Just A Quick Update For Y'all!

Hi, Everybody!

Yes, I know that it’s been a week since I last holla’d at y’all, but I’m sure y’all can understand that I’ve become a busy bee up here at Carter Elementary. As the legendary Jim Ross would say: “Business has picked up.” For one thing, these little kindergarteners continue to wow me, and they also give me little reminders of yesteryear, when I was their age.

In other news, I got a couple of emails from all my peeps at Rust, all of whom have told me that they’ve somehow managed to continue through their Rust journey without me… and y’all already know that I let those so-and-so’s know that they’ve got hell to pay when I return. I haven’t told them yet, but I’m planning to make a surprise cameo appearance during this year’s homecoming/founder’s day. I’m actually going to check out some airline prices sometime this weekend, and of course I’m gonna have to check with Mrs. Martin and see if she will allow me that Friday off.

As you all can see, it’s still up in the air, but it never hurts to dream.

Until next time, I’ll holla at y’all later.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

My First Blog Post Back, After Some Much Needed R&R

Hi, Everybody… and Happy New Fall Season!

Now, I know what you’re gonna say: “Natasha, it’s been a whole week since we last heard from you.” Where have you been, Girl? And how’s your internship coming along?”

Well, I’m gonna do like Paula Abdul and tell y’all straight up: This bright-eyed Vipress suffered from the worst case of burnout since my junior year at Rust… I mean, I was some kinda worn out on Friday! Usually, I head up to the library after I clock out from my internship, but lemme tell y’all something: After that dismissal bell rang on Friday, Mrs. Martin and I wished each other a good weekend, and then I got on the bus and headed straight home. Matter of fact, a sista was plumb tuckered out, so much so, that as soon as I got home on Friday evening, I walked right into my bedroom and just freakin’ crashed face first on my bed! I must’ve been some kinda tired, too, because the last thing I remember was closing my eyes, and before I knew it, I had a dream that the phone was ringing. Come to find out, the phone really was ringing—it was my dad. He had left a message saying that he was ordering food from Mr. Chuck’s restaurant on account of it was too hot to cook… and it most certainly was.

As for my internship at Carter Elementary, this is Week Four, and I’m learning more and more about what it takes to be a great teacher… and yes, the little ones are still the highlights of my day. I tell y’all—they are truly some little wonders. Everytime I converse with these kindergarteners or interact with them, I get a clearer understanding of why Mrs. Martin, Mr. D, and my Grampa Clark loved what they do. I can also put my Uncle Anthony on this list—he may not teach kindergarteners, but he is still a teacher.

Well, I reckon I’d better close up this here blog post, but I shall holla at y’all later on. Before I do, though, I gotta point out: I spent this past entire weekend catching up on some good ol’ fashioned R&R, and now I feel quite rejuvenated. Now, let’s see what the new fall season of 2015 has in store for us!

Until next time, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Results of Mrs. Martin's Dream Theme

Hi, Y’all!

 

Well, I’m back, and y’all have waited long enough, so let’s get right on down to the nitty gritty.

 

As you may remember from yesterday evening’s blog post, I talked about how Mrs. Martin came up with an idea for a “dream theme,” but she put me in charge of the whole assignment. Now, check this out: Usually, I’m full of ideas and brainstorms, but believe it or not, I was up until eleven o’clock last night, and my mind was absolutely blank—I mean, I ain’t have not nann one idea. I felt so ashamed of myself that I didn’t know what to do.

 

Well, it goes without saying, but the “Dream Theme” was a major success today!

 

After we said our morning prayer and had our greetings and salutations, Mrs. Martin let the kiddies know that I would be teaching for the entire day. As I walked up to the front of the classroom, the little kiddies gave me a sweet applause… and from out the corner of my eye, I saw some half sheets of blank green paper and a small box. Just like that, I received a miraculous idea! Instantly, I handed out the half sheets of paper and asked the little ones if they remembered what we talked about yesterday. When they all said yes, I instructed them to write down their names and what they wanted to be when they grew up, then put their paper in the box when they were done. After the last child placed his paper in the box, I let the kiddies know that we were going to pretend that I was a talk show host and Mrs. Martin would be the camera crew. I promised the little ones that I would interview each and every last one of them, even if we had to use the whole school day to do so.

