My name is Leigh. I am married, have two daughters, & am preggo with #3. The first was born September 23, 2006 (8 lbs, 3 oz.) and the second May 14, 2008 (7 lbs, 1oz).. I am a creative person in thinking and in practice. I am artsy fartsy & have an undergraduate degree in Art (sculptor focus) and another one in teaching. (I have an M.Ed in elementary education, too, but who really cares.. lol). I was working on my LPC (license to practice counseling), but put it "on hold" to have kids. Because of my age, I was worried that if I waited any longer, that I may not be able. I am glad I didn't wait. If I had known how much fun having kids was, I would have started earlier. I would probably have 8 kids, too... lol... I do miss the intellectual challenge of graduate school and plan to go back one day.
I am a middle school teacher in an urban setting. This is my 15th year teaching. Prior to this I taught at the elementary level for 10 years (and prior to that I taught middle and elementary schools in North Carolina). I know a lot about learning. I learn from my students EVERY DAY. I love my job and though it isn't for most people, it is very rewarding. If I had to chose another profession, I would be a race car driver. I think I was one in my past life. I love to drive fast and "corner" at top speed.

I am an animal lover. I appreciate nature. I have adult ADD. I love to read anything and everything (from Kierkegaard's Existentialist theories to the fashion police in Us magazine). I live in the suburbs. Our yard is like a park. We have two English Mastiffs, three indoor cats, & one aquatic turtle.

As far as my beliefs on parenting go, I believe that you should do what is right for you. I don't judge people. You know what is best for you and I know what is best for me (and that may not be the same thing!) I respect your rights as a parent. However, if you come on gaga and ask a question, be prepared for the fact that some of us on here tell the truth. You may not like that. I don't do it intentionally to offend, but out of respect I won't lie to you. If you need help and ask me for it, I will give it to you if I can. I am not wishy-washy. I don't overreact. I am not emotional. I think about things before I do them. I am not a teenager, but am old enough to have one (though I don't...) lol...
I believe in sleep-training. I used the book, "Good Night, Sleep Tight" by Kim West to train both of my girls. I cannot do CIO, nor can I survive working full-time, raising two girls, and being a content wife, without sleep. I am more than willing to help any of the tired mommas out there with this, just ask.

I love my girls more than my life. I would do anything to protect & provide for them. I am a consistent parent who believes that love and structure are the best ways to provide a stable environment for them to blossom.

My little snow bunny:






Our dogs Baloo & Mobley...
Mobley waiting for cake on his 4th Birthday!

Have the kids at school figured it out yet??