Blogging is an art form, a discipline, for some. For me it is a fun way to journal, and with a schedule that is busy, fun things get set aside. Sorry blog readers, I have set aside my blog (again!) for the last few weeks.
Some of the reason is teaching. Teaching has been wonderful: full of the ups and downs of starting a new job. I feel like things are going well, although I'm not adjusting as quickly as I'd like. I feel slower than I have in past long term jobs. The staff has been terrific, helpful and kind. The school has a wonderful sense of community and support. I just wish I was not feeling like I'm treading water. I feel the need to catch up and don't feel like I have, yet. But I will get there. This made me think of Kendra's quote at the end of her blog: by Charles Spurgeon: By perseverance the snail reached the ark.
I am home just a few minutes most days before I need to drive the girls to piano, or pick them up from play or indoor track practices. I did get in a run both days this weekend, and they felt good. Think I burned enough calories to eat badly the rest of the week? :) The flurries began again today and the grey clouds moved back in again. It is a comfortable neighborhood, after all. :) Other than that, things continue on normally. I am searching for new teaching ideas, teaching, grading, planning, driving, catching up with my girls (one of which is 15 now!!) or catching some zz's. Or trying to-the other night had nightmares, and on a few others, I woke up thinking about our students and how things can work better in the classroom. :)
I am truly happy and blessed, even with the busy-ness and grey skies, I feel God's giving and graceful hand in my life. I am so thankful for a husband who is helping, two daughters who are happy for me and my "newest adventure" and a school to go to every day. :)))
I hope you are well on this Tuesday, Reader.
Showing posts with label classroom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label classroom. Show all posts
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Brr
It's cold, here in the midwest, and has been for the last few days. Brr. The cold that chills you deeply the moment you step outside, and no amount of warm coats or coffee can warm the inside of you. :)
The break between posts has been longer this time, but nothing fantastic has happened. Well, I shouldn't say that. Each day with my family is fantastic, the sermon on the last two Sundays really were fantastic, my youngest daughter sang at a school function on Saturday and she was fantastic...
But the schedule just keeps plugging along. I subbed in kindergarten two days last week and fourth grade Friday and yesterday. A big jump from kindergarten to fourth grade. It challenges me to reset my mind and expectations. Both classes were good while I was there.
I've been working out the gym a few days per week to help me get stronger. Not like huge bulky body builder muscles, just stronger to help me with that fall marathon in under four hours! :) I am running, but less than I was. I have enjoyed my time at the gym, especially the yoga class. I thought yoga was slow, boring and didn't challenge my body. Boy, was I wrong! I've gone the last two weeks, and am attending tonight, and the instructor had us sweating! I felt the soreness that comes from a good workout the next few days, as well. And I really enjoyed the instructor! :)
I'm still juggling my way through my book club book, the Hemingses. I have yet to get into a rhythm that has me chugging along and not wanting to put my book down.
I have started a book with my youngest daughter and her friend. The book is Coraline. It's what the newly released movie is based on. I had heard the book was better than the movie, so we thought we'd read it first. It's a bit spooky, but good thus far. We read about two chapters per week and then discuss it on Fridays. Last week's discussion introduced them to the idea of foreshadowing and they are enjoying thinking about the concept. :)
That's really all from here. My youngest is about done with basketball, and my oldest is about to begin track conditioning. So, another busy spring schedule is sneaking up on us! :)
Hope your week is going well!
The break between posts has been longer this time, but nothing fantastic has happened. Well, I shouldn't say that. Each day with my family is fantastic, the sermon on the last two Sundays really were fantastic, my youngest daughter sang at a school function on Saturday and she was fantastic...
But the schedule just keeps plugging along. I subbed in kindergarten two days last week and fourth grade Friday and yesterday. A big jump from kindergarten to fourth grade. It challenges me to reset my mind and expectations. Both classes were good while I was there.
I've been working out the gym a few days per week to help me get stronger. Not like huge bulky body builder muscles, just stronger to help me with that fall marathon in under four hours! :) I am running, but less than I was. I have enjoyed my time at the gym, especially the yoga class. I thought yoga was slow, boring and didn't challenge my body. Boy, was I wrong! I've gone the last two weeks, and am attending tonight, and the instructor had us sweating! I felt the soreness that comes from a good workout the next few days, as well. And I really enjoyed the instructor! :)
I'm still juggling my way through my book club book, the Hemingses. I have yet to get into a rhythm that has me chugging along and not wanting to put my book down.
I have started a book with my youngest daughter and her friend. The book is Coraline. It's what the newly released movie is based on. I had heard the book was better than the movie, so we thought we'd read it first. It's a bit spooky, but good thus far. We read about two chapters per week and then discuss it on Fridays. Last week's discussion introduced them to the idea of foreshadowing and they are enjoying thinking about the concept. :)
That's really all from here. My youngest is about done with basketball, and my oldest is about to begin track conditioning. So, another busy spring schedule is sneaking up on us! :)
Hope your week is going well!
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Lately
Lately...
- I did get some running in, before the weather got frigid again. Ahh, the sunshine was wonderful. I'm looking forward to more of the bright stuff again tomorrow! Although the temperature will not show that the glorious sun is out, I'm afraid. :)
- I got to be a substitute teacher in a kindergarten class. Both morning and afternoon groups of children were wonderful!
- My photo/canvas arrived in the mail today. A dear blog friend took a wonderful photo of the beach (she is extremely talented!) and I asked her if I could have/use it. I had it made into a canvas that arrived today. My original intent was to hang it in the green laundry room, to make me think I was at the beach instead of doing laundry... However, I love the looks and colors of it so much, I wish I could repaint other areas of my house to match. Considering all the painting I've done lately, I'm guessing the husband will say-it should still hang in the laundry room, and no more painting for awhile! :)
- I am feeling terrible about neglecting something that I firmly believe in... Thank You notes. I always write them, but for some reason, the 2008 Christmas thank yous have not been written. How utterly awful of me.
- I have gone over my notes for the Thirteenth Tale, so that I will be ready to post discussions on it next Friday, the first discussion of the Well Read Ladies Online Book Club.
- I have The Hemingses here to start for our next discussion... It's size is daunting... the nonfiction-ness of it is intimidating... but I look forward to the brain-strengthening challenge.
- I have spent too much time on Facebook, even posting photos of high school this week. Some scary photos... :) But they were me, back then. :) I have enjoyed connecting with far-away family, that I probably wouldn't be able to keep in touch with very well, otherwise.
- My husband and I begin teaching Sunday School this weekend. I am very much looking forward to it! I'm EXCITED! :) Ahem... teaching does that to me, even if it is only an hour. :)
- I ordered my youngest daughter some small, inexpensive cookie cutters, so she can make these valentines for school. (It is our tradition for the kids to make their school valentines instead of buying character valentines. We like to be crafty like that. ;))
- I saw a video that was great. It was a 16 minute short movie, if you will, but worth every minute. It made me smile. I don't know how to post videos on my own blog, so you have to go to this site HERE to see it. The post that the video is on is called You... You are awesome. You should see it. :))
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Dec 11
We are planning on all heading in for the aunt's funeral, and staying over for the parties. Thank you for your hugs and concerns, blog friends.