 

As Mrs. Martin looked on, I pulled a name out of the box and called the chosen child up to the front so I could “interview” them on what they wanted to be when they grew up. All thirty-five darlings interviewed very well, but I gotta be a little partial right here—I got excited when I interviewed Max, mainly because I remember his answer about how he wanted to be rich… and incidentally, Max was the last child (save the best for last indeed). Well, Max explained that he wanted to be rich because his mom’s favorite song is “I Wanna Be Rich” by Calloway, and his mom sings the song so much that he made up in his mind to save all his money when he grew up, just so he can split it with his family.

 

Bless his little heart—I promise y’all that Max is gonna see to it that his dream comes true!

 

Well, with ten minutes left in the school day, my project was complete, and I turned the class back over to Mrs. Martin, who asked the little ones to give me another round of applause. I couldn’t help it—I started blushing, and then I did a bit of a curtsy. Afterwards, Mrs. Martin let the little ones know that their dreams would indeed come true, so long as they keep the faith and hold on.

 

After the dismissal bell rang, Mrs. Martin and I both wished the little ones well, and then she turned right to me and gave me a big hug for a job well done. I thanked Mrs. Martin for the compliment, but I also let her know that I literally thought of that idea at the eleventh hour. She looked at me and said, “But the bottom line is, Dearie, that you persevered to the very end, and that’s what being a real teacher is all about. I could tell that you didn’t have anything planned until you saw that stack of paper, but you played it off so well—you were quick on your feet and you didn’t miss a beat. Plus, you proved to yourself that you definitely have what it takes to be a kindergarten teacher. Kudos to you, my dear.”

 

Okay, y’all—do I really need any more affirmation and confirmation? I mean, it’s all but etched in stone… hahahaha! But seriously, that was really sweet of Mrs. Martin to say.

 

Until next time, y’all take care.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Countdown Begins for Gramma Jewel!

Hi, Everybody!

I’m on my lunch break at the moment, but I just want to say that Mrs. Martin’s idea of a “dream theme” is a big hit with the little ones. I’ll be sure to tell y’all all about it this evening when I get home.

So, as y’all can tell by my title and the photo, my family is all excited about what’s set to take place exactly one month from now. If The Lord says the same, then on October 15, 2015, my Gramma Jewel will officially be an even fourscore… that’s right, y’all—my Gramma Jewel is gonna be eighty years old next month. I honestly don’t know who’s more excited out of the family or the birthday gal, but it’s obvious that excitement is in the air. And y’all also know that my family has been in great deliberation over the type of party to throw for our beloved matriarch, and with good reason. I mean, after all, Gramma Jewel is the best, and she deserves the best. I may be a bit biased when I say this, but I’m gonna say it anyway: Gramma Jewel is a true living legend, and she’s like a famous celebrity!

Now, I am not allowed to spill even the tiniest detail about what we planning to do to celebrate Gramma Jewel’s eightieth birthday, but I can tell you that we held a meeting at Uncle Anthony and Auntie Stephanie’s house this past Sunday, and plenty of ideas were thrown around. We’ve got another meeting this Friday, but we’re gonna go over Uncle Gregory and Auntie Glo’s house. Hopefullly we will find a way to use everybody’s ideas.

Okay, my lunch break is just about over, but I’ll holla back at’cha later on, and when I do, I’ll have the details about my first full day of actually teaching the little ones. Until then, y’all enjoy the rest of your day.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

The Internship Saga Continues...

Hi, Everybody!

 

So, much like y’all would expect me to say (at least for another three months), it certainly was an interesting start to Week Three of my internship at Carter Elementary.

 

Mrs. Martin had a fun assignment for the class today; she went around the room and asked the little ones what they wanted to be when they grew up. I gotta admit—I kinda got a little giddy when she asked that question, and that’s because she asked me that same question when I was a wee little one… hahaha! Before I knew it, I started jumping up and down like I was five years old again, and then I cut off my excitement and sat back down… LOL!

 

In any event, the kiddies had some very interesting answers. Of course, there were the usual responses like doctor, teacher, and police officer, and then there were some responses that I didn’t expect—lawyer, judge, singer, and chef.

 

And then there was this one little girl named Alice, who I believe has walked this earth once upon a time—when it was her turn, she stood right up and boldly declared: “I wanna be like my mommy when I grow up. She takes care of me, my brother, and my daddy, and she’s her own boss at her job. She’s got it goin’ on!”

 

Before I could catch myself, I shouted, “Go ‘head on, Girl!”

 

And just when I thought that I had heard it all, along comes this one fella named Max… and there was no shame in Max’s game, either! He had an answer that made me and Mrs. Martin look at each other and almost holla. Max stood up and said, “I want money, lots and lots of money—I wanna be rich!”

