayden about what they said and what retrievers are bred to do, so I guess it made sense that Homer was acting on his instincts.

The next day, Hayden was lying on the living room floor which is fair game for Homer thinking he wanted to play with him. While Homer licked him and nipped at him a bit while playing, Hayden was laughing and said, “Homer! Quit retrieving me!” I busted out laughing. 😂

Needless to say the kids AND Homer keep us on our toes…and like when my kids were in the toddler phase, I always held on tight until nap time. They are always the cutest when they are sleep 😉

I hope you have a great weekend.

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me & Sweet Tea

Posted in What's up Wednesday

What’s Up Wednesday

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Once a month Sheaffer & Shay share a What’s Up Wednesday. I’m excited to link up with them to share what’s been going on with myself and my family.

Sheaffer told me to
mix and match mama

1. WHAT WE ARE EATING THIS WEEK:

I typically cook Monday-Thursday (but try to at least have one meal that will last two nights). This week was a little different because I didn’t have to cook Sunday night since we were celebrating our nephew, Wyatt’s birthday.

Monday night I made Instant Pot Crack Chicken Casserole. It’s always a family favorite, and it’s what we ate Tuesday evening as well with a salad or fruit as a side. The recipe is from Pinterest 🙂

IP Crack chicken casserole

I try to eat low carb at least two days a week, and one of my favorite low carb recipes that even my family loves is Crustless Taco Pie which I will make tonight for dinner. I will even have some left over for Thursday’s lunch. I hope to share that recipe next week.

Thursday evening, everyone may kind of be on their own for dinner. Between cross country practice and Curriculum Night at school (and I have dinner plans with friends afterwards (This may be news to Travis! ;)) , dinner may just have to be pieced together. I have discovered Hormel’s already cooked taco meat recently, so that’s something I usually have on hand if anyone needs to throw tacos together for dinner in a pinch.

The chicken option is great as well!

Friday and Saturday night, mom is off duty from cooking! We usually get carry out one night and eat out another evening…then it’s time to plan groceries all over again for the next week. 🙂

2. WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT:

Hadley back at the ballet barre. When she was in kindergarten, she took a combo ballet/tap class. Then, took a few years off, but started back with a hip hop class last year. This year, along with hip hop, she’s added a ballet/tap/jazz combo class and is loving it. She’s growing up right before my very eyes. Side note: we have NO clue where she got her grace and rhythm…but dang, she’s got it…and loves dancing so much…which makes me so happy #dancemomtipsplease

2019
2015

3. WHAT I’M LOVING:

Homer’s new bow tie collar from Amazon. I told him it’s time for him to dress for success…and by success, I mean quit chewing on flip flops, hopping on the couch with muddy paws, and bringing dead birds into the house. #hecutetho #Amazonforthewin

4. WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO:

All the activities and school work on repeat. News flash: fourth grade is no joke. Multiplication, reading, homework + cross country, soccer, dance. Repeat.

Also, we celebrated cousin Wyatt’s 5th birthday at his party this past weekend. It’s hard to believe he’s already five…next year, he’ll be at the same elementary school as my kids…

Meeting Wyatt, Wyatt’s first birthday party, and celebrating #5
Birthday boy!
Wyatt’s a big fan of Spongebob!

We also had family visit this past weekend. GG & Gma came to town for Wyatt’s party!

5. WHAT I’M DREADING:

These days, setting an alarm! Sleeping in during the summer (even until 7:00!) was such a luxury. I always give myself grace for the first few weeks of school, but hope to get back to my early morning workouts next week. It’s always difficult getting out of bed, but always worth it to have the workout over for the day by 7:00 AM.

6. WHAT I’M WORKING ON:

Learning my students’ names! We’ve been in school for two full weeks. I always tell my students to give me until Labor Day to learn all of their names. I think I’m to the point where I know the names…as long as they stay in their seats in alphabetical order 🙂 My memory for 150 names isn’t what it used to be.

7. WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT:

I’m sooooo excited to cheer on Hayden and Hadley when they run for their school’s cross country team. Cross country (and track) has been a HUGE part of Trav’s family for most of their lives. Trav was (still is) a runner; all Hayden and Hadley’s older cousins started running when they were in the third grade and some continued on through high school, college, and even at the professional level. XC is such a great mix of being both an individual and a team sport. Travis worked with one of the teachers at the kids’ school to create the first ever XC team. The number of kids who signed up was completely overwhelming. Travis was hoping for twenty runners and at last count, they had over NINETY third, fourth, and fifth graders sign up. I hope Hayden and Hadley always remember what their dad has done for them, and I can’t wait to see what they (all three!) accomplish. #CoachWhitehasawhistle #powerplay

Ready for the first practice

8. WHAT I’M WATCHING/READING:

I’m in the back to school reading slump, so I just finished reading The Art of Racing in the Rain this past weekend. I started reading it right before heading back to school, and took the time to finish it Saturday morning. I really enjoyed it. Of course, anything with a dog as the main character, will most likely be a fave of mine to read. Now, I’d like to find the time to go see the movie. I hope to get back to my normal reading routine soon…but first I need to get back to staying up past 9:00 #backtoschoolteacherlife

9. WHAT I’M LISTENING TO:

I started listening to podcasts about a year and a half ago, and I usually only listen to them when I work out. The first podcast I ever listened to was Finding Richard Simmons. Yes, you read that correctly. 😂 I loved it. Anyway, now some of my faves are Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist, Distracted & Aggressive, and Living and Dying in LA. I hope to get back in my podcast routine when I get back to my morning workouts next week.

10. WHAT I’M WEARING:

This peplum high low sleeveless top from Amazon on repeat. I also have the short sleeve version in light blue and light pink. I heart shopping on Amazon. All of these tops are easy to dress up or down which I love.

Peplum high low top

I’ve been subscribing to Stitch Fix for about three years. I receive an order once every three months, and usually end up keeping a couple of pieces. I love the fact that I receive items that I probably wouldn’t have necessarily chosen for myself , like this floral top, but end up loving. This top is perfect for school or church or anywhere in between.

It’s sooo awkward taking photos of myself. Is it weird that I’m always headless?

Also, I’m back wearing pants that button . Because school. And I’m professional like that 😂 Since summer clothes mostly include swimwear and athletic wear, it’s always an adjustment to wear real pants and shoes that aren’t flip flops!

11. WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND:

Well, it’s football time in the bluuuuegrasssss…which means tailgating most weekends. The first game of the season is this Saturday. While I don’t necessarily bleed blue and always keep an eye on my (MU) Tigers, the city of Lexington comes alive when the CATS take to the turf for the first game of the season.

This pic is from the 2018 football season. Fun fact: their Uncle Chet took the pic of the wildcat for the backdrop!

12. WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH:

All things pumpkin. I love decorating our front porch for the fall.

This is what’s happening in our part of the world. Once we get into a groove after starting back to school, this is my favorite time of the year. Routines, cool(ish) air temperatures headed our way soon, fall sports, apple cider, and cozy sweaters! The best time of the year is right around the corner.

I hope you have a great day,

Jen

Instagram: @showmesweettea.com

Posted in Meals and Recipes

Monday Meals: IP Creamy Shells and Cheese

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Instant Pot Creamy Shells and Cheese

Confession 1: I haven’t used my Instant Pot all summer. I’m trying to get back in the cooking swing of things and a find that a meal that includes pasta usually provides us with two dinners. I made this last Wednesday evening knowing our Thursday evening would be crazy, and it was a hit.

Confession 2: I do like the Instant Pot although it took some time for us to become friends. I received one for Christmas last year and when I’m in the normal swing of things, I’d say I use it once a week. Once I got over the fact that it isn’t really “instant,” I decided I do find it useful enough to incorporate into my meal planning. Once everything is in the pot, I do like that I have that time free to pack lunches, get a quick workout in, or my favorite past time: taking a quick power nap.

All of my IP recipes come from Pinterest, but I hadn’t tried this one yet.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium yellow or sweet onion, diced

1 pound lean ground beef

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 (16 oz) box medium pasta shells, uncooked

1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce

3 cups water

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

2 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks and softened

Ingredients: (minus tomato paste which I forgot to buy🤦🏼‍♀️), but it all tasted just fine.
Time for my nap 🙂
Dinner is served! (Real talk: Wednesday night was so busy, we all ate when we could. I ate this by myself on the couch while watching Real Housewives of OC!)

When I get two nights out a meal, I usually make a vegetable one night (my kids love fresh green beans–I blanch them, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper, and they eat their weight in them) and then a bagged salad another night. I try to keep it simple.

Here’s the link to the Pinterest recipe:

Recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen

This is definitely a recipe I will make again…and hopefully remember the tomato paste next time!

Take care,

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Posted in Flashback Friday, Kids, School

Flashback Friday

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

We’ve survived the first two weeks of school. While I’ve been setting an early alarm for two solid weeks now, the kids have been able to ease into the back to school routine. In our district, students started on a Wednesday, so it was a three day first week of school last week; this week they had school Monday through Thursday with a teacher work day today.

