I like writing the ones for the students who have only been in my class for a week. Those ones are easy!
I don't like writing the ones that say a student is falling behind in any particular subject. I don't like making people sad.
I have a lot of hard progress reports to write this mid-trimester.
Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Against all Odds
Sometimes it feels like I have been set up for failure. I am a brand new teacher with limited knowledge of the standards and pacing of the year, I have next to nothing in the way of supplies, I am teaching 2 full curriculums (curriculi?), and I have a class full of special needs (behavioral, academic, emotional, you name it). No one can be expected to teach in this kind of situation. Yet, here I am.
You know what, though?
I am NOT going to let them force me to fail. I am NOT going to let anyone - district, teacher, student, self - stand between my class and success. These students WILL leave my class better than they came into it, and I WILL reach the end of the year knowing that I have become a better teacher.
(Cue inspirational training montage complete with motivational song...something along the lines of "Eye of the Tiger"...I like that one)
You know what, though?
I am NOT going to let them force me to fail. I am NOT going to let anyone - district, teacher, student, self - stand between my class and success. These students WILL leave my class better than they came into it, and I WILL reach the end of the year knowing that I have become a better teacher.
(Cue inspirational training montage complete with motivational song...something along the lines of "Eye of the Tiger"...I like that one)
Sunday, September 28, 2003
Melancholy
Or Meloncholy, as I first spelled it. Hee hee. Sounds like a dog that grows on a vine. Or a melon with a fur coat.
Anyway, it is obvious from reading my post from this evening that I should not be blogging now. I should be curled up with someone cute and focusing on the positives in my life. Too much introspection is not good for me. Goodnight.
Anyway, it is obvious from reading my post from this evening that I should not be blogging now. I should be curled up with someone cute and focusing on the positives in my life. Too much introspection is not good for me. Goodnight.
They only told me about the "teen" years
Everyone always talks about how horrible the teenaged years are and how straining it is on the child/parent relationship. Even when I was deep in the black pit of teenagerdom I knew that it was a phase that everyone goes through. I knew that things would go back to normal shortly after I graduated from high school. And they did.
Now I am finding that there is a strain on my relationships with my parents again. I think it is largely related to my physical distance from them. I can no longer just hang out with them. Our interactions are conducted via phone line in 60 minute bursts. When I am talking to them there is a constant need for something interesting to say. No down time, no watching a movie together, no working side by side in the garden for hours with only a few sentences exchanged. I am starting to feel like my parents (especially the ones who don't read this blog) no longer know who I am. My family members are becoming strangers to me and despite my best efforts, I can't seem to stop it.
So, I am wondering, is this normal? Is this something that happens to kids after they move out and start their own grownup lives? Is this how things are? Because I don't like it. It sucks. (Sorry, K.)
Now I am finding that there is a strain on my relationships with my parents again. I think it is largely related to my physical distance from them. I can no longer just hang out with them. Our interactions are conducted via phone line in 60 minute bursts. When I am talking to them there is a constant need for something interesting to say. No down time, no watching a movie together, no working side by side in the garden for hours with only a few sentences exchanged. I am starting to feel like my parents (especially the ones who don't read this blog) no longer know who I am. My family members are becoming strangers to me and despite my best efforts, I can't seem to stop it.
So, I am wondering, is this normal? Is this something that happens to kids after they move out and start their own grownup lives? Is this how things are? Because I don't like it. It sucks. (Sorry, K.)
Signs, signs, everywhere the signs...
I watched Bruce Almighty at the second run theatre with my honey yesterday. I liked it. Especially the overall message. Be the miracle. Don't sit around with your eyes squinched shut and your hands folded tightly, waiting for God to answer your prayers. Get out there and make things happen. Help to those who help themselves and all that jazz. Bruce spends much of the movie demanding that God send him a sign and then ignoring such blantant ones as a glowing truckful of "Caution" and "Stop" signs warning him of trouble ahead.
Then, this evening, we watched Wide Awake. This is the first movie directed by the guy who did Sixth Sense and Unbreakable (and yes, Signs). A kid, who has recently lost his grandfather, spends his 5th grade year searching for God. He just wants to make sure that there is someone up there taking care of his grandpa. Throughout the whole movie, there are odd moments that you later realize are more important than they seemed.
I had no idea that either of these movies were quite like they turned out to be. I can't help but wonder if the reoccuring theme of missed signs is a sign of some kind. Is there something I have been asking for? Have I been ignoring the answer? I wouldn't be surprised. With the kind of busy I am these days there are lots of things I am forgetting and ignoring and just plain not even seeing. I will have to ponder this. At this point it would be highly embarassing to miss some kind of sign.
Then, this evening, we watched Wide Awake. This is the first movie directed by the guy who did Sixth Sense and Unbreakable (and yes, Signs). A kid, who has recently lost his grandfather, spends his 5th grade year searching for God. He just wants to make sure that there is someone up there taking care of his grandpa. Throughout the whole movie, there are odd moments that you later realize are more important than they seemed.