 

Mrs. Martin chuckled a bit, but she was able to keep a straight face… I on the other hand wasn’t so fortunate. Matter of fact, I looked at Max and said, “I hear you, Buddy—I wanna be rich, too. I tell you what: We can both help each other out with that goal.”

 

Would y’all believe that Max smiled, winked at me, and said, “It’s a deal, Miss Natasha!”

 

I tell y’all—these little ones continue to prove Mr. Linkletter’s point in saying just the darnedest things!

Now, check this out, y’all: After the school day ended, Mrs. Martin said that I showed the mark of a true teacher by encouraging Max’s answer. I responded by saying: “Well, Mrs. Martin, when I heard Max’s answer, it reminded me of when I was in your class, and I told you that I wanted to be like every woman in my family, from my Gramma Jewel to my mommy, and you smiled and said to me, ‘Go for it, Dearie—you can achieve that very dream if you hold on and keep the faith!’”

 

Mrs. Martin smiled at me and said, “Yessiree, Bob—I know within my whole heart that you will make a darn good kindergarten teacher. I tell you what: Tomorrow’s class assignment will be a ‘dream theme,’ and I want you to teach the class tomorrow. As a matter of fact, I want you to spearhead the entire assignment.”

 

I simply looked at Mrs. Martin, shook her hand, and declared: “I accept that challenge!”

 

So, with that said, let me close up this evening’s blog post and do some brainstorming. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

The Ball is in MY Court, Now!

Hi, Everybody!

Friday couldn’t get here quick enough. I’m gonna tell y’all right now—a sista is beat down!

Don’t get me wrong—this was yet another great week of my internship, and I enjoyed every moment with the little ones at Carter Elementary, but I’m just worn out, is all, and I think I know what happened: Labor Day threw me off earlier this week, and then I had to bounce right in it and hit the salt mines the very next day. I was some kinda discombobulated on Tuesday morning, but the kindergarteners were my rocket fuel, as always.

And now, on to the real reason behind today’s blog post.

So, I’m checking my email, and I see that I’ve gotten a reply from one “he who shall not be named.” Just listen to this:

Hi, Natasha,

It sure was great to hear from you again. This lets me know that you don’t hate me, but I don’t know why I would think that because there isn’t an ounce of hatred within you. Nevertheless, I do thank you for forgiving me—I really do appreciate it.

I sure would like to hear your voice again, because I need to talk to you. I’m almost certain that you deleted my phone number—and again, I don’t blame you one iota—but seeing as how you’ve given me another chance, I’m sending you my number again. I realize that the ball is in your court, and I cannot force you to call me, but I do look forward to hearing from you. If that means waiting until the Christmas vacation, then so be. I’m willing to wait until then, but in the meantime, you have a great time in this, your final year at Rust.

--Ray

Well, for starters, I am glad he realizes that I hold the power, per se… yet for some reason or another, I get the feeling that he’s just saying all this shit just to play with my affections. What if he’s trying to manipulate me into his deceitful game? What if he’s trying to get me to let my guard down, just so he can hurt me again? Let’s just be honest here: I forgive him, but I ain’t said shit about trusting him! Experience has made me a touch wiser, and he’s gonna have to start all over again and regain my trust…

Oh, but I just thought about something: He thinks that I’m back at Rust! He doesn’t know that I’m out here in Southern Cali fulfilling my internship commitments.

HOT DAMN—THE BALL IS SHO’ NUFF IN MY COURT!!!

I can be the sweet little girl with the big heart, or I can be the vindictive little Vipress that can strike without warning… (insert evil laughter right here—hahahahahaha)!

I’m really gonna need y’all to pray for me.

Lessons from the Little Ones

Hi, Everybody!

Do y’all remember my blog post from this past Tuesday, when I quoted the late great Art Linkletter? Well, I know this is only Day Eight of my internship at Carter Elementary, but lemme tell y’all something: These past couple days have been interesting ones. I am learning so much from these little children, and at the same time, they’re subliminally reminding me of once upon a time, when I was in their shoes some fifteen years ago.

Trust me when I tell y’all: These ain’t your ordinary typical kindergarteners—these are some precocious little somethings. They are also willing to learn, and in turn, they are willing to teach when given the opportunity. And if I may be so bold as to take a phrase form Mrs. Martin: “These little dearies are quick as a whip, too!”

Come to think of it, Mrs. Martin said the same thing about me back in the day… heck, she still says it!