I sat in on the conferences today and they all were delightful! It was terrific to see the students, and their parents, as well. It is such a warm and positive environment. The day did go by fast, and for dinner (there was a short break for dinner), some wonderful PTA ladies brought in delicious food! :) I had homemade baked ziti, garlic bread and potato casserole. :) Yum! I was thankful to observe the teacher's wonderful practices during the conference, and to be part of supporting her/the parents and students.
Have a good evening!
I sat in on the conferences today and they all were delightful! It was terrific to see the students, and their parents, as well. It is such a warm and positive environment. The day did go by fast, and for dinner (there was a short break for dinner), some wonderful PTA ladies brought in delicious food! :) I had homemade baked ziti, garlic bread and potato casserole. :) Yum! I was thankful to observe the teacher's wonderful practices during the conference, and to be part of supporting her/the parents and students.
Have a good evening!
Dec 10
December 10 was busy, although I didn't accomplish too much. :) I met a friend at Starbucks, whom I haven't chatted with in quite a while. I think we last got together, for longer than five minutes, before school started in the fall. We've talked via email, but it's not the same. :) We sat yesterday for two hours. It was the kind of get together where you both talk and visit and then you are surprised by how much time has gone by!
I left there and went on to my husband's work, picked him up and we went to lunch. It was a great lunch at a place I hadn't been to before. Was nice to spend some time with him yesterday.
Then I went home, changed into dress clothes, saw the kids get home from school, and talked to them a bit. The I headed off to conferences. I enjoyed sitting with the teacher and inputting where necessary. The teacher, of course, did an excellent job and didn't need me there; she knows the kids already very well. It's nice to have the experience of seeing it done, though.
Sadly, my parents called last night to say a great aunt had died. She had had an episode of cancer, had treatments and beat it, but then it came back a lot more aggressively. She was just rediagnosed before Thanksgiving. The funeral is tomorrow, and I feel I should go. This causes some logistics to figure out. One of our daughters is off school, due to conferences. The other is not. My husband should be working. But we are planning on heading to state I grew up in, on Saturday for family Christmas parties, also. It's a three and a half hour drive, so it is a lot to drive it there and back tomorrow, and again on Saturday. So, I'm still thinking on the "how"...
Today will be filled with conferences, so I'm expecting the day to go fast. Last night flew by. :)
I'm trying a new ribs recipe today. I hope it turns out ok. :)
Have a great Thursday!
I left there and went on to my husband's work, picked him up and we went to lunch. It was a great lunch at a place I hadn't been to before. Was nice to spend some time with him yesterday.
Then I went home, changed into dress clothes, saw the kids get home from school, and talked to them a bit. The I headed off to conferences. I enjoyed sitting with the teacher and inputting where necessary. The teacher, of course, did an excellent job and didn't need me there; she knows the kids already very well. It's nice to have the experience of seeing it done, though.
Sadly, my parents called last night to say a great aunt had died. She had had an episode of cancer, had treatments and beat it, but then it came back a lot more aggressively. She was just rediagnosed before Thanksgiving. The funeral is tomorrow, and I feel I should go. This causes some logistics to figure out. One of our daughters is off school, due to conferences. The other is not. My husband should be working. But we are planning on heading to state I grew up in, on Saturday for family Christmas parties, also. It's a three and a half hour drive, so it is a lot to drive it there and back tomorrow, and again on Saturday. So, I'm still thinking on the "how"...
Today will be filled with conferences, so I'm expecting the day to go fast. Last night flew by. :)
I'm trying a new ribs recipe today. I hope it turns out ok. :)
Have a great Thursday!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Dec 9
Today was a wonderful day. The teacher I was substituting for in the fall said I could come and read to the students whenever I'd like. I didn't have anything this morning, so I went. I was there a little less than an hour. I felt like a "rock star" when I entered the classroom. They shouted my name, hugged me, smiled, one asked if I could teach the rest of the day! :) I was glad to see them, too. I read them a book, visited with each child as they worked on morning seatwork. I was sad to leave all over again.
I got more Christmas cards done. I think I have about 80 completed and another 20 to go, possibly. I should be able to finish those up tomorrow and mail them out!
I got in a 4.04 mile run today, at around a 9 min. mile pace. It was raining which I like, but windy which I don't. :) It was nice to get a run in, anyway. :)
Then, this evening, we met some wonderful friends for dinner. We chatted at dinner over good food, and our kids visited, as well. Then we had them over at our house for another few hours of visiting.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I tried a new soup recipe. It was really very good, and quite easy! :) I t was taco soup, and on this rainy, cool day, it was the perfect lunch! :) I left out the olives because most of our family dislikes them. :)
I hope your day went well, too. Enjoy your Wednesday! :)
I got more Christmas cards done. I think I have about 80 completed and another 20 to go, possibly. I should be able to finish those up tomorrow and mail them out!
I got in a 4.04 mile run today, at around a 9 min. mile pace. It was raining which I like, but windy which I don't. :) It was nice to get a run in, anyway. :)
Then, this evening, we met some wonderful friends for dinner. We chatted at dinner over good food, and our kids visited, as well. Then we had them over at our house for another few hours of visiting.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I tried a new soup recipe. It was really very good, and quite easy! :) I t was taco soup, and on this rainy, cool day, it was the perfect lunch! :) I left out the olives because most of our family dislikes them. :)
I hope your day went well, too. Enjoy your Wednesday! :)
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Saturday
It is Saturday, we've watched some football, the husband is napping and the girls are disagreeing... I mean playing together. :) I had scrapbooking here last night. I had fruits, vegetables, chips, and dips, as well as pumpkin gooey bars, crock pot berry cobbler, and corn chowder. I had a very nice time. I cooked and cleaned yesterday, to get the house ready and will only have to do a touch-up before church tomorrow. After church we drive to get Gram, and have her here until Thursday.
So far, we've received 9 of our 30 thankful feathers. The turkey is holding up well, with his new feet and wattle, as well as his repaired neck. :)
I was a substitute for fourth grade last week, and I liked something the teacher did. She read the children a chapter from a book (the book she'd chosen for a read aloud, reading them a chapter per day) and then they had to write down what they thought the chapter should be titled. They shared and talked about their perspectives. Then they had to write a paragraph using text-to-self perspective. It really got them thinking about how they related to the story, and how we read for fun, relating to situations or characters in the books.
I got my letter for jury duty, which will be scheduled after the holidays. I have never had to attend before. I receive the letter, but the trial is settled before I'm set to go. This time I have four different dates, so I'm guessing I will have to go to one of them; my civic duty.
My oldest daughter found out, last time she was at the orthodontist, that her wisdom teeth are blocking her twelve year molars, so she needs to have the wisdom teeth removed. I was scheduling the appt for over winter break... however the only day they had open was New Year's Eve. She's pretty annoyed that I scheduled it, then. She'd rather miss school, of course, but unless the husband disagrees, this is the plan. :)
Next week at this time, I think I will be putting up my Christmas items! :) I'm looking forward to getting our Christmas books out. :) We read a book that we've read twice before, the Christmas Mystery, and it's a great reminder of the holidays. A chapter per day, from Dec 1 to Dec 25, an advent book, so to speak. I look forward to reading it to the family on Dec. 1. :)
Well, enough for now. Hope you are well.
So far, we've received 9 of our 30 thankful feathers. The turkey is holding up well, with his new feet and wattle, as well as his repaired neck. :)
I was a substitute for fourth grade last week, and I liked something the teacher did. She read the children a chapter from a book (the book she'd chosen for a read aloud, reading them a chapter per day) and then they had to write down what they thought the chapter should be titled. They shared and talked about their perspectives. Then they had to write a paragraph using text-to-self perspective. It really got them thinking about how they related to the story, and how we read for fun, relating to situations or characters in the books.
I got my letter for jury duty, which will be scheduled after the holidays. I have never had to attend before. I receive the letter, but the trial is settled before I'm set to go. This time I have four different dates, so I'm guessing I will have to go to one of them; my civic duty.
My oldest daughter found out, last time she was at the orthodontist, that her wisdom teeth are blocking her twelve year molars, so she needs to have the wisdom teeth removed. I was scheduling the appt for over winter break... however the only day they had open was New Year's Eve. She's pretty annoyed that I scheduled it, then. She'd rather miss school, of course, but unless the husband disagrees, this is the plan. :)
Next week at this time, I think I will be putting up my Christmas items! :) I'm looking forward to getting our Christmas books out. :) We read a book that we've read twice before, the Christmas Mystery, and it's a great reminder of the holidays. A chapter per day, from Dec 1 to Dec 25, an advent book, so to speak. I look forward to reading it to the family on Dec. 1. :)
Well, enough for now. Hope you are well.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
So far, so good!
The week's going well, so far! :) I skipped ahead on my schedule over the weekend and just spent quite a bit of time organizing my scrapbooking supplies. I labeled everything and grouped things accordingly. I am really happy with the results. Now to sit down and find the time to use them! :) I spend the entire morning organizing one of our crawl spaces. I got rid of one big wooden chest with a crack in its lid, a set of file cabinets-too small to fit most documents, so I'm not sure as to why we bought it! :) Anyway, I also got rid of a garbage bag full of things that were there and never used. It looks nice and organized. I could really find things if I needed them! :)
Then I subbed in a fourth grade classroom in the afternoon. The kids were chatty, and wound up, but it was an ok day overall.
I ran yesterday again, but not today. Hoping to get another run in tomorrow! :)
Smiles to you, as we approach "hump day"! :)
Then I subbed in a fourth grade classroom in the afternoon. The kids were chatty, and wound up, but it was an ok day overall.
I ran yesterday again, but not today. Hoping to get another run in tomorrow! :)
Smiles to you, as we approach "hump day"! :)
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Thursday's Thoughts
Well, here we are, over halfway through the week, already! :)
Yesterday I was a substitute teacher in third grade. As I do in all my new jobs, I took notes on things I like about the room/organization/information. Then, if I were lucky enough to get a job next year in that grade, I'd have some ideas to start on, or even in an interview. I got about a page and a half, and then we went to another third grade teacher's room for a half hour movie on mapping, where I got another page and a half of ideas! :) One thing, very fitting for the season, was a science discovery table. You usually see them in younger grades, but not in third. This table had gourds, small pumpkins, fruits of the season, magnifying glasses, other discovery tools for the kids to be "scientists" and observe. I thought what a great idea, to get them thinking about classifying things, thinking about differences, etc. You could change the items on the table according to the science unit or season, also.
Today is our oldest daughter's conference day. We'll go in at 9:30 and we will see all of her teachers, while our daughter leads us through the conference. It's a good way to get them to self evaluate, and the teachers give their input, as well! :) Our oldest received her grade card and a t-shirt from the school. The shirt said "Scholar Athlete" on the front and 3.5+ on the back for her gpa. It was something she was pretty proud of, as I think she should be! :) I thought it was a good way to encourage the students to keep working hard!
The turkey is holding up well with his new feet, waddle(it was also made of Crayola Model Magic and the hanging part broke off...), and neck glue. :) Paint touch-up is today.
I have big plans today! I am cleaning crawl spaces. I always say I'm going to and then I get in there and am overwhelmed, so I get back out! :) I have big plans in mind... like making my oldest daughter who is home today help me! ;) I'm sure she'll love it... although she might be happy to get back to school on Monday! :) I am really in a purging mood. I get that way when thinking about the holidays, how we don't need anything, how we have too much, etc. So, this year I'm acting on it, at least that's the plan. :)
I saw some holiday ideas/thoughts on Ali Edward's blog that were on simplifying, getting ready before Dec. 1 with all the things like shopping, organizing decorations, etc, so you could do things you really want to do but "never have time" like baking cookies. I love to do that, but "never have time" so, I'm working on that. I finished up my nieces and nephews' gifts yesterday. When they arrive in the mail, I just have to wrap and they'll be finished! I have one sister in law about done, also. Although that is where I stalled... :)
One other thing. I always do handwritten Christmas cards, and I mean a note in each one, not just signing my name. I also do a picture for each one. Last year I did 103 Christmas cards, and finally resorted to a typed, impersonal "newsletter" for them because I was subbing. I think I should cut back. Once, when we were married just a few years I said to my husband, "I think I'm going to cut back and not send to people who don't send to me." He replied, "Is that why you do Christmas cards? I thought you said you did them to let people know we love them and are thinking of them." First, he doesn't write any of them, but I do believe that. That's why I handwrite each one, a note, asking how they are, trying to let them know they were worth my time. But 103 or more? And just buying them is expensive. Even our discount stores have them 12 cards for 7 dollars... 9 boxes is 63 dollars, plus stamps and purchasing 100 photos of the family to go in each one. It adds up. But, a few dollars per person is worth it to let them know... or should be...?
Well, enough rambling. Off to get this day underway! :) I hope your week is running smoothly!
Yesterday I was a substitute teacher in third grade. As I do in all my new jobs, I took notes on things I like about the room/organization/information. Then, if I were lucky enough to get a job next year in that grade, I'd have some ideas to start on, or even in an interview. I got about a page and a half, and then we went to another third grade teacher's room for a half hour movie on mapping, where I got another page and a half of ideas! :) One thing, very fitting for the season, was a science discovery table. You usually see them in younger grades, but not in third. This table had gourds, small pumpkins, fruits of the season, magnifying glasses, other discovery tools for the kids to be "scientists" and observe. I thought what a great idea, to get them thinking about classifying things, thinking about differences, etc. You could change the items on the table according to the science unit or season, also.
Today is our oldest daughter's conference day. We'll go in at 9:30 and we will see all of her teachers, while our daughter leads us through the conference. It's a good way to get them to self evaluate, and the teachers give their input, as well! :) Our oldest received her grade card and a t-shirt from the school. The shirt said "Scholar Athlete" on the front and 3.5+ on the back for her gpa. It was something she was pretty proud of, as I think she should be! :) I thought it was a good way to encourage the students to keep working hard!
The turkey is holding up well with his new feet, waddle(it was also made of Crayola Model Magic and the hanging part broke off...), and neck glue. :) Paint touch-up is today.
I have big plans today! I am cleaning crawl spaces. I always say I'm going to and then I get in there and am overwhelmed, so I get back out! :) I have big plans in mind... like making my oldest daughter who is home today help me! ;) I'm sure she'll love it... although she might be happy to get back to school on Monday! :) I am really in a purging mood. I get that way when thinking about the holidays, how we don't need anything, how we have too much, etc. So, this year I'm acting on it, at least that's the plan. :)
I saw some holiday ideas/thoughts on Ali Edward's blog that were on simplifying, getting ready before Dec. 1 with all the things like shopping, organizing decorations, etc, so you could do things you really want to do but "never have time" like baking cookies. I love to do that, but "never have time" so, I'm working on that. I finished up my nieces and nephews' gifts yesterday. When they arrive in the mail, I just have to wrap and they'll be finished! I have one sister in law about done, also. Although that is where I stalled... :)
One other thing. I always do handwritten Christmas cards, and I mean a note in each one, not just signing my name. I also do a picture for each one. Last year I did 103 Christmas cards, and finally resorted to a typed, impersonal "newsletter" for them because I was subbing. I think I should cut back. Once, when we were married just a few years I said to my husband, "I think I'm going to cut back and not send to people who don't send to me." He replied, "Is that why you do Christmas cards? I thought you said you did them to let people know we love them and are thinking of them." First, he doesn't write any of them, but I do believe that. That's why I handwrite each one, a note, asking how they are, trying to let them know they were worth my time. But 103 or more? And just buying them is expensive. Even our discount stores have them 12 cards for 7 dollars... 9 boxes is 63 dollars, plus stamps and purchasing 100 photos of the family to go in each one. It adds up. But, a few dollars per person is worth it to let them know... or should be...?
Well, enough rambling. Off to get this day underway! :) I hope your week is running smoothly!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Second post
I thought I'd post twice today to make up for not posting yesterday. :)
Lunch for teachers yesterday consisted of:
chicken and noodle casserole
fruit salad with apples, green grapes, golden raisins and dried cranberries
and pumpkin bread. This was the first time I'd made the bread and yum! I left out the pumpkin seeds from the spread, though.
The teachers seemed to really like it.
Subbing is done Friday, which is sad for me. I will miss having my "own" classroom with the same kids everyday, and knowing them each so well. The staff has been great, as well, encouraging me as if I were a full time staffer.
I do have a day set up Wed. and Fri next week, but nothing else on the horizon for now... We'll see.
Have a great day! :))
Lunch for teachers yesterday consisted of:
chicken and noodle casserole
fruit salad with apples, green grapes, golden raisins and dried cranberries
and pumpkin bread. This was the first time I'd made the bread and yum! I left out the pumpkin seeds from the spread, though.
The teachers seemed to really like it.
Subbing is done Friday, which is sad for me. I will miss having my "own" classroom with the same kids everyday, and knowing them each so well. The staff has been great, as well, encouraging me as if I were a full time staffer.
I do have a day set up Wed. and Fri next week, but nothing else on the horizon for now... We'll see.
Have a great day! :))
Monday, October 20, 2008
Another Day
Yesterday was the marathon day. It passed, friends of mine did well. I ran 5 miles. My legs are tired today, making me thankful I didn't try thirteen/the half marathon! I wasn't prepared mentally or physically. I have enjoyed my last two runs. The leaves were falling in the breeze like snow. They covered the path, crunching with every step. The air smelled fresh and crisp. I ran 3.1 on Saturday. I always enjoy it when I do run, so why do I get out of the habit? My schedule changes and I do have children to drive everywhere, but is that a reason? I know other people who make their run a priority. Then the other things fit in around it.
School is still going well. I got a lot done on Friday. Some things I didn't intend to, they were ideas I had while I was there like a "volunteer bucket". Often when volunteers come, they come in the middle of a lesson you're teaching and you have to find or get or explain what you want them to do. I have a bin of things that will be set up in the hall for them. I set it all up on Friday and I'm pretty pleased with it. The teacher (who returns Nov.10) loved the idea, as well. I still brought some things home to finish up, but felt it was a productive day. Another busy week talking to the kids about pumpkins, fall and subtraction! :)
Hope you have many smiles today, Reader.
School is still going well. I got a lot done on Friday. Some things I didn't intend to, they were ideas I had while I was there like a "volunteer bucket". Often when volunteers come, they come in the middle of a lesson you're teaching and you have to find or get or explain what you want them to do. I have a bin of things that will be set up in the hall for them. I set it all up on Friday and I'm pretty pleased with it. The teacher (who returns Nov.10) loved the idea, as well. I still brought some things home to finish up, but felt it was a productive day. Another busy week talking to the kids about pumpkins, fall and subtraction! :)
Hope you have many smiles today, Reader.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Disappointment
Again, my training slacked off so much that I am not doing the half marathon or full this coming weekend. I started the summer with big goals, but it didn't result in what I had hoped. This is a disappointment. I just knew that if I tried it, knowing that I hadn't run ten or more miles in over a month, that I wouldn't be able to do a job I was happy with. And I'd missed discounted registration prices so I would've had to pay 80 dollars... for a race I wasn't sure about. So, now I'm (yep, the title) disappointed.
In other news, Friday is a teacher work day, so I have a whole day to get prepared for the rest of my time in the class, organize, etc. Should be a productive day. I have been making a list of things to accomplish. I've implemented some new center ideas, so that has been fun. The kids are still great, and I still love the job. People are now asking me "what is next after this?" I do not have anything lined up and I worry about that. We'll see.
I must go now and prepare for the day.
Oh, I like "quiet music" for when the students should be quiet, so I found "Mozart for the Mind" on itunes, downloaded it, and made a cd for the classroom. It is great music! :) Just thought I'd share. :)
Hope you, Reader, are well.
In other news, Friday is a teacher work day, so I have a whole day to get prepared for the rest of my time in the class, organize, etc. Should be a productive day. I have been making a list of things to accomplish. I've implemented some new center ideas, so that has been fun. The kids are still great, and I still love the job. People are now asking me "what is next after this?" I do not have anything lined up and I worry about that. We'll see.
I must go now and prepare for the day.
Oh, I like "quiet music" for when the students should be quiet, so I found "Mozart for the Mind" on itunes, downloaded it, and made a cd for the classroom. It is great music! :) Just thought I'd share. :)
Hope you, Reader, are well.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Bustle
There's always bustle around here. Our youngest turns ten tomorrow, so this weekend was the family party. My family came down, and my in-laws all came over, as well. We had a very nice time. We made her favorite: breakfast burritos fixings, coffee cake and I tried a new recipe: Angel Lush Pineapple cake. Mine looked ok, a little lopsided, but it tasted yummy.
Running has been scarce to nonexistent. The half marathon is next Sunday and I'm still not totally convinced: I haven't run longer than ten miles, and haven't run much in the last three weeks.
Schoolwork still has to be done: grading and lesson creating, but I always enjoy it. The kids are still great and I'm really happy to be there. I'm lucky. Only one problem: the flu has been through three children in the class so far... I try to wash hands regularly, but I'm hoping it stays away! I don't want to have to get a "substitute for a substitute". :)
I can tell I've been really busy. I have four scrapbooking magazines full of ideas, waiting to be perused, but I have had too much to do. I also have tons of email to get through and reply to. For the first time in a long time, I haven't even gotten to read all my friends' blogs! Tonight, though, that is the goal, and I did read a few before composing this, as well.
My dryer finally "gave up the ghost" this week. My husband's been repairing it temporarily over the past few weeks. But it'd gotten so that it wouldn't get through one load before it broke again. So, we used his overtime $ and got a new washer and dryer at the same time. We got energy and water efficient models. We also got a bit of a deal: if you spent so much they were another percentage off, we got the floor models and we picked them up and installed them, so that made them cheaper. They weren't the prices you see on the link, for sure! They are pretty neat. And so far, I'm enjoying catching up on the LOADS of laundry that we hadn't done. Well, I like the cathing up part, anyway. :)
I haven't read anything since summer break, except my daily (or almost daily) Bible readings. I have "how to raise a teen with love and logic" to get started, from the library, but haven't sat down to read it. Maybe I will get it done by the second daughter? ;) Just kidding. :)
Well, off to get some work done. Hope you are well.
Running has been scarce to nonexistent. The half marathon is next Sunday and I'm still not totally convinced: I haven't run longer than ten miles, and haven't run much in the last three weeks.
Schoolwork still has to be done: grading and lesson creating, but I always enjoy it. The kids are still great and I'm really happy to be there. I'm lucky. Only one problem: the flu has been through three children in the class so far... I try to wash hands regularly, but I'm hoping it stays away! I don't want to have to get a "substitute for a substitute". :)
I can tell I've been really busy. I have four scrapbooking magazines full of ideas, waiting to be perused, but I have had too much to do. I also have tons of email to get through and reply to. For the first time in a long time, I haven't even gotten to read all my friends' blogs! Tonight, though, that is the goal, and I did read a few before composing this, as well.
My dryer finally "gave up the ghost" this week. My husband's been repairing it temporarily over the past few weeks. But it'd gotten so that it wouldn't get through one load before it broke again. So, we used his overtime $ and got a new washer and dryer at the same time. We got energy and water efficient models. We also got a bit of a deal: if you spent so much they were another percentage off, we got the floor models and we picked them up and installed them, so that made them cheaper. They weren't the prices you see on the link, for sure! They are pretty neat. And so far, I'm enjoying catching up on the LOADS of laundry that we hadn't done. Well, I like the cathing up part, anyway. :)
I haven't read anything since summer break, except my daily (or almost daily) Bible readings. I have "how to raise a teen with love and logic" to get started, from the library, but haven't sat down to read it. Maybe I will get it done by the second daughter? ;) Just kidding. :)
Well, off to get some work done. Hope you are well.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Not much time to blog these days. Hardly time to check email. Loving subbing. First graders are wonderful! I have a great group! My oldest daughter had a great cc meet and algebra test last week and my youngest had a great soccer game and math test, also! We are proud of them as students and as hard working athletes. And they're having fun! :) Staff meeting this morning, curriculum night Thursday, plus work in between. :) Husband's hard at work, and enjoying the way his product's going. Our youngest got sick yesterday, so husband is staying home with her today. That's always hard. It's my job to take care of them, but while subbing, not full time teaching, I have to go to work if I can while he stays home. Tough for me. Hoping she's better today.
My grandparents came for a visit over the weekend and got to see the girls' sporting events. Was a really nice weekend.
No running whatsoever right now. I go from one thing to the next and am exhausted. Not to mention I have a cold: in my chest, head, plugged ears, coughing, not sleeping=tired during the day... It makes me tired but I'm not taking any meds of any sort. But I will live. It's just a cold. :) Well, that's all for now. Just wanted to log on and say hello!
My grandparents came for a visit over the weekend and got to see the girls' sporting events. Was a really nice weekend.
No running whatsoever right now. I go from one thing to the next and am exhausted. Not to mention I have a cold: in my chest, head, plugged ears, coughing, not sleeping=tired during the day... It makes me tired but I'm not taking any meds of any sort. But I will live. It's just a cold. :) Well, that's all for now. Just wanted to log on and say hello!
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Autumn is coming
I ran this morning and I could feel autumn approaching. I smelled the dry leaves; heard them crunch under my feet. Most neighborhoods were quiet, even at 8am. The sun started to come up; I saw the most beautiful sunrise over some water, and colorful clouds. Then, as quickly as it came, the clouds swooped in, gray and blue, and blocked it. I ran ten miles and I was so happy. The weather was wonderful, nice and cool. I ended my first ten miler since May, I think. Since then, I haven't ran over anything other than the 7 last week. Anyway, I ran at a 9:20 pace so I was pleased! I told myself this was the "do or quit" run. If I made it without collapsing at the end or walking during, then I was still shooting for the half marathon in October. I did. :) I'm pretty happy about that!
In other news, school has been great, exhausting but great! :) I love the kids, the school and my fellow teachers. I only get to sit at lunchtime, so I my feet are usually blistered or tired, however, the day goes SO fast! There's so much to get done! :) I went to two meetings last week, one on a new way to teach handwriting and one on the new assessments the schools are using to establish the children's current reading level. Both were really interesting! I enjoy learning the new ways to do things. :) And, the best part, I had two kids tell me on Friday that they weren't ready to go home because they were having fun learning! :) And I got hugs on their way out, too! :)
I am having dinner with a good friend tonight. We don't get to see each other much due to our kids and their schedules! :) So, that will be fun.
On the girls' schedules: cross country meets, piano lessons, soccer games, dentist appts, and one curriculum night.
In reading news, I found time to read a book this weekend: Chardonnay Charade. It's a wine mystery. Interesting, and a fast read.
That's all for now. Hope you are well, readers.
In other news, school has been great, exhausting but great! :) I love the kids, the school and my fellow teachers. I only get to sit at lunchtime, so I my feet are usually blistered or tired, however, the day goes SO fast! There's so much to get done! :) I went to two meetings last week, one on a new way to teach handwriting and one on the new assessments the schools are using to establish the children's current reading level. Both were really interesting! I enjoy learning the new ways to do things. :) And, the best part, I had two kids tell me on Friday that they weren't ready to go home because they were having fun learning! :) And I got hugs on their way out, too! :)
I am having dinner with a good friend tonight. We don't get to see each other much due to our kids and their schedules! :) So, that will be fun.
On the girls' schedules: cross country meets, piano lessons, soccer games, dentist appts, and one curriculum night.
In reading news, I found time to read a book this weekend: Chardonnay Charade. It's a wine mystery. Interesting, and a fast read.
That's all for now. Hope you are well, readers.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
7
I finished 7 miles today! 9 minute mile pace, so I was really happy! I didn't feel great and it wasn't as cool as it has been when I headed out. But, I did it! :) I'm not feeling totally like myself, but I do feel like I'm headed there.
Olypmic comments: Women's marathon, Deena Kastor, ugh. Looking for Ryan Hall or the other US men to pull out a medal!
School starts this week. I'm excited and nervous. I wonder if it's because I'm subbing in someone else's room, with their way of doing things, or if I will get excited and nervous each fall, starting with a new class?
Practices for my daughters have begun. Our oldest is running cross country, and has her first meet Tuesday. Our youngest started soccer, including an hour and a half of practice in the heat of the day today.
Our dogs went to the vet last week (thank you, dear husband-he took both dogs to one appt.) Our little chubby beagle has lost 8 pounds in a year! Woo hoo! He's still about 5 pounds overweight. He was like that when we got him, truly. :) He eats weird things all the time; anything he can find! Mulch, rubberbands, string, feathers, leaves, anything he finds! Yes, often he gets sick. The vet just said he's strange. :) Our weimaraner hates going to the vet, and they've never been mean to him or anything. He's just a spaz.
Two interesting finds this week: Baby Love Letters is a site with questions to get you thinking about letters to write to your children, to leave them/give to them. Pretty neat idea, even though I have kids not babies, it would still be neat to write to them. Grandkids, someday, too.
One article they referenced on Baby love letters was about a daughter who had letters from her dad. Appropriately named Letters from Dad.
Another interesting site: I've added Cari to my prayer list. Wow, an incredible woman, and fighter. Visit her site to be updated on her progress.
I have tons to do, kids to take places, get the food ready for life group tomorrow, among other things, but I already cleaned yesterday...
Have a great weekend!! :)
Olypmic comments: Women's marathon, Deena Kastor, ugh. Looking for Ryan Hall or the other US men to pull out a medal!
School starts this week. I'm excited and nervous. I wonder if it's because I'm subbing in someone else's room, with their way of doing things, or if I will get excited and nervous each fall, starting with a new class?
Practices for my daughters have begun. Our oldest is running cross country, and has her first meet Tuesday. Our youngest started soccer, including an hour and a half of practice in the heat of the day today.
Our dogs went to the vet last week (thank you, dear husband-he took both dogs to one appt.) Our little chubby beagle has lost 8 pounds in a year! Woo hoo! He's still about 5 pounds overweight. He was like that when we got him, truly. :) He eats weird things all the time; anything he can find! Mulch, rubberbands, string, feathers, leaves, anything he finds! Yes, often he gets sick. The vet just said he's strange. :) Our weimaraner hates going to the vet, and they've never been mean to him or anything. He's just a spaz.
Two interesting finds this week: Baby Love Letters is a site with questions to get you thinking about letters to write to your children, to leave them/give to them. Pretty neat idea, even though I have kids not babies, it would still be neat to write to them. Grandkids, someday, too.
One article they referenced on Baby love letters was about a daughter who had letters from her dad. Appropriately named Letters from Dad.
Another interesting site: I've added Cari to my prayer list. Wow, an incredible woman, and fighter. Visit her site to be updated on her progress.
I have tons to do, kids to take places, get the food ready for life group tomorrow, among other things, but I already cleaned yesterday...
Have a great weekend!! :)
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Today
Well, the girls were back to themselves shortly after I posted last. They were totally off medicine less than a week after the surgery. They both wanted to run and play, but the doctor said to lay low for 14 days. They ran around like crazy children, even climbing one of our trees, the Friday that was day 14. :) They are back to all normal activities and enjoying summer!
I had a wonderful cuppa tea with a dear friend yesterday. My friend who is returning to England. It was a nice chat, that flew by as usual, and the goodbye was so sad. I know we'll keep in touch, as she is a wonderful person, but it will be hard not seeing her in person for a while. Makes my eyes tear up as I type. I hope she knows how special she is and how important to me. Hard to put that into words.
Running... hmm. I ran a few more days after my last post. I found it incredibly painful and uncomfortable. I wonder if I started too much too soon? I won't get into all the painful spots, but there were many. Last summer, I'd do a long run, recover after a day or two and feel great for the next week's. This time I felt pain in my legs all week. I don't feel like this normally and it left me so frustrated! I dreaded getting up in the morning to go for a run. And if I didn't get it done, I would dread it all day. Then I'd run and think "how much longer till this is over??" Not "this is fun, I'm glad I can do this" like I used to. Then I started running a few evenings with my husband. Only about four miles-so not what was on my schedule-and it was fun. We'd talk about our day and just run a fun pace-not looking at my watch trying to hit my marks, and being disappointed in not making them this year. So, I'm rethinking my goals in that area.
There aren't any job openings I can apply for right now, so I'm in the holding pattern.
I read two books since I posted last: The Shop on Blossom Street which was a nice story. It's the first in a series. I liked it as a single story. I may be in the mood to read the others some time, but not currently. I also read a great book: Sundays at Tiffany's. It was a very good read. I couldn't put it down!
We've gotten about thirty state postcards and nine country postcards, so far! We have all had fun (have I had the most fun in our family? Probably! :))
Our friend with breast cancer had surgery on Tuesday. She had to go back in for a complication yesterday, but is doing well, now. She's resting comfortably at home. Please keep her in your prayers. We walked in the Relay for Life (fundraisers for all cancers) together recently in the evening. They lit luminaries all around the track and some in the bleachers that spelled out HOPE. Then they turned out all the lights. It was very moving.
Another friend of ours has a child with spina bifida. The child had a major surgery Tuesday, as well. She was in surgery for 7 hours! She's doing well, but recovery will be a bear for the next month, so please pray for them, as well.
While I'm requesting prayers, if you don't mind, my uncle is beginning a battle with cancer-treatments uncertain. Please add him to your prayer list.
We are off to see my family at their lake cottage this weekend. Hoping for nice weather, so we can be outside.
Hope you all are having a nice summer!
I had a wonderful cuppa tea with a dear friend yesterday. My friend who is returning to England. It was a nice chat, that flew by as usual, and the goodbye was so sad. I know we'll keep in touch, as she is a wonderful person, but it will be hard not seeing her in person for a while. Makes my eyes tear up as I type. I hope she knows how special she is and how important to me. Hard to put that into words.
Running... hmm. I ran a few more days after my last post. I found it incredibly painful and uncomfortable. I wonder if I started too much too soon? I won't get into all the painful spots, but there were many. Last summer, I'd do a long run, recover after a day or two and feel great for the next week's. This time I felt pain in my legs all week. I don't feel like this normally and it left me so frustrated! I dreaded getting up in the morning to go for a run. And if I didn't get it done, I would dread it all day. Then I'd run and think "how much longer till this is over??" Not "this is fun, I'm glad I can do this" like I used to. Then I started running a few evenings with my husband. Only about four miles-so not what was on my schedule-and it was fun. We'd talk about our day and just run a fun pace-not looking at my watch trying to hit my marks, and being disappointed in not making them this year. So, I'm rethinking my goals in that area.
There aren't any job openings I can apply for right now, so I'm in the holding pattern.
I read two books since I posted last: The Shop on Blossom Street which was a nice story. It's the first in a series. I liked it as a single story. I may be in the mood to read the others some time, but not currently. I also read a great book: Sundays at Tiffany's. It was a very good read. I couldn't put it down!
We've gotten about thirty state postcards and nine country postcards, so far! We have all had fun (have I had the most fun in our family? Probably! :))
Our friend with breast cancer had surgery on Tuesday. She had to go back in for a complication yesterday, but is doing well, now. She's resting comfortably at home. Please keep her in your prayers. We walked in the Relay for Life (fundraisers for all cancers) together recently in the evening. They lit luminaries all around the track and some in the bleachers that spelled out HOPE. Then they turned out all the lights. It was very moving.
Another friend of ours has a child with spina bifida. The child had a major surgery Tuesday, as well. She was in surgery for 7 hours! She's doing well, but recovery will be a bear for the next month, so please pray for them, as well.
While I'm requesting prayers, if you don't mind, my uncle is beginning a battle with cancer-treatments uncertain. Please add him to your prayer list.
We are off to see my family at their lake cottage this weekend. Hoping for nice weather, so we can be outside.
Hope you all are having a nice summer!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Swimming
No, this isn't a post, like Momo's about triathlons or wet suits. :) It's about all the thoughts swimming around in my head.
First, today my girls finished the 2007-2008 school year. My oldest will now be an eighth grader and my youngest will now be a fourth grader. Time truly has flown. Seems like yesterday we were anxiously awaiting third and seventh grade to start. Both are excited for summer break, albeit nervous about tonsil removal Friday.
Teaching jobs are not posted in the district my daughters are in, yet, and I'm hoping to find a full time job for fall. I did find one in a different school district than my kids are in, and am posting an application. I'm not being picky, but it would be tough when they're breaks/vacations are at different times. We'd work around it if we had to, though. And I really like the district they're in, as well. God will put me where He wants me, right? :) I've been updating my resume, as well.
In other news, some friends of ours have a family member in Iraq who was injured the night before last. They're very worried, obviously. The family is awaiting news.
Running is continuing. I'm sticking with the weekly schedules and working on getting stronger. Humidity and heat were a bit less today, but my legs were very sore. I'm hoping it's just that I'm still building strength in them. They only hurt in the last mile (of 5) today, and haven't bothered me since I cooled down.
Scrapbooking has been virtually nonexistent lately, even though I'm interested in doing it. I know I've probably mentioned this before: that's the trouble with hobbies, for me; that I know there are other things to get ready/do, that I don't sit down and accomplish anything towards my "hobby". Then I remember that I sat and vegged with the hubby in front of the tv, and could scrapbook on those evenings...but, I enjoy time with the husband in the evenings. :)
Tomorrow we are off to pick strawberries, I think, with my sister-in-law and her four children. Hopefully the heat hasn't ruined them! :) Fresh berries, mmmm, my mouth is watering now. :) Could be a wonderful component for a smoothie to sooth a sore throat after tonsil surgery! :)
Well, here we have skipped spring and moved right into the full brunt of summer heat and humidity. It's rarely, if ever, this hot at this time of year, here, so I'm dreading what our "hot" months will be like. Our injured neighbor boy, with the cast, is not enjoying the heat and not being able to get that cast wet!! He's healing well, though. I hope you're not experiencing inclimate weather, such as high heat or flooding. I also hope you and your families are doing well, as well as all our soldiers-safety and good health!
First, today my girls finished the 2007-2008 school year. My oldest will now be an eighth grader and my youngest will now be a fourth grader. Time truly has flown. Seems like yesterday we were anxiously awaiting third and seventh grade to start. Both are excited for summer break, albeit nervous about tonsil removal Friday.
Teaching jobs are not posted in the district my daughters are in, yet, and I'm hoping to find a full time job for fall. I did find one in a different school district than my kids are in, and am posting an application. I'm not being picky, but it would be tough when they're breaks/vacations are at different times. We'd work around it if we had to, though. And I really like the district they're in, as well. God will put me where He wants me, right? :) I've been updating my resume, as well.
In other news, some friends of ours have a family member in Iraq who was injured the night before last. They're very worried, obviously. The family is awaiting news.
Running is continuing. I'm sticking with the weekly schedules and working on getting stronger. Humidity and heat were a bit less today, but my legs were very sore. I'm hoping it's just that I'm still building strength in them. They only hurt in the last mile (of 5) today, and haven't bothered me since I cooled down.
Scrapbooking has been virtually nonexistent lately, even though I'm interested in doing it. I know I've probably mentioned this before: that's the trouble with hobbies, for me; that I know there are other things to get ready/do, that I don't sit down and accomplish anything towards my "hobby". Then I remember that I sat and vegged with the hubby in front of the tv, and could scrapbook on those evenings...but, I enjoy time with the husband in the evenings. :)
Tomorrow we are off to pick strawberries, I think, with my sister-in-law and her four children. Hopefully the heat hasn't ruined them! :) Fresh berries, mmmm, my mouth is watering now. :) Could be a wonderful component for a smoothie to sooth a sore throat after tonsil surgery! :)
Well, here we have skipped spring and moved right into the full brunt of summer heat and humidity. It's rarely, if ever, this hot at this time of year, here, so I'm dreading what our "hot" months will be like. Our injured neighbor boy, with the cast, is not enjoying the heat and not being able to get that cast wet!! He's healing well, though. I hope you're not experiencing inclimate weather, such as high heat or flooding. I also hope you and your families are doing well, as well as all our soldiers-safety and good health!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
What else?
I've been running again. Signed up for the October marathon training group. Feeling more chunky, out of shape than ever before, but here's to another 26.2! :)
I've been substitute teaching a lot lately, in a variety of grades. I was in first grade today, in a classroom I've never subbed in before. Tomorrow I'm in fourth grade in a room I've never been in before, also. I enjoy seeing the differences in plans, and information. I love writing down ideas I appreciate, with the vision of "someday". :) Today there was a "Superhero Autograph Board" in the room. I asked the kids about it. They said they hadn't done it in a while, but that the teacher had drawn a name from a hat (all the kids' names were in it). The student whose name was drawn would bring in a book the next day to read to the class. They got to wear a superhero cape while they read and got to "autograph" the board. I thought it was a great way to encourage kids to read, as well as read in front of others.
The teacher also had a big treasure chest filled with books for silent reading time; just another way to encourage kids to read! They all wanted to dig in there and pick out some books they hadn't seen in a while. :)
I've been meaning to post about my two favorite tv shows (which are now in reruns) Psych and Eli Stone. Both great shows, but for different reasons.
Books... I'm planning on trying to read some more classics, and reread some others, but currently my husband and I just finished "Dinner with a Perfect Stranger" on cd, on our car trip, and I am reading another book by Beth Moore.
Well, three posts are enough for tonight. I hope you, reader, are doing well.
I've been substitute teaching a lot lately, in a variety of grades. I was in first grade today, in a classroom I've never subbed in before. Tomorrow I'm in fourth grade in a room I've never been in before, also. I enjoy seeing the differences in plans, and information. I love writing down ideas I appreciate, with the vision of "someday". :) Today there was a "Superhero Autograph Board" in the room. I asked the kids about it. They said they hadn't done it in a while, but that the teacher had drawn a name from a hat (all the kids' names were in it). The student whose name was drawn would bring in a book the next day to read to the class. They got to wear a superhero cape while they read and got to "autograph" the board. I thought it was a great way to encourage kids to read, as well as read in front of others.
The teacher also had a big treasure chest filled with books for silent reading time; just another way to encourage kids to read! They all wanted to dig in there and pick out some books they hadn't seen in a while. :)
I've been meaning to post about my two favorite tv shows (which are now in reruns) Psych and Eli Stone. Both great shows, but for different reasons.
Books... I'm planning on trying to read some more classics, and reread some others, but currently my husband and I just finished "Dinner with a Perfect Stranger" on cd, on our car trip, and I am reading another book by Beth Moore.
Well, three posts are enough for tonight. I hope you, reader, are doing well.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
So much to catch up on!
We ended up accomplishing a lot over break, though not all that was on my list.
Had a very fun New Year's Eve: My in-laws had the four of us, my brother-in-law, his wife and four kids, and my sister-in-law. We all brought a little snack food, and our bed items. Then we played games, ate, played Wii, and had a wonderful time enjoying each other! We all slept over and my in-laws made a nice breakfast of fruit, cinnamon rolls and mini quiches. We had a great time! My oldest nephew had pink eye, but had been on drops, so he wasn't contagious. The only problem: my in-laws had been their babysitters the night before... carrying the pink eye contagions to us on our fun New Year's Eve. My daughters and I ended up with pink eye on Wednesday. We all had drops before we headed back to school on Thursday.
Thursday was our first day back to school. I am full swing into teaching first grade until February 15th. So far, it has been fun, but time flies so much faster than normal subbing! I have to do things, currently, that I don't normally as a sub, because I'm just there for a day or two. I have to do things like check the teacher's mailbox, email, set up the papers on the kids' desks for when they arrive in the morning, and making copies. It's been surreal... I have also gotten keys to the classroom and the office door to the mailboxes, a more permanent nametag. Normally they have a sticker that says your name written in pen. Feels so much like a permanent teaching position. I talked to the full time teacher whose position I am filling today. She was so sad, missing her kiddos and wanting so much to be there. I hope I can ease some of her worry by doing a good job for her. These kids are very "neat" kids! They are such special little people. Reminds me how much I love teaching and makes me nervous: to do a good job where I am now and to interview and have my own full time position. It's always been my dream, but seems so real, close. I even brought home papers to grade this weekend! :)
My schedule has been so full, after teaching is taking care of my family, that I have not ran in a few weeks. I feel myself becoming out of shape, out of breath faster. It's disheartening, but I haven't made the time to squeeze it into the schedule.
On Ali Edwards' site, she talks about picking "one word" to inspire you all year long; a word goal you'd like to have in your life. Hers were peace in 2007 and vitality in 2008. I am trying to decide on one for myself. Then I can post it in different places to remind me that it is what I'm working for all year, to better myself, to center myself. I will post when I decide on one. If you'd like to read more about it, here are some sites:
http://www.lifeartmedia.com/newsletter11.html
http://aliedwards.typepad.com/_a_/2007/12/index.html
http://www.lifeartmedia.com/newsletter19.html
My mole removal turned out the same, with the atypical (pre-pre-cancerous) rating and the stitches were removed before we went back to school. The next one will be removed on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
One last thing, I read a good book before heading back to school. Regular readers know how I love the Mitford series by Jan Karon. She finished the series, which saddened me, but now she has started a new one, about the main character from the Mitford series, but about his past. Was another great read that I couldn't put down! It is called Home to Holly Springs. The books always make me feel warm, connected.
I think that's all from here. I hope those who read the blog that have been in a "blue" state of emotions these past few weeks find peace, joy and enjoyment in the near future! And those happy readers, stay that way!! :)
Happy New Year!
Had a very fun New Year's Eve: My in-laws had the four of us, my brother-in-law, his wife and four kids, and my sister-in-law. We all brought a little snack food, and our bed items. Then we played games, ate, played Wii, and had a wonderful time enjoying each other! We all slept over and my in-laws made a nice breakfast of fruit, cinnamon rolls and mini quiches. We had a great time! My oldest nephew had pink eye, but had been on drops, so he wasn't contagious. The only problem: my in-laws had been their babysitters the night before... carrying the pink eye contagions to us on our fun New Year's Eve. My daughters and I ended up with pink eye on Wednesday. We all had drops before we headed back to school on Thursday.
Thursday was our first day back to school. I am full swing into teaching first grade until February 15th. So far, it has been fun, but time flies so much faster than normal subbing! I have to do things, currently, that I don't normally as a sub, because I'm just there for a day or two. I have to do things like check the teacher's mailbox, email, set up the papers on the kids' desks for when they arrive in the morning, and making copies. It's been surreal... I have also gotten keys to the classroom and the office door to the mailboxes, a more permanent nametag. Normally they have a sticker that says your name written in pen. Feels so much like a permanent teaching position. I talked to the full time teacher whose position I am filling today. She was so sad, missing her kiddos and wanting so much to be there. I hope I can ease some of her worry by doing a good job for her. These kids are very "neat" kids! They are such special little people. Reminds me how much I love teaching and makes me nervous: to do a good job where I am now and to interview and have my own full time position. It's always been my dream, but seems so real, close. I even brought home papers to grade this weekend! :)
My schedule has been so full, after teaching is taking care of my family, that I have not ran in a few weeks. I feel myself becoming out of shape, out of breath faster. It's disheartening, but I haven't made the time to squeeze it into the schedule.
On Ali Edwards' site, she talks about picking "one word" to inspire you all year long; a word goal you'd like to have in your life. Hers were peace in 2007 and vitality in 2008. I am trying to decide on one for myself. Then I can post it in different places to remind me that it is what I'm working for all year, to better myself, to center myself. I will post when I decide on one. If you'd like to read more about it, here are some sites:
http://www.lifeartmedia.com
http://aliedwards.typepad.com/
http://www.lifeartmedia.com
My mole removal turned out the same, with the atypical (pre-pre-cancerous) rating and the stitches were removed before we went back to school. The next one will be removed on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
One last thing, I read a good book before heading back to school. Regular readers know how I love the Mitford series by Jan Karon. She finished the series, which saddened me, but now she has started a new one, about the main character from the Mitford series, but about his past. Was another great read that I couldn't put down! It is called Home to Holly Springs. The books always make me feel warm, connected.
I think that's all from here. I hope those who read the blog that have been in a "blue" state of emotions these past few weeks find peace, joy and enjoyment in the near future! And those happy readers, stay that way!! :)
Happy New Year!
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