Saturday, March 31, 2007
Oops
I guess I had somehow made it difficult for non-bloggers to post comments here. I think it is fixed now. Maybe now I will get more comments? Ha. :)
20 in 20 Challenge
I am quite intrigued by the idea of the 20 pounds in 20 weeks challenge. As you can see, I have added it to my sidebar. If you are interested in joining, just let me know. You can email me or just post a comment here.
I will add each participant and their finish date to the sidebar, along with two sets of numbers. The ratio will be how many out of 20 pounds you have to go. For example, I have lost 3 of my 20 so I would see 17/20. The second number (in parenthesis, like this) will show the change from the previous week. For example, if you had lost 15 of your 20, but you gained 2 pounds in the last week you would show up like this:
8.18.07 - Mr. Example 7/20 (+2)
This shows that you have 7 pounds left to reach your goal and you are up 2 from last week.
You will be responsible for weighting yourself each week and emailing or posting your results so I can update the sidebar. Let's say today is the start date, so we should update each Saturday. You can either just send your current weight (and let me do the math) or you can calculate your numbers and send me that. That way there is no comparison of weights between us. It's the progress that matters, not the actual numbers.
Speaking of what matters, please remember that we are working toward health here. Use weight loss strategies that will actually benefit you in the long run. Some things I try to keep in mind:
1. Watch your triggers. There are many things that make us 'think' we are hungry when we're not.
2. Watch your intake. Many foods provide numerous calories without really being beneficial.
I will add each participant and their finish date to the sidebar, along with two sets of numbers. The ratio will be how many out of 20 pounds you have to go. For example, I have lost 3 of my 20 so I would see 17/20. The second number (in parenthesis, like this) will show the change from the previous week. For example, if you had lost 15 of your 20, but you gained 2 pounds in the last week you would show up like this:
8.18.07 - Mr. Example 7/20 (+2)
This shows that you have 7 pounds left to reach your goal and you are up 2 from last week.
You will be responsible for weighting yourself each week and emailing or posting your results so I can update the sidebar. Let's say today is the start date, so we should update each Saturday. You can either just send your current weight (and let me do the math) or you can calculate your numbers and send me that. That way there is no comparison of weights between us. It's the progress that matters, not the actual numbers.
Speaking of what matters, please remember that we are working toward health here. Use weight loss strategies that will actually benefit you in the long run. Some things I try to keep in mind:
1. Watch your triggers. There are many things that make us 'think' we are hungry when we're not.
- Are you thirsty?
- Are you tired/bored/upset?
- Is your internal clock set going off at the wrong time?
2. Watch your intake. Many foods provide numerous calories without really being beneficial.
- Beverages - Most are heavy on the calories, while light on nutrients. Try to drink a glass of water instead. If this is a trouble area for you, make a goal of sticking to water for at least one meal.
- Snacks - It is a good idea to eat small snacks through-out the day to avoid feelings of denial or overwhelming hunger. The problem is that many handy snacks are high calorie. Try to keep fresh fruits or veggies available for snack times. And don't forget that dips will pack on the pounds quickly.
- Cut the Fat - I rely on dairy products for most of my proteins. This means I collect calories pretty quickly if I am not careful. I avoid this by purchasing as much as possible in a reduced fat or no fat alternative. You end up sacrificing some flavor, but most of the time it's not so bad. You can always save the good stuff for special occasions.
- Keep Track - This is the thing that helps me the most. Write down everything that you eat. And I mean EVERYTHING! It is amazing how many calories you ingest without even realizing it. Putting it down in a journal makes you more aware.
- TV Time - do sit-ups or lift weights while you watch
- Get Help - Just like this challenge might help you stick to your diet, having a buddy helps you stick to your exercise plan. Make it a social event and call up your friends.
- Double Up - Mikey and I walk laps around our property when I get home. This covers three of our needs at one time - interact with the dogs, get exercise, and share the events of the day.
