The Bachelorette Life: Bae Watch

I figured out where the beautiful men are. Turns out, they go to the gym, sporting events, concerts, the beach, maybe some bars and clubs (although I don't recommend the bar or club option for quality boyfriend material), and anywhere else you may happen to be where there are people. A few weeks back I had an unexpected bae watch spotting of my own that was a refreshing reminder of the joys of singleness. I was hitting the gym per usual when I spotted him. And to my surprise, I caught him staring at me when I was checking in. He was tall, tan, athletic, had effortless swag, was covered in tattoos, and he was friendly. Our eyes met for a hot minute and I smiled and thought, wow, he looks good. I should go talk to him. When I finished working out, he was still hanging out at the entrance and on my way out the door I looked at him, and simply said, "Hi." He'd been talking to some other people before I walked up and he paused when I passed through, said hi back, and kept looking my way. In that brief moment I also thought, man, I love being single. Although it was a brief encounter, I can always appreciate a good looking guy. Especially one who's available and kind (not to mention one that values staying fit too J) In the past when I'd spot someone attractive, I'd just freeze up, act really goofy, and not say a word. But this time I was chill. Next time I just need to make sure we swap names and maybe numbers afterward. Getting caught in the haze of good looks can throw anyone off. It happens. But if you're single and looking to mingle this summer, make sure you're in the best #baewatch spots. Being in the right place at the right time can put you face to face with others checking for someone as incredible as you. He wasn’t my first bae watch sighting and he won’t be the last. I’m sure there’ll be more to come. Did I mention I love the bachelorette life and redefining what life can be like for a single, Christian woman? I'm just getting warmed up.

A Year Of Being Ghosted

Ghosting: the practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication. I’ve been ghosted by every guy I’ve met within the past two years. About six to be exact. · The first guy pursued me and then got shady whenever I asked him about what he did for a living and where he lived. When he started dodging and avoiding questions, wouldn’t initiate dates, and slowly stopped keeping in touch with me altogether, eventually, all communication ceased. · The second guy was someone I met through a family member. He was super cool, very smart, handsome, and funny, but didn’t want to be in a relationship and acted like he didn’t want to be seen with me publicly. When we had plans to meet for an outing, he didn’t show up, and then texted me about a week later with an apology. We chilled at my place a few times, had a few phone conversations, and exchanged occasional texts, but eventually he stopped responding to me

Teacher Table Talk: When Parents Attack

As an English teacher, a core belief I’ve held close since the beginning of my career has been the importance of relationship building. I believe that if great relationships between teachers, students, and parents are established at the beginning of the school year, everything else will fall into place. Authentically modeling, practicing, and establishing mutually respectful and professional relationships within my classroom has been the bridge for effective communication, solid classroom management, and creating a safe and effective learning environment that fits each of my student’s needs. And though I’ve seen and experienced the benefits of great relationship building, unfortunately, there have been times when some students and parents have not been receptive or interested in my efforts to establish connections that would best serve all parties involved. I’ve also noticed and shared spaces with other educators, school counselors, and administrators who’ve experienced the same. And

How To Respond To A Nasty Email

Technology has made many people bold, rude, and incredibly messy. Often to the point where some may hide behind words they’ve typed instead of verbally communicating a message they want to convey. Such can be the case when it comes to sending emails. Ah, emails. You know what they are. Electronic messages that can be quickly drafted, sent, and misinterpreted (because you can’t always interpret tones or emotions through them). Which is why it’s key to know how to respond to nasty emails if they should ever come your way – especially in the workplace. As a working professional, there have been plenty of times when a coworker or superior sent an email my way that was petty, mad disrespectful, and unprofessional. And before I learned how to properly utilize email etiquette, my first instinct would always be to clap back. I just felt the need to respond and to communicate that I wouldn’t allow anyone, no matter who they were, to disrespect me. And while I haven’t taken things too far

Making Waves