Of all the things that I learned from these little ones thus far, I’ve learned that innocence is a virtue in and of itself. These little ones taught me that it’s okay to have fun and be a little silly. I admire that in them so much. Sometimes I look at these innocent little darlings and think to myself, Damn, I wish I could be a kindergartener again. I’m only twenty-one years old, but I’ve already experienced some of the rigors of being an adult. The little ones have absolutely no idea what goes on in the mind of a “grown-up,” nor should they. They don’t have to worry about jobs, bills, rent, heartbreak—their only concern is being a kid and having lots and lots of fun.

And if only for a moment or so, I had some fun with some of the kindergarteners! They asked me if I would join them in playing jump rope. Now, I want to point out that I haven’t jumped rope since I was in Eighth Grade, but I tell y’all—I jumped rope to my heart’s content.  It all came back to me at that very moment, and dare I say, I was damn good at it, too!

Thank you, Little Dearies—I cannot wait until tomorrow’s lesson.

 

 

Until next time, y’all have a gooden.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Late-Breaking News Bulletin!

Hey, Y’all!

That’s right—I’m back with a special report, and y’all already know that it’s a gooden!

So, after I finished up Day Six of my internship at Carter Elementary, I decided to head to the library for a moment, just to make good on my promise and email Ruby back. In my reply, I let Ruby know that all is well for me out here in Southern Cali, and how I’m having so much fun at my internship. I also let her know that it is a joy and an honor to work alongside my former kindergarten teacher.

And yes, I also mentioned the reemergence of “he who shall not be named.”

Now, mind you—I stopped by the library around 4:30pm PST, and I hit the “send” button at 4:45pm PST. I’ve been home for about a half hour now, and I just logged on into my Yahoo account. I knew that I would get a reply from Ruby, but I never imagined that she would respond so quickly. I’m reading her email right now, and I see that she sent her reply at 5:04pm PST.

For starters, Ruby congratulated me on my success in my internship with Mrs. Martin thus far, and she asked me to send some pictures as soon as possible; she made a joke that she wants to see how much I changed since last she saw me.

And then Ruby addressed the subject of “he who shall not be named.”

It goes without saying, y’all, but Ruby went on a merciless tirade. I knew that she had something to say, but I never expected Ruby’s response to so abruptly abrasive (or abrasively abrupt). She began by saying: “You know, Tasha, that punk ass rat bastard has got a lot of nerve! I mean, for starters, he tells you about his side chick and expects you not to be upset about it, and now all-a-sudden, he comes back to you almost two years later with this bullshit-ass apology, expecting to get back into your good graces and shit! He really needs to miss you with that bullshit! Nevertheless, Tasha, I commend you for being the better person. You really do have a good heart, because I’m gonna tell you the truth—ain’t no way in hell I would even so much as read the subject of that asshole’s email, let alone the email itself. Tasha, let me give you some advice because you are my friend after all: You better handle him with a long-handled spoon attached to a fifty foot pole. You bet not take no wooden nickels from that punk ass ho-bag!”

I just want y’all to know that Ruby’s email made me laugh so hard that I fell right out of my chair… hahahahaha!

Overall, Ruby is absolutely right about everything—yes, I do have a big heart, but at the same time, I ain’t no fool. My name is Natasha Renee Stewart, and I am a young woman who knows my worth.

We shall see what happens next, but in the meantime, y’all keep praying for a sista!

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

A Message from Ruby Red!

Hey, Y’all!

So, while I’m up here making the best of my internship here at Carter Elementary, I decided to steal away in the teachers’ lounge for a moment, if for nothing but to tell y’all that I got an email from my girl Ruby Red, with the subject title: “Girl You Missin’ A Whole Lotta Sh…!”

Yes, Ruby wrote the title just like that, and y’all already know that, with such a subject title, things are on a crack-a-lackin’ in Bearcat Country.!

For starters, Ruby informed me that “Picture Day” is sometime next month at Rust—and this is the opportunity for all graduating seniors to get their pictures taken for the upcoming 2015-16 yearbook. Ruby goes on to say: “I know that you’re quoting Homer Simpson right about now, but don’t worry—you’re still graduating, so you’ll have plenty of pictures to take when our big day arrives in just seven months.”

Ruby then informed me that our homey—the Neo One himself—has already thought up of an idea for his senior project for when he goes before the Mass Comm panel next semester. Ruby went on to say that she would much rather Theo tell me the story himself on account of she wouldn’t be able to do it justice. Now, I know that Theo is majoring in Print Journalism with a minor in Broadcast Journalism, so I’m sure that his senior project is based on his major. However, knowing Theo like I do, he probably found some kinda way to add the broadcasting aspect to his senior project.

