Court of Awards Ceremony

Troop 6037 receiving their welcome to Brownies certificate.


Troop 6037 receiving their welcome to sisterhood certificate.

Tonight Girl Scout Troop 6037 held it's Court of Awards Ceremony for it's first quarter of activities.

The Court of Awards Ceremony is an event in which scouts receive the patches they earn. I decided to add special awards in addition to the customary patches. At our ceremony each scout received the Welcome to the Brownies certificate, Your a Part of the Family certificate, the Girl Scout Membership pin, the Brownie Insigmia pin and the World Trefoil pin. Two scouts earned the Robert Baden-Powell Award for attending every troop activity. Six troop members earned the Juliette Gordon-Low Award for attending every meeting. Finally, the most important award of the evening went to "Natalie" for being the Most Outstanding Scout. This awarded was voted on by the scouts and parents and "Natalie" received the most nominations from both her peers and their parents individually and collectively.

Additionally, we recognized our three honorary members (siblings to scout members) by presenting them with medallions. As scout leader, I realize that our troop is only as good as it's members but more importantly the parents supporting the members. With this in mind we acknowledged the hard work of three exceptional parents for their tireless dedication to our troop by presenting them with certificates.

The parent's of my troop presented me with white roses and a card filled with very heart felt words of encouragement and thank you's. I was not expecting it and was truly shocked. To say I love my troop is an understatement. Being a troop leader has been one of the most endearing things I have undertaken. The scouts are leaving foot prints on my heart and I feel like a "proud mama," for being allowed to share in their lives.

Flowers received from "my parents."

The evening drew to a close by eating dinner as "scouting family" following the awards presentation

Micheal Jackson

While in commute with my children a dear friend called to tell me an icon of our childhood passed away. I thought he was playing a mean trick on me so I called two other friends and they verified the information to be true.

I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. He is the first musician my memory re-collects (even before Bob Marley). I remember being about 4 years old and having received a Thiller view master set from my father (who was living in the US during this time) and being the most popular child on my island home of Jamaica. Adults like children all wanted to view the images of the concert that the view master allowed.

My aunt Vanessa is probably Michael Jackson's biggest fan. She knew minute facts about him that others would find insignificant or obscure but as a fan she loved learning new tid bits about him.

Michael Jackson inspired both the poor and rich alike through his message of giving back to those less fortunate. Additionally, he broke color barriers by setting the example that race is never be an issue when it comes to achieving your dream if you believe and want it bad enough.

The message that I take from Micheal Jackson though comes from his song , "The Man in the Mirror," which states that change begins with each of us. My goal is to positively impact not just the lives of my own children but the greater community as a whole.

Michael, you will always be remember...I have looked in the mirror and is working hard to make the world a better place.

Tickled Pink

I just got off the telephone with my director and I became speechless on the telephone. Great things are in the works and will be announced soon.

We are Safe

The girls and I are FINE.

Due to a miracle from God, Jade and I were not on the train that crashed yesterday. Yesterday morning, I allowed the girls to stay home from school for a trivial reason but now looking at it hind sight I see that it was God's work. Typically, Jade and I are on this particular train daily in route to pick Vanessa up from Yu Ying however God protected our steps by changing my route.

Thank you Thelma, Yolanda and LaQuisha for telephoning to make sure we were okay. I thank God every day for having ladies like you in my life.

We are praying for all of the families that have been touched by this incident and hope for a speedy recovery for everyone involved.

We Love and Appreciate You

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Ronald McDonald House Dinner

LaQuisha and "Julia" one of the residents of Ronald McDonald House

Serving pizza to "Julia" and Jade.

Tonight Jade, LaQuisha and I served dinner for the families currently staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Washington, DC.

"Many families travel far from home to get treatment for their seriously ill or injured children. The treatment may last a day, a month, or even longer. It's a long time to be away from home, or to divide a family.

Ronald McDonald Houses around the world offer families a way to stay together, in proximity to the treatment hospital, and be comfortable and cared for during their stay. By staying at a Ronald McDonald House, parents can also can better communicate with their child’s medical team and keep up with complicated treatment plans when needed."

Jade enjoyed playing with the other children and had the time of her life playing the residence piano. While sitting in the great hall of the house I heard beautiful music coming from the children's play area so I walked back to see which child was playing and to my astoundment it was my Jade. I was so surprised to see that it was her playing. I guess I have a budding Miss America on my hand. Now I need to find a school or person to give her lessons.

The children were in awe of seeing LaQuisha's crown and sash. They enjoyed taking photos with her and even donning the crown.

All three of us were very impressed with the Ronald McDonald House and will be back again soon. Next time hopefully Vanessa is well enough to also attend.