I had no idea that either of these movies were quite like they turned out to be. I can't help but wonder if the reoccuring theme of missed signs is a sign of some kind. Is there something I have been asking for? Have I been ignoring the answer? I wouldn't be surprised. With the kind of busy I am these days there are lots of things I am forgetting and ignoring and just plain not even seeing. I will have to ponder this. At this point it would be highly embarassing to miss some kind of sign.
It's just a game!
I rarely play video games. Not because I don't enjoy them. I do. I am all for games that require me to sit on my butt and eat sour cream and onion chips. Except for one thing. Well actually two things that combine to make one big reason why I shouldn't play. First, I am not very good at them. I can't remember which buttons mean what or what little tricks you use to beat that one guy. I always forget to watch my life meter. Or my ammo meter. Or both. Ugh. Second, I HATE to lose. Really. It truly ticks me off to fail at a mission or die halfway through a level. It makes me frustrated and angry and cranky. Since I'm not very good at any game, I lose a lot. This means I can play for about 10 minutes before I need to walk away or risk throwing a controller.
Normally, this isn't really a problem. I don't actually find time for games very often and when I do I stick with the Sims and Top Shop, two games that take a LONG time to lose, allowing me to enjoy myself for awhile. It's all good. Except that my hubby makes video games. Well, computer games, but same difference, right? And he doesn't make easy, luck will get you through, win if you have a basic understanding of the rules and 1/2 your braincells in working order kind of games. His games are the kind that require you to pay attention to a monster's characteristics and think ahead and pick up the right weapon at the right time. I can do exactly NONE of these things. So he makes these games and I try to play them because I know he likes to see me play and then I get frustrated when I die and he feels bad and I feel bad and it's all around a bad situation.
There is a lesson in this, I know there is.
Normally, this isn't really a problem. I don't actually find time for games very often and when I do I stick with the Sims and Top Shop, two games that take a LONG time to lose, allowing me to enjoy myself for awhile. It's all good. Except that my hubby makes video games. Well, computer games, but same difference, right? And he doesn't make easy, luck will get you through, win if you have a basic understanding of the rules and 1/2 your braincells in working order kind of games. His games are the kind that require you to pay attention to a monster's characteristics and think ahead and pick up the right weapon at the right time. I can do exactly NONE of these things. So he makes these games and I try to play them because I know he likes to see me play and then I get frustrated when I die and he feels bad and I feel bad and it's all around a bad situation.
There is a lesson in this, I know there is.
Saturday, September 27, 2003
International House of Sugar
We went to IHOP for breakfast because we wanted pancakes but didn't want to mess up the kitchen we just rescued from being condemned as a hazardous waste dump. And because we could.
I had a HUGE burrito stuffed with hashbrowns, scrambled egg, onion, salsa and cheese. With 2 pancakes (complete with boysenberry syrup!) on the side. I ate about 1/3 of it. Now I have breakfast for the next two days in my fridge!
Mikey had cinnamon rolls made into french toast. Sugary bread, with crystalized sugar on top, dipped in egg and fried. Then he slathered it with butter and syrup. He is currently suffering from IOD (IHOP Onset Diabetes). No leftovers for him.
Now we are off to run errands and find fun things to do on our "No Work" day. If I can get him away from the PS2, that is.
I had a HUGE burrito stuffed with hashbrowns, scrambled egg, onion, salsa and cheese. With 2 pancakes (complete with boysenberry syrup!) on the side. I ate about 1/3 of it. Now I have breakfast for the next two days in my fridge!
Mikey had cinnamon rolls made into french toast. Sugary bread, with crystalized sugar on top, dipped in egg and fried. Then he slathered it with butter and syrup. He is currently suffering from IOD (IHOP Onset Diabetes). No leftovers for him.
Now we are off to run errands and find fun things to do on our "No Work" day. If I can get him away from the PS2, that is.
Friday, September 26, 2003
The Inner Mind
It seems that I must be reaching some kind of balance in this new, hectic schedule. Last night I had a variation of my betrayal dream, culminating in the usual hysterical sobbing (in the dream) and free flowing tears (in real life). The immediacy of my classroom stresses is giving way to my life's underlying issues. I honestly don't know if that is a good thing or a bad thing. I do know that I have no fondness for the uncontrolled feeling of waking up crying.
random thoughts while checking papers
-do teachers in other countries (especially the ones that still allow physical punishments) have to deal with kids just not caring about their homework? or is it a product of a democratic, understanding, touchy-feely classroom environment? (I don't usually feel this way...only when I am seeing that HALF of my class just decided not to do parts of their homework.)
-have you ever stopped to think that primitive man did everyday things like tying their shoelaces?
-have you ever stopped to think that primitive man did everyday things like tying their shoelaces?
And they say we haven't made any progress...