I thought I’d share a little flashback of through the years on the first day of school, although I’m not sure why I do this to myself. 😂

First day of 4th Grade

They definitely are looking like the big kids of the school this year.

And old enough (& I guess responsible enough?!) to ride their bikes to school.

Big kid status!

First day of 3rd Grade

Back when Hayden would wear his glasses and not just his sports goggles.

First day of 2nd Grade

2nd grade pic is one of my faves. They look older but not too old…and I loved their back to school outfits that year because they actually did pick them out themselves.

First day of 1st Grade

I do think 1st grade pic is my fave. Hadley’s outfit is the best…bow and all.

First day of Kindergarten

Ready to rock elementary school.

And just for fun (or a kick in the ovaries)…

April 2010 –First day going to their sitter’s house.

Ms. Joan watched them until they went to kindergarten. Such a special lady! ❤️

Babies don’t keep, & time continues to fly by.

I hope you have a great Friday,

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Books and Shows, Let's look

Let’s Look

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Some of my favorite posts to read on a few of my favorite bloggers’ pages are when they post their “Let’s Look,” “Friday Favorites,” and “What’s Up Wednesday?” I love getting a glimpse into their lives and what they are up to. Erika and Shay posted a “Let’s Look” last Wednesday, but I was knee deep in 150 new students, so I thought I’d give it a try this week! Happy reading.

A Little Bit of Everything
Mix and MAtch Mama

Each month, they link up with other bloggers and share about a topic. The topic for August is your favorite shows to binge watch.

For this to be my first “Let’s Look ” post, I must say the topic isn’t one with which I necessarily am successful. I’m not much of a binge watcher when it comes to television. Do I watch tv? Uh, yes! I just guess I’m at the point in my life where thirty minutes of television time is a luxury, so I watch one episode of something and probably end up falling asleep. Also, my kids seem to be around…all. of. the. time. And, since they are around, I’ve now realized how inappropriate most shows are that I watch..at least for 9 year olds…haha. By the time they get to bed or give me some peace and quiet, I’m about ready fall asleep myself.

That being said, off the top of my head, a few shows I have binge watched lately would be: Dead to Me and Ozark on Netflix and House Hunters on Hulu.

I can honestly say I did binge watch season one of Dead to Me. I had heard about it, and on Mother’s Day Sunday did what any good mom would do and asked for some quiet time. I headed to the basement and ended up watching five episodes in a row. I finished the other five episodes by the beginning of summer. I love Christina Applegate and the plot instantly drew me in. It’s definitely a dark comedy with some cussing (a girl after my own heart!), and (warning!) some R rated sections.

Jen is recently widowed and becomes friends with Judy, played by Linda Cardellini (who was on Netflix’s Bloodline which is another great series). Jen is obsessed with finding out who killed her husband while also working as a realtor, being a single mom to her two sons, and dealing with her mother-in-law.

I was thrilled to find out that there will be a season 2!

Travis and I started watching Ozark on Netflix last summer. Growing up in Missouri, I spent plenty of time going to the Lake of the Ozarks with my grandparents. I love seeing the scenery, but of course, I never came across the types of people Byrdes deal with on a daily basis. Being a child of the 80’s, I certainly heart Jason Bateman. He was definitely an 80’s crush of mine, and, fun fact, we share the same birthday!

The Byrdes have had to relocate from Chicago in order to right the wrongs of a money laundering scheme Marty’s involved in and end up working and being involved with other criminals of the Ozark area as well.

We watched season one pretty quickly last summer, but this summer have just started viewing season two due to lack of time (what else is new?!) Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve watched six of the ten episodes. Again, I’m excited that they are currently filming season three, and hope to watch it in 2020.

Besides lack of time, my other “issue” with binge watching is once I finish a season, it will be months until the next season comes out and I often forget what has previously happened. Thank goodness for Wikipedia and Google.

Oddly enough, House Hunters has become quite popular in our house latey. I remember back when I would watch this in my dorm room at college. Then, as adult, it was always on around 10:00 pm as I’d head to bed, so it was a good way to wrap up the day. About a year ago, Travis followed through with his “I’m going to cut cable” threat, and we now have Hulu. That being said, I didn’t really watch House Hunters anymore. Last month, I searched for it and watched a few episodes. It piqued Hayden’s interest, and it’s something we now watch together…and I’ve even caught him watching it on his own. haha.