Community Academy PCS Awards Ceremony

Jade receiving her Citizenship award from Ms. Gloria

Today Jade's school held it's annual award's ceremony.

Since yesterday evening Jade has been excited about the Community Academy PSC awards ceremony and gave "mama" specific instructions on what she intended to wear and to make sure I remembered my camera.

Additionally, all night she was filled with excitement of the upcoming day's event. I was very excited myself but then I became scared because awards are earned not just given out (or this is what I remembered as a child) so fear began to creep up on me. I immediately said a silent prayer that my baby would receive something.

God, must have heard my prayer because Jade was the receipient of the CITIZENSHIP award. This is an especially significant award to us because we are constantly teaching our daughters to be respectful and polite to everyone they come in contact with.

Woo hoo to Jade..."mama", daddy, Vanessa and the entire family are extremely proud of you. Yu Ying and the world watch out here Jade comes as a pre-kindergartner.

RIF's 2009 Summer Reading Guide

Let’s Get Reading!

Summer’s here and we’ve pulled together a few ideas to get this sunny season started with a bang. There is no better time to pick up a new book (or two or three!) so go ahead and dive on in.
Some summertime tips:

Check out the library. Want an endless supply of free books? Sign up for a library card. Click here to locate your nearest branch.

An activity a day... keeps the boredom away! Our downloadable calendars feature a fun reading-related activity each day.

Help! Volunteering is a great way to reach out to those in need. Learn about different opportunities in your community, and even read about organizations started by kids.

Activities:

*Have a Book-nic. Spend an afternoon outside with your family and a good book.
*Make a map. Create a car trip boredom-buster.

Books:

With a few weeks off from school, there’s no better time to try a new book series. That’s why we’ve created a mega booklist with lots of different choices for you to try.

Thrillers and Mysteries
History and Fantasy
Humor and General

Tips:

*Relax the rules for summer During the school year, children often have busy schedules and required reading. Summer is a time when they can relax and read what, when, and how they please.
*Lead by example Stuff a paperback in your beach bag. If kids see you reading often, they will understand that literature can be a fun and important part of their summer days.

Links:

*Check out bestselling author James Patterson’s awesome ReadKiddoRead.
*Bookwink’s podcasts and web videos are a great way to learn about books on lots of different topics.
*Visit Reading Rockets’ Summer Reading page for tips, articles, and more.

Mrs. U.S. of America Pageant

While at the Queen's Corner Expo I met Chistina Couto, of Couto Pageants, who is the director of the US of America pageant system (and many others). I have received her brochures for many years. I have wanted to participate in her system but for some reason or another the deadline would pass before I would remember to sign-up for the competition.

One of the goodies in the "swag" bags received at the expo was a $100 discount from the US of America pageant system. Being a mom of two I am always searching for discounts and ways to make pageantry economical. Ms. Couto's discount allows many to participate in a cherished hobby without blowing the family's budget...we thank you.

As a reward for using my gym membership daily I am going to "treat" myself with an entry to the US of America pageant. One of the best parts about this pageant system is that there are no contracts or stipulation that winners can not participate in other pageant systems. I have a little less than two months to prepare, so wish me luck.

*Update* I was unable to particpate in this years pageant however Christana graciously transferred my entry fee to 2010.

Queen's Corner Expo

Local, state and national queen's attending the expo


Chelsey Cooley, Miss USA 2005, and myself

Miss Brookland Outstanding Teen and I

At 5:00 am I woke up to travel to Trenton, NJ to attend the Queen's Corner Expo sponsored by the Red Carpet Prom and Pageantry and Savvy Magazine. The trip began with LaQuisha picking me up in Clinton, then traveling to BWI airport where we met Montressa to embark on our trip via Amtrak.

Lucky us, the Hilton hotel where the event was being held was across the street from the NJ transit station. My feet were so happy for this :)

The expo was FANTASTIC...it was both informative and entertaining. Abbie Rabine and Chelsey Cooley were the featured speakers. Both ladies shared a wealth of knowledge and "insiders tricks" with the audience. One of my favorite things about both ladies was how personable they both were. It is evident why they were so successful in pageantry.

Abbie Rabine began her session by asking us the simple question "Do you fit in with the pageant system you are competing in?"

This question was monumental to me because my coach and I have been discussing this very issue. The key to competing successfully in pageantry is to find a system that values and recognizes your strong attributes. With this in place your preparation highlights your attributes not re-create who you are or turn you into last year's winners mold.

I am going to continue the self evaluation process because my love for pageantry is unfaltering however as most delegates that compete I too would like to win a national title. To do this I must find the appropriate system that appreciates who I am currently.