TEN TIPS ON GETTING MORE EFFICIENCY OUT OF WOMEN EMPLOYEES
From the July 1943 issue of Transportation Magazine
1.) Pick young, married women. They usually have more of a sense of responsibility than their unmarried sisters, they're less likely to be flirtatious, they need the work or they wouldn't be doing it, they still have the pep and interest to work hard and to deal with the public efficiently.
2.) When you have to use older women, try to get ones who have worked outside the home at some time in their lives. Older women who have never contacted the public have a hard time adapting themselves and are inclined to be cantankerous and fussy. It's always well to impress upon older women the importance of friendliness and courtesy.
3.) General experience indicates that "husky" girls- those who are just a little on the heavy side- are more even tempered and efficient than their underweight sisters.
4.) Retain a physician to give each woman you hire a special physical examination- one covering female conditions. This step not only protects the property against the possibilities of lawsuit, but reveals whether the employee-to-be has any female weaknesses which would make her mentally or physically unfit for the job.
5.) Give the female employee a definite day-long schedule of duties so that they'll keep busy without bothering the management for instructions every few minutes. Women make excellent workers when they have their jobs cut out for them, but they lack initiative in finding work themselves. This one just KILLS me. I mean, REALLY.
6.) Whenever possible, let the female employee change from one job to another at some time during the day. Women are inclined to be less nervous and happier with change.
7.) Give every girl an adequate number of rest periods during the day. You have to make for some allowances for feminine psychology. A girl has more confidence and is more efficient if she can keep her hair tidied, apply fresh lipstick and wash her hands several times a day.
8.) Be tactful when issuing instructions or in making criticisms. Women are often sensitive; they can't shrug off harsh words the way men do. Never ridicule a woman- it breaks her spirit and cuts off her efficiency.
9.) Be reasonably considerate about using strong language around women. Even though a girl's husband or father may swear vociferously, she'll grow to dislike a place of business where she hears too much of this.
10.) Get enough size variety in operator's uniforms so that each girl can have a proper fit. This point can't be stressed too much in keeping women happy.
Borrowed from Da Goddess
From the July 1943 issue of Transportation Magazine
1.) Pick young, married women. They usually have more of a sense of responsibility than their unmarried sisters, they're less likely to be flirtatious, they need the work or they wouldn't be doing it, they still have the pep and interest to work hard and to deal with the public efficiently.
2.) When you have to use older women, try to get ones who have worked outside the home at some time in their lives. Older women who have never contacted the public have a hard time adapting themselves and are inclined to be cantankerous and fussy. It's always well to impress upon older women the importance of friendliness and courtesy.
3.) General experience indicates that "husky" girls- those who are just a little on the heavy side- are more even tempered and efficient than their underweight sisters.
4.) Retain a physician to give each woman you hire a special physical examination- one covering female conditions. This step not only protects the property against the possibilities of lawsuit, but reveals whether the employee-to-be has any female weaknesses which would make her mentally or physically unfit for the job.
5.) Give the female employee a definite day-long schedule of duties so that they'll keep busy without bothering the management for instructions every few minutes. Women make excellent workers when they have their jobs cut out for them, but they lack initiative in finding work themselves. This one just KILLS me. I mean, REALLY.
6.) Whenever possible, let the female employee change from one job to another at some time during the day. Women are inclined to be less nervous and happier with change.
7.) Give every girl an adequate number of rest periods during the day. You have to make for some allowances for feminine psychology. A girl has more confidence and is more efficient if she can keep her hair tidied, apply fresh lipstick and wash her hands several times a day.
8.) Be tactful when issuing instructions or in making criticisms. Women are often sensitive; they can't shrug off harsh words the way men do. Never ridicule a woman- it breaks her spirit and cuts off her efficiency.
9.) Be reasonably considerate about using strong language around women. Even though a girl's husband or father may swear vociferously, she'll grow to dislike a place of business where she hears too much of this.
10.) Get enough size variety in operator's uniforms so that each girl can have a proper fit. This point can't be stressed too much in keeping women happy.
Borrowed from Da Goddess
Thursday, September 25, 2003
Isha
Still practicing. Still improving. Still loving it. :)
At the end of the session last night my teacher asked me if I was still enjoying my guitar lessons. I think that is a sign of a good teacher. At least a sign of the right teacher for me! I answered with an enthusiastic YES!
At the end of the session last night my teacher asked me if I was still enjoying my guitar lessons. I think that is a sign of a good teacher. At least a sign of the right teacher for me! I answered with an enthusiastic YES!
Bonding
One of the nice things about the inservice yesterday was the lunch. We were given 75 minutes for our break and enjoyed a leisurely meal and a wonderful conversation. The best thing about my 4th grade team is how quickly they have included me in their group. They are not just teammates, they are friends and they have allowed me to become a part of that so quickly. And in a way that makes me feel perfectly comfortable. Not just in a shallow, surface way.