New Look
I did it. I changed the layout of the blog. In the interest of making things easy, I changed a bit more than expected, but I think I am going to be happy with it. I like how soothing and green it is. So. That's that.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Vacation Events
I am on vacation, so I can't talk about my class. And I can't use my class as an excuse not to do anything else. So...what have I been up to? Let's take a peek into the life of the free-range teacher.
1. Masters coursework - I haven't actually written a single word, but I have read 2 long, boring chapters. I believe myself to be fully prepared to start writing the essays that go along with them. I'll be getting right on that. Any day now...
2. Pet Parenting - It's great fun sitting in the sun, lounging with the dogs while I read my tedious text. Almost makes it worthwhile. The dogs are loving it, and so am I.
3. Kingdom of Loathing - This is an online game that is just addictive enough to suck up several hours a day. I excuse myself by claiming that it helps me relate better to the folks on Mikey's business forum. They are all avid players, and it is really my responsibility to help make them feel welcome, right? I need to be able to participate in their conversations, right? You're totally buying this, right? Riiiiiight.
4. Dieting - Having reached a point 10 pounds over my "I can live with this" weight and 20 pounds over my "I am happy like this" weight, I have put myself on a restricted calorie diet. Not too restricted. I am not starving myself, but I am keeping track of everything that goes into my mouth in an attempt to shame myself from the habit of eating when I am bored or tired or happy or breathing. For the most part, it means that I am drinking way more water and eating way more fruits and veggies. This has to be a good thing. I am also trying to be more active (lest you think I don't understand the importance of a balanced lifestyle). We'll see what happens.
5. Hobbies - I am 1/2 way done with a purty red scarf. I started making it to put in the classroom auction I have every year, but I'm kind of liking the way it is turning out. Perhaps I will keep it. Or perhaps one of YOU will receive it unexpectedly one day. I am also about 1/2 done with a crocheted blanket. I didn't realize what an arduous project this would be when I started it, but now that I am past the 1/2 way mark, I am feeling pretty good about finishing it. It was begun about...2 years ago. At this rate, it should be done sometime in...oh...April 2009.
6. Cooking - Carrot Ginger soup is yummy. I had some the other day at a restaurant and decided to make a batch for at home. Not being very focused at the time, and forgetting that ground ginger and ginger root were not 1:1 equivalent, I ended up with more of a Ginger Carrot soup. We threw in some extra cream (shhhh...don't tell my diet) and some rice, and it mellowed out enough to be enjoyable. I will do better next time.
That's about it. I have also been watching too many hours of Veronica Mars, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Law and Order, and numerous movies of varying quality. What have YOU been up to?
1. Masters coursework - I haven't actually written a single word, but I have read 2 long, boring chapters. I believe myself to be fully prepared to start writing the essays that go along with them. I'll be getting right on that. Any day now...
2. Pet Parenting - It's great fun sitting in the sun, lounging with the dogs while I read my tedious text. Almost makes it worthwhile. The dogs are loving it, and so am I.
3. Kingdom of Loathing - This is an online game that is just addictive enough to suck up several hours a day. I excuse myself by claiming that it helps me relate better to the folks on Mikey's business forum. They are all avid players, and it is really my responsibility to help make them feel welcome, right? I need to be able to participate in their conversations, right? You're totally buying this, right? Riiiiiight.
4. Dieting - Having reached a point 10 pounds over my "I can live with this" weight and 20 pounds over my "I am happy like this" weight, I have put myself on a restricted calorie diet. Not too restricted. I am not starving myself, but I am keeping track of everything that goes into my mouth in an attempt to shame myself from the habit of eating when I am bored or tired or happy or breathing. For the most part, it means that I am drinking way more water and eating way more fruits and veggies. This has to be a good thing. I am also trying to be more active (lest you think I don't understand the importance of a balanced lifestyle). We'll see what happens.
5. Hobbies - I am 1/2 way done with a purty red scarf. I started making it to put in the classroom auction I have every year, but I'm kind of liking the way it is turning out. Perhaps I will keep it. Or perhaps one of YOU will receive it unexpectedly one day. I am also about 1/2 done with a crocheted blanket. I didn't realize what an arduous project this would be when I started it, but now that I am past the 1/2 way mark, I am feeling pretty good about finishing it. It was begun about...2 years ago. At this rate, it should be done sometime in...oh...April 2009.
6. Cooking - Carrot Ginger soup is yummy. I had some the other day at a restaurant and decided to make a batch for at home. Not being very focused at the time, and forgetting that ground ginger and ginger root were not 1:1 equivalent, I ended up with more of a Ginger Carrot soup. We threw in some extra cream (shhhh...don't tell my diet) and some rice, and it mellowed out enough to be enjoyable. I will do better next time.
That's about it. I have also been watching too many hours of Veronica Mars, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Law and Order, and numerous movies of varying quality. What have YOU been up to?
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Time for a Change?
Blogger seems to have discontinued the corner pieces to my layout. I don't know what happened, but they don't show up anymore. So...I am considering making some changes to the looks of my blog. Just fair warning so that if you show up one day and it's totally different you won't think you are lost. Also, I am soon going to trim the doodads on the sides (Kidney table, Links, etc) so if there is anything you use regularly, you should save it somewhere. Ta-ta.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
worried
I care for all of my students, each in a special way and for special reasons. I cannot remember a student that I have truly disliked, although there were some who drove me a little crazier than others. My empathy is my saving grace. If there is a student with unpleasant attributes, there is always an underlying cause which allows me to feel sympathy.
At the same time, although I would never, ever admit it to them, it is hard for me not to have favorites. Usually this is a student who has been through particularly difficult situations, often struggles to maintain, but continues to have something shining through. I get very attached to the ones who shine despite their problems. Not surprisingly, I also get very attached to the ones who are more willing to let me help them.
This year I have a small handful of needy ones, all of them fighting to overcome some difficulty or another. While I lie awake worrying about each of these children, there is one who has really taken over my heart. This individual shines with untapped talent and caring and strength, while at the same time almost buckling under unresolved fears and sadness. This student is never far from my mind.
Since school let out on Friday, I have been unable to stop worrying about this little favorite of mine. When I get to watch over my kiddos for the majority of their waking hours it is easy to trust that they will be all right, knowing that I will be there for them soon, if not immediately. Now that we are on break, I can't stand the thought that something could go wrong for this child and I won't be there to support, care, or provide solutions. What am I going to do when this one goes off to 6th grade? If only I could follow along, a guiding hand, for the remainder of this childhood. Perhaps it would be easier to let go.
Probably not.
At the same time, although I would never, ever admit it to them, it is hard for me not to have favorites. Usually this is a student who has been through particularly difficult situations, often struggles to maintain, but continues to have something shining through. I get very attached to the ones who shine despite their problems. Not surprisingly, I also get very attached to the ones who are more willing to let me help them.
This year I have a small handful of needy ones, all of them fighting to overcome some difficulty or another. While I lie awake worrying about each of these children, there is one who has really taken over my heart. This individual shines with untapped talent and caring and strength, while at the same time almost buckling under unresolved fears and sadness. This student is never far from my mind.
Since school let out on Friday, I have been unable to stop worrying about this little favorite of mine. When I get to watch over my kiddos for the majority of their waking hours it is easy to trust that they will be all right, knowing that I will be there for them soon, if not immediately. Now that we are on break, I can't stand the thought that something could go wrong for this child and I won't be there to support, care, or provide solutions. What am I going to do when this one goes off to 6th grade? If only I could follow along, a guiding hand, for the remainder of this childhood. Perhaps it would be easier to let go.
Probably not.
ICQ
You may or may not know that I met my husband on ICQ, a chat program. I used it for socialization while I was student teaching (easier to have people chat with me while I was working than to actually go out an meet live beings). One day I popped up Mikey's profile and the rest is, as they so often say, history.
Anyway, now that I have regular internet access, I have gotten back on in hopes of connecting with old pals. Unfortunately, I no longer have information about most of those whom I chatted with. If you are an ICQer feel free to look me up - 46-961-363, user name "sunangel"
Anyway, now that I have regular internet access, I have gotten back on in hopes of connecting with old pals. Unfortunately, I no longer have information about most of those whom I chatted with. If you are an ICQer feel free to look me up - 46-961-363, user name "sunangel"
SNOW
It has been beautiful and warm lately. Until about 10 minutes ago when it started snowing. An hour ago it was in the mid-40's. Now it's 31 degrees with near whiteout conditions outside. WTF??
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Play Ball
This morning, I spent several hours watching ball games. The first was a softball game starring one of my students, and the second was a baseball game featuring another student. It was the perfect morning for sitting in the sun, cheering and clapping. A perfect start to my spring vacation!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Egg Babies
Each year, the fifth graders spend 2 days looking after hard-boiled eggs. Don't ask me why, I truly don't know how it got started and I don't know why it continues. I just know that they get very involved in the project.
Anyway, today we did the drawing and passing out of eggs. The kids had brought in baskets and boxes filled with fluffy pillows and tiny dolls clothing in preparation. They got their egg babies, complete with birth certificate, journal, and $10 to spend on babysitting if necessary. The idea is for them to demonstrate responsibility for this fragile object. Within 2 minutes, one of the eggs had rolled off of a desk. I fear for the next generation!
Actually, I am quite pleased with the "parenting" of my students. Although there were a few minor mishaps, most of the eggs were still in excellent condition by the end of the school day. There was one egg that got tossed and rolled and generally mistreated, but most of them were quite cared for. I am always amused watching my big manly 5th grade boys carefully protecting little pink eggs. They always talk tough beforehand - "If I get a girl egg I'm gonna kick it out the window!", but when it comes right down to it, they always get attached.
Funniest moment of the day: My biggest, toughest boy ended up with twin girls. He made one a mohawk out of paper. He spent the whole day carrying them around in the pockets of his hoodie. Very cute. And very amusing.
Anyway, today we did the drawing and passing out of eggs. The kids had brought in baskets and boxes filled with fluffy pillows and tiny dolls clothing in preparation. They got their egg babies, complete with birth certificate, journal, and $10 to spend on babysitting if necessary. The idea is for them to demonstrate responsibility for this fragile object. Within 2 minutes, one of the eggs had rolled off of a desk. I fear for the next generation!
Actually, I am quite pleased with the "parenting" of my students. Although there were a few minor mishaps, most of the eggs were still in excellent condition by the end of the school day. There was one egg that got tossed and rolled and generally mistreated, but most of them were quite cared for. I am always amused watching my big manly 5th grade boys carefully protecting little pink eggs. They always talk tough beforehand - "If I get a girl egg I'm gonna kick it out the window!", but when it comes right down to it, they always get attached.
Funniest moment of the day: My biggest, toughest boy ended up with twin girls. He made one a mohawk out of paper. He spent the whole day carrying them around in the pockets of his hoodie. Very cute. And very amusing.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
In The Classroom
Things that really happened today.
- - - - - - - - -
Fifth graders are funny.
Teacher: So, what can we draw that will help us remember the meaning of the word "urgent"?
Student: Well, I drew a picture of a stick figure sitting on a toilet and yelling for someone to bring him toilet paper.
Teacher: The next word in the spelling test is breathless. The girl was so beautiful that she left me breathless. Breathless.
Student: What's her number?
- - - - - - - -
I also had my students break into applause today. We are currently discussing the Revolutionary War. This morning, after discussing the Stamp Act and the Declaration of Independence, I got a little carried away. I am always greatly moved by the courage the colonial men and women showed in banding together and protesting the tyranny of King George (don't worry, the parallels aren't lost on me). They saw a wrong, and they did everything they could to right it - protests, boycotts, petitions, gatherings - and all knowing that they were risking their lives. Anyway, I tried to connect these events to my students. With great enthusiasm, I reminded them that they would have to be just as brave and remember to question and evaluate all that they were asked to do by their peers/teachers/leaders/etc. when they got into middle school and beyond. That, by virtue of living in the US, it was their right and their responsibility to think for themselves, fight injustice, and speak their minds. I must have been a little...emphatic...because when I came to an end, one of my girls said, "Well, that calls for applause" and several of them clapped. Whether it was for what I was saying or the fact that I had finally stopped, I don't know. :)
- - - - - - - - -
I had someone show up late today. When I asked why I was told, "I needed to finish my math homework." Ugh.
- - - - - - - - -
I spent many hours going to math training last year. A couple of the most highly acclaimed math teachers in our district revamped our math curriculum and we were being instructed on how to complete it. While I appreciate having a run-down of what needs to be covered, and when each thing will be assessed by the district, I am having trouble with the daily aspect of the new plan. The flow from one topic to the next doesn't suit my needs (or the needs of my students) and the materials they gave us, while copious in amount, often doesn't provide me with just what I am looking for. This means that I STILL spend hours reorganizing the schedule and creating activities that address the necessary ideas. Bleh. It's so frustrating to spend 10 minutes flipping through page after page of math pages only to find that everything is either too convoluted or too boring or too pathetically easy.
- - - - - - - - -
I have found many positive things to focus on regarding the (almost certain) move to the new school. While I am still saddened to be leaving the nest in which I have strengthened my teaching wings, I am certain that thinking positively will do one of two things:
1. The universe will see what a good sport I am being and decide to miraculously let me stay where I am.
2. The transition will be made smooth and easy by my cheerful and upbeat attitude.
Either way, life is golden. :)
- - - - - - - - -
Fifth graders are funny.
Teacher: So, what can we draw that will help us remember the meaning of the word "urgent"?
Student: Well, I drew a picture of a stick figure sitting on a toilet and yelling for someone to bring him toilet paper.
Teacher: The next word in the spelling test is breathless. The girl was so beautiful that she left me breathless. Breathless.
Student: What's her number?
- - - - - - - -
I also had my students break into applause today. We are currently discussing the Revolutionary War. This morning, after discussing the Stamp Act and the Declaration of Independence, I got a little carried away. I am always greatly moved by the courage the colonial men and women showed in banding together and protesting the tyranny of King George (don't worry, the parallels aren't lost on me). They saw a wrong, and they did everything they could to right it - protests, boycotts, petitions, gatherings - and all knowing that they were risking their lives. Anyway, I tried to connect these events to my students. With great enthusiasm, I reminded them that they would have to be just as brave and remember to question and evaluate all that they were asked to do by their peers/teachers/leaders/etc. when they got into middle school and beyond. That, by virtue of living in the US, it was their right and their responsibility to think for themselves, fight injustice, and speak their minds. I must have been a little...emphatic...because when I came to an end, one of my girls said, "Well, that calls for applause" and several of them clapped. Whether it was for what I was saying or the fact that I had finally stopped, I don't know. :)
- - - - - - - - -
I had someone show up late today. When I asked why I was told, "I needed to finish my math homework." Ugh.
- - - - - - - - -
I spent many hours going to math training last year. A couple of the most highly acclaimed math teachers in our district revamped our math curriculum and we were being instructed on how to complete it. While I appreciate having a run-down of what needs to be covered, and when each thing will be assessed by the district, I am having trouble with the daily aspect of the new plan. The flow from one topic to the next doesn't suit my needs (or the needs of my students) and the materials they gave us, while copious in amount, often doesn't provide me with just what I am looking for. This means that I STILL spend hours reorganizing the schedule and creating activities that address the necessary ideas. Bleh. It's so frustrating to spend 10 minutes flipping through page after page of math pages only to find that everything is either too convoluted or too boring or too pathetically easy.
- - - - - - - - -
I have found many positive things to focus on regarding the (almost certain) move to the new school. While I am still saddened to be leaving the nest in which I have strengthened my teaching wings, I am certain that thinking positively will do one of two things:
1. The universe will see what a good sport I am being and decide to miraculously let me stay where I am.
2. The transition will be made smooth and easy by my cheerful and upbeat attitude.
Either way, life is golden. :)
Saturday, March 17, 2007
GREEN
We have green appearing on our property. There are tiny, little forest green plants growing out of the sand, topped with minuscule, violet flowers. There are friendly, green leaves bursting out of the apple trees and lilac bushes. The tree near our lawn furniture is a big, snowball of white flowers, buzzing busily with bees. Even the prickly plants that typically intersperse themselves across our yard are looking a little lusher than usual.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Looking for a Laugh?
Jonathan Coulton. You must listen. Here are the ones that I like so far...
The Presidents - tells a tiny bit about all the US presidents in order. If it weren't for the language, I could use it in my class - "...Kennedy was killed by a magic bullet, Johnson murdered kids in Vietnam, Nixon was a sweating filthy liar..."
Code Monkey - the lament of that elusive creature, the code monkey - "...Much rather wake up, eat a coffee cake, Take bath, take nap, This job "fulfilling in creative way", Such a load of crap..."
Re: Your Brains - An office memo put to music - "...All we want to do is eat your brains. We're not unreasonable. I mean, no one's going to eat your eyes..."
Tom Cruise Crazy - We all know it's true - "...Tom Cruise is Tom Cruise crazy, Just be glad it’s him not you..."
Mandelbrot Set - an ode to the great mathematician "...He saw that infinite complexity could be described by simple rules, He used his giant brain to turn the game around..."
Skullcrusher Mountain - yes, he's a crazy maniac, but he just wants you to love him - "...The voices inside my head say I shouldn't kill you yet..."
IKEA - the real story behind this unique chain - "...And they sell things for apartments smaller than mine, As if there were apartments smaller than mine..."
I think these songs all came from an experiment in which he created one song a week for a whole year. They are actually quite good. And highly entertaining.
The Presidents - tells a tiny bit about all the US presidents in order. If it weren't for the language, I could use it in my class - "...Kennedy was killed by a magic bullet, Johnson murdered kids in Vietnam, Nixon was a sweating filthy liar..."
Code Monkey - the lament of that elusive creature, the code monkey - "...Much rather wake up, eat a coffee cake, Take bath, take nap, This job "fulfilling in creative way", Such a load of crap..."
Re: Your Brains - An office memo put to music - "...All we want to do is eat your brains. We're not unreasonable. I mean, no one's going to eat your eyes..."
Tom Cruise Crazy - We all know it's true - "...Tom Cruise is Tom Cruise crazy, Just be glad it’s him not you..."
Mandelbrot Set - an ode to the great mathematician "...He saw that infinite complexity could be described by simple rules, He used his giant brain to turn the game around..."
Skullcrusher Mountain - yes, he's a crazy maniac, but he just wants you to love him - "...The voices inside my head say I shouldn't kill you yet..."
IKEA - the real story behind this unique chain - "...And they sell things for apartments smaller than mine, As if there were apartments smaller than mine..."
I think these songs all came from an experiment in which he created one song a week for a whole year. They are actually quite good. And highly entertaining.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
YM
I spent a couple of hours yesterday watching one of my students graduate from recruit to official member of the local Young Marines group. This particular student has had a rough year and is a challenging child. He's very bright and incredibly headstrong. Although he is quite capable, he has struggled immensely this year. I am hoping that being part of a group that encourages respect for others, hard work, and responsibility, we can get him on the right path before things go too far astray. This is the one goal he has been willing to work for all year, and I was thrilled to be invited to his graduation. I sat through the whole thing hoping that this would be a turning point for him. At least I know that he will have a support group once he leaves my classroom. I am especially comforted, because the commanding officer and his wife are friends of mine who I trust completely to look out for him and do what they can to personally see that he succeeds. Although I am not a fan of the military, I am a big fan of this group and what I have seen them do for kids, especially ones who need a strong, guiding force in their lives.
Wither the Weather
The weather here has been gorgeous for the last several days. It is as though summer is seriously on its way. The sun is shining, a delicious breeze blowing, and things are looking beautiful. We slept with the bedroom windows open last night and woke to the sound of birds and such stirring. Since this is the very beginning of the nice weather, the biting ants have yet to awaken, and the heat has yet to head into the range of "sweltering". All in all, it is perfect weather for sitting out and reading. The dogs are thrilled that we spent so much time outside with them this weekend. I am sad that I have to waste the next 5 days indoors.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Too Much To Talk About to Actually Talk About It
I had a long and rambling rant going in my head all the way home, but I'm too busy to actually write it tonight. It is long past time for me to tuck myself in. I will leave you with this teaser and the promise that I will probably forget to ever write about any of these things...
*I am extremely frustrated with my job situation at this moment. I am especially disappointed that my union apparently gets gobs of my paycheck each month for NO REASON AT ALL.
*5th grade curriculum is broad and deep enough that planning thoroughly for all subjects (reading, writing, math, science, social studies) is next to impossible. It seems like something is always being neglected.
*Lucky for me, my entire class hit puberty at once (roughly Wednesday of last week) and they're all taking it out on me. To be fair, it's probably more like 25% of my class...but you try dealing with 7 pissed off pre-teens at a time. Gah.
Hmm...I really thought there was more going on than that. How is it that so few things can be taking up so much of my life? I will just keep repeating my mantra:
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
*I am extremely frustrated with my job situation at this moment. I am especially disappointed that my union apparently gets gobs of my paycheck each month for NO REASON AT ALL.
*5th grade curriculum is broad and deep enough that planning thoroughly for all subjects (reading, writing, math, science, social studies) is next to impossible. It seems like something is always being neglected.
*Lucky for me, my entire class hit puberty at once (roughly Wednesday of last week) and they're all taking it out on me. To be fair, it's probably more like 25% of my class...but you try dealing with 7 pissed off pre-teens at a time. Gah.
Hmm...I really thought there was more going on than that. How is it that so few things can be taking up so much of my life? I will just keep repeating my mantra:
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
Only 2 weeks until Spring Break.
Ohm.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Losing Face
I'm not that good with faces. I can usually recognize that a face is familiar, but I often have a hard time recognizing when or where I have seen it. This can be a problem when someone (usually a former student or student's parent) comes up to me in the grocery store and starts talking. I can usually fake my way through the conversation or guide it in a way that gives me a clue who the mystery person is. However, when I am watching a movie with numerous characters, I often lose the plot because I am not sure which character is which. I totally and utterly lost interest in part III of The Godfather because of this. By the end I knew pretty much everyone was dead, but I had know idea who was who. Problematic.
Anza Living
This morning the wind was blowing through the Redshank bushes so enthusiastically that before I opened the blinds it sounded just like the waves crashing over rocks on the beach. Pretty nice, really.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
I can't hardly believe it. I managed to leave school carrying nothing but my empty lunchbox and my purse. No papers, no textbooks, no nothing. Of course, I had to stay until 6:00 pm to get my report cards done first, but still...
- - - -
I have been calling in all week to find out if I have to go to court for jury duty. I thought today would be the last time, but instead they tell me I need to call in tomorrow at noon. I don't know which is worse - the idea that I might be expected to call in at noon, get a sub, and be in court sometime before the end of the day or the idea that I might have to go in on Monday. I wish I had called to reschedule it for summer. I really wouldn't mind going, but it is SO disruptive to my job.
- - - -
I liked the Penn and Teller show "Bullshit" during its first two seasons, but we're watching the third season now and they seem to be working hardest for shock value rather than debunking of stupid ideas. Or maybe it just bothers me that now they are arguing against things in which I believe.
- - - -
This has been the longest week ever. After having two Mondays in a row off, and being out of my classroom at least once a week for the last 2 months, I am finding it quite difficult to get through a 5 day work week. Poor me.
- - - -
I have been reading the book Empire by Orson Scott Card. Although he is a little bit crazy in his personal political beliefs, he does a nice job of presenting multiple sides of a political debate. This book discusses what would happen in the US if there should be a Blue vs Red battle for supreme control. The most interesting point he makes (in my humble opinion) is that there are huge numbers of mostly sane people on both sides of the fence who just want to go on with their lives. It's the few on the radical edges of the spectrum who call for violent end to the other side. I truly feel that when we start listening to those radical few and stop working for compromise, that's when the real problems begin. Of course, that is the opinion of someone who has never had to compromise my core beliefs in an attempt to maintain peace. How would I react if my way of life were openly attacked? Perhaps I would be more willing to follow the path of those "Progressive Restoratives" in the book, fighting to wrestle control from the hands of a dangerous and close-minded group. I don't know. The book has proven to be food for thought, at any rate. Whether they are thoughts worth listening to (especially after an extra long day at school), I am even less sure.
- - - -
I am reaping the reward of teaching my students to be free and independent thinkers. They are all acting and thinking freely. They keep trying to make their own decisions and choose their own actions. The little stinkers actually think that when I told them to "Question Authority" I was including myself. They say what they are thinking, question my decisions, and debate every issue.
I couldn't be prouder.
Or more frustrated! :)
- - - -
Good night. I will return soon. Peace.
- - - -
I have been calling in all week to find out if I have to go to court for jury duty. I thought today would be the last time, but instead they tell me I need to call in tomorrow at noon. I don't know which is worse - the idea that I might be expected to call in at noon, get a sub, and be in court sometime before the end of the day or the idea that I might have to go in on Monday. I wish I had called to reschedule it for summer. I really wouldn't mind going, but it is SO disruptive to my job.
- - - -
I liked the Penn and Teller show "Bullshit" during its first two seasons, but we're watching the third season now and they seem to be working hardest for shock value rather than debunking of stupid ideas. Or maybe it just bothers me that now they are arguing against things in which I believe.
- - - -
This has been the longest week ever. After having two Mondays in a row off, and being out of my classroom at least once a week for the last 2 months, I am finding it quite difficult to get through a 5 day work week. Poor me.
- - - -
I have been reading the book Empire by Orson Scott Card. Although he is a little bit crazy in his personal political beliefs, he does a nice job of presenting multiple sides of a political debate. This book discusses what would happen in the US if there should be a Blue vs Red battle for supreme control. The most interesting point he makes (in my humble opinion) is that there are huge numbers of mostly sane people on both sides of the fence who just want to go on with their lives. It's the few on the radical edges of the spectrum who call for violent end to the other side. I truly feel that when we start listening to those radical few and stop working for compromise, that's when the real problems begin. Of course, that is the opinion of someone who has never had to compromise my core beliefs in an attempt to maintain peace. How would I react if my way of life were openly attacked? Perhaps I would be more willing to follow the path of those "Progressive Restoratives" in the book, fighting to wrestle control from the hands of a dangerous and close-minded group. I don't know. The book has proven to be food for thought, at any rate. Whether they are thoughts worth listening to (especially after an extra long day at school), I am even less sure.
- - - -
I am reaping the reward of teaching my students to be free and independent thinkers. They are all acting and thinking freely. They keep trying to make their own decisions and choose their own actions. The little stinkers actually think that when I told them to "Question Authority" I was including myself. They say what they are thinking, question my decisions, and debate every issue.
I couldn't be prouder.
Or more frustrated! :)
- - - -
Good night. I will return soon. Peace.
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