It's Saturday... A time to reflect...
There are some pressing questions on my mind as I reflect through my past week. I want to make sure I make every moment of my life count as I know that in each and every moment I have, I will never get to relive that particular moment ever again. So as I press the mental "rewind" of the past events of the week, I find that I spent time planning and executing professional development for my clients and company, traveling for my company, cleaning and cooking for my family, praying for my family, reading for pleasure (a rarity), attempting to be true to my diet, and many other things. I guess for most of the week, I did spend a great deal of time simply "thinking!"
Oh, the things that are imagined in my mind. I have plotted and won many wars in my mind. I have dreamed of a better time. I have created some of the most vivid stories. If there was a way to capture all the things that have gone through my head even this week, I would be most fortunate. One thing I have noticed is the great amount of warfare that goes on in my mind. I fight daily to drive out the doubts, depression, confusion, anger, revenge, and other forms of evil imaginations that would hold me back. I seek to remain positive in spite of difficult situations. I hope to remain optimistic in the reality of opposition. I want to conquer, not be enslaved. But the reality is that most of these battles are fought and won or lost in the battlefield of my mind.
Well, I am sitting here "thinking" as I attempt to write, and the "thinking" is overpowering the "writing". So... I guess I will close for now. As I leave, I want to remember the importance of every second of my life. I will not travel this path ever again. Will I make the choices today that have a bearing on eternity? Will I waste any of the precious moments of my life today on mundane ordinary things? Or... Will I live an epic day conquering the battlefield of my existence and my mind?
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Gone before they were ever given a chance...
The more I read about the current state board of education elections in Alabama, the more my heart sinks. But I have come to the realization that the fight between Democrats and Republicans will eventually kill the opportunity for Alabama Schools to move forward into the 21st Century. This is a tragedy of exponential proportions. I have fought feverishly to inform the public as well as the politicians, but no one wants to listen. And as a result, our Alabama students will continue to have disadvantages that will make life harder and harder for them to overcome.
Here's what I know to be true. The current methods in which we try to show proficiency in this state is truly at the basic level. I know the cut scores, and I know the types of questions on the assessments. I have studied the item specifications in Alabama with great detail. Our current testing system seeks only to show basic proficiency. Basic proficiency will not get you into college without remediation. Basic proficiency will not give you the skills to keep a job that will sustain a family and make you successful.
We need a lot more rigor built into our current Alabama Standards and within the curriculum to have our students college and career ready. But I guess many are asking the question "Why Common Core?" After all, isn't it the next step by the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT to bring socialism and federal control over our schools? Well, if you listen to many politicians out there today, "Yes!" This is also a tragedy. I am not sure it is not a conspiracy within a conspiracy. One group knows that it is what is best, and they know if they embrace it, the other group will fight it. It will keep the poor poorer. It will keep Americans dependent on the government because they cannot provide for themselves, so in essence, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. But... those politicians can shout it from the housetops they SAVED America.
Here's what you are saying when you tell the American people that you are saving them from the HORRIBLE FEDERAL Government:
1. You are telling them that the mediocrity of our current status among all other states is OK with you.
2. You are telling them that you can live with our horrific dropout rate.
3. You are telling them that you don't feel Alabama teachers can handle the challenge of a more rigorous set of standards.
4. You are telling them that Alabama children do not deserve to have the same educational opportunities as all the children in the many states that are moving forward and embracing change.
5. You are telling them you are afraid to allow their children to be too successful.
Now I know politicians will deny this violently. But for the Alabamians that will sit down and take a closer look, you will see you are being duped. Duped by both sides. Knowledge is power. People who love power don't want the rest of us to have a lot of it. So, let's go ahead and keep the ignorant in ignorance. Let's not give our Alabama students a cutting edge. Let's keep the status quo where it is.
OK. Believe it or not, I can live with it. I work outside of the state of Alabama on most days. I am working with states that are moving forward with Common Core. I see the challenges of the high school students in IL that must take the ACT in order to show proficiency in high school. I understand the plight of these kids. Common Core is helping build a better foundation for the mathematical mind for them. They are moving forward.
For those students in Indiana, they are experiencing literacy in science and history at new and heightened levels. They are using computers and smart phones to complete Google Treks. They are forming debate teams. They are syncing with leaders and other members of the community through video conferencing. They are doing all these things in the classroom as their teachers embrace Common Core. Teachers feel more free than they have in years to do what they need to do for their classrooms. (I wonder if the politicians really want Alabamians to hear this.)