Wednesday, September 24, 2003
Inservice
I will NEVER, EVER, EVER attempt to teach a room full of teachers ANYTHING. I think I have said this before, but it's worth saying again. Teachers are some of the most inattentive, disrespectful people when it comes to presentations. We talk, laugh, joke, correct papers, doodle, and daydream as others try to pass on information. However, when OUR students do the same, we get frustrated and ask ourselves "what is wrong with those kids?". We have to sit through inservices a couple of times a year. Kids have to attend school every single day. I have a feeling I will be looking at them differently tomorrow.
Monday, September 22, 2003
Hee Hee
To those who end up here looking for cheats for Mikey's games...you ain't gettin' 'em from me! I don't like cheaters! Of course, you could always look around on the forum or in the FAQs. But I still don't recommend it. Cheaters never win. Okay, they do, but it just isn't as satisfying. You will always know that someone out there beat it the RIGHT way.
A compliment?
It throws me to hear too many compliments in one day. It makes me start to wonder why. Today I had several people compliment me on my outfit. This confused and concerned me, especially since I didn't think I was wearing anything special. Eventually, I got over it and simply accepted the fact that I looked damn fine today. What can I say? Some days you got it.
Deep thoughts
Um. I was having them on my way home tonight. But now I can't for the life of me remember what they were. Oh well.
Every time I write the word "remember" and I am reminded of the time in elementary school that I forgot my gym shoes. In their infinite wisdom, my gym teachers decided to make us write sentences when this happened. Because that is a good way to teach responsibility. (Why, YES, that WAS sarcasm.) I had to write "I will remember my gym shoes." for an hour. Only I wrote "I will rember my gym shoes." instead. When I turned the sentences in, the teacher pointed out my mistake and I have spelled that word correctly from them on. And I ALWAYS think of that moment when I do. Weird.
AH! I remember what I was thinking.
It is interesting how quickly a situation that is overwhelming, impossible or unbearable becomes just the opposite. As humans, we are amazingly adaptable. After 4 short weeks, I have become so accustomed to my schedule that it seems perfectly normal to me. I have adapted to spending 30 minutes getting to school rather than 5. I have learned to accept this lifestyle that is so different from the one I was living this summer. The fact that I am enjoying just about every part of this lifestyle makes it much easier, but I know that humans can just as easily become accustomed to negative things. Through-out history, there are many instances of people letting horrifying and terrible things happen because they got used to it. I am glad that I am enjoying the chaos and franticness that is my life currently. But I will not forget that complacency is not always a good thing. I will continue to walk with my eyes open and my mind active.
That's that. Random Ramblings from a Biking Isha.
Every time I write the word "remember" and I am reminded of the time in elementary school that I forgot my gym shoes. In their infinite wisdom, my gym teachers decided to make us write sentences when this happened. Because that is a good way to teach responsibility. (Why, YES, that WAS sarcasm.) I had to write "I will remember my gym shoes." for an hour. Only I wrote "I will rember my gym shoes." instead. When I turned the sentences in, the teacher pointed out my mistake and I have spelled that word correctly from them on. And I ALWAYS think of that moment when I do. Weird.
AH! I remember what I was thinking.
It is interesting how quickly a situation that is overwhelming, impossible or unbearable becomes just the opposite. As humans, we are amazingly adaptable. After 4 short weeks, I have become so accustomed to my schedule that it seems perfectly normal to me. I have adapted to spending 30 minutes getting to school rather than 5. I have learned to accept this lifestyle that is so different from the one I was living this summer. The fact that I am enjoying just about every part of this lifestyle makes it much easier, but I know that humans can just as easily become accustomed to negative things. Through-out history, there are many instances of people letting horrifying and terrible things happen because they got used to it. I am glad that I am enjoying the chaos and franticness that is my life currently. But I will not forget that complacency is not always a good thing. I will continue to walk with my eyes open and my mind active.
That's that. Random Ramblings from a Biking Isha.
Sunday, September 21, 2003
CDs, CDs and more CDs
I spent all day yesterday helping Mikey print, cut, fold, assemble, package, address and mail orders. In the first two days of Supreme being out we received close to 50 orders. We had to make an emergency run to Staples for more paper, mailers, cds and toner. We have a whole box full of orders waiting to go out first thing Monday morning.
Mikey is LOVING this.
Mikey is LOVING this.
Friday, September 19, 2003
Supreme, with Cheese!
Hooray! After what seems like a trillion years of development and programming and testing and de-bugging I am proud to announce the release of the lastest Hamumu Software title.
Dr. Lunatic: Supreme with Cheese
is now piping hot and waiting for you to come pick it up. In fact, we would be willing to deliver it. Check out the website for more information.
Dr. Lunatic: Supreme with Cheese
is now piping hot and waiting for you to come pick it up. In fact, we would be willing to deliver it. Check out the website for more information.