Finally, Ruby concluded her email by saying that she wants an update from me in regards to my internship, as well as everything else that’s going on in Southern Cali. “What’s it like working alongside your former kindergarten teacher?” she asks. “Just remember one thing, Vipress: You’re still a child in her eyes—yo ass ain’t grown yet… LOL!”

Y’all do know that I’m gonna email Ruby, just as soon as I get the chance… and y’all also know that I gotta tell her about “he who shall not be named.”

Oooooh-weeeee—I can hear Ruby cussin’ already… hahahahaha!

Okay, y’all—My lunch is just about over and I gotta head back in with this little ones. I’ll holla at y’all later!


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Kids STILL Say The Darnedest Things!

Hi, Everybody!

I believe it was the late Art Linkletter who reminded us that kids say the darnedest things. Well, after what I experienced today during Dave Five of my internship at Carter Elementary, I can say in great faith that Mr. Linkletter’s statement still rings true today.

So, it was lunchtime, and I was sitting by myself, watching the little ones play jump rope, hopscotch, kickball—the things that I used to do when I was a little one… hahahaha! Anyway, my mind drifted to my peeps back at Rust, and I began to smile. I had just bitten into my sandwich when this one little fella came over and sat right next to me.

“Hi, Miss Natasha,” he said with a great big smile. “I’m gonna sit right next to you, because I don’t want you to be sad.”

I chuckled a little bit, then I said, “Well, don’t worry, little buddy—I am not sad. If anything, I’m just thinking about my friends back in Mississippi. I’m kinda wondering what they’re doing right now.”

“Well, I bet you anything that they’re thinking about you too, Miss Natasha,” he said. “And they probably miss you, too. I mean, what’s not to like about you? You’re nice, you’re fun, and you’re cute!”

This little guy really touched my heart.

“Awwwwwwwww—thank you,” I said with a smile.

The little fella smiled back, and then he gave me an innocent little kiss on the cheek.

At that moment, I got tickled in my spirit, because I could clearly see my girl Ruby’s facial expressions crossed my mind. I t was then that I started thinking about what she would say: “Ooooh, Girl—you got the fellas goin’ crazy over you!” And then my other girl Azalea would be like: “Girl, you might wanna watch that little fella—he’s already startin’ off as a heartbreaker!”

In all seriousness, though, it was very sweet of the little guy to cheer me up like he did… well, all things considered, anyway. Again, I was merely thinking about my peeps back at Rust, and apparently this little guy could tell that something was wrong, otherwise he wouldn’t have sat down and had lunch with me.

Then again, maybe his modus operandi was to give me a kiss on the cheek.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

I've Come To A Decision, Y'all!

Hi, Everybody!

I trust that you all are having a fantastic Labor Day.

Speaking of Labor Day, I just want to state for the record that I really miss the Hudspeths! I’m tryin’ to tell y’all: If I was back in Mississippi right now, then I would most definitely be over at Mr. and Mrs. Hudspeth’s house, enjoying some barbecue, hot links, potato salad, and of course, Mrs. Hudspeth’s freakin’ delicious banana pudding.

At the same time, that old adage rings true: Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. Yet and still, I am hook on Mrs. Hudspeth’s banana pudding… hahahahaha! Lemme tell y’all how delish it is—it’s right on the same level as Great Aunt Reesie’s banana pudding, and that’s sayin’ a helluva whole lot!

And now, back to our regularly scheduled blog post… hahahahaha!

 

So, it’s been about two weeks since I received an email from “he who shall not be named” (sorry, y’all—saying his name kinda makes me sick to my stomach). Within that time period, I’ve been in great deliberation over whether or not I should respond to his email. Becky convinced me to yank the proverbial band-aid off my arm, but I went ahead and sought some wise counsel in Gramma Jewel. Well, y’all already know that Gramma Jewel don’t mince words. When I talked to her yesterday evening, she simply said, “Baby, if you really want to feel better, then you go ahead and take Becky's advice—respond to Homey Dog’s email. It ain’t gotta be no long drawn-out sonnet, but go ahead and respond to him.”

And I did just that! Granted, it took me two hours, but I did respond. This is what I wrote:

 

Hello,

I received your email on August 20, 2015. I just want you to know that I forgive you, and I accept your apology.

 

And then I hit the “send” button.