For the first time in many years, Common Core is putting autonomy back into the hands of teachers (and yet the rhetoric that we hear each day is the exact opposite). At one point in history when it was difficult to do your own research, those seeking a new land believed Greenland was green and Iceland was ice. Parents, you don't have to be duped today. Ask the tough questions. Ask how the politicians plan to give Alabamians back the $80 million (that's $80,000,000.00) in remediation that was required to help your children be able to take an entry level course in college math or English. Ask the politicians what are their NEW methods for providing new teacher training in technology so your children can have the skills needed to get a high paying job. (OH but be careful, there are some politicians who do not want you to have a high paying job. Trust me, I was recently attacked by some for being successful in what I do each day.)
Do you want to know how I have been successful in Alabama? First of all, God has blessed me abundantly. Second of all, my mother pushed me every day of my life because she knew what it would take. Third of all, my teachers kept me engaged and learning. But even with all this support, I still struggled at the university in the college of physical sciences. So, those politicians that attacked me for wanting better for Alabama students have no idea the personal struggles that I have made to be where I am. And yet, because I am successful today, they ATTACKED me for challenging them to do what is best for Alabama students.
Will I profit if Common Core standards are used in Alabama? No more than I already profit today from having a job helping schools improve. The standards do not bring wealth to educational consultants. The need for schools to improve creates a place for people with my expertise to help others. So, there will always be a need for educational expertise and problem solving skills. There will always be a need for continual training. (Well, in most states- Perhaps not Alabama!) However perhaps the greatest way in which I will profit will be the wealth Common Core could eventually bring our state. Better job opportunities for Alabamians. More businesses will be attracted to Alabama. Higher standard of living will be great. We need a change for the better.
If not Common Core... Then what? That is the question I want to ask those who are running for positions in education. What we have is not working. Check the poverty rate in Alabama. Check the NAEP scores of students in Alabama. Check the dropout rate in Alabama. BUT more importantly check the attrition of Alabama college students, and check the multiplied millions (almost a billion) a year spent for remediation to keep kids in college because they are not ready for college or career.
I know I am probably blogging for my own stress release. But I really wished just once in my lifetime citizens of this great state would demand more. I am not afraid to work harder... demand more of me. How many of those so called politicians wanting your vote will tell you the same.
My name is Sarah Odom, and I approve this blog entry!
Sarah
Here's what I know to be true. The current methods in which we try to show proficiency in this state is truly at the basic level. I know the cut scores, and I know the types of questions on the assessments. I have studied the item specifications in Alabama with great detail. Our current testing system seeks only to show basic proficiency. Basic proficiency will not get you into college without remediation. Basic proficiency will not give you the skills to keep a job that will sustain a family and make you successful.
We need a lot more rigor built into our current Alabama Standards and within the curriculum to have our students college and career ready. But I guess many are asking the question "Why Common Core?" After all, isn't it the next step by the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT to bring socialism and federal control over our schools? Well, if you listen to many politicians out there today, "Yes!" This is also a tragedy. I am not sure it is not a conspiracy within a conspiracy. One group knows that it is what is best, and they know if they embrace it, the other group will fight it. It will keep the poor poorer. It will keep Americans dependent on the government because they cannot provide for themselves, so in essence, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. But... those politicians can shout it from the housetops they SAVED America.
Here's what you are saying when you tell the American people that you are saving them from the HORRIBLE FEDERAL Government:
1. You are telling them that the mediocrity of our current status among all other states is OK with you.
2. You are telling them that you can live with our horrific dropout rate.
3. You are telling them that you don't feel Alabama teachers can handle the challenge of a more rigorous set of standards.
4. You are telling them that Alabama children do not deserve to have the same educational opportunities as all the children in the many states that are moving forward and embracing change.
5. You are telling them you are afraid to allow their children to be too successful.
Now I know politicians will deny this violently. But for the Alabamians that will sit down and take a closer look, you will see you are being duped. Duped by both sides. Knowledge is power. People who love power don't want the rest of us to have a lot of it. So, let's go ahead and keep the ignorant in ignorance. Let's not give our Alabama students a cutting edge. Let's keep the status quo where it is.
OK. Believe it or not, I can live with it. I work outside of the state of Alabama on most days. I am working with states that are moving forward with Common Core. I see the challenges of the high school students in IL that must take the ACT in order to show proficiency in high school. I understand the plight of these kids. Common Core is helping build a better foundation for the mathematical mind for them. They are moving forward.