Dad Blamed Water Bottle
On my way home from work this evening, my water bottle came open. The result was a pile of very wet papers. Fortunately, they will be dry by the time I am allowed to look at them (tomorrow is my hubby-enforced day off). It isn't really a great tragedy, but coupled with my 12 hour day of marathon planning, it was quite frustrating.
I learned today that I am, indeed, an extrovert and I do, indeed, get my energy from inter-personal interactions. A whole day of paperwork combined with 4 hours of overtime spent doing more paperwork is just too much for my poor brain to handle. I did get lots done today, though. :)
I learned today that I am, indeed, an extrovert and I do, indeed, get my energy from inter-personal interactions. A whole day of paperwork combined with 4 hours of overtime spent doing more paperwork is just too much for my poor brain to handle. I did get lots done today, though. :)
Thursday, September 18, 2003
Perks
For every job to do, there is a boss to make sure you do it right. Quite often, as in the case of Dilbert, that boss is a moron who can't find his own ears with a mirror and a magnifying glass. When you are stuck in this situation there isn't much to do. You just keep on keeping on and hope that they don't mess anything up too badly. This situation develops when the person in charge is so out of touch with the job being done that they fail to realize or understand the various constraints on an employee's time, materials or ability. Teaching is one of those jobs that has trained, experienced people being managed and monitored by well-meaning individuals who don't have a CLUE what teachers face in today's classroom. It seems that every day we are being micro-managed and second-guessed more often.
It all sounds pretty dreary doesn't it? I say all this only to emphasize my next statement.
My principal is one of the most understanding, caring, supportive people I know.
I met with him today, feeling frustrated and upset about certain aspects of having a combo class. One of the biggest challenges with my class is providing equal and appropriate instruction to each grade level. Translated, that means teaching 2 level's worth of work in 1 day's worth of time. It is difficult, to say the least.
My principal came in, listened to my concerns, presented me with ideas and told me exactly how he was going to help me. After 35 minutes or so I felt way more comfortable with the combo and infinitely more sure of my own ability to cope with the challenges. Support. Encouragement. Help. Time. All the things I was in such desperate need of were provided with understanding and care.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I couldn't possibly say thank you often enough.
It all sounds pretty dreary doesn't it? I say all this only to emphasize my next statement.
My principal is one of the most understanding, caring, supportive people I know.
I met with him today, feeling frustrated and upset about certain aspects of having a combo class. One of the biggest challenges with my class is providing equal and appropriate instruction to each grade level. Translated, that means teaching 2 level's worth of work in 1 day's worth of time. It is difficult, to say the least.
My principal came in, listened to my concerns, presented me with ideas and told me exactly how he was going to help me. After 35 minutes or so I felt way more comfortable with the combo and infinitely more sure of my own ability to cope with the challenges. Support. Encouragement. Help. Time. All the things I was in such desperate need of were provided with understanding and care.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I couldn't possibly say thank you often enough.
Wednesday, September 17, 2003
Signs of Stress
You know you are under stress when handfuls of hair are falling out each time you shower.
Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Isha and Me
I practiced this morning AND this evening. It is truly amazing the progress I hear just in ONE practice session. Especially when I compare it to the weeks when I don't practice at all. You would think that would be enough of a motivator. But no. I still have to force myself to practice like a stubborn, sullen little child. Silly, really.
Are you a good witch or a bad witch?
I hate it when my students are bad, because I hate having to be mean. Not so much mean, as tough. I don't like being unyielding, but that is exactly what my students are requiring of me lately. It's hard. I would much rather be all friendly and happy. You gotta do what you gotta do, I guess.
Sunday, September 14, 2003
There's a Place Where I Can Go...
Despite the never ending work and the various pressures and stressors that are located there, my classroom is my favorite place to be. I love going there on the weekends. It is actually relaxing to me to just sit in my room, with some music playing (Nora Jones and Rage Against the Machine today), correcting papers or planning the next week. I like looking around and making sure that everything is in order before I leave. I like entering in the morning and finding everything just the way I left it. I like knowing that my room is a place that is safe, clean, and encouraging to my students. There's no where I would rather spend my working hours than...In My Room.
Back to Work
I have been working diligently on my updated, super organized new schedule for the class. Hopefully, this will allow me to get all the things done that need to be done. There is SO MUCH to remember!
After trying not to think about my behavior management problems all day yesterday I had NON-STOP dreams about my class and not being able to control it. I would wake up from one of these nightmares, reassure myself that it really isn't anywhere near that bad, and go right back into another nightmare. Obviously, I am reincarnated Yiddish grandmother! I'm only happy when I am worrying about something.
Now I am off to school. Lots of homework packet to correct.
After trying not to think about my behavior management problems all day yesterday I had NON-STOP dreams about my class and not being able to control it. I would wake up from one of these nightmares, reassure myself that it really isn't anywhere near that bad, and go right back into another nightmare. Obviously, I am reincarnated Yiddish grandmother! I'm only happy when I am worrying about something.