Speaking of Hulu, when Travis said he’d looked into it last fall, he said, “Don’t worry, you can still watch the Golden Girls!” He knows me so well. I loved when GG would air on Lifetime in the morning and also at bedtime. These ladies are my fave. My kids could sing “Thank you for being a friend…” by the time they were three years old. This show is a forever classic, and I can easily watch multiple episodes at a time…and not worry about what my kids overhear. (Except for an occasional Blanche moment 😉

And, speaking of classics, I’m thrilled that Designing Women is coming to Hulu at the end of the month. Along with the Golden Girls, these ladies have my heart. Julia Sugarbaker is my fave probably because I am nothing like her and would give anything to be like her. She’s has a strong sense of self with a no nonsense attitude. Also, Annie Potts…need I say more? I love her too! All the ladies bring something to the table and make this show a classic. I can’t wait to binge watch it.

I have a note on my phone of books I want to read…it’s pretty long as I’m constantly adding to it. I also have a note of shows to watch such as Bloodlines and The Crown on Netflix. I watched season one of both and loved each of them …it’s just a lack of time at this point making it difficult for me to carry through with multiple seasons. Also on my list are You and The Americans. Now, if only I could find some more time…

What are some of your favorite shows to binge watch?

Happy Wednesday,

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea

Facebook Page: Show Me and Sweet Tea

Posted in Inspiration

The Four Agreements

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

My principal has shared these agreements with us at the beginning of the school year the past few years. Building relationships with students can be so difficult sometimes, and it’s also so easy to get bogged down in the day to day responsibilities of life and school. At times, I feel like I give so much to my students that by the time I get home, my own kids get the leftovers which makes me feel as if I’m failing them in some way. Each of these four agreements applies to all relationships and are something that I try to keep as the centered focus while at work as well as in my life.

Be Impeccable With Your Word

Kids are always listening. They can see right through the fluff. Unfortunately, so many of my students have been talked down to, have heard inappropriate interactions between adults in their lives, and have look to other adults as role models. I try to speak the truth to them while also building a sense of respect and understanding that often times lacks in their lives.

Don’t Take Anything Personally

Ugh. This one is SO difficult for me. For sure, hands down, this is the agreement I forget before all others. I do tend to take it personally if a student is disrespectful to me or confrontational. I’ve done this long enough to know that each student is different and each has their own story and background. Trying to meet the needs of 150 kids each and every day can be so challenging. But, just when I feel like I’m struggling to connect, a student comes in a tells me about the “A” they earned on their science test or the goal they scored in their soccer game. I want students to know that my classroom is a place where everyone is respected even if I’m the one who has to teach them what respect looks like.

Side note: Unfortunately, I struggle with this agreement in my life outside of school as well. I think that I’m such an “includer” or make a point to be respectful, that if I feel left out or disrespected, I kind of have to check myself to know that it probably wasn’t intentional even if I am hurt by those actions.

Don’t Make Assumptions

Communication is key. It’s easy to assume what others know about each other or the extent to what each person has been through. Most kids are good expressing what they want or need, but they may not always do it in the best way 😉 Adults are guilty of that too. I can’t assume I know each student’s background or pretend to have gone through what many of them have experienced in their lives, both the good and the bad of it. That’s why providing them with a safe space to communicate is vital.

Always Do Your Best

This is the agreement that I’m the best at implementing. I have enough self-awareness to know that on any given day, I’m just doing the best I can. I’ve often joked that I’m a mom, a wife, and a teacher and each day, I’m probably only succeeding with two of the hats I’m wearing. Something has to give, and sometimes that’s my sanity ;), but I’m always trying my best, and you’ll often hear me say, “I’m just doing the best I can.”

Final Thoughts…

Teaching really is a rewarding profession. It’s also one of the most difficult professions. Most days, I work with multiple types of personalities, hundreds of questions, multiple excuses, students who lack structure and role models in their lives. It can be taxing to be all the things to all of the people, and it’s easy to feel spread thin. I have to remind myself that I’m only one person doing the best I can each day. The Four Agreements help guide me to find some sense of balance, and to continue to keep doing the best I can. The payoff is the student who finally feels comfortable enough to volunteer to read aloud, or the kid who helps the new student in class find his way around the building, or the student who graduated because at school, they were surrounded by teachers, counselors, coaches and principals who were the first to tell them they could achieve their goals.

Also, I have to remind myself to focus on the positive. I can have 140 awesome students only 10 of which are challenging. Or, I can have a really engaging lesson for four of my classes but for some reason it didn’t go as smoothly with one hour. It happens and life goes on.

I know these agreements can apply to everyone no matter where they are in life, so I just thought I’d share. I always like looking at things from a new perspective. 😀

Have a great Monday.

Jen

Instagram: @showmeandsweettea