I want y’all to know something: I weigh 146 pounds, but I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my heart and my shoulders. I really do feel great—heck, I feel so great that I actually have an extra bit of bounce in me!

And now I can really move on a little further in my life. Case in point: I’ve gotta get ready for Day #5 of my internship tomorrow. I’ll holla at y’all later.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Winston Strikes Again!

Hi, Everybody!

 

I trust that you all had a wonderfully fantastic Saturday—I know I did!

Do y’all remember a blog post from a couple of weeks ago about a guy I met named Winston? Well, check this out: I had another encounter with him today.

This afternoon, my mom decided that she and I should go out and celebrate our Mother & Daughter relationship, considering that I’m home from college. First, we had breakfast at IHOP, and then we went to the mall and did a little shopping, and later we took a little trip to Manhattan Beach and just walked around for a while. Around four o’clock or so, we got a little hungry, so I told her about a sandwich shop that I frequent every now and again… and yes, I told her that the sandwiches are the bomb-diggity!

Well, as soon as we walked inside—lo and behold—it was Winston!

Now, call it a woman’s intuition, but I saw how his face lit up when he saw me; it was as if he had been expecting me or something. Case in point: When it was my turn to order, Winston smiled at me and said, “Hello, Stranger—long time no see. Lemme guess: Your usual with bacon, avocado, ranch dressing, and Swiss cheese.”

“Why, yes—that’s correct!” I said, shocked. “How’d you know?”

Winston chuckled, then he said, “Well, there are only three sandwiches that you order, and they all depend on your mood—the barbecue roast beef sandwich, the Caesar chicken sandwich, and the turkey club sub. And judging by the look on your lovely mother’s face, I can tell that she’s interested in the barbecue roast beef sandwich.”

My mom and I looked at each other, totally impressed at what we heard. My mom then took out a five dollar bill and said, “Young man, you didn’t have to work so hard to earn a tip—I would’ve given you one anyway.”

Winston grinned kinda sheepishly and thanked my mom, then he finished making our sandwiches and rang up our order, which I paid for.

Now, here’s the funny part: Mom and I had just sat down and said our grace, and I noticed that there were three peanut butter cookies in our meal. I knew that Mom had ordered one chocolate chip walnut cookie, and I ordered one white chocolate macadamia nut cookie, so why did we have three peanut butter cookies? Well, I went up to Winston and was about to correct the error, but Winston said, “Don’t worry about it—they’re on me. Besides, I know how much you like peanut butter.”

All I could say was: “Awwwwwwww—thank you! That’s really sweet.”

Y’all know that my mom teased me mercilessly about Winston being my crush—matter of fact, my mom said something about Winston using the right kinda bait to hook me. I simply laughed off my mom’s comments…

But y’all do know that I’m gonna go back and holla at Winston sometime this week, right? Hahahahaha!


Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha

Day #4 of My Internship

Good Friday Evening, Everybody!

Well, I completed Day #4 of my internship at Carter Elementary, and I can safely say without any fear of contradiction that it was a day of surprises, and at the same time, this day taught me so much about myself. Allow me to explain what happened:

As soon as the opening bell rang, the little kiddies sat down with their hands folded and their eyes on me. We were all awaiting Mrs. Martin to walk in at any given moment, but she was running a little late, so I led the children in our opening prayer and our good morning greetings and salutations. Afterwards, we all sat quietly and awaited Mrs. Martin to step inside the classroom—she still hadn’t shown up yet.

Well, I figured that I would at least go ahead and take attendance, so I did… and I was glad to see that all thirty-five students were present and accounted for. By this time, a whole half hour had passed, and there was still no sign of Mrs. Martin.

I ain’t gonna lie to y’all—I almost thought the worst, but I didn’t want to alarm the little ones, nor did I want to go into panic mode. Thinking quickly on my feet, I told the little ones that I would be their interim teacher until Mrs. Martin arrived… yes, I actually said “interim,” so y’all already know that the children had asked me what that word meant. Well, like any good teacher would, I wrote the word down on the board and said, “Here is an example of interim: When you’re not at home with your mommy and daddy, you’re here with Mrs. Martin, and she is your interim mom.”

“Oh!” one child exclaimed. “So, you’re saying that Mrs. Martin is our schoolmom until we go home to our real mom.”

“Very good!” I cheered.