Now I am off to school. Lots of homework packet to correct.
Oops.
Here I am leaving my last post as a complaint about blogger when in reality, it was my own fault that it wasn't working. I hadn't added a bit of code that was supposed to be added. I finally got it figured out and looking right, but I was too tired to post about it. Sorry, Blogger. My bad.
I now have working titles for my posts. Mikey also made a few minor changes to the look (nothing you would notice, but my obsessive nature appreciated them). Unfortunately, I still can't get the bottom of the boxes to show up on my computer. Which is strange because they show up on Mikey's computer. And others have said they see them. Whatever.
I now have working titles for my posts. Mikey also made a few minor changes to the look (nothing you would notice, but my obsessive nature appreciated them). Unfortunately, I still can't get the bottom of the boxes to show up on my computer. Which is strange because they show up on Mikey's computer. And others have said they see them. Whatever.
Saturday, September 13, 2003
Humanity
Wil Wheaton wins my vote for best 9/11 posting. It was meaningful, it was peaceful, it was respectful and it was humorous. I intentionally avoided tv, blogs, newspapers and all other forms of media on Thursday. I refuse to be sucked into the media circus. I am sorry that I didn't read Wil's post until today. It would have been nice to know there were others feeling the way I did. Thanks.
WHOA
Christmas came early in the blogdom and there was much rejoicing. I now have the ability to save drafts, change the date and time stamps at whim, something about pinging (not clear on this one yet) and - look above - add titles to my posts.
All for free. Hooray! More rejoicing!
All for free. Hooray! More rejoicing!
*hanging head in shame, using lip-quivering, sad little girl voice*
Mikey says I have to tell you that I was bad. I was writing scheduling ideas for my class when I was supposed to be having my day off. He says I have to tell you that it isn't even noon yet. I had ideas in the shower and I didn't want to forget them, but he says I am supposed to just mull them over and if they are good I will remember them and I can write them on Sunday. He says I owe him lunch. I'm sorry. I was bad and I didn't take my day off like the rules say.
*/annoying little girl voice*
And if you raised your hand earlier, you win. Now I am going to take my hubby to lunch.
Have a great weekend! :)
Mikey says I have to tell you that I was bad. I was writing scheduling ideas for my class when I was supposed to be having my day off. He says I have to tell you that it isn't even noon yet. I had ideas in the shower and I didn't want to forget them, but he says I am supposed to just mull them over and if they are good I will remember them and I can write them on Sunday. He says I owe him lunch. I'm sorry. I was bad and I didn't take my day off like the rules say.
*/annoying little girl voice*
And if you raised your hand earlier, you win. Now I am going to take my hubby to lunch.
Have a great weekend! :)
When I am feeling sorry for myself and wondering how I am going to deal with the challenges in my life it is sometimes a shock to be reminded that other people have challenges too. Everyone is dealing with something that is equal to or greater than the challenges I face. I am not the only person feeling frustrated or confused or sad or scared or lonely or angry.
Mom - Dad - Father - Step-mother - Cousin - Aunt - Uncle - Brother - Sister - Niece - Nephew - Grandma - Husband - Co-worker - Student - Boss - Friend - Enemy - Neighbor - Stranger
I recognize the challenges you are facing and I respect and admire your courage. I thank you for your support and I offer my own in return. We are amazing people individually, and together our strength can move mountains and our love can overcome all obstacles.
Thank you, Amy, for inspiring this post.
Mom - Dad - Father - Step-mother - Cousin - Aunt - Uncle - Brother - Sister - Niece - Nephew - Grandma - Husband - Co-worker - Student - Boss - Friend - Enemy - Neighbor - Stranger
I recognize the challenges you are facing and I respect and admire your courage. I thank you for your support and I offer my own in return. We are amazing people individually, and together our strength can move mountains and our love can overcome all obstacles.
Thank you, Amy, for inspiring this post.
I am following a new plan regarding how long I stay at school each night. For the past 3 weeks I have been at school from 7:30 am to nearly 7 pm every single day, except Wednesday (guitar) and then spent the rest of the evening and most of the weekend working on things at home. I KNOW that this is not something that I can continue doing. I will be completely burned out before Thanksgiving at this rate. I have to have some down time somewhere. So here's the new plan...
Mon. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Tues. (bike in) 7:30 - 4:00 (no work allowed at home)
Wed. (drive in) 7:30 - 4:30 (guitar, bring things home if needed)
Thur. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Fri. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Sat. ABSOLUTELY NO WORKING
Sun. (bike in) 8:00 - whenever
This is still an insane schedule when you think about it, but it is much better than the one I have been following. And it forces me to take at least one full day and one evening completely away from school. Raise your hand if you think I will be cheating and working during those times within a week. HA! You're wrong! I won't cheat, because Mikey won't let me.
