Hi all,

Wanted to check in and hope that everyone is doing well in this new year!! I went back to work on the 4th and the kids returned on the 6th. We are starting our downhill slide...a long one! We are beginning to prepare for the TAKS test which is in April. The kids will begin to get nervous around April 1! Yikes!!! Our district has mandated a new system in which we are to deliver the material to our students. I feel that there are some holes and I can not seem to get my finger on what I do not feel comfortable with. This has created a lot of controversy within our district. So, this year I am a bit more concerned about how my kiddos will perform this year. But, we will work hard and do our best!

As you all probably know, Victoria works as a tutor at my school. She started work on Wednesday. I was busy teaching when her face popped up in my door window and I was surprised, pleasantly I might add! It is really cool to hear her stories about her conversations with her students and her frustrations with others. I have to keep reminding her that while she wants all of her students to succeed, some students need more patience and encouragement. I am glad she is getting this experience.

Erin, Jordan and Camden, when do you guys leave on your trip? Please let me know so that I can tell my students. They are anxious to hear about your adventure and work.

Dad wrote to you all a little earlier about Pampa and her health. I have to say that despite her ailments Pampa is always in good spirits. When I am lucky enough to take her to the doctor I have the best time with her! We talk and laugh so much!! That woman talks to everyone. Whenever we are in a doctor's office and I have to get up for something, I come back and Pampa has made a new friend!! She is truly amazing. Please be sure and keep her in your prayers. She has a difficult time walking now because of her hip problems. Not sure what the doctor will tell her on Tuesday, could be her cholesterol or something like that. Will keep everyone informed. If you haven't talked to her lately, give her a call, she would love to hear from everyone!

A bit of good news...Aunt Lily has retired! Her last day of work was on January 31, 2009. She definitely deserves to retire!! I haven't spoken to her since last Saturday, but from what Pampa tells me Aunt Lily is keeping herself very busy cleaning and organinzing her home in her first week of retirement. If it were me I would have "vegged" this first week. You go Aunt Lily!

Speedy recovery to Diane! We love you!

Andrew, do your best! Did you finish that paper? Ha-ha!

To all of my children in Baltimore, hugs and kisses!! Stay warm, I see that at this moment it is a chilly 37 degrees!!!

Thank you to Sandy for encouraging me to write on the blog. I thought I did not have anything to report, but, as usual, once you get me started I have a difficult time stopping!

Please be sure to let us know what is happening.

Anxiously waiting your replies,

Love you all,

Elsa