Dr. AT of Stand Out Productions (Chelsey Cooley's Company) was also a speaker that focused on the fitness aspect of competition. He had on hand a personal training manual for the "3 different body types" and also the perfect plate. I purchased both of these items to use within my training program.

The vendors on hand had very useful items. After viewing the quality items the Red carpet carries I plan to visit the store to purchase my competition wardrobe. I think I found the gown that is ideal for me but you never know maybe when I see the full stock of merchandise in the store I will fall in love again :)

Also at the expo I won one of the raffles and now have a tank top (gave the second one to LaQuisha) and exercise sweat pants, compliments of American Coed Pageants, that I will use as my official work out gear.

Attending events like the Queen's Corner Expo allows contestants to be in an environment with like minded individuals that aspire to be their best and serves as an invaluable opportunity for delegates to acquire the necessary skills to become "elite contestants." I recommend that if a similar event or opportunity becomes available to you that you should definitely participate.

Problem Areas in Literacy Development

Source: Helping Your Child Become a Reader, U.S. Department Of Education

If You Think There's a Problem
When a child is having a language or reading problem, the reason might be simple to understand and deal with or it might be complicated and require expert help. Often, children may just need more time to develop their language skills. On the other hand, some children might have trouble seeing, hearing, or speaking. Others may have a learning disability. If you think your child may have some kind of physical or learning problem, it is important to get expert help quickly.

If your child is in school and you think that she should have stronger language skills, ask for a private meeting with her teacher. (You may feel more comfortable taking a friend, relative, or someone else in your community with you.) In most cases, the teacher or perhaps the principal will be able to help you to understand how your child is doing and what you might do to help her.

There is a law—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)—that may allow you to get certain services for your child from your school district. Your child might qualify to receive help from a speech and language therapist or other specialist, or she might qualify to receive materials designed to match her needs. You can learn about your special education rights and responsibilities by requesting that the school give you—in your first language—a summary of legal rights. To find out about programs for children with disabilities that are available in your state, contact the National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities.

The good news is that no matter how long it takes, most children can learn to read. Parents, teachers, and other professionals can work together to determine if a child has a learning disability or other problem, and then provide the right help as soon as possible. When a child gets such help, chances are very good that she will develop the skills she needs to succeed in school and in life. Nothing is more important than your support for your child as she goes through school. Make sure she gets any extra help she needs as soon as possible, and always encourage her and praise her efforts.

Watching Your Child Progress
As a parent, you can learn a lot about your child's learning and watch for signs of possible problems. Here are some things to look for and to discuss with his teacher:

• Starting at age 3 or 4: Does your child remember nursery rhymes, and can he play rhyming games?
• At about age 4: Can your child get information or directions from conversations or books that are read aloud to him?
• Kindergartners: Is your child beginning to name and write the letters and numbers that he sees in books, on billboards and signs, and in other places?
• At age 5: Can your child play and enjoy simple word games in which two or more words start with the same sound? For example: "Name all the animals you can think of that start with d."
• At ages 5 and 6: Does your child show that he understands that spoken words can be broken down into smaller parts (for example, by noticing the word big in bigger)? Does he seem to understand that you can change a small part of a word and make a different word (for example, by changing the first sound and letter of cat, you can make hat, sat, mat, bat, rat, and so on)?
  

Promise Yourself...Poem to Inspire and Motivate

Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel like there is something in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living person you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, and too strong for fear, and to happy to permit the presence of trouble.

The Optimist Creed
From The Optimist International

My hope is to remember and implement these actions into my daily life, especially the first line.

Sharing the Love of Reading This Father's Day

Father's day is Sunday, June 21, 2009. What better way to celebrate the occassion that to read about father's and their children.

Whether you're choosing a Father's Day book to read with your child or looking for a book to give as a gift, there are many wonderful titles to choose from. Below is a list that can be used for ideas:

Taxi! Taxi!

Best, Cari; 1994.

Tina spends each Sunday with her father, a taxi cab driver.

The Summer My Father was Ten

Brisson, Pat.; 1998.

A father tells his daughter the story of how he damaged a neighbor's tomato garden when he was a boy, and what he did to make amends to old Mr. Bellavista.

If I were Your Father

Park-Bridges, Margaret

Warm and humorous conversation between a boy and his father. The boy offers his fantastic wisdom of what a father might do.

Born in the Gravy

Cazet, Denys; 1993.

A young Chicana tells her father all the things she did during her first day in Kindergarten.

Room for a Stepdaddy

Cook, Jean Thor; 1995.