Now, be honest, how many of you really raised your hand even though you are far away from me and there is no way I could have seen it???
Mon. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Tues. (bike in) 7:30 - 4:00 (no work allowed at home)
Wed. (drive in) 7:30 - 4:30 (guitar, bring things home if needed)
Thur. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Fri. (bike in) 7:30 - 7:00
Sat. ABSOLUTELY NO WORKING
Sun. (bike in) 8:00 - whenever
This is still an insane schedule when you think about it, but it is much better than the one I have been following. And it forces me to take at least one full day and one evening completely away from school. Raise your hand if you think I will be cheating and working during those times within a week. HA! You're wrong! I won't cheat, because Mikey won't let me.
Now, be honest, how many of you really raised your hand even though you are far away from me and there is no way I could have seen it???
Wednesday, September 10, 2003
Tuesday, September 09, 2003
It's amazing how a small word of praise can bring you back from the brink of dispair! Just when I was feeling like I was doing things all wrong and all the other teachers must be sniggering behind their backs at how incompetent I am (Yes, I have issuses), I got not one, but TWO wonderful comments. First, my partner from last year asked "Well, if YOU weren't good enough for her, who would be?" during a conversation. Then my buddy teacher (a first year teacher thing) commented that I was so organized that I seemed like an experienced teacher, rather than a first year teacher. My confidence is restored. My energy is another matter. I am off to have some noodles and parmesan. Then I will get as close to my bed as I can before falling into a coma. Wish me luck.
Monday, September 08, 2003
Oh my gosh!! What a good idea! This site is a collection of music reviews collected from kindergarteners by their teacher. They are very cute. Be sure to check out the second page.
Sunday, September 07, 2003
I have received a loverly postcard from the comments. It seems they are vacationing on the beautiful island of Kaua'i and having a wonderful time. They have done some snorkling, hiked up Waimea Canyon on foot (quite an undertaking), and eating at Bubba Burgers at least twice. They say they will be back sometime this week, depending on the airlines (flying stand-by is a bitch). Until then I miss them terribly and envy them the trip. Hopefully, they will come back refreshed and ready to pass on all the fabulous responses you have to my scintillating posts.
Saturday, September 06, 2003
So I have survived the second week of school. I have a few observations that didn't make it to the digital journal throughout the week.
On biking:
When you are biking home, downhill, and enjoying the wind in your face, nothing ruins the mood faster than getting smacked in the forehead with a big bug. Except getting smacked in the back of the throat with a big bug. Yuck.
On teaching:
I was doing some guided writing with the kids the other day. I had written something on the overhead and they were copying it. I could almost see the thought bubbles coming out of their heads, all thinking about the words they were writing (in cursive, of course). I contemplated asking one of the ones who was done writing about their previous weekend until suddenly I imagined all those hard working thought bubbles bursting with a large POP - only to be replaced by 20 new thought bubbles, all filled with images of biking and going to the movies and video games. I kept my mouth shut and smiled to myself as they finished writing.
On housework:
Now that I am working full time, I have NO TIME to do housework. And since Mikey is also in a crunch time for his work he isn't doing much in the way of cleaning, either. We do what we can on Saturday and by Friday the place is a wreck. Ordinarily, this would drive me crazy. Not any more. I am too tired to care about the state of my kitchen. There are more important things to do (like sleep) and more important things to think about (Mikey). Suddenly, housework is very low on the list.
On guitar:
I am still taking my lessons. I am not practicing as much as I feel I should be, but I am practicing more than I thought it would be. My instructor is being very patient with me and I am enjoying it. Although, it is a challenge sometimes to get out of school on time to get to the lesson, I am feeling good that I am doing this thing that I really want to do. I am maintaining this one thing for myself, while pouring all the rest of my energy into school. It is good to have something that is seperate from school.
On Zazzy:
My baby is still acting out. She is hiding in the closet of the guest bedroom for large portions of the day, eating Zah's food all the time and making herself a general nuisance. I suspect that she is unhappy with my long hours away from home and I am making an effort to give her lots of love when I am home. Poor girl.
On biking:
When you are biking home, downhill, and enjoying the wind in your face, nothing ruins the mood faster than getting smacked in the forehead with a big bug. Except getting smacked in the back of the throat with a big bug. Yuck.
On teaching:
I was doing some guided writing with the kids the other day. I had written something on the overhead and they were copying it. I could almost see the thought bubbles coming out of their heads, all thinking about the words they were writing (in cursive, of course). I contemplated asking one of the ones who was done writing about their previous weekend until suddenly I imagined all those hard working thought bubbles bursting with a large POP - only to be replaced by 20 new thought bubbles, all filled with images of biking and going to the movies and video games. I kept my mouth shut and smiled to myself as they finished writing.