For those students in Indiana, they are experiencing literacy in science and history at new and heightened levels. They are using computers and smart phones to complete Google Treks. They are forming debate teams. They are syncing with leaders and other members of the community through video conferencing. They are doing all these things in the classroom as their teachers embrace Common Core. Teachers feel more free than they have in years to do what they need to do for their classrooms. (I wonder if the politicians really want Alabamians to hear this.)
For the first time in many years, Common Core is putting autonomy back into the hands of teachers (and yet the rhetoric that we hear each day is the exact opposite). At one point in history when it was difficult to do your own research, those seeking a new land believed Greenland was green and Iceland was ice. Parents, you don't have to be duped today. Ask the tough questions. Ask how the politicians plan to give Alabamians back the $80 million (that's $80,000,000.00) in remediation that was required to help your children be able to take an entry level course in college math or English. Ask the politicians what are their NEW methods for providing new teacher training in technology so your children can have the skills needed to get a high paying job. (OH but be careful, there are some politicians who do not want you to have a high paying job. Trust me, I was recently attacked by some for being successful in what I do each day.)
Do you want to know how I have been successful in Alabama? First of all, God has blessed me abundantly. Second of all, my mother pushed me every day of my life because she knew what it would take. Third of all, my teachers kept me engaged and learning. But even with all this support, I still struggled at the university in the college of physical sciences. So, those politicians that attacked me for wanting better for Alabama students have no idea the personal struggles that I have made to be where I am. And yet, because I am successful today, they ATTACKED me for challenging them to do what is best for Alabama students.
Will I profit if Common Core standards are used in Alabama? No more than I already profit today from having a job helping schools improve. The standards do not bring wealth to educational consultants. The need for schools to improve creates a place for people with my expertise to help others. So, there will always be a need for educational expertise and problem solving skills. There will always be a need for continual training. (Well, in most states- Perhaps not Alabama!) However perhaps the greatest way in which I will profit will be the wealth Common Core could eventually bring our state. Better job opportunities for Alabamians. More businesses will be attracted to Alabama. Higher standard of living will be great. We need a change for the better.
If not Common Core... Then what? That is the question I want to ask those who are running for positions in education. What we have is not working. Check the poverty rate in Alabama. Check the NAEP scores of students in Alabama. Check the dropout rate in Alabama. BUT more importantly check the attrition of Alabama college students, and check the multiplied millions (almost a billion) a year spent for remediation to keep kids in college because they are not ready for college or career.
I know I am probably blogging for my own stress release. But I really wished just once in my lifetime citizens of this great state would demand more. I am not afraid to work harder... demand more of me. How many of those so called politicians wanting your vote will tell you the same.
My name is Sarah Odom, and I approve this blog entry!
Sarah
Friday, February 24, 2012
Irritated at Ignorance and the Politicians who use it Against the American People!
I am upset! I am angry! I am so sick of hearing how "Common Core" is a "National Curriculum" forced on the American people by the Federal Government! First of all, I would be happy to debate any of them (Democrat or Republican) any day of the week. I think it is just outrageous that the American people get duped into believing the political rhetoric during election time. Where are the true statesmen and women in this country? Where, I ask you? Where!
Here are some numbers for you! Right NOW, America is 25th in rank among the OECD countries in MATH! How about that, Democrats and Republicans? How happy are you with that? Here's another number!!! American students rank 14th in reading among OECD countries. They rank 17th in science. As if that were not enough, how about the number in the BILLIONS each year that it takes to REMEDIATE American seniors who cannot pass entrance exams into college? Oh, but let's all cause mass panic among Americans at the BIG BAD FEDERAL GOVERNMENT who is trying to force education on our students. PLEASE!!! GIVE ME A BREAK!
You should be worried about how you are BANKRUPTING our American Economy with your rhetoric! You should be worried about how every other OECD country with a viable economy is kicking our butt! But no! It is election time, and since you can't build a platform on which to run that will actually get Americans to BELIEVE in you, the next best thing you can do is "FABRICATE" a monster. Well, if that is the ONLY way you can win an election, please FABRICATE a real monster! Like the fact our economy is on the brink of catastrophic collapse! Now, why don't you talk about that for a while? Oh, that would require you to look at your party's spending over the past 30 years or so.
Unless you are an educational professional, and unless you have taken the time to actually understand the structure of the Common Core, and unless you have a better solution for the billions of dollars spent every year trying to remediate students from our dropout and pushout factories called high schools, PUT UP or SHUT UP! I for one do not believe a word that comes out of your mouth. It is a disgrace to the great men and women who worked so hard to build the political structure of this country designed to protect people, not led them in mass hysteria!