Imagine that—some of the little ones got it right on the spot, and they were so proud to know that they guessed correctly. Of course, that opened up the floodgates; some of the kiddies asked me if I knew of “any other ‘grown-up’ words,” and I immediately holla’d, only because of the way they asked me that question. Obviously, my mind had traveled elsewhere when I heard that question—and yes, I admit that I was thinking of some other grown-up words… hahahahaha! However, after I composed myself, I managed to keep the conversation clean and I taught the kiddies my favorite word—clandestine. Surprisingly, I gave a very simple definition; I explained to the kiddies that, in order to keep something clandestine, it is to be treated like a secret. At the same time, I let the kiddies know that there are certain situations where they cannot keep things clandestine, particularly those things where someone may be in danger.

About an hour and a half later, I was really into the groove of my teaching, and just like that, Mrs. Martin walked into the classroom. Come to find out, she was in the principal’s office the whole time, listening to me over the intercom. She asked the little ones to give me a hand for doing—as she so put it—“such a grandtabulous job,” and I simply smiled and curtsied. Just then, the recess bell rang, and as the kiddies went outside to play, Mrs. Martin made it perfectly clear that I was gonna be “one helluva damn good teacher.” I thanked Mrs. Martin the onliest way I knew how—with a great big hug of gratitude.

As y’all can see, I received yet more validation, affirmation, and confirmation that teaching is truly my calling, and the validation came from someone whom I admire and respect.

Now, mind y’all—this was only the first week of my internship, and Heaven help me if this whole week didn’t just fly by. However, if this is any indication of what the next thirteen weeks will be like, then I say: BRING IT ON—I’M READY!!!

Until next time, y’all take care, and I may holla at y’all tomorrow.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Day #3 of my Internship

Hi, Everybody!

Well, I just completed Day #3 of my internship at Carter Elementary, and learned so much from kindergarteners today.

As y’all know, it was Show & Tell today, and all thirty-five kiddies were pumped up and ready to display their one particular item to the class. To begin the festivities, Mrs. Martin showed the class a letter that I had written her during my freshman year at Rust. She explained to the little ones that she keep my letter in her purse on account of it shows that she truly made a difference in my life… and with that said, Mrs. Martin showed me off, further explaining that I was part of her show and tell.

Now, I didn’t expect to be shown off like that, nor did I expect the little kiddies to applaud like they did, but then again, this is Mrs. Martin that we’re talking about. Suffice it to say, I was very flattered.

And with that said, it was my turn.

I began by admitting to Mrs. Martin and the kiddies that I had a hard time trying to choose just one item, but fortunately for me, I remembered my mom’s photo album and I brought it with me. I explained to the little kiddies that my mom’s photo album is very special to me because it contains pictures of my family and friends. As I was speaking, I was a little surprised to see that all of the kindergarteners were so attentive. I was also surprised that some of the kiddies had questions for me. One child asked me if I had “a real favorite picture,” and I explained that I couldn’t really choose one on account of all of the pictures were special to me.

And then it was on to the kiddies’ presentations.

I could tell that they enjoyed this assignment, and that they put some real thought behind what to bring. I’m almost convinced that they too had a little trouble narrowing down just one thing to bring. Among the items brought were: action figures, baseball mitts, and dolls, but one little fella really thought outside the box—ironically enough, he was the last one called upon. His name is Jonathan, and he brought an autographed photo of retired OSW wrestler Dave Hawkins. There was a bright gleam of joy in Jonathan’s face when he explained how he and his dad just so happened to sit right next to Dave Hawkins in the food court at the mall, and how this wrestling legend volunteered to take a picture with him.

“It was so cool to meet him!” Jonathan shouted joyfully. “It was the bestest day in my whole entire life!”

And personally, I share in Jonathan’s sentiments, because today was the bestest day of my whole entire life… and mind you, this is only Day #3!

Well, y’all, I reckon I’ll close up today’s blog post—I’ve gotta get ready for this mystery assignment that Mrs. Martin has planned out. I’ll let y’all know what it is when I get home tomorrow, but in the meantime, y’all take care and be good.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha

Day #2 of My Internship

Hi, Everybody!

So, I just completed Day #2 of my internship at Carter Elementary, and I had a blast!

As I mentioned in yesterday evening’s blog post, Mrs. Martin gave her kindergarteners a homework assignment—write at least two paragraphs about their summer vacation. And as y’all may recall, I volunteered to be in on this assignment, so I wrote at least a good two pages… front and back, mind you.

When the opening bell rang, we had our morning prayer, followed by our greetings and salutations. When the little kiddies sad down, Mrs. Martin jumped right into the homework assignment. The rules were simple: Mrs. Martin would call a student’s name, and they would come up to the front of the class and read their summer vacation paper. Maybe I’m being just a little too impartial, but all thirty-five children did a great job. Some of the kiddies talked about how they went camping, while others talked about going to a baseball game, and some others talked about how they spent a week with their grandparents.