On housework:
Now that I am working full time, I have NO TIME to do housework. And since Mikey is also in a crunch time for his work he isn't doing much in the way of cleaning, either. We do what we can on Saturday and by Friday the place is a wreck. Ordinarily, this would drive me crazy. Not any more. I am too tired to care about the state of my kitchen. There are more important things to do (like sleep) and more important things to think about (Mikey). Suddenly, housework is very low on the list.
On guitar:
I am still taking my lessons. I am not practicing as much as I feel I should be, but I am practicing more than I thought it would be. My instructor is being very patient with me and I am enjoying it. Although, it is a challenge sometimes to get out of school on time to get to the lesson, I am feeling good that I am doing this thing that I really want to do. I am maintaining this one thing for myself, while pouring all the rest of my energy into school. It is good to have something that is seperate from school.
On Zazzy:
My baby is still acting out. She is hiding in the closet of the guest bedroom for large portions of the day, eating Zah's food all the time and making herself a general nuisance. I suspect that she is unhappy with my long hours away from home and I am making an effort to give her lots of love when I am home. Poor girl.
Friday, September 05, 2003
Back to school night went well. The parents who came (less then half my class was represented) were friendly and open to what I had to say. There was a lot of head nodding during my presentation. I had a lot of parents eager to help in the class. And several who wanted to let me know about this or that concern about their child. All good signs for the year to come.
Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Wow. Some people just see the world in a different way. I was driving through the apartment complex that my guitar teacher lives at when I came upon a woman walking in the road. She was returning from getting her mail or some such thing. In this same situation *I* would have gone to the side of the road with the idea that you can't trust people in cars to look out for people on foot. *She* was apparently quite comfortable with my driving skills and continued to walk happily along my driving lane.
And to just accentuate my different outlook on life...rather than getting upset with her (initially) I thought, "Well, it IS her apartment complex. She probably feels she has more of a right to the road than me, a complete stranger." Never mind the fact that I never felt that way about the roads in the apartment complexes I lived in. Or that even if that IS how she was thinking it is not a decent excuse. Whatever.
I am very tired tonight. I have burned through my initial burst of HOORAY energy and I am now quickly sucking dry the few reserves I had stored away from summer. It hit me today just how much work I have ahead of me and just how completely inexperienced I am. I can see the tidal wave of expectations (mostly mine) looming over me and I am suddenly noticing that all I have to protect myself is one of those little paper umbrellas you get in a fancy beach drink. (I have to say I am a little impressed with that simile though!)
On a happy, although exhausting, note - I have officially been told that I will NOT be losing my classroom due to low enrollment. Hip, Hip, Hooray! Now to prepare for Back to School Night and the inevitable onslaught of parent concerns and questions. [breath in, breath out...I CAN do this. I can.]
And to just accentuate my different outlook on life...rather than getting upset with her (initially) I thought, "Well, it IS her apartment complex. She probably feels she has more of a right to the road than me, a complete stranger." Never mind the fact that I never felt that way about the roads in the apartment complexes I lived in. Or that even if that IS how she was thinking it is not a decent excuse. Whatever.
I am very tired tonight. I have burned through my initial burst of HOORAY energy and I am now quickly sucking dry the few reserves I had stored away from summer. It hit me today just how much work I have ahead of me and just how completely inexperienced I am. I can see the tidal wave of expectations (mostly mine) looming over me and I am suddenly noticing that all I have to protect myself is one of those little paper umbrellas you get in a fancy beach drink. (I have to say I am a little impressed with that simile though!)
On a happy, although exhausting, note - I have officially been told that I will NOT be losing my classroom due to low enrollment. Hip, Hip, Hooray! Now to prepare for Back to School Night and the inevitable onslaught of parent concerns and questions. [breath in, breath out...I CAN do this. I can.]
Monday, September 01, 2003
Labor Day. A day during which we do no labor.
Not exactly true. Mikey worked his butt off getting his game ready to submit to the Independent Game Festival and I spent hours correcting papers. Nothing keeps a teacher from assigning busy work like having to correct all that same busy work on the weekend. (Not that this was busy work. These were important things, but thinking about having tons of useless junk to correct on top of this...well, you get my point. Or possibly not. Whatever.) So we were laboring. I hope the rest of you had a more restful and relaxing day. Now I am taking my creased fingertips (just got done practicing a song on the guitar) and heading off to bed. I hope the large portion of cow I ate tonight won't keep me up.
Goodnight.
Not exactly true. Mikey worked his butt off getting his game ready to submit to the Independent Game Festival and I spent hours correcting papers. Nothing keeps a teacher from assigning busy work like having to correct all that same busy work on the weekend. (Not that this was busy work. These were important things, but thinking about having tons of useless junk to correct on top of this...well, you get my point. Or possibly not. Whatever.) So we were laboring. I hope the rest of you had a more restful and relaxing day. Now I am taking my creased fingertips (just got done practicing a song on the guitar) and heading off to bed. I hope the large portion of cow I ate tonight won't keep me up.
Goodnight.
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