To my American friends who feel you do not know what to do, or how to process all of this political baloney... Read the facts. Go to the Common Core website and download the standards for English/Language Arts and Math. Look at what these standards are doing to help prepare our students for college and career. I ask you... NO, I implore you to think about your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family members. Do you want them to leave high school with the confidence they can enter into any university or college without spending thousands of extra dollars on remediation? Do you want your children who do not want to go to college to be able to learn technical skills that will certify their ability to apply for a career job with confidence and certainty? DEMAND more rigorous standards in your schools! DEMAND that politicians stop putting your children at risk! Common Core is not the monster. Ignorance is the monster! Know your enemy! Force those you elect to do what is best for your students!
Just because the constitution says that education is part of the "states' rights" does not mean that states can't collaboratively determine what is best for students as a standards' framework. Trust me, in reality, neither the federal government nor the state government will determine what will be necessary for your children's education. The global economy will determine it. Don't you want your children to be prepared? I do. I speak from personal experience! I speak with passion! I speak without apology!
Sarah B. Odom, PhD
Here are some numbers for you! Right NOW, America is 25th in rank among the OECD countries in MATH! How about that, Democrats and Republicans? How happy are you with that? Here's another number!!! American students rank 14th in reading among OECD countries. They rank 17th in science. As if that were not enough, how about the number in the BILLIONS each year that it takes to REMEDIATE American seniors who cannot pass entrance exams into college? Oh, but let's all cause mass panic among Americans at the BIG BAD FEDERAL GOVERNMENT who is trying to force education on our students. PLEASE!!! GIVE ME A BREAK!
You should be worried about how you are BANKRUPTING our American Economy with your rhetoric! You should be worried about how every other OECD country with a viable economy is kicking our butt! But no! It is election time, and since you can't build a platform on which to run that will actually get Americans to BELIEVE in you, the next best thing you can do is "FABRICATE" a monster. Well, if that is the ONLY way you can win an election, please FABRICATE a real monster! Like the fact our economy is on the brink of catastrophic collapse! Now, why don't you talk about that for a while? Oh, that would require you to look at your party's spending over the past 30 years or so.
Unless you are an educational professional, and unless you have taken the time to actually understand the structure of the Common Core, and unless you have a better solution for the billions of dollars spent every year trying to remediate students from our dropout and pushout factories called high schools, PUT UP or SHUT UP! I for one do not believe a word that comes out of your mouth. It is a disgrace to the great men and women who worked so hard to build the political structure of this country designed to protect people, not led them in mass hysteria!
To my American friends who feel you do not know what to do, or how to process all of this political baloney... Read the facts. Go to the Common Core website and download the standards for English/Language Arts and Math. Look at what these standards are doing to help prepare our students for college and career. I ask you... NO, I implore you to think about your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family members. Do you want them to leave high school with the confidence they can enter into any university or college without spending thousands of extra dollars on remediation? Do you want your children who do not want to go to college to be able to learn technical skills that will certify their ability to apply for a career job with confidence and certainty? DEMAND more rigorous standards in your schools! DEMAND that politicians stop putting your children at risk! Common Core is not the monster. Ignorance is the monster! Know your enemy! Force those you elect to do what is best for your students!
Just because the constitution says that education is part of the "states' rights" does not mean that states can't collaboratively determine what is best for students as a standards' framework. Trust me, in reality, neither the federal government nor the state government will determine what will be necessary for your children's education. The global economy will determine it. Don't you want your children to be prepared? I do. I speak from personal experience! I speak with passion! I speak without apology!
Sarah B. Odom, PhD
Monday, January 30, 2012
Been a While!
Well, it has certainly been a while since I decided to blog... Not that I haven't been writing, I just can't seem to keep up with all the various networks in which I now belong. But writing has always been my outlet. I know it has probably gotten me into trouble on more than one occasion, but I still love doing it. Writing calms me. It seems like I can release my inner most feelings when I write, which is not necessarily a great thing. I guess for me the key is to learn how to always positively and effectively express myself. Being a passion writer is a blessing and a curse of sorts. If I feel it, I have got plenty to say. If I don't feel it, nothing makes sense, and I hit a brick wall.
