. . . on a tripod, yet. . . .Beat That, Barbie!

Mamacita says:  At Christmas, or for birthdays (the only times kids got new toys!) other little kids wanted Barbie dolls, sleds, electronics, fake makeup, shoes, sports equipment, and other “typical” kid-desired stuff.  I wanted a telescope. That’s really all I … Continue reading

Blogging: My First Love is Also My Current Love

Mamacita says:  Facebook, Twitter, and PInterest are taking up much of my former blogging time, but you know something. . . . popular and fun and useful as other aspects of social media might be, my first love is also … Continue reading

You Are More Important Than A Piece of Paper

My students tend to get stressed when it’s quiz or test time. I want to tell them not to worry so much, so I think I will do just that: Dear students: It’s just a piece of paper. No piece … Continue reading

Polymers in the Writing Lab

Mamacita says: Yes, it’s true. I use polymers in my writing labs. I also use all kinds of science in my reading labs. I’ve done this for many years.  And guess what: this WORKS. Here’s the thing about learning: everything … Continue reading

It’s only words, and words are all I have, to take your heart away. . . .*

Why not go out on a limb? Isn’t that where the fruit is?” –Frank I’ve always liked that quotation. I also believe it is absolutely true. I think about it whenever I’m feeling particularly cowardly. It helps me overcome it. … Continue reading

The Time Is Always Right To Do What Is Right – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mamacita says:  Why is this day a holiday in most communities? (This community has only just recently started acknowledging MLK Day as a holiday; for years, none of our schools closed.) (They still don’t close for Veteran’s Day.) However, intelligent, … Continue reading