Joey has trouble accepting his new stepfather but the constant love of his father, mother and stepfather finally convince him that there is love enough to go around for everyone.

Night Driving

Coy, John; 1996.

As father and son drive into the night, they watch the sunset, talk about baseball, sing cowboy songs, and even change a flat tire before pitching camp at daybreak.

Papa Lucky's Shadow

Daly, Niki; 1992.

With his granddaughters help, Papa Lucky takes his love of dancing onto the street and makes some extra money.

I'll See You When the Moon is Full

Fowler, Susi Gregg; 1994.

Abe will miss his father when he takes off on a business trip, but is reassured of his return in two weeks when the crescent moon is full.

The Father Who Had 10 Children

Guettier, Benedicte

Loving story of a dad caring for his 10 children. Even when he takes time for himself he still misses his children, shortens his trip and hurries back to them.

Rock-a-bye Farm

Hamm, Diane Johnston; 1992.

Celebrates the affection and trust between a daddy and his "charges."

Dad's Dinosaur Day

Hearn, Diane Dawson

Sometimes even Daddies need a break!

Father's Rubber Shoes

Heo, Yumi; 1995.

Yungsu misses Korea terribly until he begins to make friends in America.

Papa Tells Chita a Story

Howard, Elizabeth Fitzgerald; 1995.

A young African American girl shares a special time with her father as he tells her about when he was a soldier in Cuba during the SpanishAmerican War.

Me, Dad and Number 6

Jennings, Dana Andrew; 1997.

A father, his friends and his 6-year-old son rebuild an old car together and drive it in races.

Your Dad was Just Like You

Johnson, Dolores; 1993.

While visiting his grandfather, an African American boy hears a story about his father's childhood that helps him understand his father.

Finding a Job for Daddy

Maslac, Evelyn; 1996.

A young girl helps her father look for a new job and lets him know he will always have the important job of being her daddy.

Guess How Much I Love You

McBratney, Sam; 1994.

Baby Nutbrown hare wants to show his Daddy (Big Nutbrown hare) how very much he loves him-but love as big as this is very hard to measure!

Daddy Will You Miss Me?

McCormick, Wendy; 1999.

When a daddy must leave on a trip, a father and son help ease the pain of separation by creating rituals for each passing day. These simple activities help them remain close in their hearts while they are apart. Whether you're across the globe or just across town, the love between a father and child spans any distance.

Just Me and My Dad

Meyer, Mercer; 1977.

Lil' Critters camping trip with his dad shows his attempts to be bigger than his dad, with illustrations showing us different.

Can't Scare Me!

Milich, Melissa; 1995.

Two African American friends often share a special time in the evenings when ghost stories can sometimes be frightening. But a little girl and a special ghost story help Mr. Munroe stop being afraid.

Love You Forever

Munsch, Robert; 1986.A

little boy goes through the stages of childhood and becomes a man. Through each stage his mother sings to him: "I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, As long as I'm living my baby you'll be." In the end he must reverse the care and provide nurturing for his aging mother. An incredible story of the enduring nature of a parents love, and how it crosses generations.

My Daddy

Paradis, Susan; 1998.

The bond between a boy and his father is profound. Exploring it from the point of view of a child, the wealth of feelings evoked by every day events is depicted in simple words, and deeply moving pictures.

The Car Washing Street

Patrick, Denise; 1993.

Even though his parents do not own a car, Matthew looks forward to Saturday mornings when all the people on his street wash their cars.

I Love My Daddy Because...

Porter-Gaylord, Laurel; 1991.

Clever text borrows simple phrases from a child's experience with her daddy to show that animal daddies take care of their young, too.

Kevin and His Dad

Smalls, Irene

A young boy spends a whole day with his dad. This lovely picture book celebrates the excitement, pride, love and pleasure a boy can experience with a father who includes him in both work and play.

Home Field

Spohn, David; 1993.

Matt and his father play baseball together early one Saturday morning on their own home farmyard field.

In Daddy's Arms I am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers

Steptoe, Javaka; 1997.

A collection of poems celebrating African American fathers by Angela, Johnson, E. Ethelbert Miller, Carole Boston Weatherford, and others.

Little Bean

Wallace, John; 1996.

Little Bean's daddy is too busy to play with her before his trip, but makes up for it when he comes home.

Daddy and Me

Weir, Catherine Daly.

Actual photos of dads and children involved in daily fun.

Dennis Always My Dad

Wyeth, Sharon; 1995.

Although she does not get to see her father very often, an African American girl enjoys the time she and her brothers spend with him one summer while they are visiting their grandparents' farm.

Daddies are for Catching Fireflies

Ziefert, Harriet.

Inexpensive, flip-flap book.