One thing I like to do with my writing is reevaluate my life from time to time. I like to evaluate my trichotomy (my blog - my beliefs). Body, Soul, and Spirit...Spiritual, Emotional, Physical...So let's start with the body. I am truly mad at myself at the moment. I need an intervention plan. I'm working on it. That is really all I want to say about it at this point. Now, on to the soul, or my essence. I have met a few of my goals in life, but I have also stalled on a few. I struggle with knowing what is the perfect plan of God for my life, but I don't usually hide my head in the sand. There are times I have been bitter (usually coincides with my hormonal balance for the month) but on most days I am a purpose driven individual. I have been known to stress people out a little (or at least that is what I have been told.) But I never impose on others what I will not tackle myself. I don't like slackers. Sorry. It was instilled in me from birth. So, I probably do stress slackers out a little bit. I really don't take criticism too well. But I am trying to learn how to deal with it more positively.
Now for my spiritual side, I can ALWAYS do more. Been thinking a whole lot about my spiritual status lately. If there truly is a 9th intelligence known as Existentialism, then I want to develop mine more. If there is one thing I know for certain, our natural earthly life is but a vapor. I can't help but want my life to mean more than the few days I spend on it. I know there is something within human intellect that forces us to want to live eternally. Why? Well I guess that depends on your philosophy of life. Personally, I believe God put it there for me. I can't force others to think about the purpose of life any more than someone can force me to work a calculus problem. But, for me... I want to know. So, for the coming year, I plan to spend more time studying the Christian faith, the historical account of the Jewish people and their covenant with the great Jehovah.
So... That's what I am doing with my life in 2012. Wonder what everyone else is up to this year?
One thing I like to do with my writing is reevaluate my life from time to time. I like to evaluate my trichotomy (my blog - my beliefs). Body, Soul, and Spirit...Spiritual, Emotional, Physical...So let's start with the body. I am truly mad at myself at the moment. I need an intervention plan. I'm working on it. That is really all I want to say about it at this point. Now, on to the soul, or my essence. I have met a few of my goals in life, but I have also stalled on a few. I struggle with knowing what is the perfect plan of God for my life, but I don't usually hide my head in the sand. There are times I have been bitter (usually coincides with my hormonal balance for the month) but on most days I am a purpose driven individual. I have been known to stress people out a little (or at least that is what I have been told.) But I never impose on others what I will not tackle myself. I don't like slackers. Sorry. It was instilled in me from birth. So, I probably do stress slackers out a little bit. I really don't take criticism too well. But I am trying to learn how to deal with it more positively.
Now for my spiritual side, I can ALWAYS do more. Been thinking a whole lot about my spiritual status lately. If there truly is a 9th intelligence known as Existentialism, then I want to develop mine more. If there is one thing I know for certain, our natural earthly life is but a vapor. I can't help but want my life to mean more than the few days I spend on it. I know there is something within human intellect that forces us to want to live eternally. Why? Well I guess that depends on your philosophy of life. Personally, I believe God put it there for me. I can't force others to think about the purpose of life any more than someone can force me to work a calculus problem. But, for me... I want to know. So, for the coming year, I plan to spend more time studying the Christian faith, the historical account of the Jewish people and their covenant with the great Jehovah.
So... That's what I am doing with my life in 2012. Wonder what everyone else is up to this year?
Monday, July 4, 2011
July 4th Independence Day
I married a soldier. For three years, I washed and ironed BDUs. Well, until he decided to start getting them professionally cleaned and pressed (and I did not argue one bit!) Both of my sons were born on an Army Base (Ft. Campbell, KY, Blanchfield Hospital). I loved living near an Army base. I loved to watch the aircraft fly overhead. It always made me feel safe. I even got to glimpse Air Force One leave Ft. Campbell with the Senior George Bush aboard. I visited the post, went to the PX and commissary, and waited for a group of soldiers to run past my car on more than one occasion. And I was proud to do it.
I am grateful for every soldier in this country who gives his and her life away to take care of us. Whether it is time away from home and loved ones or the ultimate sacrifice, I am so grateful. Because of the sacrifices our early American men and women made to make this country free, I feel we owe them due diligence to keep the spirit of America alive. However, in this contemporary era of personal greed and gain, we have lost sight of the price they paid for us to have the abundance of liberty we enjoy today.
We need to regain the Spirit of America! It will start with each of us deciding to do the RIGHT THING! Honor our Forefathers! Honor the American Dream! Stop promoting our selfishness, and provide for our children and future generations. And most importantly, stop forgetting about the God who brought us here, sustained us, and gave us our most prized liberties. And we would do well to remember his child, Israel.
It seems for some Americans, we are simply getting too big for our britches! To quote Proverbs 16:18 "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." My words of wisdom for America this morning - Stop your prideful behavior before you destroy this country!" The blood of countless American Soldiers and Forefathers will be on your hands if you continue to destroy the ideology of LIBERTY their sacrifices intended. How audacious of you to feel you somehow have been given that right!
For the rest of us who still love the liberty and freedom of being an American, God Bless America! May God keep us humble and yet proud of our heritage. May we keep the Spirit of America live and fresh for our children and grandchildren to come. Happy July 4th, Independence Day!
S.B. Odom, Ph.D.
I am grateful for every soldier in this country who gives his and her life away to take care of us. Whether it is time away from home and loved ones or the ultimate sacrifice, I am so grateful. Because of the sacrifices our early American men and women made to make this country free, I feel we owe them due diligence to keep the spirit of America alive. However, in this contemporary era of personal greed and gain, we have lost sight of the price they paid for us to have the abundance of liberty we enjoy today.
We need to regain the Spirit of America! It will start with each of us deciding to do the RIGHT THING! Honor our Forefathers! Honor the American Dream! Stop promoting our selfishness, and provide for our children and future generations. And most importantly, stop forgetting about the God who brought us here, sustained us, and gave us our most prized liberties. And we would do well to remember his child, Israel.
It seems for some Americans, we are simply getting too big for our britches! To quote Proverbs 16:18 "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." My words of wisdom for America this morning - Stop your prideful behavior before you destroy this country!" The blood of countless American Soldiers and Forefathers will be on your hands if you continue to destroy the ideology of LIBERTY their sacrifices intended. How audacious of you to feel you somehow have been given that right!
For the rest of us who still love the liberty and freedom of being an American, God Bless America! May God keep us humble and yet proud of our heritage. May we keep the Spirit of America live and fresh for our children and grandchildren to come. Happy July 4th, Independence Day!
S.B. Odom, Ph.D.
Friday, July 1, 2011
2011 is slipping away
I can't believe it is already July 1, 2011. This year is flying by. My summer is almost gone. August is too close! STOP TIME STOP! Slow down! I haven't finished my book yet! I need to reach my goal! So...I need time in order to do this.
But I will have to say I have been very blessed during the first half of 2011! I do not have any complaints of any significance. I am blessed with family and friends who love me. God has been so good to me.
Ray and I have been on a journey this year. A journey of change. It is not an easy journey to take, but we are finding our way. As Andrew's birthday nears, I am frequently reminded of him and the joy he brought to our lives for almost 10 years here on earth, and the joy his memories continue to bring us. Gideon is also moving on in his journey in life. He has had a hard year, but I see signs of growth coming, though small steps they may be. He will be transitioning to the University of Alabama this fall. Guess he won't be a 2nd generation Jag after all. But I'll live.
Life is a wonderful journey. And I am starting to see the necessity to value each and every day of my life. Guess it is a middle-age thing. I thank God every day for the opportunities he has sent my way. I pray I will keep my heart and mind open to his will and take full advantage of the opportunities he provides me.
So... at this mid-year checkup, I think we are doing quite well! More to come.
S.B. Odom, Ph.D.
But I will have to say I have been very blessed during the first half of 2011! I do not have any complaints of any significance. I am blessed with family and friends who love me. God has been so good to me.
Ray and I have been on a journey this year. A journey of change. It is not an easy journey to take, but we are finding our way. As Andrew's birthday nears, I am frequently reminded of him and the joy he brought to our lives for almost 10 years here on earth, and the joy his memories continue to bring us. Gideon is also moving on in his journey in life. He has had a hard year, but I see signs of growth coming, though small steps they may be. He will be transitioning to the University of Alabama this fall. Guess he won't be a 2nd generation Jag after all. But I'll live.
Life is a wonderful journey. And I am starting to see the necessity to value each and every day of my life. Guess it is a middle-age thing. I thank God every day for the opportunities he has sent my way. I pray I will keep my heart and mind open to his will and take full advantage of the opportunities he provides me.
So... at this mid-year checkup, I think we are doing quite well! More to come.
S.B. Odom, Ph.D.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
My Long Lost Friend - Blogspot
Well, I guess I need to apologize to you! I have not blogged to you in months, almost a year. But I have been busy writing, I promise. Facebook sorta took your place, and for that I am truly sorry. I will try to do better. I also have a NING account I am now keeping for our Achievement Services. So, I will have to work to share my time between you all.
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