Random Report

• Our daughter just found out she will be receiving a "Top 10" academic award. These awards are based on academic achievement and given to the top ten 5th graders, 8th graders, and 12th graders of each school in our county (she's an 8th grader). She also received the "Top 10" award as a 5th grader. It's a pretty big deal around here and we are very proud of her!
• Our 3rd grader brought home a note from his teacher yesterday. It stated that for the upcoming state testing that they will be doing, they will be allowed to use calculators and that he should bring his own calculator to school this week. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Why on earth does a 3rd grader need to be using a calculator for math testing? Are we so lazy that we no longer expect our children to actually learn to do math in their head? We never used calculators until we got to more advanced math in high school. Is it just me or does this seem ridiculous?
• Our 11th grade son will be going to his first prom next month. Yikes, did you know it's about $140 to rent a tux?
• I really need to get a new digital camera ASAP. Does anyone have recommendations for a good one that is in the $150-$200 price range? I want something that is super easy to use (because I am very technically challenged) and takes great pics.
• Do you watch Flash Forward on ABC?  What about Spartacus: Blood and Sand on Starz? Love them, they are both great! (Just to let you know, Spartacus is not for the faint-of-heart - lots of blood, violence, and sex)
• I'm excited to tell you that I was invited to join the review team at An Island Life. If you are not familiar with this site, check it out. You can find great product reviews, giveaways, photo contests, and more. It's also the home of the very popular Friday meme, Aloha Friday.
• I've always been an American Idol fan. Did you watch last week's show? Casey James singing Jealous Guy is my FAVORITE IDOL PERFORMANCE EVER! Here it is in case you missed it - beautiful!