Welcome Guest Mom Wendy!

I can't wait for you to meet my friend, Wendy! Wendy knows much about many topics, but one of the things she cares and thinks about the most is how parents can get involved in their child's school. Like most parents, she has strong opinions about what works and what doesn't — and she doesn't mind a bit if you don't agree with her.

So with that in mind, I asked Wendy to share her PTA-expert-wisdom with us. Also, I think I should mention that Wendy is gorgeous. She looks just like the lead in The Notebook. Identical.

Here's more introduction in Wendy's own words:



What’s up everybody? I’ve never blogged before, although I’m a frequent and enthusiastic visitor to this site. I’m honored to have been asked to join the fun! I’ve always thought the most perfect job on the planet would be having a syndicated opinion column, where I could just prattle on about anything I thought was relevant. So why don’t I blog? Seems like an even better deal, right?

Gabby asked me that question about 2 years ago, and my answer was, ‘my life isn’t that interesting…’ But I'm feeling like my life has gotten a lot more interesting (or at least busy-er), since I was installed as PTA president at my kids’ school.

I have learned a lot: about public education, about school politics, and most importantly, I’ve learned that most parents just want their kids to be comfortable, happy, intellectually challenged, and socially adjusted. Plus, they want to see the real, tangible examples of their kid’s progression. Many of the calls that I get are due to the lack of communication in these areas.

Sometimes it’s hard to believe, but there are many, many parents who do not use their voices to advocate for their own children. The job of the PTA, then, is to be an advocate for children and families who, for whatever reason, do not have a voice in their own school. My job as PTA president is to make sure everything gets done: to make sure there are enriching programs that benefit every student during school, to oversee and help to organize fun social functions after school hours that are accessible to everyone, to present clear communication between home and school about upcoming events and programs,

And since school has just begun, the best part of my job is getting to know new families, helping them feel at ease, giving out as many comforting hugs and words of encouragement as are needed, and showing them how to easily navigate the school hierarchy.

On another note, it seems to be a tradition for Guest Moms to share the things they love, but I’ve been asked to talk about all things PTA — and it feels like a boring introduction. : )

So let me show you some of the things I love — things I’m certain you won’t see on Gabby’s blog ever again:



1. Someday, I would love to own this 1967 Impala, or any hot late 60’s ride.

2. We just bought this bed, and it’s comfortable and beautiful, and every time I lay down I feel like someone should feed me grapes and fan me.

3. This is our boat, and I. LOVE. IT. We have so much fun and carefree family time on the lake, splashing around, skiing, and showing off. I realize it's not in everyone's budget — we had to save up for ages to get ours — but owning a boat is a terrific way to spend your summers. And work on your tan.

And now, I’ll dive right in and share my experience and thoughts about all things PTA. Hopefully by Friday I’ll have convinced you to pitch in and serve. I’m grateful to have been invited to linger this week and share my small area of expertise.