Now, I realized that I said that I was impartial, but now I’m gonna intentionally contradict myself: While all thirty-five papers were great, there was one presentation that I really liked—it came from a little fella named Mark. He was only five years old, but he already learned the importance of visual aids. He talked about how he spent his summer vacation in Hawaii with his family, and brought along some pictures from his trip. The little fella also talked about how his dad wanted to take “the perfect picture of the perfect sunrise and the perfect sunset, and he got ‘em both!”

I could feel the little fella’s excitement when he talked about how happy he was for his dad to achieve that which he accomplished… matter of fact, I personally gave Mark three silver stars for such a great presentation.

Afterwards, Mrs. Martin mentioned that there was one more individual left—yes, she was referring to me! Much like I did when I was in her class some fifteen years ago, I grinned at Mrs. Martin and walked up to the classroom, where I shared with the little ones how I celebrated my family reunion over the summer… and yes, I did discuss how my family won the grand prize at my Gramma Jewel’s church.

Some of the little kiddies were in awe of my “fantastical remembering powers,” as they so called it, to which I assured them that when they get older, they too would be able to recite a speech without having to depend too much on their notes.

Now, check this out, y’all: Mrs. Martin’s assignment for tomorrow is yet another real gooden—the little kiddies have to bring an item in class for Show & Tell. Y’all already know that I’m gonna participate in this assignment, and so is Mrs. Martin… matter of fact, Mrs. Martin mentioned that she already know what she’s gonna bring!

Well, I’ll holla at y’all later—I gotta find something to bring for Show & Tell tomorrow.

 

 

Smooches,

Natasha

Let The Internship Begin!

Hi, Everybody!

Well, here it is—Tuesday, September 1, 2015, and I had one helluva great day today!

Let me just cut right to the chase: My first day as an intern at Carter Elementary did not disappoint me one iota. First of all, as soon as I stepped on the grounds of my old elementary school, I was instantly hit with all kinds of nostalgia. Truth be told—so many moments of my days as a kindergartener swept over me like a flood, so much so, that I actually shed a couple of tears. I mean, let’s face it—it was only fifteen years ago that I graduated from Mrs. Martin’s kindergarten class, but here we are—some fifteen years later—and I have learned once again that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

So, upon arriving at Carter Elementary this morning, I checked in with the front office, where Mrs. Martin was right there waiting for me. We shared a big hug, and then Mrs. Martin let me know once again just how excited she was to have me as her assistant. I simply smiled and told Mrs. Martin that I would not let her down.

Well, when we walked into her classroom, I got to chat with some of the parents and the new crop of kindergarteners… and incidentally, I think I have yet another admirer. There’s this one little boy—his name is Henry—he took one look at me, then he gave me a big hug and told his mom that I was “a really pretty girl.” I smiled and thanked the little fella for his compliment, to which Mrs. Martin approached me and said: “That little guy’s found an added incentive to come to school everyday, and you’re it!”

I couldn’t help but laugh, but then again, Mrs. Martin may have a point.

In any event, Mrs. Martin gave her greetings and salutations, welcomed the new students to Carter Elementary, and then she introduced me as one of her “brightest students to ever grace the school.” Seeing as how that was my cue to break the ice, I let the parents and the kiddies know that I sat in those very chairs once upon a time, and I also let them know that Mrs. Martin was the greatest kindergarten teacher that I ever had. I remember saying: “You’ve got a great teacher in Mrs. Martin—she’s kind, loving, and she trustworthy. I think I should give y’all a heads-up, though: Mrs. Martin wants to make sure that each and every last one of you in here succeed, but you’ve got to prove to her that you want it.”

Suffice it to say, I had a great first day of school, and I’m really looking forward to sharing this particular journey with you all, especially considering that this internship counts toward my grade.

By the way, Mrs. Martin gave out her first homework assignment for the 2015-16 school year—each little one has to write one full page on how they spent their summer vacation. Now, check this out: As Mrs. Martin’s assistant, I’m gonna join in on this assignment… hahahahaha! Hey, if I’m gonna be the best damn kindergarten teacher in the world, then I gotta play along. Besides, if the kiddies see that I am having fun with the homework assignments, then they will want to join in as well.

With that said, let me go ahead and get started on my homework. I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow.

 

 

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha