ABC and 123...

When I was a young girl one of my favorite things to do was “play school.” You could usually find me wearing one of my mom’s frilly aprons, her high-heeled shoes and using a laundry punching stick as my pointer. My mom kept kids and I could usually persuade a few of them to be my students. They would sit in yellow chairs around a small white table and I would teach the lesson.


I took “playing school” very seriously. I had a real grade book and one of those handy little things that tells you what grade your students make if they miss a certain number of questions. My 5th grade teacher used to send extra worksheets home with me that I could use in my classroom.

Why I didn’t get my teaching degree is beyond me. I’m the girl who used to drool at the thought of buying new school supplies. I started college with the intention of becoming a teacher and even took several education classes. But my love for writing took me down a different path – journalism.

I can’t say that I regret getting a degree in journalism. My journalism degree allowed me to work for the state newspaper throughout college and I covered some amazing stories. BUT….I still kind of wish I would have been a teacher.

When I worked as a reporter for The Oklahoman, I had the chance to be a teacher for a day. I got to live out my childhood dream and teach 1st grade and then write about the experience. It was so much fun and writing on the dry erase board was everything I dreamed it would be.

If you have been reading my blogs lately, you know that I have been a little discouraged and unsure of what I’m supposed to do when it comes to my career. Well, I have made a decision. I’m going to get my alternative teaching certification so that someday I will be able to teach.

I’m both excited and nervous. I was looking over the tests that I’m going to have to take and insecurity started to creep in. I see a lot of studying in my future. Some of the stuff on those tests I haven’t attempted since I was in grade school. My sister will probably have to tutor me in math – yes, I am that dumb when it comes to numbers. I am the girl who has to call my sister and ask about fractions when I’m baking. Thank the good Lord that I’m a writer and will be teaching English, Journalism or Creative Writing. Whew…..

Anyway…I requested my transcript from OU and once I get that I will submit my application to get my alternative teaching certification. I think this will be a good challenge for me AND it will keep me busy while I wait for my Ethiopian Babe.

I can’t wait to go buy some school supplies……